See What God Is Doing and Join Him
Heart Happy
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There is a principle in Henry Blackaby’s Experiencing God that has shaped so much of my walk with the Lord:
“Find where God is at work and join Him there.”
It sounds simple, doesn’t it? But in my experience, God doesn’t always send a memo. Sometimes He sends a “fun” trip. Sometimes He uses a broom. And sometimes, He uses the quiet, breaking of your heart to plant a seed that won’t bloom for years. That is exactly how my heart—and my family’s future—became tethered to the Czech Republic.
The “Trick” and the Heartbreak
My connection to this beautiful nation didn’t start with a mission board or a strategic plan. It started in 2000, when I joined two writer friends for a research trip through Europe. I honestly thought I was just going for the sightseeing and the history. I often say God “tricked” me into going because He knew I needed to see something my imagination couldn’t conjure.
As we were leaving the country, driving along the border of Austria and the Czech Republic, I looked out the window. In the misty, gray rain, I saw young women standing by the side of the road. They were victims of prostitution, waiting for customers.
That image didn’t just sadden me; it rocked me to my core. It crushed my heart. I realized in a visceral way the desperate need for Christ’s truth in a nation where so many had nothing to cling to. I went home to Montana (where I lived at the time), but a piece of my heart stayed on that rainy roadside.
The Push and the Shove
For seven years, that seed lay dormant. I had the “push,” but I didn’t know the way. Then, in 2007, I met Sona Blue. She sat next to me in Sunday School and later joined my Experiencing God class. Sona was Czech, and she had been praying for three years to return to her homeland to share her faith.
The moment of “joining God” happened on a Wednesday night. It wasn’t during a sermon, but during cleanup. I was sweeping the church floor, and suddenly, I felt it—a prompt so clear it stopped me in my tracks. I dropped the broom and ran to the kitchen, where Sona was washing dishes.
“Sona,” I said, breathless. “We need to go to the Czech Republic.”
She turned to me, eyes wide. “I have been praying for that exact thing all week.”
That was the shove. We weren’t just going to visit. We were going to serve.
Leading the Way
In 2009, my husband John and I led our first team of 19 people—mostly teenagers—to the Czech Republic. We knew we were walking into one of the most atheistic nations in Europe, so we didn’t go unprepared. We used the training resource I Once Was Lost to help our team understand how to guide people through the thresholds of postmodern skepticism toward Jesus.
God provided for that trip in the most creative ways. I remember holding a silent auction and “Literary Garage Sale,” selling signed books to raise the final funds. We were all in.
A Legacy Taken Root
My daughter, Leslie, was on those early trips. I went as a leader, but Leslie went as someone finding her home. (She just didn’t know it yet!) While other team members returned to their American lives, Leslie’s heart remained in Olomouc.
What started as a short-term mission has become a lifetime calling. Leslie has now lived in the Czech Republic for 12 years. She didn’t just go; she stayed. She learned the difficult language. She built a life.
Today, she is married to Honza Zatloukal, and they are raising two beautiful children there. She works as an English teacher at Univerzita Palackého (Palacký University Olomouc), using her role in education to build bridges in the community.
But even more beautiful is seeing how she serves the Kingdom. She serves alongside Bedřich Smola (Freddy) at Maják (Lighthouse) , a church-planting network that is lighting up the spiritual darkness I saw on that roadside so many years ago.
The Vision for 20
When I look at Leslie, and when I look at the work Freddy and the team at Maják are doing, I am overwhelmed. They have a “Vision for 20″—a God-sized goal to expand from 11 to 20 healthy, reproducing churches.
I look back at that woman sweeping the church floor in Montana terrified but obedient, and I think: Look what God did. He took a writer on a “fun” trip, broke her heart for the lost, connected her with a Czech friend, and used it all to plant her daughter in a harvest field on the other side of the world.
We never know what will happen when we simply open our eyes to see where God is working. But I can promise you this: when you join Him, the adventure is greater than anything you could write yourself.
