Passion and Purpose

Today’s a new day! As men, our first question to another man usually is “What do you do for a living?” As men our careers tend to be our identities in so many ways. But what happens when that identity is taken away? Shattered into a million pieces when the doctors tell you that you have multiple life threatening illnesses that have no cure. Within hours of hearing that devastating news, what I did for a living didn’t matter anymore. But I still needed purpose. Something to distract me from all the test and multiple hospital stays. That’s why through prayer, I became a medical missionary/coach. Way back when my health journey first started, I was not qualified to help anyone walk through their medical journey. Still not sure I am. Only through God’s help and guidance, am I able to sit with people who are going through some of the toughest battles they have ever faced. I consider it an honor to help others navigate through their health journey. Through my own health challenges, I have found peace, joy and purpose.

As I talk with other patients, I always share the following: “It is not what happens to us during this season of struggles, but how we react that truly defines who we are.” So how do you want to be defined? Health issues or no health issues, that question should dictate how you live.

As I continue walking through this health journey, I am a big believer in being as honest and open as possible. Men are notoriously bad at sharing their feelings, but I want to change that narrative as I continue to live out this crazy beautiful health journey.

We get pushed along in this world by consumerism, but it really doesn’t matter what car, house or latest technology we have. No, what really matters in this journey called life is love, relationships, kindness, caring for others, being surrounded by family and friends. I want to create the best relationships I can, and live the happiest life I can, because I no longer know what my timeframe is (none of us do). So I will continue to live life with passion and purpose. ~OC

June 10, 2025 0

I Have Decided

Today’s a new day! Here is another “Lost Writings from OC.” This was written in back in 2023. I am saddened that we are still talking about this in 2025. I pray you will take the time to read and reflect on the following words.

Christian Nationalists are busy attempting to build communities of delusion. Their false doctrine is pure fantasy and far from the love and common sense of Jesus and his teachings. Christian Nationalism is not true Christianity. I think it’s time for true Christians to stand up against this false theology and bring common sense back to the Christian community. It’s time to bring back the true teachings of Jesus.

It’s time for truth and love to stand up. A moment for the real Christian community to realize that Jesus has been forsaken by the false teachings of Christian Nationalism. To see how this false doctrine teaches power over people, the rich over the poor and nationalism over global freedom.

Think about the following words from Jesus, “For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’ “Then these righteous ones will reply, ‘Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? When did we ever see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ “And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!” ~Matthew 25:35-40

Those truly serving Jesus will say “Yes and amen! We want to love and serve everyone.” Christian Nationalist will say “No, that’s woke. They need to take care of themselves.” You see, Christian Nationalism is a bad tree. Remember, Jesus said a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.

It’s time for a radical vision and movement, where everyone is welcomed to the table. A time to say no to division and evangelical extremism. It’s time for the real Christian community to be defined by the openness of Jesus and his love and reverence for all. Something you will not find in the Christian Nationalism movement.

I encourage everyone who truly loves Jesus and His teachings, to let your conscience be decisive.

For me, I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back. ~OC

June 4, 2025 0

I Have Decided

I encourage everyone who truly loves Jesus and His teachings, to let your conscience be decisive.

For me, I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back. ~OC

June 4, 2025 0

Beautiful Journey

Today’s a new day! As many of you know, I was diagnosed with young-onset dementia last September (2024). Life has changed in many ways since that diagnosis. Writing down my thoughts is much tougher these days. This post literally took me several weeks to write. Finding my words to write or speak can be a daunting challenge at times. As I navigate this new reality of living with dementia, I want to share the journey with you. To answer your questions and to share my thoughts for as long as I can. The following is a question I get a lot as I continue to run this crazy beautiful health journey.

What gives you the strength to remain positive?

My Christian faith gives me deep meaning in life, giving me hope for the future and a perspective of my life being eternal, not simply limited to what I see and experience on this side of Heaven. This life and my health journey are temporary.

