Living Vertizontal

In this episode, we look at Luke 8:26-39. In this passage we read about the story of the demon possessed man in the Gerasenes. Together we talk about the importance of following Jesus into the difficult places of life, meeting people where they are, to participate in the upside down kingdom that Jesus initiated.

In this episode we turn to Luke 8:16-25. In this passage, we read about the lesson of the lamp, Jesus’ interaction with his mother and brothers, and Jesus’ calming of the storm. Together we walk together through three key parts of the passage. First, we consider how Jesus, though speaking in parables, was still clearly revealing the Kingdom of Heaven—and how coming to Him in humility opens us to receive His wisdom and understanding. Second, we reflect on Jesus’ ability to use every day moments, even interruptions, as opportunities to teach, expanding our view of who truly belongs to His f...

In this episode we move on to look at Luke 8:1-15. In this passage, we read of the involvement of women in Jesus’ ministry and also encounter Jesus’ parable of the sower and its explanation. Together we discuss two main themes. First, we again address just how far Jesus’ upside down kingdom reaches and how not only does the kingdom welcome everyone and anyone, but it invites all to play a part as well. Second, we talk about the open door of parables, and Jesus’ invitation for us to ask the question, “what soil am I?”

In this episode we are finish Luke 7 with a look at Luke 7:36-50. In this passage, Jesus is invited over to Simon, the Pharisee’s house, and is encountered by the sinful woman. Together we again discuss the role of dependence in our lives and the importance of our undivided dependence on Jesus in everything we do. When our dependence is divided among multiple things, we find anxiety and fear, but when our dependence is focused on Jesus alone, despite the uncertainty around us, we can find true peace.

In this episode we remain in the seventh chapter of Luke, exploring Luke 7:24-35. In this passage, Jesus continues to speak about John the Baptist and call out the fickle nature of so many of those gathering. Together we discuss the implications of this upside down kingdom that Jesus introduced. Within Jesus’ kingdom, all are lifted up, positions disappear, and justice reigns. In Jesus’ kingdom, we are invited to set aside our expectations of others, and see them for who they were created to be, rather than what they have been defined as by the world. We are invited to s...

In this episode we continue on into Luke 7:18-23. In this passage we see John the Baptist send his disciples to Jesus to ask an important question. Together we discuss the different possibilities as to why John the Baptist would be sending his disciples to ask Jesus if He is in fact the Messiah. As a result of our conversation, we realized the potential validity of each option and how the ambiguity points towards the importance of humbly coming to Jesus to get to know Him.

In this episode, we move on into Luke 7:1-17. Within this passage we see two different miracles, one involving a centurion, and one involving a widow. Together we discuss these two different healing stories and all that Jesus demonstrates about His upside down kingdom. Following His Sermon on the Plain, we have the opportunity to see Jesus live out these teachings. Living in Jesus’ upside down kingdom, we are invited to love, to see, to care for, to trust others, and to identify all Jesus is doing in our lives and in the lives of those around us.

In this episode we finish up the sermon on the plain, looking at Luke 6:46-19. In this passage, Jesus asks a question of those around Him, emphasizing the importance of hearing His words and listening and then issues a warning through the example of the wise and foolish builders. Together we discuss just how important it is for our foundation to be rooted in Christ alone, both for our own lives, and the lives of those around us.

In this episode, as has been for a couple weeks, we continue to look at the sermon on the plain, looking at Luke 6:37-45. In this passage we read of Jesus’ instruction as it relates to judging others, and a tree and its fruit. Together we again discuss how dependence has been a consistent theme that Jesus has been addressing throughout the Sermon on the Plain. We are called to be dependent on Jesus in all things: our actions, our words, our thoughts, and even the fruit in our lives. Recognizing just how blind we are, we continue to un...

In this episode, we continue to look at the sermon on the plain, looking at Luke 6:27-36. In this passage we read of Jesus’ instruction to love our enemies. Together we discuss the importance of radical obedience in our lives. As we intentionally listen to Jesus, with every step and every word, we reflect Jesus, and as a result, we usher in His upside down kingdom here and now.

In this episode, we continue on with Luke 6:12-26. In these verses we read of Jesus’ calling of the 12, healing the multitudes, and the Beatitudes. Together we discuss what can happen when we allow our focus to be Christ alone. Rather than allowing our differences to divide us, when our focus is Jesus alone, even the most diverse and different people can find unity in Him and for the sake of His upside down Kingdom. And further, as we focus on Jesus, establishing our dependence on Him alone, we find true blessing despite the circumstances of life that we ma...

In this episode, we move on into Luke 6:1-11, looking at two different interactions regarding the Sabbath. Together we discuss what Sabbath, and how rather than Sabbath being something that must be protected by a series of laws, it is an invitation to grow in dependence on Jesus for each and every single word and action. When we live this way, rather than relying on rules to walk with Jesus, we rely on our relationship; a relationship that calls us into action within His kingdom.