Are you sensing a “shove” from God today? Is there a place or a people group He has placed on your heart? I’d love to hear your story in the comments!
Questions for Reflection
On Your “Holy Heartbreak”
- What breaks my heart? When I look at the news or walk through my city, what specific injustice, suffering, or need makes me stop in my tracks? Is there an image—like my memory of the border in the rain—that God keeps bringing back to my mind?
- What makes me weep? Bob Pierce, the founder of World Vision, famously prayed, “Let my heart be broken with the things that break the heart of God.” What is the last thing that moved you to tears for the sake of others?
On Your Connections
- Who am I drawn to? When I walk into a room, a store, or a church, whom do I naturally gravitate toward? Is it struggling moms, teenagers, the elderly, or a specific culture?
- Who is the “Sona” in my life? Has God brought a person from another country or culture into my path? A neighbor, a co-worker, or someone at church?
- Why are they here? Have I ever stopped to ask God, “Why did you have our paths cross?” Is there a way I can serve, encourage, or support the work God is doing in their home country?
On Taking Action
- What is in my hand? I was holding a broom when God spoke to me. You might be holding a diaper, a laptop, a steering wheel, or a pen. How can God use what is currently in your hand to bless a community on the other side of the world?
- Am I ignoring a “shove”? Is there a recurring thought or prompt I’ve been dismissing as “crazy” or “too big”? What would happen if I just said “Yes” to the next small step?
A Prayer of Surrender
Lord, thank You that You are always at work, in every corner of the world and in the quiet corners of my own life.
Today, I pause to ask: Where are You working? Open my eyes to see what You see. Break my heart for what breaks Yours. If there is a “Sona” You have placed in my path—a divine connection I have overlooked—help me to see them today.
Lord, I admit that sometimes I am afraid of the “shove.” I am afraid of the unknown or of being inadequate. But I know that You don’t call the equipped; You equip the called. Whether I am on a research trip, sweeping a floor, or sitting at my kitchen table, I want to be available.
I surrender my plans to Your greater adventure. I surrender my comfort for Your Kingdom. Show me where to join You, Lord. I am ready to go—or to stay and serve—wherever You lead.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen.
Recommended Resource:
Find Your Own “Czech Republic” Does the story of my journey to the Czech Republic stir something in you? You might not be called to Eastern Europe, but God is calling you somewhere outside your comfort zone.
In my book, Walk It Out, I share how to step past the safety of a busy life—packed with family, friends, and service—and into the wild, fulfilling adventure of truly following God. If you are tired of feeling empty despite a full calendar, it’s time to stop focusing on your own plans and start walking out God’s specific mandates for you.
Bridge the Gap Between “Then” and “Now”
We often read the Bible and wonder, “Okay, but what does this mean for me today? How do I actually apply this to my marriage, my parenting, or my work?”
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
February 16
Numbers 8, Numbers 9:1-14, Leviticus 1-3
Offering Your Light to God
In the book of Numbers, we find a seemingly small detail that carries a profound message. The Lord instructs Moses to arrange the seven lamps on the lampstand in the Tabernacle so their light shines forward. Nestled between the tribal offerings and the dedication of the Levites, this directive reminds us that our lives are meant to illuminate the path ahead for ourselves and others.
A Different Kind of Gift
As the tribes of Israel brought their material offerings to the Tabernacle, the Levites stood out for what they didn’t bring. They didn’t present gold, silver, or livestock. Instead, their offering was one of service.
The dedication of the Levites was a special offering to the Lord—a life-offering. They stood in the place of the firstborn sons of Israel, signifying a transition from giving what we have to giving who we are. It’s a poignant symbol for us today: while material generosity is important, the most precious gift we can offer God is our time, our hearts, and our service.
Word of the Day: Substitution
Definition: The action of replacing someone or something with another.
The concept of substitution is woven throughout the Tabernacle rituals. The Levites acted as a substitution for the firstborn of all Israel, dedicated entirely to God’s work. This principle reaches its beautiful culmination in the New Testament. Christ became our ultimate substitution, taking our place and offering His life to bring us forgiveness and a brand-new beginning.