“So we do not lose heart. Though our self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” ~2 Corinthians 4:16-18

I have met so many people with different health challenges during my journey, all at various stages of ability due to their declining health. But each person still remains an individual, with their true inner being shining through. The eyes remain a window into someone’s soul, and reflect our humanity.

As my thoughts and overall health becomes a bigger challenge, I see more clearly the importance of relationships. I also see and feel myself traveling through a wide range of emotions, even if they become a little more scrambled with the dementia. Our emotions connect us to each other, allowing us to form relationships, which is a mark of truly being human. As this journey takes me deeper within myself, I find myself reflecting more on God and how to truly live life more for Him. This is what gives me an abiding sense of meaning as I travel on this health journey wherever it takes me. Because I know the final destination is filled with peace and ultimate healing. As a Christian, the ending is really the beginning.

So as I continue to run this health race, I remain positive, feeling that I am gaining along this journey a far better sense of what it means to be truly alive and that much can be achieved to help others as I continue travel this crazy beautiful journey. ~OC

May 27, 2025 0

Call to Community

Today’s a new day! As we scroll through social media or turn on the tv, there is no doubt we are living in messy times. Sadly, across America and the world so many people have become anxious and isolated.

But, as I look at all of the craziness going on around us, all I can think about is how badly we need each other. We were not created to be divided. We have been called to appreciate and celebrate diversity. The inclusion of every culture, nation and people is an element in the reign of God, in the pictures we’re presented throughout the New Testament of the Bible, from the start of the book of Matthew to the end of Revelation. Even while much remains uncertain, the Spirit continues to summon us into the messy places of discomfort. We have been called to serve others, to help all know God’s love and peace.

We are living in messy times, but our hearts should be full of passion. A passion for stability and hope. A passion to know and see the value and worth of others around us. A passion to experience a sense of belonging and meaning. Only together, can we step forward into the mess of discomfort and build a community flourishing with the values of inclusion, hospitality, service, compassion, love and mercy. A community that is united and committed to looking past our differences and instead focusing on our commonalities.

If you have this same passion, then I welcome you to the call to community. Welcome to the mess of relationship, differences, variety and perspectives. Come on into this community where being the hands and feet of Jesus is not just another Christian cliche.

To build a community like this I need you. This community is created to welcome all people into the community as we explore the margins and celebrate the goodness.

Welcome to the mess! Let’s go make a difference. ~OC

May 22, 2025 0

Running On Empty

Today’s a new day! Here is another “Lost Writings From OC.” This was written in May 2023 during a hospital stay.

As I was reading and studying scripture this morning, the following came to my mind.

The Question of the Day: Do you find yourself at times, spiritually running on empty?”

Speaking for myself, I can say most definitely that there have been times when I was so focused on my spiritual destination and what I needed to do to get there that I allowed my spiritual gas tank to run dry.

Let’s take a moment to break that statement down:

– To begin with, there are a lot of “I’s” and “my’s” in that sentence – almost always a sure sign of trouble.

– My focus was on “my spiritual destination” – not on God’s intentions for me in that moment.

– My priorities were based on “what I needed to do” – not on God’s priorities for me.

– My spiritual gas tank was empty because I had neglected it; in my out-of-focus focus, I had left out the ONE who should have my utmost attention.

The Word of God gives us a beautiful comparison of two sisters with differing priorities.

Martha had invited Jesus into her home – an invitation that likely included Jesus’ twelve disciples. Luke writes, she “welcomed” Jesus. She was happy and excited to have Jesus in her home, she loved Him and wanted to serve Him well. But her focus quickly shifted from Jesus to the task of preparing the food and caring for her guests. Joyful service turned to resentment when Martha saw her sister, Mary, sitting at Jesus feet listening to Him talk.

Martha was running on “Empty” as she tried to guilt and manipulate Jesus into shaming Mary into helping her serve. Jesus kindly, but firmly, put Martha in her place. “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary.” (Luke 10:41-42)

Jesus told Martha that although she was stressed out over many things, she had missed the most important thing. Martha’s focus on the busyness of hosting and serving her guests had drained her spiritual tank and blurred her focus. She was operating on empty.