In this episode we will finish out Luke 5, looking at Luke 5:33-39. Within this passage we read of an exchange between Jesus and the Pharisees and scribes regarding fasting, followed by a quick parable from Jesus. Together we discuss the totality of the “new wine” that Jesus offered through His upside down kingdom and the invitation Jesus has placed in our lives to be the new wine skin for His new upside down Kingdom.

In this episode we read the story of the calling of Levi in Luke 5:27-32. Together we discuss the reality that Jesus sees each and every single one of us right where we are and invites us to follow Him regardless of wherever we may find ourselves. And as people who are seen, with Jesus as our model, we have the opportunity to see others where they are and show them just who Jesus is.

In this episode, we turn to yet another miracle of Jesus in Luke 5:17-26. In this set of verses Jesus heals the paralytic that was brought by his friends. From this interaction we identified that Jesus sees us, knows us, and desires to meet our deepest need (which is Him). By extension, in looking like Jesus, we recognized the importance of allowing Jesus to lead our perception; that we may also see as He sees to better help those around us.

In this episode, we examine Luke 5:12-16. In these verses, we read of an exchange between Jesus and a leper. Together we discuss the implications surrounding the interaction between the leper and Jesus; the isolation of the leper, and the restoration found through the touch of Christ. Out of this we recognize the damage of the isolationist mentality of too many Christians and the call that Jesus has placed in each of our lives to partner with Him to be his cleansing contact in the midst of a lost and broken world.

In this episode we move into Luke 5:1-11. These verses include a scene of Jesus teaching, a miracle, and a calling. Together we discuss the difference between operating out of conventional wisdom and expectations and operating out of the understanding of God’s upside down Kingdom. Following Jesus is a moment by moment invitation to allow Jesus to guide our perspective for His glory. This life of individual obedience carries with it a ripple effect greater than we can imagine.

In this episode, we focus on Luke 4:31-44, which follows Jesus to Capernaum where He casts out demons, heals people of their physical ailments, and preaches in Judea. Together we discuss the expansiveness of the Kingdom of God and the call of obedience to the One, True King; an obedience that is worked out in a transformational and synergistic cycle of: confession, conviction, and action.

In this episode we are going to be working through Luke 4:14-30, looking at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry and His subsequent rejection in His hometown. Together we discuss the disparity that can sometimes exist between what our expectations are, and the truth of who Jesus is, and how He operates and calls us to operate as well. In Jesus’ upside down kingdom, Jesus sought to care for anyone and everyone, to be for everyone, and has called us to do the same.

In this episode, though the season of Lent is over, we are concluding our Lent series with a conversation on Easter! Our passage from My Cup Runneth Over is Matthew 28, working with the resurrection of Jesus, and other events surrounding His resurrection. Together we discuss the directives throughout Matthew 28, focusing on “do not be afraid,” “come and see,” and “go and tell.” From this, we recognize the lasting impact of our response to fear in our lives, and the daily invitation that Jesus has issued for us to continually recognize what He is doing and then subsequently going to those around...

In this episode, we move into Week 6 of Lent, Palm Sunday. As a part of this, we look at a number of different passages Luke 22:33-34, 23:39-43; John 19:25-27; Matthew 27:45-46; John 19:28-30; Luke 23:44-46, all relating to Jesus’ last words. Together we discuss the seven final sayings of Jesus and they paint a clear picture of the Kingdom of Heaven. At the core of it all is an example of, and invitation to, a deeper trust and dependence on Him.

This episode moves into week 5 of Lent and looks at Matthew 27:22-31 and Mark 15:37-41. In these passages, we see Jesus before Pilate, including how the soldiers treated Him, and the last breath of Jesus. Together we discuss how the love that Jesus has for His Father is the foundation for His obedience, obedience that results in love for all those around Him. In the same way, we come to realize that as important as it is for us to love those around us, this love, first comes out of obedience rooted in love for Jesus.

This week, as we move into Week 4, we will be looking at passages from Mark 14:27-31 and Luke 22:54-62 where Jesus predicts Peter’s denial followed by the playing out of that very denial. Together we discuss the importance of knowing who Jesus is. As we understand who Jesus is, within this passage and beyond, we come to realize the depth of Jesus' love for us even in the midst of our moments of betrayal.

In this episode we move into Week 3 of Lent, examining the passages of Matthew 26:36-46 and Luke 22:39-44. These passages explore two gospel accounts of Jesus’ time in the Garden of Gethsemane just before His arrest. Together we discuss the vital role of prayer in our lives, both in preparation for what may come, and in response to what is right in front of us. Continual dialogue with Jesus is key, just as Jesus was constantly in dialogue with His Father.

In this episode, Derek and Brittany continue on in our Lent series. Now into Week 2, they look at both Luke 22:1-34 and John 13:1-17, each relating to different aspects of the Last Supper that Jesus had with His disciples. Together, they discuss the role of our focus on Jesus and the obedience we are called to. When we focus on Jesus and understand what He is doing , we are better equipped to act like Jesus and reflect His upside down kingdom in the midst of the pressures of the world.

