The Discerning Life: Introduction
by Thomas B. Grosh IV, D.Min., CMDA Northeast Regional Director
“Where does God show up the most obviously for you? … When was the last time you had a burning heart of awareness of God? … Do you notice God’s initiatives toward you, and feel his drawing you toward himself 24/7? Or do you more often feel like you’re the one searching for God?” - 23
After diving into a series on The Discerning Life: An Invitation to Notice God in Everything by Stephen A. Macchia* by offering how the Lord deeply connected with me in Chapter 5: Hospitality: Spiritual Discernment is Communal, let us turn to the beginning of the book:
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” - John 1:14
…This book is about spiritual discernment as a way of life. It’s offered to you as an encouragement to open the home of your heart to the deep work of God. Consider the parallel priorities of house care with soul care... - xxv
As a young follower of Christ involved with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship / USA, a significant booklet for me was My Heart--Christ's Home by Robert Boyd Munger. I found walking through the rooms (and closets) of my life a helpful lens for seeking to live a holy life. In The Discerning Life, Stephen offers real life illustrations of house care to invite an exploration of our soul care. For a taste, watch the introductory video.
Please let me know, if you have interest in
reading and discussing The Discerning Life — bonus resource material
spiritual formation / direction.
the Northeast Annual Conference (10/28-30) focused on Resilience, featuring Dr. Janet Kim, Chief Medical Officer at Beacon Christian Community Health Center.
a spiritual life / family track at the upcoming CMDA National Convention (April 27-30). Note: As the Dean I’m currently in the development process. Your prayers are much appreciated. I will give it a fair amount of attention on Tuesday, July 12.
Keep worshiping, fixing your eyes on, and pressing on in the upward hope of Christ Jesus. To God be the glory!
*Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Macchia is a thought provoking author and is the Founder and President of Leadership Transformations, Inc (LTI). LTI focuses on the spiritual formation needs of leaders and the spiritual discernment processes of leadership teams in local church and parachurch ministry settings nationwide. He is also the Director of the Pierce Center for Discipleship-Building at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Ruth, live in beautiful Lexington, MA and enjoy spending time with their two grown children and three beloved grandchildren.
