A few months ago, Ivy and I decided to create a BFJN podcast. There were a lot of reasons why this format really fit with the mission and vision of BFJN, where we were as an organization and where we hoped to be – we talk about that some in the first podcast so go ahead and give that a listen. We were a little hesitant about trying this format. There are so many podcasts out there already. So many great ones. Did we really have something to say, something to share that would be of value and use?

So short answer, yes. Long answer, God is good and faithful.

We have had so many wonderful conversations – recorded episodes 7 & 8 yesterday – over the past few months. I am so thankful for the friends and partners whose knowledge, work and passions we have been able to share through the podcast.

One thing we really hoped to do is encourage our community with the stories of those doing good, creative and impactful work building a more just world. 8 episodes in and I feel confident we are doing just that.

I am learning a lot and have been so encouraged and challenged by our guests.

Next week you will be able to listen to the episode with Dira and Saranya. Dira is one of our dedicated board members and she and Saranya are friends who own a home together. They shared the story of their journey into homeownership – the obstacles they faced and the support they received from their community and what kind of home they are building. It was all interesting and informative. One particular takeaway for me was when Dira called what they did and are doing “kingdom work” and “an act of resistance.” That was so powerful. They have found a way to resist the injustice of our housing system, to cultivate a space of safety and welling-being for themselves and others and continue to look for ways to engage to clear the way for others and to force the system to bend toward justice.  These women are inspiring and I can’t wait for you to hear their stories. Since you won’t get to for a little bit (that episode will be out May 3^rd). Listen to some of the other inspiring stories already up.

For those of us who love Jesus and believe his call on our lives involves seeking the flourishing of our neighbor it’s so important to connect to community that feels the same. Too often we can believe the false narrative that following Jesus and doing justice are not inextricably linked and focus ourselves all on one or the other. But they are not one or the other:

From Matthew 22:34-40 (MSG)

When the Pharisees heard how he had bested the Sadducees, they gathered their forces for an assault. One of their religion scholars spoke for them, posing a question they hoped would show him up: “Teacher, which command in God’s Law is the most important?”

Jesus said, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.’ This is the most important, the first on any list. But there is a second to set alongside it: ‘Love others as well as you love yourself.’ These two commands are pegs; everything in God’s Law and the Prophets hangs from them.”

EVERYTHING hangs on love.