This week in our Christmas series, we discussed the promise of hope and light found in Isaiah 9, as Charlie Loften shared how God meets His people in seasons of waiting and uncertainty. Exploring the story of Israel’s divided kingdoms, we looked at the challenges Judah faced under King Ahaz—spiritual darkness, political oppression, and longing for change. The passage’s prophecy, “For to us a child is born,” pointed not just to King Hezekiah’s temporary relief, but ultimately to Jesus, who brings lasting peace, joy, and righteousness. Through personal reflections and historical context, Charlie Loften invited us to consider where we seek resolution and how God’s promises often arrive differently than we expect—meeting us one heart at a time and calling us to celebrate what He’s already done. As we anticipate Christmas, we’re encouraged to wait in hope and let the light and joy of Christ’s coming transform our perspective on everyday struggles. Reflect on where you might need God’s light in your own life and what it means to trust Him in the waiting.

This week on Cultivate, we kicked off our new series exploring the parables of Jesus—those simple yet profound stories that invite us to dig deeper into who God is and how He calls us to live. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone unpacked what makes a parable unique, contrasting these earthly stories with fables and illustrations, and discussing why Jesus chose this teaching style. We talked through how parables use everyday scenarios—like farmers, servants, and lost coins—to reveal spiritual truths, often leaving us pondering their full meaning long after we hear them.

We also explored the importance of focusing on the main point of a parable, rather than getting lost in the details, and how considering the original audience helps us better understand what Jesus was trying to say. This foundation helps us see how God’s wisdom connects to the realities of our daily lives and relationships. Wherever you are in your faith journey, we invite you to keep asking questions, reflect on these stories, and join us as we look for how God might be speaking to us through them.

This week in our Advent Promises series, we discussed what it means to trust God’s promises even when fulfillment feels far off. Drawing from Jeremiah 23, Charlie Loften explored the story of God’s people living in exile—caught in the gap between hope and reality—as they awaited the promise of a “righteous branch” from David’s line. We looked at how our relationship with God isn’t just transactional, but is founded on His unconditional love and faithfulness, not our ability to be “good enough.” Through biblical history and personal stories, Charlie Loften illustrated how God is constantly restoring people to Himself, even in seasons of struggle and disobedience. We were encouraged to recognize that our security and identity as followers of Christ rest in His righteousness, not our own. As you reflect this week, consider how trusting in God’s grace can reshape your understanding of faith, restoration, and everyday life. Engage further by exploring what it means for you to be reconciled to God and ambassador of His love.