Word Of The Week

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Katie Burns 12/28/25 Katie Burns 12/28/25

Word of the Week - Marriage

“For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” Ephesians 5:31

I hope you and your family had a blessed Christmas and are enjoying meaningful time together as we close out the year and prepare to step into a new one. The “New Year” is an exciting and amazing opportunity for all of us to make small adjustments to our life rhythms and routines that can have tremendous impact in shaping our life and legacy over the course of time! Compounding and eternal Impact!!!

Today Amy and I are celebrating our 35th wedding anniversary. We are away on a short trip at the beach. We have a great day, and evening planned to reflect, dream, and celebrate what God has done! Hallelujah!!!! Yesterday, we spent the morning with our daughter Saige and 4 grandkids at their home in Mobile, AL. We then made the beautiful drive over to Rosemary Beach, FL. We spent a quiet evening reflecting over dinner on our years together and the good work God has done in each of us through our marriage. We are still growing and maturing—both in our walk with the Lord and with one another—but we’ve come a long way, and we find ourselves in a truly good and exciting season.

As I’ve shared before, and Amy would agree, marriage has been the most challenging and the most rewarding relationship of our lives. There have been seasons of deep joy and fulfillment, along with seasons that were incredibly difficult. Looking back, we are most thankful that we stayed committed and persevered. Like most things in life, much of the harvest comes after long seasons of planting and plowing. God’s principle of sowing and reaping applies powerfully to marriage and family.

At this stage of life, we are grateful to be reaping the blessings—three godly daughters, two wonderful sons by marriage, and eight beautiful grandchildren who bring us tremendous joy. Our relationship is stronger than it has ever been, not because it is perfect, but because of the sanctifying grace of Jesus at work in us and our marriage. As we look ahead to year 36, we genuinely believe our best years are still in front of us.

The following are a few things we have gleaned from the past 35 years of marriage:

Marriage is a beautiful sacrament and gift from God, where one man and one woman are united to become “one” in a lifelong covenant before God and man. For followers of Christ, it is the only lifelong covenant relationship we enter on earth. God designed marriage to reflect Christ’s relationship with His bride—the Church. “Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come…” (Revelation 19:7–8)
Marriage is also our most refining relationship. It has the potential to produce our greatest blessings—family, companionship, unconditional love—but also our deepest pain if it is not submitted to the Lordship of Christ. Two people from different families, backgrounds, and expectations becoming one is no small thing. This process requires dying to self and choosing covenant faithfulness “until death do us part.” If we allow God to work, marriage becomes a refining and sanctifying tool that conforms us more into the image of Christ. “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” (Ephesians 5:21) Wives are called to submit as the Church submits to Christ, and husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loved the Church and gave Himself up for her. God’s design is clear—our challenge is whether we are willing to trust Him and live it out.
Marriage also prepares us for our eternal union with Christ. God graciously uses marriage to give us a glimpse of the covenant relationship we will one day experience fully as the bride of Christ. Just as marriage thrives through intentional connection, so does our relationship with God. Our walk with Jesus begins with surrender, but it only grows and bears fruit if we remain connected to Him. “I am the vine, you are the branches. If you abide in me I will abide in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:

After 35 years of marriage, I can honestly say there is nothing God has used more to challenge and refine me than my marriage to Amy. God has used it to make me a better man in every area of my life—and for that, I am deeply grateful. As we grow in unity with our spouse, and as we abide in Christ, God uses both relationships together to shape us into who He has called us to be. What an amazing God we serve! “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” 2 Corinthians 4:16

Challenge Question: In what ways am I intentionally sowing into my marriage today, and what might God be inviting me to plant, repair, or realign so that our covenant continues to grow stronger and bear lasting fruit?

Prayer: Lord, thank You for the gift of marriage and the refining work You do through it. Help us love selflessly, remain committed in every season, and stay connected to You and to one another. Where there is strain, bring healing; where there is distance, restore closeness; and in all things, shape us into the image of Christ as we honor the covenant You have entrusted to us. Amen.

As we close out the year, I pray God’s blessing over your marriage and your family in Christ Jesus!

