How do we trust God in the midst of life’s challenges? The book of Job tells us our hope is ultimately anchored in God showing up and not in figuring out what God is doing or even in answers to our prayers. We maintain and even grow in trust as we wholeheartedly communicate our pain and suffering through lament and affirm our trust in knowing the love of Christ.

In 1 Kings 22, the prophet Micaiah stands alone against King Ahab and 400 of his false prophets. Though pressured to speak favorably of the king, Micaiah insists on being faithful to the word of the Lord, causing him to be thrown into prison. Micaiah presents a picture of faithful service to God and his word. Micaiah's brave stand against certain consequence foreshadows the very life of Jesus.

Matthew 20:1-16 "The Kingdom of God is His" is a short parable where Jesus teaches His disciples and us that God is in full control of His creation, so that

all who are His, the workers in the vineyard, regardless of one's time and level of involvement, all receive the fullness of His love and fellowship unto eternal life.

All God has to offer is complete and full in Jesus Christ and comes to His beloved people only by His gracious act of love, not by any work that one of His creatures could attempt.