French philosopher Rene’ Descartes gave us that one. “I think, therefore I am”. Modernity gave us the platform to live that out for centuries with The Age of Reason or Enlightenment. In all 20/20 hindsight honesty, it was the exact opposite. Jesus often reminds us that our minds only take us so far before they must be transformed. Other than the required Jewish rabbinical tutoring Jesus likely received, he was way more interested in our soul, our nephesh (spiritual being).

Our mind actually imprisons us. Who wants to stick around an intellectual know-it-all? Great minds think alike, brain trust; I get all that. We would not be where we are today without the discipline of knowledge. Science is important for understanding our existence, the nature of things. What is more essential is the common story we find ourselves in. Psalm 84 mentions small, insignificant sparrows. They pass on the DNA that leads the hatchling to mature and build an identical nest. How much more you and I?

We, the most advanced beings God created, are infinitely more than our individual head space. Faith is personal but never private. Here at JOY!, we are crafting a vision to be a spiritual community. Not a think tank. An organic plethora of people from all over hoping to connect with people here. Living together in trust and hope to imagine holy things, to follow where the Spirit might be leading. It is the unconditional love that spurs us on, enlightens us.

We worship, share and serve; therefore we are.

Pastor Art