Katie Burns 12/22/25 Katie Burns 12/22/25

Word of the Week - Jesus at the Center

“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” John 14:6

As we approach Christmas, it’s easy to focus on almost everything but Jesus. That being said, Jesus is the singular reason for this Holiday Season. The question I always have to ask myself, especially in busy times of life is: where is Jesus placed in my life today? Pastor Chris reminded me last Sunday that Jesus can be present in our lives without actually being at the Center, which is His only proper place in our lives. You can watch the message at https://www.churchofthehighlands.com/media/12-14-2025.

PC used the nativity scene to set the context with Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the animals — all present. Without Jesus, these famous characters really don’t have a reason to be there. Jesus is truly the reason for Christmas and the Nativity. The bible is a love story with Jesus at the center of it all. God commands us to put Him at the center of our lives, so we can experience the abundant life He has for us. If we are not vigilant in our seeking of the Lord (abiding), we can easily find ourselves in a place where Jesus is in the picture but not at the center. When this happens in our lives, we can lose God’s power and anointing and miss God’s best for our lives. At the worst of times, we may fall into temptations and sin and open our flanks to the enemy of our soul. Many of the things that try to take the center are not bad things — they’re good gifts that become destructive when they take the place only Jesus can hold.

The following are a few areas that can easily take priority over Jesus in our lives:

Work is a gift, but it’s a terrible god. It provides purpose and provision, but when it becomes central, it creates pressure, steals rest, and turns identity into performance instead of belonging. I have personally struggled with this for most of my working life. I can easily get so focused on achieving vision and goals that I place too much weight on what I do and achieve verses who I am in Christ. I have to make a conscious effort every morning first thing to recenter my identity in Christ and remember my life purpose. To know, love and serve Jesus and do what He has called me to do. “In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat— for he grants sleep to those he loves.” (Psalm 127:2)
Money promises security, but never fully delivers. When wealth sits at the center, contentment always feels just out of reach. As a CEO and business owner where financial return is a meaningful part of the score card, it is extremely important that I keep this in the proper context and order. I have found one of the greatest antidotes for this is stewardship; remembering that God is our provider and owns it all. He gives and can take away. Giving and generosity are also a great way to keep things in perspective. “Command those who are rich in this present world not to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God.” (1 Timothy 6:17)
Pleasure makes life enjoyable, but it was never meant to fulfill us. When our hobbies, entertainment or comfort become too central, they leave us empty and drained. The Lord Jesus is truly the source of all of our blessings and the giver of the gifts of life. We find peace, fulfillments, and joy in Christ and in Him we can enjoy the gifts and blessings life. We must always remember that as followers of Jesus, God blesses us so we can be a blessing and glorify God. He allows us to enjoy our blessings, but this is not the primary purpose of our blessings. “He richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves for the coming age, so they will take hold of the life that is truly life”. (1 Timothy 6:17-19)
Family is a blessing, but it was never meant to be our source. When relationships take the center, expectations become unrealistic and pressure replaces trust. I think we can all relate with our tendency to make family relationships to high a priority in our lives. It is easy to get things out of order, especially when it comes to our children. The greatest gift we can give our spouse, kids, grandkids, and broader family is a life fully devoted to Christ. God promises us that if we seek Jesus first and His divine order we will be blessed and have the capacity to love and serve our family and others well. “Seek first the Kingdom and His righteousness and all things will be added to us” (Matthew 6:33) “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.” (Psalm 127:1)

Here’s the simple and sobering truth that I was reminded of again this week: my life will never fully make sense until Jesus is at the center of it all. When Jesus is first and center, everything else finds its proper place. Life may not be perfect, but it will be ordered — and what’s set up right begins to work right. As we step into Christmas and approach the New Year this is an invitation to reorder, not just reflect. To move Jesus from being included to being central. To trust Him — not partially, but fully — with every area of our lives. With divine order comes divine blessing!

Reflection / Challenge: What currently sits at the center of my decisions, my stress, my schedule, and my sense of security? And what would need to shift this week for Jesus to truly be first?

Prayer: Jesus, we acknowledge You as the way, the truth, and the life, and we invite You to be at the center of everything we do. Forgive us for the areas where good things have taken a place only You are meant to hold. As we step into Christmas, realign our hearts, our priorities, and our decisions around You, and help us trust that when You are first, everything else will find its proper place. We surrender every area of our lives to You again today. Amen.

