Guest Speaker - Mike Shank

West Suburban Community Church in Elmhurst, IL

What if the key to navigating life's toughest changes lies in an ancient, heartfelt prayer? Join us as we unpack the depths of Jesus' prayer in John 17, examining how its themes resonate with our own transitions and challenges. We explore the profound hope and assurance Jesus offered his disciples as He prepared for his departure, drawing poignant parallels to our experiences, especially those daunting changes involving young children. Understand how Jesus' promises of the Holy Spirit and the importance of remaining in his love provide a blueprint for enduring difficult times and bearing lasting fruit.
In our discussion, we delve into the significance of glorification as Jesus requested the Father to glorify Him. This isn't just theological jargon; it speaks to honoring and celebrating God's divine goodness—a source of strength in our personal trials. Eternal life, as Jesus describes, is more about a deep relationship with Him than mere knowledge. We share personal stories and scriptural insights to illustrate how living a life that glorifies God can bring true meaning and identity, even when faced with adversity. It's a refreshing perspective that encourages us to find joy in our belonging to God, no matter the circumstances.
Finally, we turn our attention to the joy Jesus offers us, even in a hostile world. Reflecting on John 13 through 17, we discuss how Jesus prepares his disciples—and us—for the trials ahead, promising joy and protection through faith. We emphasize the importance of trusting in Jesus over striving for perfection, which frees us from hypocrisy and strengthens our unity with fellow believers. This episode offers practical attitudes to adopt during challenging times: seeking to glorify God, rejoicing in our belonging to Him, devoting ourselves fully, and finding hope in Christ. Tune in to embrace the comforting presence of the Holy Spirit and the promise of eternal unity with God as we journey through life's transitions together.

Video available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i7WK6dYkJVY

Hoofdstukken

1. Finding Hope in Jesus' Prayer (00:00:00)

2. Glorifying God (00:07:04)

3. Living in a Hostile World (00:15:36)

4. Deepening Relationship Through Hope in Christ (00:30:21)

5. Seeking God in Difficult Times (00:35:17)