The Power of the Best
Throughout the rituals of the Tabernacle—from the burnt offerings to the peace offerings—we see themes of surrender, thanksgiving, and forgiveness. These meticulous requirements show us that God desires our “best of the best.” The meticulous detail reminds us that God is a God of order and intention.
Personal Reflections: The Best of the Best
I’ve often reflected on what it means to give God my “best.” Some days, my “best” feels like a lot, and other days, it feels like very little. But God isn’t looking for perfection; He’s looking for a heart that recognizes the gift of substitution.
Just as the lampstand was positioned to shine forward, our acts of devotion and love today create a glow that impacts tomorrow. We are called to offer our lives as a living sacrifice, finding purpose and joy in the simple act of being available to Him.
February 17
Leviticus 4-6
What If I Don’t Mean to Sin?
In the heart of the Old Testament, the book of Leviticus presents a fascinating study of sin, sacrifice, and atonement. Today’s reading focused on the concept of unintentional sin..
The Reality of Unintentional Sin
“Sin unintentionally” – these words capture the essence of actions taken without malice but still in violation of divine laws. Leviticus underscores a critical truth: ignorance of sin does not mean we’re not guilty. Whether it’s the high priest, the entire community, a leader, or the common people, each group is held accountable for their actions, even when those actions are unintentional. What sacrifices were required? A bull for the high priest and the community, a male goat for a leader, and a female goat for common individuals. These offerings symbolize the seriousness with which these unintentional sins are viewed and the lengths to which atonement must be sought.
The Process of Atonement
The rituals described for atonement involved the laying of hands on the animal, slaughtering it, and the priest applying its blood in a ceremonial fashion. These acts are not merely ritualistic; they represent a deep, symbolic cleansing and reconciliation with God. The burning of the goat’s fat on the altar, similar to the peace offering, represents the restoration of peace between the individual and God. It’s a reminder of the cost of sin and the path to forgiveness.
Leviticus as a Manual and a Mirror
The meticulous rituals of Leviticus, while distant, remind us of the importance of acknowledging our mistakes, intentional or not, and seeking reconciliation. These rituals underline a universal truth: our actions have consequences, and acknowledging our faults is the first step toward redemption.
Word of the Day: Standard
Definition: A level of quality or attainment.
The concept of “standard” serves as a powerful reminder of the benchmarks set by God for living a righteous life. These divine standards are not arbitrary. They are designed for our well-being and success. In a world where “good enough” often suffices, the call to uphold God’s standards challenges us to strive for excellence in our spiritual journey.
Applications for Today
1. Embracing Divine Standards: These divine benchmarks invite us to continually improve, not for earthly accolades but for spiritual growth.
2. Tradition vs. Truth: In our quest to live by God’s standards, we must discern between tradition and truth. The example of unintentional sins in Leviticus encourages us to examine our practices and beliefs, ensuring they align with divine truth rather than merely human tradition.
Leviticus offers a lens through which to view our imperfections and God’s infinite grace. It challenges us to reflect on our actions, intentions, and the standards by which we live. As we navigate the complexities of life, let us remember the lessons from Leviticus: to seek forgiveness, to strive for higher standards, and to cherish the grace that transforms our unintentional wrongs into opportunities for spiritual growth and renewal.
February 18
Leviticus 7-8
Daily Transformation
The Guilt and Peace Offerings
The phrase “these are the instructions” introduces the Guilt Offering. The Guilt Offering serves as a tangible acknowledgment of wrongdoing and a step towards reconciliation with God. The narrative transitions to the Peace Offering, symbolizing thanksgiving and voluntary dedication beyond what is required. The lifting of the offering signifies its presentation to God and the offerer’s heartfelt gratitude and commitment.
