Foreign.

Dr. Brad Miller here with the Daily Bible Refresh.

This is your daily reading of the Bible from a progressive point of view.

In a bit I will read the New Testament lesson selected from the Revised Common Lectionary for this very day.

The reading is understandable.

I use the message version relatable.

Please listen to the points to ponder and applicable with action steps you can take.

We pray and are done in less than 10 minutes.

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Here's today's reading.

So our reading Today is from Titus 1:1:9 and we're reading from the message.

I, Paul, am God's slave and Christ agent for promoting the faith among God's chosen people.

Getting out the accurate word on God and how to respond rightly to it.

My aim is to raise hopes by.

Pointing the way to to life without end.

This is the life God promised long ago and he doesn't break promises.

And then when the time was ripe, he went public with his truth.

I've been entrusted to proclaim this message by order of our Savior, God Himself.

Dear Titus, legitimate son of the faith, receive everything.

God our Father and Jesus our Savior.

Gives you a good grip on the I left you in charge in Crete so you could complete what I left half done.

Appoint leaders in every town according to my instructions.

As you select them, ask is this man well thought of?

Is he committed to his wife?

Are his children believers?

Do they respect him and stay out of trouble?

It's important that a church leader responsible for the affairs in God's house be looked up to.

Not pushy, not short tempered, not a drunk, not a bully, not money hungry.

He must welcome people, be helpful, wise, fair Reverend, have a good grip on himself and have a good grip on the message.

Knowing how to use the truth to either spur people on in knowledge or stop them in their tracks if they oppose it.

Well friends, in this episode we're talking about leadership through love and service.

My name is Dr. Brad Miller and here we're exploring this fascinating passage from Titus that really challenges our traditional understanding of church leadership.

Reminds me of things I've learned while raising my three kids that leadership isn't always about control, it's about creating space for growth and authenticity.

So let's get into some points to ponder.

The first one is about redefining religious leadership.

This passage talks about qualities of church leaders, but let's look at it deeper.

In my Cancer Support podcast, we focus on authentic connection over rigid structures.

Paul's emphasis isn't on maintaining power, but on fostering community.

Notice how these qualities listed being welcoming, helpful, wise and fair are about serving others rather than about controlling them.

This speaks to progressive understanding, where leadership is about empowerment, not authority.

The second point is about breaking traditional barriers.

While Paul's letter reflects his historical context, we can extract principles that resonate with inclusive values.

Just as my wife and I have Learned over our 33 years of marriage, it's that partnership triumph trumps hierarchy.

Modern church leadership should embrace diversity and shared responsibility.

The emphasis on well thought of suggests leaders should be known for their positive impact on the broader community, not just within the church walls.

Truth as a Tool for Growth the text mentions using truth to spur people on in knowledge.

This reminds me of doing hiking and walks with my granddaughters.

We need to pause and look at the flowers and the maps to make sure we're heading in the right direction.

Truth isn't meant to be a weapon, but a compass guiding us toward greater understanding and compassion.

Sometimes I like to share dad jokes and even groaners.

It's not about creating connections, not it's about creating connections and not divisions.

Here's your action step this week.

Identify one way that you can serve your community that challenges traditional power structures.

Maybe it's amplifying marginalized voices or supporting inclusive initiatives, or simply listening to a perspective different than your own.

Maybe think of it like a basketball game.

I'm a great Indiana Pacers fan.

I know something about how their teamwork comes into play.

Everyone has a vital role to play, regardless of their position.

Let's have a closing prayer.

Loving God, help us.

Reimagine leadership as you intended it.

Like the joy I find in my granddaughter's laughter, May we find delight in lifting others up rather than holding power over them.

Guide us in creating communities where everyone's gifts are celebrated and valued.

When we're tempted to build walls, remind us of your call to build bridges like a well marked trail in a state park.

Show us the path to authentic service and inclusive love.

Give us courage to challenge old structures and wisdom to create new ones based on your radical love.

Amen.

My friend, I am delighted you chose to join me for today's reading.

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Thanks much.

My name is Dr. Brad Miller and I'll be right here tomorrow with your daily Bible refresh.

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Remember, God's loyal love doesn't run out.

His merciful love hasn't dried up, gets created new every morning.