Church Is Messy: Love Is The Agenda - Fostering

Church is Messy

On this episode, Pastor Otis Hall joins Rick and Svea in the studio to continue the weekend’s discussion on James 1:27 and how that verse can propel us into action to care for our society’s most vulnerable.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

• 00:00 Intro
• 01:17 We looked at a passage in James that gave us insight into the fostering world.
• 02:26 James 1:27 is about having a passion for compassion for all vulnerable people. Jesus did this numerous times throughout the gospels.
• 05:14 The Jewish community at the time was focused on doing things for the vulnerable, but they were still learning the heart, intention, and approach of caring for the vulnerable.
• 07:47 Why did Pastor Otis focus on foster care for this season of Love Is The Agenda?
• 10:59 Early Christians played a significant role in helping and rescuing children in their community, even though it was illegal at the time.
• 12:52 Discussion of Autumn Ridge's current initiatives to help people take their first step in caring for vulnerable youth in their community--addressing food scarcity through Big Boxes program, offering simple contributions through the mission store, and putting together a respite night for foster families, and bolstering our own kids programs--which include foster kids.
• 18:30 Rick's experience fostering a teenager and encountering challenges that came from a kid's prior experiences. Everyone needs a community of support.
• 27:06 As the end of the James passage states, how does living out the gospel by caring for vulnerable people support our sanctification and personal faith?
• 30:14 How do we understand the common objection that things like Autumn Ridge's fostering initiative are all about good works versus grace in Jesus?
• 31:41 Closing prayer for everyone who engages in serving Rochester's foster care community.