American Dream..Or Nightmare? – Wednesday

Week 6 | IN – Loving People More

Listen instead of reading

Take a Moment

Ask God what He wants to show you before reading today

Read The Daily

“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” (Matthew 18:20)

Think about most of the movies we all watch about heroes.  The hero rescues someone, returns them to their loved ones or family and then rides off (or walks off) into the sunset…alone.  It’s a classic example of a fundamental American tale — that of a nation built on notions of individualism, a story filled with loners and “rugged individualists” who suck it up, do what needs to be done, ride off into the sunset and like it that way.  But what if it’s all wrong?

In reality, loneliness in America can be deadly. Last year, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy declared it an American epidemic, saying that it takes as deadly a toll as smoking upon the population of the United States. “Millions of people in America are struggling in the shadows,” he said, “and that’s not right.” I remember a friend years ago telling me they felt completely alone? The crazy thing was, we were at a party with tons of people around.  

It’s easy to hide in a crowd, to blend in with the multitude while nursing our inner battles in isolation. The story of friends lowering their paralyzed friend through a roof to get to Jesus demonstrates a profound truth: real connection often requires overcoming barriers, both physical and metaphorical. It’s about breaking through the crowds of superficial interactions and reaching a place of genuine encounter with God and each other.  So, challenge yourself this week. Don’t let the crowds in your life – whether it’s the crowds of busyness, social media, or even indifference – keep you from deep, meaningful connections. Seek out a friend for a heartfelt conversation, or create a space where you can genuinely meet with others. It’s what you were designed for. 

Don’t forget this week’s Chasing Epic Challenge is to connect with a group by scheduling a time to share a meal or at least hang out.  

Prayer for the Day

God what are you  showing me?  What am I going to do about it? 

God help me to see one person that I can serve through a kind word, random act of kindness, or simple gift today?

Make sure you complete the reading or comment today.

Read The New Testament In A Year

4 x 6 Plan | Read: Mark 7:31-37, Mark 8:1-10 & 1 Corinthians 14:26-40