I pray you have a blessed Christmas with Jesus at the center and experience the “life that is truly life” in Christ!

Katie Burns 12/15/25 Katie Burns 12/15/25

Word of the Week - Solitude and Reflection (Solo Retreats)

“After Jesus had dismissed the crowds, He went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When the evening came, he was still there alone” Matthew 14:23

In the busyness of our day to day lives and our desire to be more productive and “do more” for God and others, we can easily miss the importance of solitude and personal reflection. We can learn from Jesus’ example of taking time to retreat from the crowds and day to day activity to go away to a quiet, solitary place to pray, reflect and listen for the voice of God. It is easy to miss some of the most important things God is trying to tell us if we don’t take time to get in a quiet environment to posture ourselves to hear from God.

Jesus withdrew from people, daily life activities and the demands of His ministry to be alone with the Father and pray. His solitude and silence are prevalent throughout the Gospels. His ongoing, intimate relationship with His Abba father was the source of His compassion, wisdom, and power. Withdrawing in solitude is how Jesus began His ministry, how He made important decisions and dealt with troubling emotions like grief. How He dealt with the constant demands of ministry and cared for His soul. It is even how He prepared for His death on the cross.

I started doing 24-hour solos over 20 years ago and it has become a meaningful part of my life and faith journey. God has revealed some amazing things to me over the years through my solo retreats. This is on my mind today as I am preparing to take a year-end solo this week, and I am looking forward to hearing what God might have to share with me.

For me, this is a day when I retreat away to a quiet place to reflect on my life as it relates to the bigger picture:

1) Life purpose (why am I here and what has God uniquely called me to do), 2) Vision (gaining clarity in my picture of a preferable future), 3) Mission (how I live day to day, and structure my life to realize my vision), 4) Values (what defines who I am and want to become), and 5) Goals (what I hope to accomplish in the future (weeks/months/years) to live out my God purpose and vision). I try to do this several times a year but always at the end of the year. I believe in it so much that we make it a mandatory paid day away for our team members at Founders, see attached Founders Solo guide with personal Values exercise. If we want to grow and mature to realize our life potential in Christ, I believe it is paramount that we all take time out to examine our lives and hear from God. “A life not examined is not worth living”. Socrates

Here are a few practical tips for your solo (this is what I do):

Set aside time on your calendar – Do your best to plan at least 24 hours of uninterrupted time away. Let your family and team know you are taking a day of solitude.
Quiet Place - Go to a place that is quiet and has limited distractions – farmhouse, cabin in the woods, lake home, retreat center, Pursell Farms etc.
Limited Distractions - Put away your phone and technology and plan to disconnect for your time away – do not do work or take calls – enter into Sabbath rest (not trying to be productive just restful and reflective)
Posture - Spend the first part of your time entering) “His courts with praise and Thanksgiving” – Turn on your favorite praise music and just worship and praise the Lord. Thank Him for your blessings. Count your blessings by writing down everything you can think of that you are thankful for.

Read some scripture that inspires you – I love reading John 15, Proverbs 3, Galatians 5, Ephesians
Write down anything that stand out to you from the scripture

Review and Reflection

Review your personal Vision, Mission, Values, Purpose, goals, life plan etc. – if you don’t have one then you can start by developing a draft
Review your calendar for the past year – analyze how you spent your time and if you invested time in the areas of priority

Spend time thinking about your calendar for the upcoming year and how you want to prioritize and adjust your daily/weekly/monthly/quarterly rhythms

Review your photos and special memories from the past year – I go through my photo album on my phone for the year and reflect on all the special times I spent with friends and family. This exercise helps me get my past year into perspective and also prompts me with remembering my blessings. This is a fun and enjoyable exercise.

It may prompt you to reach out to a friend or family member and share the memory/picture with them.

