This week we start a new series. After wrapping our Heroes series; where we talked about injustice, courage, and the silenced voices who still have a place in God’s story. While important, some of it was really heavy. And at Refuge we desire to be like Paul when he says; To Live is Christ.

So, our new series is all about good news! Not bad news, scary news, or even “against” news. Just the gospel of Jesus. We’re going to breathe, and spend sometime reconnecting with the Holy Spirit.

Honest Discovery

Pastor Nicole shares a little bit about her deconstruction journey. Admitted that she studied, read, and asked questions to gain knowledge. She tells us her journey leaned hard into the intellect, while ignoring the more spiritual aspects of her faith.

She was tired of gearing the same answer: Because the Biblesaid so

Her journey became about finding the answers that satisfied her mind and intellect. She gained the knowledge she was seeking, but in the process the spiritual side of faith was minimized.

In Imperfect Places

In the last few months, the Holy Spirit has been moving in Refuge! We have felt the spirit move fresh and alive.

At our Baptism service
During a beautiful wedding under our roof
Even during a potluck.

Was it all perfect? Heck no… but the Holy Sprit was still there!

That’s what Paul is saying in Philippians 1:12-30. As Paul writes from prison he knows its not PLAN A… B, C or D. But what seemed like a barrier to most, became a launchpad for the gospel!

The Holy Spirit moved in and through imperfect places and tore down barriers. And more and more people heard the good news of Jesus!

To Live is Christ

Paul says it simply:

For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

This isn’t a call to martyrdom. It isn’t about chasing death as the ultimate Christian prize. It’s about what anchors our lives. Not success, comfort, or survival — But Christ!

To live is Christ means weaving Jesus into everyday life. In how work, how we love, and how we show up for ALL PEOPLE!

What it Looks Like

What does to live is Christ mean or even look like. Paul ends chapter 1 with a simple plan;
Stand Firm
Stay United
Live with courage
Share in one another’s struggles

Because, this is what it looks like to live life worthy of the gospel.

Not because we’re perfect. But because we refuse to let fear or division win. When we live for Christ, our lives become a gift for others. Just as Christ was poured out for all people.

And THAT’S the GOOD NEWS!