Welcome to
Minister Musings
Thoughts on following Jesus from our ministry staff…
Spiritual Rhythms
Spiritual rhythms are the small, consistent practices that keep our faith steady when life feels loud and chaotic. Practices like prayer, reading Scripture, worship, rest, and life in community help us stay connected to God—not just aware of Him on Sundays. They aren’t about being “extra spiritual” or checking boxes; they’re about intentionally making space for God in everyday life.
“Fanticipation”
But most times, the things that I “fanticipate” the most don’t seem so bad once I’ve gone through them. My brain tells me to avoid the situation at all costs, and that it will be devastating to endure. And sometimes I let my thoughts get the best of me. They control my life and don’t bring the peace for which I yearn.
Two Great Outreach Ministries
One of the things I personally love about World Bible School is that it’s a great way to connect people who love God and want to make disciples with people who are already seeking God and want to study the Bible. And since it’s all online, it’s an easy way for disciples of Jesus to get involved in leading people to Christ, even if your free time is limited.
Shaped By Community
Following Jesus was never meant to be a solo journey. From the very beginning, Jesus called people not just to believe, but to belong. He gathered disciples, shared meals, prayed together, worshiped together, and sent them out together. Christian community isn’t an optional add-on to faith—it’s essential to how we grow and live as followers of Christ.
Dangerous Isolation
The beginning of each year brings a time of reflection, which many use to plan new resolutions (plans to think or act a different way.) This may involve physical plans (exercise more, eat better) or spiritual ones (pray more often, read the Bible daily) and maybe even financial plans (spend less, or save up for that trip.)
But sometimes life gets messy, and we find ourselves dwelling not on the possibilities of the future, but on the difficulties of today.
The Gift of God’s Peace
The peace God offers us in Christ is more than just the absence of conflict. A better way of thinking about it is the presence of God’s goodness, even in the midst of difficult seasons of life. Biblical peace is about living under God’s blessings and experiencing life to the full (John 10:10), just as God intended before sin corrupted the world.
The Manger and the Cross
In 2004, Chris Rice released the song, “Welcome To Our World.” The whole song is fantastic, but the fourth verse really chokes me up...
Fragile finger sent to heal us
Tender brow prepared for thorn
Tiny heart whose blood will save us
Unto us is born, unto us is born
It Is More Blessed To Give Than To Receive
Over the next few weeks, I want to encourage you to be on the lookout for opportunities to bless other people in the name of Jesus. This will likely take some creativity and intentionality, so start each day praying for God to open the right doors for you to be a blessing. And remember, it doesn’t have to be something big. Mother Teresa once said “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.”
This Thanksgiving
Thankfulness doesn’t ignore the hard things—it invites God into them. When we pause to remember His goodness, our hearts become steadier, and our faith grows stronger. This Thanksgiving, take a moment to breathe, look around, and recognize that every good thing—big or small—is a reminder that God is close, God is kind, and God is still working in your life.
Even In The Hard Seasons
But here’s what I’ve come to believe: God doesn’t skip over the hard parts of our stories. He steps into them.
In John 16:33, Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” He never promised that following Him would be easy, but He did promise He’d never leave us to do it alone. Even in the struggle, He is steady. Even in the silence, He is near.
It’s The Most Nostalgic Time Of The Year
This time of year, it’s not uncommon to see someone with a tear in their eye. They might be quietly replaying cherished memories, feeling the tug of nostalgia, or missing someone who once made the holidays brighter. These moments of reflection are tender reminders of the love we've known and the traditions that shaped us.
Quiet Conviction in Babylon
Here’s the thing: God didn’t remove Daniel from Babylon—He revealed Himself through Daniel in Babylon. God is still doing that today. He places His people in schools, jobs, cities, and online spaces not to hide, but to shine. Living for Jesus in Babylon isn’t about avoiding the world; it’s about transforming it by reflecting God’s truth and love. You don’t have to fight every battle or win every argument. Just be faithful where you are. Let your character preach louder than your words.
Reading, Reflection, and Renewal
One of the things I love about the Bible is the fact that no matter how many times you’ve read it already, it always has something powerful and relevant for your current season of life. I think that is part of what the writer of Hebrews meant when he described the Word of God as alive and active (Hebrews 4:12). But if we want to be transformed by the Word of God, we have to be willing to approach Scripture with a humble heart and a growth mindset.
“Welcome To The Family” Seminar
On Sunday, January 11th, 2026, Southwest will host a “Welcome To The Family” seminar given by Jon Reed. Jon has preached at the Hilltop Church of Christ in El Segundo, California for 27 years. His passion lies in the areas of hospitality and guest relations, and he credits God with growing their congregation from 30 to 300 based on one word, “Welcome.” (www.jonkreed.com)
Jon will teach a combined adult Bible class and preach that day, and then we will have lunch together and have several afternoon sessions, ending around 4 PM. The shepherds and ministry staff want to encourage all members to attend, so please block off your calendars for this event TODAY, and let’s begin 2026 with excitement about welcoming more people into our Southwest family!
Unseen Growing
This season reminds me of how God is constantly working, even in the “in between” moments. Just like trees quietly prepare for winter by shedding their leaves, I see our kids doing the same kind of unseen growing. A quiet prayer during snack time. A question in class that shows they’re thinking deeply. A visitor who finds a friend. These little moments are like seeds planted that will bloom in God’s perfect time.
Changing the Atmosphere By Changing Your Attitude
Have you ever noticed how one person’s attitude can change the whole atmosphere? Whether it’s in a classroom, workplace, school gym, or even at home, the way we choose to think and respond affects everyone around us. That’s why Paul’s words in Philippians 2 are so powerful. He reminds us that as followers of Jesus, we’re called to have the same attitude He had.
God Is Good, All The Time
Even though his brothers intended to harm him, Joseph knew God intended it for good — to put Joseph in a position to save many lives (Genesis 50:20). Joseph’s life is a powerful example of the truth we read about in Romans 8:28, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Spiritual “Unlearning”
As a Christian that wants to grow in discipleship to Jesus, we must accept the fact that there are some things we must unlearn…
The Power of Encouragement
The Bible tells us in 1 Thessalonians 5:11, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.” Encouragement doesn’t have to be fancy or long. Sometimes it’s a smile, a kind word, or even a quick text. Have you ever had one of those days when you felt worn out, and then your phone buzzed with an encouraging message? Suddenly the day feels a little brighter. Just a few words of hope can make such a difference.
The Better Destination
But how would we describe our spiritual destination during our lives here on Earth? What would we type into our spiritual GPS right now? In other words, what is the primary goal we are working towards as followers of Christ?