Review your personal financials - Where did you spend, invest, and give money. Typically, we invest/spend/give money on things that we value. This exercise helps us assess if we are living out our values in our finances. As believers we are called to steward our resources and blessings in a way that aligns with God’s values.
Look at daily, weekly, monthly rhythms and load them into your calendar - (first fruits time, date nights with spouse, recreation time, retreats, family time etc) If it is not on your calendar then it probably is not a priority
Journal Review – if you keep a journal, it is great to review it and look for patterns and insights that may help you

Listen and Dream

Think about the possibilities for you and your family – Vision – Heritage Vision
Take walks to pray and listen to hear what God has for you
Listen for a theme or word from the Lord – I try to get a word for the year to focus on such as: Gentleness, Graciousness, pruning etc.

“Jesus went on from there and walked beside the Sea of Galilee. And He went up on the mountain and sat down there.” Matthew 15:29

Capture it - Write a one-page summary from your time away and file it somewhere where you can pull it out to review during the year and at your next solo

Be still and know that I am God.” I will be exalted among the Nations; I will be exalted in the earth”. Psalm 46:1

I hope this adds value to you and blesses you as much as it has blessed me over the years.

Have a great week as we enter the Holiday Season!!!!!

Katie Burns 12/8/25 Katie Burns 12/8/25

Word of the Week - Impact Leadership

Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16I

Impact Leadership is leadership that carries eternal significance — leadership that integrates faith, calling, and influence so that lives are changed, Kingdom is advanced, and Jesus is seen. Impact leadership is not just about results — it’s about eternal fruit.

Last Wednesday at Highlands College, Founders Advisors had the joy of serving again as the Title Sponsor for the Highlands College Impact Leadership Conference. We had 3 great keynote speakers this year that spoke on leadership to include: John Maxwell, Ryan Leak, and Chris Hodges. The content was fresh, relevant, and applicable. I plan to share a link next week with the talks and content.

This is a highlight every year, and this year was especially meaningful because I had the opportunity to share in our official launch of the Impact CEO Podcast — a platform to inspire and equip faith-driven leaders to maximize eternal impact through their businesses and leadership. The purpose of the Impact CEO Podcast is simple: Real CEOs sharing Real Stories making Eternal Impact! Impact CEO exists to encourage Kingdom-hearted business leaders to live fully integrated lives – where faith, leadership, and business integrate for Eternal Impact. You can learn more by visiting Impact CEO.

Principles of Impact Leadership

Lead with an Eternal Perspective
Impact begins with perspective. When we lead with eternity in mind, our priorities shift from temporary success to eternal significance. Every day becomes an opportunity to invest in something that will outlast us—people, discipleship, and the advancement of God’s Kingdom. I call this the divine twofer, we not only get to build great companies but do it in a way that honors God, serves people and builds God’s Kingdom. “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Matthew 6:20–21

Lead by Serving God and Others
Servant Leadership begins with purpose towards a higher calling. We are not serving ourselves, our egos, or even just our teams—we are serving God’s greater mission. When we lead with this perspective, we find deep meaning in our work and joy in seeing others succeed. Every act of service becomes an act of worship. We are serving God by serving His people and the vision He’s entrusted to us. We get to be part of what God is doing in and through others. “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Colossians 3:23-24
Lead for Multiplication
Leadership that ends with us is not leadership — it’s ownership. Impact leadership multiplies through discipleship, empowerment, and generational investment. The true test of Impact Leadership is will it last beyond me? Will it reproduce and continue to grow and multiply. This is God’s model to change the world, He uses us as leaders to plant seeds in other leaders for exponential Impact. “But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.” Matthew 13:23

This is the heart of Abide & Lead — we abide in Christ first, so we can lead with an anointing from God by the power of the Holy Spirit and not from our own strength. Fruit/Impact multiplies when we Abide and Lead. When we invest in people who invest in others. The greatest legacy of our leadership will not be what we build but who we build it for. When we lead with eternity in view…serve like Christ…and multiply through others…our influence becomes eternal. This is Impact Leadership.

Challenge Question: Are you abiding in Christ daily? Are you leading day to day with an eternal perspective? Where can you intentionally lead with eternal impact this week? Who is one person within your sphere of influence you can serve, invest in, or encourage — to multiply their God-given potential.

