Stephen G. Pate

I heard this recently: Growth is like trying to fold a fitted sheet. You know it's possible, but it always ends up a little messy. Life is beautiful and imperfect. Embrace it!

“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” Maya Angelou

"All About Love: New Visions" by Bell Hooks

“So anyone who thinks he has understood the divine scriptures or any part of them, but cannot by his understanding build up this double love of God and neighbor, has not yet succeeded in understanding them.” Augustine

A spirituality of imperfection invites us to lead from weakness, not strength, because it is in weakness where God's strength is found.

The church is for everyone 💯 youtube.com/shorts/FShJekx…

Good writing, like good speaking or preaching, begins with input. Focus on process over outcome #writing #speaking #process

“Whatever we are ultimately concerned with is God for us.” Paul Tillich

Joan Baez once said, “You don’t get to choose how you’re going to die, or when. You can only decide how you’re going to live now.” In other words, focus on where you are. Live fully. Live beautifully. Live purposefully.

The first invitation youtube.com/shorts/M6wwaA8… via @YouTube #god #spiritualpractice #presence #spirituality #jesus #godisforyou

"Jesus runs on love" is the sermon we need to preach and the discipleship we need to live.

I find this time a beautiful reminder of the need for a reset and the joy that comes from being fully present. I’m curious—do you have a weekly day of rest? Does it include a digital fast?

5) Pursue Finally, you have to pursue it. Plans don’t work unless you work them. By planning, pausing, and prioritizing a digital sabbath, you’ll be prepared to enjoy a time of rest and rejuvenation.

Our phones are among the biggest sources of distraction, constantly vying for our attention and forming us in ways we don't even realize. Having time away is crucial for our health and wellbeing. I need a weekly digital fast. You might, too. Here’s how to do one:

I loved Scot McKnight's book "Reading Romans Backwards" In this clip, I reference his book and share a few thoughts on the church as a practicing community youtu.be/VaLBpAxgJXU?si…

Without gratitude it is impossible to live a spiritual life.

Doors open and close. Sometimes, they swing wide; other times, they slam shut. We keep knocking anyway. Seeking. Waiting. Hoping. Persevering. Perhaps what matters most is keeping our hearts open as we continue onward.