There's a message that bears endless repeating and living out in our world today: we need each other.
We live in a world where we are taught to live in fear of those who are different, to question those with differing beliefs, to be defensive, and respond to violence with more violence; but the truth is, we need each other.
We need diversity—different perspectives and ways of seeing the world, different skills and approaches, different opinions. Each one of us is unique, in the way we approach the world, the things we create, the skills and talents we cultivate, and the way we use those gifts in service to others. This is a gift, and an opportunity to learn.
I believe learning is a lifelong pursuit, so whether it’s a practical skill or a new perspective on something, an improved process or a discovery of some kind, the world is full of possibilities and trials and errors and wisdom that is ours to experience, receive, and share.
There is so much we can learn from each other. Often, the biggest challenges we face are cultivating a sense of awareness and a willingness to learn and finding the time to seek out new ideas and perspectives and put them into practice.
My gift to you this Holy Week is a collection of things to listen to, watch, and read this week (or next week because I know Holy Week/Easter can be crazy). These are things I'm learning from others lately and it's my hope that they inspire you, too, give you a new perspective, and encourage and bless your ministry this season.
Enjoy!
*Disclosure: I get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
Two Things to Listen to
The Next Right Thing, Ep. 7 - Faithfulness, Fame, and the Gift of Obscurity
In case you aren’t familiar with this podcast, let me give you my brief overview: Created by Emily P. Freeman, author of Simply Tuesday, A Million Little Ways, and Grace for the Good Girl, The Next Right Thing podcast offers a fresh perspective on life and decision-making, an invitation to be quiet, to listen, to breathe, and small ways to create space in your soul.
In this episode, Emily talks about how our souls weren’t made for fame:
"If it seems like the people around you are taking big steps while all yours feel small and inconsequential, listen in. Because the allure of fame and the power of attention messes with us. It interferes with our ability to do the next right thing because maybe we’re waiting for the next big thing."
Related post: Are You Running on Autopilot These Days?
Even When He Is Silent (St. Olaf Choir)
Here's a beautiful performance of Kim André Arnesen’s stunning choral work, “Even When He Is Silent” and a hope-filled message we can hold on to in our world today. The anonymous text was found inscribed on a cellar wall in Cologne, Germany, written by a Jew fleeing Nazi persecution.
Two Things to Watch
Be a Rainbow in Someone Else’s Cloud (Maya Angelou)
This is such an inspiring perspective on how to live our lives, learn from others, share kindness, and be a blessing in other people's lives.
Draw the Circle Wide (FUMC Dallas)
What a powerful intergenerational worship experience and a strong message to share: “Draw the circle wide, draw it wider still, let this be our song, no one stands alone, standing side by side, draw the circle, draw the circle wide.” SATB Anthem by Mark A. Miller.
Two Things to Read
The Love Guru (Relevant Magazine)
A wonderful feature on one of my favorite authors, Bob Goff, author of Love Does and Everybody, Always (coming out in April).
Related post: 2018 Book List
A Soul Minimalist’s Guide to Relationships (Emily P. Freeman)
If you ever struggle with relationships and connecting with people in your life, this helpful guide is a must-read.
"No matter how organized we get, how much we plan, how prepared we are for what might come, one thing we can always count on is that the people in our life will surprise us, delight us, disappoint us, overwhelm us, or confuse us."
Now, it’s your turn: What things have you listened to, watched, or read lately that have inspired you in some way? What have you learned from others recently? I’d love to hear!