Closing Prayer: Father, thank You for allowing us to be part of what you are doing for eternity. Help us to fix our eyes on what is eternal, not temporary. Teach us to serve others with humility and love, just as Jesus served us. Give us wisdom to invest in people, multiply leaders, and influence others toward Christ. May our leadership bear fruit that lasts forever. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Have a powerful week of Impact Leadership — leading for what lasts!

Katie Burns 12/1/25 Katie Burns 12/1/25

Word of the week -Thanksgiving

“Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His love endures forever… Let them give thanks to the LORD for His unfailing love and His wonderful deeds for mankind, for He satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.” – Psalm 107:1, 8–9

Thanksgiving is the intentional act of expressing gratitude and acknowledging God’s goodness. It is more than a holiday—it is a spiritual posture that aligns our hearts with truth. Webster defines thanksgiving as “the act of giving thanks; a prayer expressing gratitude; a public acknowledgment or celebration of divine goodness.”

I love Thanksgiving!!! It is my favorite holiday—a moment to pause, slow down, and remember the blessings of God. Gratitude shifts our hearts, renews our faith, and restores our perspective. And God’s Word invites us to cultivate a grateful heart every day. As leaders we set the tone for our team. No matter the circumstances we must lead from a place of gratitude if we desire to build a healthy and a grateful team culture. Gratitude is an antidote to negative emotions so let’s make it a daily discipline to count our blessings each day. Pastor Rick Warren teaches that it is difficult, if not impossible, to simultaneously experience strong gratitude and strong anger, fear, or depression. The act of focusing on blessings shifts the brain's focus away from negative emotions.

Three Key Biblical Principles of Thanksgiving

Give Thanks in All Circumstances

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Jesus told us that we would face challenges in this world (John 16:33). The question is not if trials will come, but how we will respond. Gratitude does not deny hardship—it reframes it. Thanksgiving lifts our eyes off our problems and back onto the One who is greater than our circumstances. A thankful heart produces peace, hope, and joy in the midst of life’s difficulties.

Gratitude Guards Our Hearts and Changes Our Perspective

“Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise.” – Psalm 100:4
A grateful heart is a protected heart. Gratitude keeps us from negativity, bitterness, comparison, and despair. It reminds us that God is our Provider and that every blessing flows from His hand. Gratitude starves the enemy of oxygen—darkness cannot linger where praise is present. Thanksgiving refreshes our spirit and opens the door for God’s continued blessing.

Thanksgiving Strengthens Our Faith and Releases God’s Presence

“I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember Your miracles of long ago.” – Psalm 77:11
Gratitude is a spiritual discipline that builds our faith. When we remember what God has done, we gain confidence for what He will do. Thanksgiving keeps our hearts soft, our spirits humble, and our focus on God’s character—His goodness, His faithfulness, His unchanging love. It is impossible to be truly grateful and spiritually empty at the same time.

Personal Reflection – Thanksgiving is one of the most life-giving spiritual rhythms we can practice. It realigns our hearts with God, refuels our spirit, and renews our perspective. Gratitude is not a once-a-year tradition—it is a daily practice that brings us into the presence of God and releases His peace and joy in our lives. I am so grateful to the Lord for His amazing blessings, mostly for His love for us through the cross. I am also grateful for my wife Amy of nearly 35 years, my 3 amazing daughters who love God, my 2 godly son-in-laws, my eight grandchildren who I love and enjoy more than I can express, and for all the amazing people God has put in my life including each of you, my family, friends and colleagues. I am blessed and truly thankful!! I am especially thankful this year that my eldest grandson John Michael harvested his first duck on our first duck hunt together Saturday morning in one of our duck holes at Heritage Farms, our family farm in south Alabama!!!! That is a blessing I will be counting for a long time.

Challenge Question: What is one specific blessing you can thank God for at the start of each day this week? Will you commit to practicing “first-fruits gratitude” every morning?

Closing Prayer: Father, thank You for Your unfailing love, Your goodness, and Your provision in our lives. Teach us to give thanks in all circumstances and to see every blessing as a gift from Your hand. Fill our hearts with gratitude that pushes out negativity, fear, and discouragement. Help us to enter Your presence with thanksgiving each day and live with a spirit of praise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

I hope you and your family had a blessed Thanksgiving holiday – Let’s keep counting our blessings and foster a heart of gratitude!