We can say and do foolish things when we are tired and running on empty.

– Martha’s efforts had depleted her spirit and left her empty.

– Martha’s joy had been replaced by irritation and frustration.

– Her sincere desire to serve had been replaced by feelings of resentment.

Then Jesus spoke words that convicted Martha deeply and likely changed her perspective forever, “Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” Jesus was saying that Mary had made the best choice – she had chosen Him. (Luke 10:42)

“The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot.” Psalm 16:5

“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Psalm 73:26

“The LORD is my portion; I promise to keep Your words.” Psalm 119:57

Right now is a beautiful time of the year: a time to celebrate graduations, vacations and more time to hang out with family and friends. It’s also a time to run ourselves ragged – decorating, shopping, stressing about everything we need to get done before we can rest and enjoy the moment. If we are not careful, we will find ourselves running on EMPTY.

Not just Energy Empty…Spiritually Empty.

How can we keep our spiritual tank filled?

– Remember the focus is on God’s Love and His Ultimate Gift to Mankind (Don’t focus on yourself)

– Follow God in the moment (Don’t over plan and obsess on the details)

– Make God’s priorities yours (Don’t neglect your daily devotions and prayer time, keep first things first)

– Choose Jesus, He is your best choice – your perfect portion

The amazing thing is this, when we choose God as our focus, we will be filled, and we will stay full.

“And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” (Philippians 1:9-11)

“For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.”
‭‭(Ephesians‬ ‭3‬:‭14‬-‭21‬)

Finally, I encourage us all to spend more time enjoying the journey and less time stressing about the outcome. ~OC

May 21, 2025 0

What Might Jesus Say

Today’s a new day! Here is another “Lost Writing From OC.” This was written back in 2019.

For well over a decade, I’ve been journaling about and having discussions centered around seeking and living for Jesus in a noisy world. When I read my Bible, I have a journal close by to write down whatever God brings to my heart and mind. I take time to look at my life and examine how I am applying the passages I’m studying or how far away I am from doing so. It’s a way for me to allow God’s word to seep into my life in ways it hasn’t in the past.

This past week, I was reading in Luke 13:34 where It says, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing!”

Jesus spoke those words on Tuesday of Passion week, just three days before he was crucified. Jerusalem was not only a hotspot for the Jewish leadership that opposed Jesus, but it was also one of the homes of King Herod. Luke reported that Jesus said these words after some Pharisees warned him to leave because Herod wanted to kill Jesus.

In response, Jesus lamented that the people in Jerusalem had not welcomed him or allowed him to change their spiritual lives and eternal destination.

This got me start thinking. What might Jesus say to me?”

“Todd, how often I have longed to tell you your worth, but you looked to the world and not me.”

“Todd, how often I have longed to tell you that you could, but you listened to your own insecurities or the negative voices around you instead.”

“Todd, how often I have longed to show you the way out, but you were looking the wrong way.”

“Todd, how often I have longed to slap that phone or device out of your hand and tell you I am all you need.”

“Todd, how often I have wanted to speak to you, but your job or ministry work was more important.”

What about you? If Jesus was in front of you right now, what might he say to you? What would his lament sound like in your life?

Whatever that lament is—and I hope you take the time to think about it—you don’t have to stay stuck, and you don’t have to keep looking within yourself or to social media or to a self-help book for the answers to your questions or problems. You don’t have to keep fretting about the latest political news or worry that your friends on social media seem to have a better life than you.

Going to yourself or the world fills you with empty promises that things will get better and that you can look to yourself for change. Eventually those things come up woefully short. The peace you and I long for, the guidance we need, the encouragement to keep going is found not in us or the world but in the Word of God and in community with His people.

I believe life is much fuller when we take the Word of God seriously, examine it, and apply it. It’s about not just reading or listening to the Word only to walk away to the same habits that keep us in the same vicious cycle. No, when we do life with other mature Christians, they will remind us that God is in control and working in ways we cannot see. They will help us plant our faith so deeply in God that we are unshakable in the worst of storms.