Sacred Prohibitions: The Sanctity of Blood and Fat
Leviticus 7 also addresses the solemn prohibitions against consuming blood and fat. The stringent instructions to burn the fat and thoroughly drain the blood before consumption highlight the deep reverence for life and the divine commandments, with violators facing expulsion from the community.
The Priestly Portion: Consecration and Service
The chapter delineates the portions of the Peace Offering allocated to the priests, specifically the breast and thigh. This allocation symbolizes the consecration of the priests to God and their vital role in mediating between the divine and the Israelites. It reaffirms the sacred duty of the priests to serve and uphold the sanctity of their calling.
Ordination of the Priests: Anointing for Service
Further, Leviticus revisits the ordination of the priests. The anointing of Aaron and his sons with blood on their ear, thumb, and toe not only consecrates them for divine service but also symbolizes their commitment to listen to God, perform His work, and walk in His ways.
Word of the Day: Exhibit
Definition: To manifest or deliberately display (a quality or a type of behavior).
Living as Modern-Day Priests
As we navigate the complex rituals of Leviticus, we are reminded of the broader narrative of reconciliation and holiness. God’s provision for His people to dwell in His presence is a central theme, underscoring the importance of holiness and the role of the priests as mediators and representatives of God.
In our contemporary journey of faith, we are called to embrace our role as modern-day priests. Romans 6:13 urges us to offer ourselves completely to God, using our bodies as instruments for righteousness. This calling mirrors the separation and dedication of the Levitical priests, urging us to live lives set apart for God’s glory.
Application in Daily Life: Exhibiting God’s Presence
In practical terms, being set apart for God translates into daily actions and decisions that reflect His love and righteousness. Whether it’s through loving our families, serving others, or simply being faithful in the mundane tasks of life, we exhibit God’s presence and work in the world. Our daily lives become a testament to His grace as we strive to listen, do, and walk in ways that honor Him.
Understanding and applying these ancient rituals to our lives teaches us the value of being set apart for God. We can embrace our role as His modern-day priests and live out our faith with dedication and purpose.
February 19
Leviticus 9-11
Embracing Holiness
The journey from Exodus to Leviticus is more than just turning a page in the Bible. It marks a beautiful transition from God meeting His people on a distant mountain to God dwelling right in their midst. In the Tabernacle, the concept of God’s presence became a living, breathing reality for the Israelites.
The Beauty of Divine Boundaries
The structure of the Tabernacle—with the Holy of Holies, the inner court, and the outer court—wasn’t just about architecture. It was a physical representation of how we are to approach God. It teaches us that while God is accessible, He is also to be approached with deep reverence.
We see a sobering reminder of this in the story of Aaron’s sons, Nadab and Abihu. When they offered “unauthorized fire” before the Lord, they faced immediate consequences for their disobedience. It’s a stark lesson that we cannot treat God’s holiness lightly. His pure goodness is a blessing, but we must respect the boundaries He has set for our protection and His glory.
Sacred in a Common World
In Leviticus 11, the long lists of clean and unclean animals can feel distant to us today. However, these regulations were never just about food. They were a daily, tangible reminder for the Israelites to distinguish between the sacred and the common.
Today, we don’t live in a world of ornate tents and animal sacrifices, but the call to be “set apart” remains. Being holy as He is holy isn’t about following a ritual perfectly; it’s about creating space in our busy lives to recognize what is sacred. It’s about being mindful of how we represent Him to the world around us.
Word of the Day: Among
Definition: In the middle of or included in a larger group of people or things.
In the heart of Leviticus, we see the incredible truth that God chose to dwell among His people. He didn’t stay behind a cloud or on a mountaintop; He moved into the camp. This word reminds us that God wants to be in the middle of our mess, our families, and our daily routines. He is not a distant observer but a present participant in our lives.
Personal Reflections: Creating Holy Spaces
I often ask myself how I am creating “holy spaces” in my own life. It might be a quiet corner for morning prayer or a heart-posture of worship while doing the dishes. When we recognize that God is among us, our perspective shifts. We start to see our daily tasks not as “common,” but as opportunities to embody our role as a “kingdom of priests,” representing God’s love to everyone we meet.