Katie Burns 11/25/25 Katie Burns 11/25/25

Word of the week - Family Legacy

“One generation shall commend your works to another and shall declare your mighty acts.” Psalm 145:4

In follow to last week’s Word of the Week message on “Children”, see below, I wanted to share this message on Family Legacy.

Family is the first institution God created for instilling values for the purpose of preserving culture for generational impact. As outlined in the verse above, God desires for every person to have a spiritual heritage. The reality is that God instituted family so we can train and equip our children with godly values, so they live to their full God potential and pass godly values on to their children, and live multi-generationally. “Train them up in the way he/she should go, And when they are older they will not depart from it” Proverbs 22:6 God imparted into all humans a innate desire to be part of something that will last. “He has set eternity in the human heart” Ecclesiastes 3:11

Building healthy and intentional family identity: We serve a God of order, peace, and continuity. “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace”. 1 Corinthians 14:33 To understand how to build healthy families we must first become healthy people. This means we have to be willing to do the hard work personally and within our marriages. As I stated in last week’s “word of the week” on Children, it is challenging to give what we do not have. It starts with us as leaders of our families having a personal intimate abiding relationship with Christ so He can impart His wisdom into our hearts and minds. We do live in a broken world and without God’s covering in our lives our families will be susceptible to the reality of generational curse with the sins of the fathers flowing down to the next generation. This is the way of the world and our culture at large. So how do we break this cycle? First and foremost, we submit our families to God and put our faith and trust in Him. But we must do our part by building healthy and intentional communication and trust within our families. This is done by telling stories and celebrating victories. If we look back in history and see families that had generational impact, they were very intentional about sharing stories of what God had done “Ask the former generation and find out what their ancestors learned” Job 8:8 and they were constantly taking time out to celebrate and remember by hosting festivals. “When you enter the land that the Lord will give you as promised, observe this ceremony. And when your children ask you, ‘What does this ceremony mean?’ then tell them. ‘ It is the Passover sacrifice to the Lord, who passed over the houses of the Israelites in Egypt and spared our homes when He struck down the Egyptians.” Exodus 12:25-27

Family values, vision and purpose: Family identity is key to building a godly family Heritage. Our families must have a strong understanding of who we are and what makes us the Donner’s or Smiths etc. Family values define the moral and ethical principles of behavior for a family. Values can be passed down from one generation to the next. This is the most important Heritage we can give our kids and descendants. Many of our godly values are apparent from our families of origin, but some need to be discovered and can often times be revealed as we think about our past and some of the defining stories/events in our lives. Our family went through our first family values exercise together over 10 years ago and since then we have taken time in family meetings to talk about our values and assess how we are living out these values. Asking questions to determine if we are intentionally sharing and communicating these values with our kids and grandkids. Our families stated values include: Faith, Family/Heritage, Perseverance, Health and Generosity. See attached Family ID worksheet for your reference on family values exercise. This is a great tool for you to use with your family.

I believe that Vision and purpose are key to Heritage living. “Without vision the people perish” 29:18 I find it interesting that the prior verse is related to disciplining our children “Discipline your children, and they will give you peace; they will bring you the delights you desire”. Proverbs 29:17 If you cannot see where you are going (Vision) and understand why you are going there (Purpose), it is hard to know what to do. Lack of Vision and Purpose leads to wandering through life and leaves us lacking identity making us much more susceptible to attacks from the enemy of our soul. Purposeful living with vision towards something of eternal value is like medicine to our soul that gives us energy, health and protection. This is the abundant life that Jesus speaks about in John 10:10 when He says, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that you may have life, and have it to the full”. Live life on offense with Vision, Mission and Purposes and you will have life.

Amy and I attended a JH Ranch event this week in Tennessee called Harvest. It was a 3-day retreat where we had the opportunity to reflect on what God has done in our lives and family, much of which transpired through the JH/Outback ministry, and dream and develop our faith and vision toward what God has in store in the future. God moved in our hearts by giving us fresh revelation and reinforcing our family vision of building “Lasting goldy Heritage for 10 Generations” by living out our mission of “Abiding in Christ, Serving Others and Living Generously”.

