Intimacy

When the prophet Isaiah called the promised Messiah the ‘Everlasting Father’–a surprising thing to call a little child–what did he mean? How might this title illuminate our understanding of who God is and the hope he offers, even for those who have a complicated history with their own fathers.

In his novel, East of Eden, John Steinbeck wrote about the grizzly story of Cain and Abel that it is important because it is a chart of the human soul. It It helps us make sense of our inner world and gives us clues to help us grow into more healthy versions of ourselves.

While it’s an important topic, marriage can be a very sensitive subject. How should we think about it–its purpose, potential, and the pain that’s often associated with it? What about singles and those who may feel left out when the church talks about subjects like marriage?

What makes for a truly great, fruitful life, not only one with lasting meaning, but one that contributes to the common good, and fills us with deep happiness? Jesus here casts a vision for this kind of life, shares the secret to discovering it, and shows us how we can grow in it.