February 20
Leviticus 12-14
Rediscovering Purity
In today’s fast-paced world, the ancient texts of Leviticus, particularly chapters 12-14, might seem distant and difficult to relate to. Yet, upon closer examination, these Scriptures unfold profound insights into the concepts of cleanliness and uncleanliness, extending far beyond mere physical purity to touch upon a deeper, spiritual holiness in connection with God’s perfection.
Purification
Leviticus 12 offers a fascinating look into the purification process for women after childbirth, underscoring the sanctity of life and the essential role of ritual cleanliness in returning to communal worship. It prescribes a period for the mother to remain in a state of purification, culminating in a sacrificial offering to the Lord, a beautiful gesture of gratitude and recognition of life’s sacredness.
Disease
In Leviticus 13, the text delves into examining and managing skin diseases and mildew, providing priests with detailed instructions for diagnosing and handling conditions considered ‘unclean.’ This chapter emphasizes the community’s responsibility in halting the spread of disease, highlighting the importance of safeguarding both health and ritual purity.
Cleansing
Leviticus 14 continues this theme by extending into the cleansing rituals for leprosy, covering not just individuals but also garments and houses. While these practices may seem antiquated at first glance, they offer pathways for those affected to be restored to cleanliness and reintegrated into the community. These rituals symbolize the potential for redemption and the reattainment of holiness through adherence to divine commands, shedding light on New Testament events where Jesus, after healing someone, instructs them to “Go show yourself to the priest.”
The distinction between cleanliness and holiness within these chapters is crucial. While objects or individuals can be clean without being holy, holiness embodies a more significant dimension, linking all aspects of our lives to the divine nature of God and humanity’s reverence towards Him. This relationship is vividly portrayed in the prophets, such as in Ezekiel 22:26, where the failure to distinguish between what is holy and what is not leads to dishonor and sin.
Importance of Cleanliness
Thus, while the immediate relevance of these Levitical laws might not be apparent, their importance is undeniable. The vigilance against uncleanliness prescribed in God’s Law plays a vital role in daily life, merging moral and ritual requirements. This mindfulness fosters a community striving for cleanliness and wholesomeness, serving both a spiritual and practical purpose in maintaining health and preventing disease.
Word of the Day: Purity
Definition: Morally uncontaminated; innocent; without corruption.
Today’s word serves as a poignant reminder of the inner purity God calls us to. Paul’s advice in Philippians 4:8 resonates with the essence of these teachings, urging us to fix our thoughts on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, and admirable—qualities that embody a life lived in alignment with God’s expectations.
Life Application
So, do these chapters in Leviticus apply to us today? Absolutely. They challenge us to reflect on the nature of true cleanliness, not just outwardly but in the purity of our hearts and minds. Jesus’ words in Matthew 15:16-20 underscore this, as He points out that what defiles us comes from within, from our hearts, highlighting the importance of inner purity over external rituals.
This insight compels us to introspect and question our motives and the nature of our thoughts. Cultivating a spirit of purity, where our thoughts, actions, and words align with the values of love, kindness, and honesty, is the real challenge. With the Holy Spirit’s help, it’s about striving to let only what is noble, just, and pure take root within us.
In embracing the ancient teachings on cleanliness, coupled with Jesus’ profound clarification, we are reminded of the critical importance of both external practices for health and purity and, more importantly, of nurturing a heart that mirrors true cleanliness—morally uncontaminated, pure, and innocent. This journey towards true purity is not just about adhering to ancient laws but about embodying the spirit of these teachings in our daily lives, ensuring that our hearts and actions reflect the divine purity God desires.
February 21
Leviticus 14:33-57, Leviticus 15-16
Finding Holiness in the Everyday
Leviticus might not be the first book you turn to for a morning boost of inspiration, but hidden within its ancient rituals are some of the most beautiful truths about God’s heart for us. As we look at Leviticus 14, 15, and 16, we discover something vital: God cares about every single aspect of our lives—from our homes to our health.