Perhaps the greatest advantage to being in God’s Word is going back to Him after the world or our own insecurities beat us up to find God’s love isn’t fleeting. It’s easy to see our failures and the way things aren’t what we hoped. But God’s Word is like a constant cheerleader, reminding us we aren’t too damaged and haven’t wandered too far from His grace.

Jesus may lament that we get it wrong more often than we should, but only to make us stop long enough to get our attention off of us, away from the world, and back to him. Over and over his Word reminds us of our worth, our mission, and his love. We get to know the character of Jesus, and that’s when we know that after he cringes in lament, he’s sure to add encouragement like:

“I got that. You’re forgiven. Move on.”

“I know you’re trying, and I know it’s hard. Don’t give up.”

“They don’t understand, but I do.”

“I love that about you.”

“I saw that. It was amazing. Don’t ever stop doing that.”

Those are words I love to hear from God. How about you? ~OC

May 19, 2025 0

Take His Hand

Today’s a new day! When you feel overwhelmed by the storms of life and cannot see a way out, God sees through the darkest moments and will pull you out of the raging waters. Just let Him reach down and take your hand. God will never fail you. ~OC

May 18, 2025 0

Resting In God

Today’s a new day!

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” ~ Matthew 11:28

Amid the demands of our daily lives and the constant pursuit of the next “thing” it is essential to consider the profound invitation to rest that Jesus extends to each of us. This call to rest is not just about physical restoration; it’s an opportunity to release our burdens and allow God to work wonders in our lives.

The weight of life’s responsibilities often leads us to tightly grasp control, holding onto worries and fears as if we alone can navigate the challenges of life. However, the wisdom found in Matthew 11:28 challenges us to open our hands, surrender our anxieties, and embrace the rest that God promises.

Resting in God’s work involves more than simply pausing from our labors; it requires trusting in the divine plan that surpasses our understanding. The challenge is to let go of the need for control and acknowledge that God’s ways are higher, His timing is perfect, and His love is unwavering.

Picture in your mind a garden. After the seeds are sown, there’s a season of waiting before the beauty of blooms emerges. Similarly, in the quiet moments of surrender, God’s transformative power begins to unfold. Rest becomes an act of faith, creating space for His purpose to flourish.

So today, challenge yourself to find rest in God’s embrace. It’s not a sign of weakness but a declaration of faith. Release the burdens you’ve been carrying and allow God’s symphony of grace to unfold. In the stillness, you position yourself to witness the beauty of His artistry in your life.

As you embrace divine rest, may you discover the peace that comes from trusting in God’s promises. Let go, so that His work can take center stage in your journey. In the surrender of control, you open the door to the wonders and fulfillment that God has prepared for you. ~OC

May 17, 2025 0

Gratitude

Today’s a new day! Here is another “Lost Writings From OC.” This was written in 2022.~OC

When life is easy, gratitude is easy. But not in the storms. Not in the worried nights when anxiety is overwhelming us. Not in the hospital when pacing the floors hoping for good news. Gratitude hinges on our willingness to accept God’s will over our own. Accepting that He is in control, and we can trust Him.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, we see God’s instruction to always be thankful: “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

In the storms of life, God is our only hope. His faithfulness and His goodness are present even during the darkest moments. It might not happen immediately, but thankfulness grows as we cling to Him. We are grateful not only for the joys of restored health, restored relationships and overcoming grief, but for the sorrows that brought us to a place of utter dependence on Jesus.

Today, before your day gets too busy with meetings and a to do list to get through, take some time to reflect on what God has done in your life. Offer gratitude not only for the “easy-sailing” blessings, but also for the lessons learned during the storms.

Dear God, thank You not only for Your countless blessings, but for the challenges that draw us near to You. For the lessons learned during the storm. Thank You for the hard moments when You gave us the strength to wait out the storm. You are so good. Whatever storms come into our lives, You are our Rock and our Shelter. Thank You for Your light that surrounds us, and Your love that never fails. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

May 15, 2025 0