Having a Heart of gratitude and generosity is key: There is definitely power in living intentionally and taking time to discover, define and write down your family Values, Vision, Mission, and Purpose if we desire to have generational impact. In fact, statistics say we are 90% more likely to achieve our long-term goals if we write them down. That being said, the most important and defining factor is how we live our lives because these things are more caught than taught. We can go through the exercise but if our lives don’t reflect God’s values then we are just kidding ourselves. This by no means implies that we have to live perfect lives because that is not possible, we are imperfect human beings and will make mistakes along the way. The condition and intention of our heart is what matters most and having a heart of gratitude and generosity is evidence that we understand what God has done for each of us by sending Jesus to die so we can have eternal life and live the abundant life while we are here on earth. This is the most meaningful Heritage we can pass to our children, that they know Christ. “He gave His only begotten son so that we can have eternal life”. John 3:16, so as we receive this amazing gift we are filled with heartfelt gratitude and desire to give it away to others. To give our lives and leverage our influence and possessions to build God’s Kingdom. This is the heart of God and it is a heart of Generosity towards humanity. It is interesting that as we study families of wealth over millennia, the ones that have sustained legacy over generations are the ones that have been most generous, especially those who are generous towards the things of God. “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed” Proverbs 11:25

God promises us that if we live our lives with God’s values He will bless our descendants up to a thousand generations. “Know therefore that the Lord God is God; He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His commandments.” Deuteronomy 7:9 What an amazing and powerful promise of God. I hope this encourages you toward living on purpose with intentionality to plant seeds for Generational Blessing in your family. The is the opportunity we have as followers of Christ and Kingdom builders.

Katie Burns 11/17/25 Katie Burns 11/17/25

Word of the Week - Eternal Impact

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” – 2 Corinthians 4:18

As leaders, we all desire to make an impact—but the question is: what kind of impact? The world measures impact by growth, influence, and recognition. But in God’s economy, impact is measured by eternal fruit—changed hearts, multiplied generosity, and lives drawn closer to Christ. In my own journey leading Founders and serving through my new ministry platform Abide & Lead, more to come on this soon; I’ve learned that the greatest impact we can make doesn’t show up on a P&L statement—it shows up in people. Every decision, every deal, every conversation holds the potential for eternal significance when it’s rooted in Kingdom purpose.

As faith-driven leaders, we are stewards. God has entrusted us with influence, resources, and relationships to use for His glory and the advancement of His Kingdom. Our companies, platforms, and leadership roles are not just vehicles for success—they are ministries designed for eternal impact.

What Is Eternal Impact - Eternal impact is the lasting fruit of a life and leadership aligned with God’s purposes—work that carries into eternity. It’s the result of leading with eternal perspective, where people are valued above profit, purpose over performance, and God’s glory above personal gain.

Principles of Eternal Impact

Lead with Eternity in View

Impact begins with perspective. When we lead with eternity in mind, our priorities shift from temporary success to eternal significance. Every day becomes an opportunity to invest in something that will outlast us—people, discipleship, and the advancement of God’s Kingdom. “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Matthew 6:20–21

Steward the Platform God Has Given You

Leadership is stewardship. God placed you in your position for a greater purpose. Every company, team, and relationship under your care is a divine opportunity. How we use our influence, time, and resources reveals what we truly value. When we lead with integrity, generosity, and a heart to serve, we create ripple effects that echo into eternity. “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness.” Matthew 25:21

Invest in People

People are the currency of eternal impact. Projects come and go, success will fluctuate, but people live forever. The most impactful leaders pour into others—developing character, encouraging faith, and helping those around them discover purpose. Your greatest return on investment will always be the souls you influence for Christ. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others” – Philippians 2:3-4

Personal Reflection - I’ve spent much of my life pursuing excellence in business and leadership, and I still believe wholeheartedly in results. But I’ve learned that the why behind the results matters most. When we align our efforts with God’s purposes, our impact multiplies beyond what we can measure. We may never see all the outcomes of our obedience this side of heaven, but eternity will reveal the ripple effects of every Christ-centered act of leadership, generosity, and love. “And God will do immeasurably more that we can ever ask or imagine by His power at work within us for His Glory”. Ephesians 3:20

I am currently reading a book by David Green and Bill High titled “The Legacy Life”. It is a fantastic book that I highly recommend. It speaks to the generational impact our lives will have if we live intentionally with “Eternal Impact” at the forefront of our lives and leadership. David Green is one of my life mentors and I love how he and his family summarize the essence of our them verse 2 Corinthians 4:18 in their family motto “Only one life, twill soon be past; only what’s done for Christ will last.”

