ReWire Blog
Community that Transends and Transforms
Matthew and Simon would have been sworn enemies. Prior to joining the band of Jesus’ disciples, Simon would have had a hard time spending 5 minutes in the same room with Matthew without taking potentially lethal action against him. Matthew represented everything Simon was devoted to oppose. Matthew likely would have had good reason to fear for his life around Simon.
But, as disciples following Jesus, something shifted in the allegiances of these two men.
Reflecting on Belonging, Community, and the Kingdom
True community does not build fences to keep others out - it builds wells to draw others in who are thirsty for acceptance, inclusion, and love. Jesus taught us how to build wells.
The Longing to Belong
We know that light is present by what light illuminates. Wherever light is, it draws all else into existence. Its nature, its essence, is entirely outward focused. Whatever light touches is made perceptible, drawn out to be seen. It differentiates the uniqueness of each thing. In an otherwise dark room, light brings a table and chairs to the forefront - a kind of “serving” that draws all else into being.
Love is like light. Like light you know love is present by what it reveals - and how.
Three Longings of the Soul
There are some things that are so deeply woven into the human experience that they can actually connect us - common denominators that resonate in every human soul. This giving season, we want to focus on three things that we all long for and share about how ReWire is serving these fundamental desires of the human heart.
We all want to be connected to the Divine.
We all want meaningful work.
We all want to belong.
Would Jesus Say the Pledge of Allegiance?
If Jesus was an American citizen, born in an American state to American Mary and Joseph, and was living now as we observe Jesus’ life in the scriptures - would Jesus say the Pledge of Allegiance? Would Jesus pledge his allegiance to the flag of the United States of America?
How I Met Jesus (The Jesus I Fell in Love With)
When I share my “how I met Jesus” story - it usually starts something like this… “In college, I was fascinated by charismatic revolutionaries…”
Creating Rhythms of Self Reflection
I desire to be a better, fuller version of myself. I long to live the life I was created to live, engaged in meaningful change in the world, and experiencing transformation in my own life and the lives of those I love… maybe you can relate?
Why is it So Hard to Change?
Our human determination and will power has given rise to empires. Our will power shapes the history that we make every day. So why does it seem like it is easier to shape the world around us than it is to shape ourselves? At the end of the day, even though each of us is capable of doing profound things, we still struggle with personal change. This inner world is one that human determination has not conquered.
What Your Pain Might Have to Say About Your Life Purpose
If we are willing to take a fresh look at a different framework for discernment, we will discover a more rich and meaningful understanding of call.
6 Tips to Keep Communication Peaceful and Life-Giving During the Holidays
With Christmas fast-approaching, many of us will soon be spending quality time with friends and family celebrating the season together. Hopefully, conversations and communication during these gatherings will be filled with compassion, empathy, and harmony - but, realistically, for most of us, that’s not always the case. Here are six tips to keep the peace and avoid communication with loved ones that results in tension, hurt, or defensiveness this holiday season.
The Transformed Nonconformist and the Birth of a Revolution
This Christmas, as we reflect on the birth, life, and love of Emmanuel, let us consider how we might live as transformed nonconformists. It is here, in this love relationship with Jesus, that we find the guidance and strength to carry on the revolution that began with his birth.
Welcome to Advent
If you’re longing for a change-of-pace right now, if you need to find ways to stop and rest, if you want to build rhythms to prepare your own heart in anticipation of Christmas - we’ve got something that might help.
How to Listen to God…
For so many who are seeking a deeper, more connected spiritual life, the culture of the world around us directly influences how we understand and relate to spiritual practices. Often, many are led to believe "listening to God" is something to be achieved. Culture suggests that discipleship and spiritual growth are about working harder and doing more; more rigorous study, more rigid discipline, more effort. This understanding of spiritual and personal growth is deeply problematic and, quite simply, directly opposes the true ethos of contemplative Christian tradition.
The Four Postures of a ReWire Teacher
In the changing landscape of Christian formation, pastoral leaders are tasked with the mandate of shaping and nurturing authentic disciples. How, then, does one approach the profound nuances of discipleship, transcending the bounds of conventional pedagogical frameworks?
The postures or methods of a ReWire teacher emerge not merely as methodological tools but as a paradigm shift, recalibrating the very essence of spiritual development. This model recognizes that teaching, especially in the realm of spiritual formation, is not a transactional procedure.
Saturday, Oct. 21st - Free SACRED Virtual Retreat
Join us on Saturday, Oct. 21st for a FREE online retreat day, featuring reflection sessions from ReWire’s SACRED: Reflection Retreats and hosted by ReWire. Click the link in the post to join the virtual retreat space in the ReWire Hub.
Individual Subscriptions Now Available for ReWireU!
We are excited to announce Individual Subscriptions to ReWireU! In addition to our Church/Organization Subscription Plans, ReWire is adding a subscription options for individuals. So, if you’re church or organization isn’t currently subscribing to ReWireU, you can still take advantage of the same full access to all ReWireU formation opportunities.
Nurturing the Soul: Distinguishing True Soul Care from Superficial Self-Care Trends
Our lives and culture are filled with constant noise and endless stimulation. Within this noise, the concept of self-care has gained immense popularity. From Instagram feeds filled with picturesque bubble baths to motivational quotes encouraging us to put ourselves first, the self-care movement has become a cultural phenomenon. However, there's a subtle yet crucial distinction between the trendy self-care culture and the profound practice of true, deep, and reflective soul care work.
Register Now for “Soul Care for Leaders: Contemplative Dialogue Group”
Soul Care is more than just self-care; it's a holistic approach to nurturing your spiritual well-being, empowering you to lead from a place of authenticity, renewal, and deep connection with God. Our program recognizes that your soul needs tending, just as much as your ministry does.
Register Now for “Life in the Kingdom: Living the Mission of God”
God’s desire is that all people live a life of loving him and loving their neighbor. This kind of love works for a just, reconciled, and peaceful world where people are liberated from all forms of oppression and treated with God-given dignity. As a community, we will explore the values of the Kingdom and how to live in such a way that we sustain an “others-focused” lifestyle.
Register Now for “Care for the Poor: Jesus’ Way of Community Transformation”
Jesus is our example of the ultimate servant. He lived among us, walked with the poor, had a heart of humility, and displayed self-offering love. His servant character is what we should strive to imitate. As a community, we will explore the kind of heart change necessary to do this, as well as the practical question of how to live it out.