In the Margins - 1/14/26

Things I Read

I just finished reading Ezra in my devotions, and now I'm in Nehemiah. I am struck by how when "the good hand of God" (2:8) was upon Nehemiah, and he encouraged the people that "The God of Heaven will make us prosper" (2:20), the result was "the people had a mind to work" (4:6). May God give Grace Rancho "a mind to work" for his glory.

Things I Listened To

I recently discovered Wendell Kimbrough. I enjoy his style, and his album "Psalms We Sing Together" is wonderful. I could see us singing "Oh Give Thanks (Psalm 107)" together as a church this year.

Things I Watched

On our getaway, Ashley and I watched "The Most Reluctant Convert" - a creative documentary that tells the story of C.S. Lewis' conversion. All the narration and dialogue is almost word for word passages from his books, especially his autobiography, Surprised by Joy.

Things I Thought

I have really been reflecting a lot about going "All In" with Jesus. As I am studying the parable of the talents this week in Matthew 25:14-30, I am wondering, how can I make the most of everything God has given me? Can we give more? Can we work harder? Can we rest better? I am struck by the first servant who eagerly and joyfully brings the additional talents he made to his master, no holding back. This is what I want to do. It's worth it.

Quotes to Ponder

"Wealth can heal no wounded spirit, cheer no sinking soul, give hope to no desponding mind, defend against none of the worst ills of life, point no weary traveler to the way of rest, give no assurance of happiness beyond the grave. God’s word can do all these things, and a thousand times more."

~ William S. Plumer