Cleaning the House and the Soul
Imagine finding mold in your home and having a specific way to clean it, guided by God Himself. That is exactly what we see in Leviticus 14. But this wasn’t just about home maintenance; it was a powerful metaphor.
God was teaching His people to keep an eye out for the “mold” in their lives—those small sins that creep in and start to grow. It’s a reminder to us today that our external environment often reflects our internal state. Dealing with things promptly prevents a small issue from becoming a structural problem in our hearts.
The Temple of the Spirit
Leviticus 15 focuses on physical conditions and cleanliness. While it seems strictly medical, it’s actually about how our personal well-being affects our spiritual lives and the community around us.
We are reminded that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. Taking care of ourselves isn’t just a physical chore; it’s an act of worship and respect for the God who dwells among us. When we follow His guidance for health and holiness, we are honoring the presence of the Lord in our lives.
Word of the Day: Cleanse
Definition: To make free from dirt or guilt; to purify.
In Leviticus 16, we see the ultimate “clean slate” through the Day of Atonement. This was the day when everyone—from the leaders to the people—was cleansed from their sins. It was a day of deep humility and reflection, leading to a restored relationship with God. Today, we don’t have to wait for a specific day on the calendar to be cleansed. Because of Jesus, that purification is available to us every single moment we come to Him.
Personal Reflections: Embracing the Clean Slate
I often find myself asking, “What has crept into my life lately that is putting distance between me and God?” The rituals in Leviticus boil down to a simple truth: God is holy and wants to be close to us. While sin disrupts that closeness, God never leaves us without hope.
He provided the way for us to return to Him. The call to holiness isn’t about perfectly following a long list of rules; it’s about a daily relationship with the One who has the power to make us new. Through Christ, the ultimate sacrifice has been made. We get to live in the fullness of His love and purity every single day.
February 22
Leviticus 17-19
Living Differently
As we journey through Leviticus 17, 18, and 19, we are invited into a deeper understanding of what it means to live a life that is truly set apart. These chapters aren’t just a list of ancient rules; they are a roadmap for living in a way that is consecrated and distinct in a world that often pulls us in the opposite direction.
The Sacredness of Life
Leviticus 17 brings us face-to-face with the sacredness of life itself. By prohibiting the consumption of blood and centralizing worship at the Tabernacle, God was teaching the Israelites that life is a gift from Him. These directives were designed to set them apart from the cultures around them and protect them from idolatry.
In the New Testament, we see how these themes point directly toward Christ. As Hebrews 9:22 reminds us, it is through His ultimate sacrifice that we find true life and the forgiveness of our sins.
Setting a Different Standard
In Leviticus 18, God establishes clear boundaries around family integrity and morality. At the time, these laws were incredibly countercultural. God’s command was simple yet firm: “Do not act like the people in Egypt… or like the people of Canaan.”
He was calling His people to uphold a higher standard of holiness in their homes and communities. It’s a reminder for us today that being “set apart” often means looking very different from the world around us, especially in how we value our families and relationships.
Word of the Day: Careful
Definition: Making sure of avoiding potential danger, mishap, or harm; done with or showing thought and attention.
The recurring theme in these chapters is the call to be careful. God tells His people to be careful to keep His decrees and regulations. This isn’t about being anxious or fearful; it’s about being thoughtful and intentional. Just as a parent carefully guides a toddler away from harm, God’s instructions are designed to protect our hearts and ensure our well-being. Living carefully means moving through our day with a deep respect for God’s holiness.
Holiness in the Everyday
Leviticus 19 extends this call to every single corner of life. It begins with a powerful directive: “You must be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy.” This chapter blends ethical and social laws—emphasizing justice, love for our neighbors, and the importance of rest.
God’s message is clear: we aren’t called to mimic the ways of the world, but to follow Him. Our everyday actions—how we treat the person at the grocery store, how we manage our time, and how we care for the poor—all reflect whether we are living a life set apart for His glory.