In this episode, for the first Sunday of Lent, our scripture comes out of Luke, looking at Luke 9:18-36, 43-48, and 51-62. Within these passages we read of Peter declaring Jesus as the Messiah, Jesus predicting His death two different times, the transfiguration, Jesus’ turn to Jerusalem, and the cost of following Jesus. Together, we discuss both just how important it is for us to know who Jesus really is and the potential danger of misrepresenting Him based on our assumptions, as well as the resolute obedience required as His disciples.

In this episode, we follow Jesus’ story in Luke 4:1-13 as we work through His temptations in the wilderness. Together, we discuss how Jesus’ time in the wilderness, and the obedience He exemplifies, sets the tone for His time in ministry. And how this very obedience ought to set the tone for our own lives on a daily basis.

In this episode we finish up this part of the conversation on John’s ministry, see Jesus’ baptism, and read through Jesus’ family lineage. Together, we discuss the incredible news of our identity as sons and daughters of God and the pleasure that God takes in us.

In this episode we continue with this introductory snapshot of John’s ministry in Luke 3:7-14. Together, we discuss John’s invitation to live in a different kingdom, an upside down kingdom, one that recognizes the crucified Christ as Lord, and allows Him to define our life.

In this episode we look at Luke 3:1-6. In this passage we transition from Jesus’ story and resume John the Baptist’s story, looking at an introductory snapshot of his ministry. Together, we discuss the difference between hearing and understanding, and just how important it is for us to remain connected with Jesus so that He can bring continual understanding to what we are hearing from Him.

In this episode we explore Luke 2:41-52. Within this passage, we read about Jesus returning to the temple as a boy. Together, we discuss the example that Jesus provides as He remained in the temple, and just how important it is to keep our focus on Jesus in the midst of all things, listening twice in every interaction, both to Jesus, and those around us.

In this episode we continue with Luke 2:22-40, picking up on the story of Jesus being presented at the temple which includes both an encounter with two elderly individuals, Simeon and Anna. Together, we discuss the interconnection of obedience to Jesus’ leading and the impact He can have through us in the lives of others.

In this episode, we move on into Luke 2:1-21 which explores the birth of Jesus, the angels report to the shepherds, and the start of Jesus being presented at the temple. Together, we discuss how the good news of Christ with us ought to propel us to action, sparking a desire to share with anyone and everyone, regardless of the perceived rejection that may come.

In this episode, we finish off the first chapter of Luke, looking at Luke 1:57-80. Within these verses we have the account of the birth of John the Baptist as well as Zacheriah’s song. Together, we discuss the value of living our lives in community, both the highs and lows, because Jesus can use both the good and the bad to impact the lives of those around us as we depend on Him.

In this episode, we continue on in Luke, looking at Luke 1:26-56. These verses include the foretelling of Jesus’ birth, Mary’s visit to Elizabeth, and Mary’s song. Out of these different scenes, we discuss the difference in response to Gabriel’s message between Zechariah and Mary, and how Mary serves as an excellent example for us of perfect love and total dependence on God. We also discuss the theme of the upside down kingdom of God again, and how Jesus changes the way we should understand everything, both then, and now.

In this episode we begin our journey through Luke. With that, we start with a look at Luke 1:1-25, which includes Luke’s introduction and the foretelling of John the Baptist’s birth. Together we discuss the difference that exists between the standards, expectations, and understandings that society has, versus the standards, expectations, and understandings that God has, as well as the difference between the faith to ask Jesus, and the faith to believe Jesus for the answer.

In this episode, we finish out our Advent journey by focusing on the theme of peace. With this theme, we look at Mary’s song found in Luke 1:46-55. Together we discuss the big picture of the peace that Jesus offers and how this may include conflict on the path to setting things right in His eyes. With this, we were reminded of just how important it is for Jesus to remain our focus as we encounter potential conflict.

In this episode, our theme is Joy, and we look at the song of praise found in Isaiah 12. Together we discuss the joy that is found when we are focused on, and obedient to, Jesus in the journey of life, despite the circumstances around us.

In our episode this week, our Advent theme is Love, and we will be looking at Zechariah’s song found in Luke 1:68-79. Together we discuss just how important it is for us to create margin in our lives, resting with the ever-present Jesus, allowing Him to fill us with His love and guide us into our lives.

This year, as a church, we are using the material from the Foundry Publishing entitled Changed in the Waiting to guide our Advent weeks. Each week there is a different reading and theme working towards the birth of Christ, the culmination of the first advent. In our episode this week, our theme is Hope, and we will be looking at a psalm of David found in Psalm 25:1-10. Together we discuss the interconnectedness of trust and hope, and how vital it is for true hope to place our trust in Jesus alone.