One Misfit Turning Practice into Purpose

In our Holy Habits series we’ve talked a lot about transforming our mental health. How we move from worn out to whole and healed. But it’s one thing to just talk about holy habits, but it’s another thing to see them in action. How do these practices hold up when life gets messy? When grief hits, or the future feels unclear, or you’re just trying to stay sober, stay sane, or stay standing.

This particular weekend, we heard from someone who isn’t really a guest, but a special part of the Refuge community. Tom stepped up to the mic to share how Holy Habits have help shape his journey.

Acts 2: 2025

In the early church, people gather to share more than just meals. The also shared their stories. That is the kind of space we’re trying to build at Refuge. A place where EVERY VOICE MATTERS!

So, when Tom texted Pastor Nicole in the middle of the nigh asking to share how holy habits have impacted his life, the answer was an immediate YES! Because THIS is exactly what Refuge is for. Real stories from real people doing their best to walk with Jesus in a complicated world.

Holy Habits in Real Life

Nicole has given us an entire series on holy habits through scripture, science, and soul work. But Tom’s story reminds us that these habits are not just theories, they’re tools.

Tom shares how meditation and prayer helped him navigate grief, addiction, and recovery. He also added on two more for us to work on; self-examination and restoration.

Refuge is A Safe Place…

The most important thing to take from Tom’s story is that all people have a seat at the table. Refuge isn’t for the polished or the perfect — in fact you won’t find that here. It is for Misfits, for the curious, for the works-in-progress. It’s a church for people who love God, are mad at God, are struggling to believe in God. Refuge is a safe place to feel all the feelings around faith and religion; good and bad.

Whether you’re black or white, gay or straight, wealthy or struggling, grieving or healing… Tom’s story is for you.

HEADS UP!

Due to some tech gremlins, our video and audio didn’t capture correctly. So while our audio is great, we have no video. So please forgive our YouTube this week, as it only has a couple snapshots from service. THANKFULLY, we were able to record the audio in it’s entirety! So enjoy!