Challenge Question – Do you see your company and leadership as a platform for eternal impact? How are you integrating eternal impact into your life and leadership within your company today?

Closing Prayer - Father, thank You for entrusting us with influence and opportunity. Help us to lead with eternity in mind—to see our companies, teams, and resources as blessings for Your glory. Give us wisdom to invest in what lasts forever: people, purpose, and Your Kingdom. May every action we take this week bear eternal fruit that honors You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Have a week of leading for impact that lasts—eternal impact!!

Katie Burns 11/10/25 Katie Burns 11/10/25

Word of the Week - Servant Leadership

“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45

This week was a special one at Founders. We celebrated a “rite of passage” for three of our young leaders as they signed the Servant Leadership Pledge—a symbol of their next step in becoming leaders who serve with humility, courage, and purpose. Moments like this remind us and reinforce why we established our firm’s purpose years ago:

“To be Servant Leaders who value Relationships and Results.”

We believe the way we realize our long-term vision—to become the Gold Standard M&A Advisory Firm in our industry, the Chick-fil-A of our space—is by embedding Servant Leadership at the core of who we are and how we operate every day. It’s not just a leadership philosophy; it’s a way of living, modeled perfectly by Jesus Himself.

What Is Servant Leadership - Servant Leadership is a philosophy where the leader is a servant first—someone who leads by lifting others. It starts with a conviction to serve before leading, to prioritize and care for our team with full clarity, commitment, and alignment (shared fate) towards attaining our company’s stated Vision. It is counter to traditional leadership models but completely aligned with the heart of Christ. As Paul reminds us, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” (Philippians 2:3–4)

Principles of Servant Leadership

It’s Not About Me—It’s About Something Greater
Servant Leadership begins with purpose towards a higher calling. We are not serving ourselves, our egos, or even just our teams—we are serving God’s greater mission. When we lead with this perspective, we find deep meaning in our work and joy in seeing others succeed. Every act of service becomes an act of worship. We are serving God by serving His people and the vision He’s entrusted to us. “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Colossians 3:24-24
We Grow When We Help Others Grow
A true servant leader measures success not by personal advancement but by the growth of those they lead. When we focus on helping others reach their full potential—emotionally, intellectually, relationally, and spiritually—we not only build stronger teams but we ourselves are transformed. The test of a Servant Leader is simple: Are the people I lead becoming healthier, wiser, freer, and more capable of serving others? “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Proverbs 11:25
It Is Motivated by Love—And Love Requires Sacrifice
At the heart of Servant Leadership is love—sacrificial love that puts others first even when it costs us something. In business, often love means holding others accountable, confronting hard truths, and calling people to a higher standard. Servant Leadership isn’t soft—it’s sacred. It’s the higher and harder calling. To lead this way requires courage, patience, and a deep love that reflects Christ’s own sacrifice for us. “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” John 15:12-13

Personal Reflection - As I’ve grown in leadership, I’ve come to realize that Servant Leadership is both the most challenging and the most rewarding calling there is. It forces me to check my motives daily, to slow down enough to listen, and to place people above results—trusting that the right results always follow. It also reminds me that leadership is not about titles or authority; it’s about influence, humility, and love in action.

I’m grateful to walk this journey alongside a team that’s committed to this higher standard. I believe with all my heart that if we remain faithful to this calling—to serve first and lead second (Abide & Lead) — God will continue to bless our firm, our families, and the Kingdom work we’ve been entrusted with.

Challenge Question: Who can we intentionally serve this week—putting their growth, needs, or success above our own—and in doing so, reflect the heart of Christ in our leadership?

Closing Prayer: Father, thank You for sending Jesus as the perfect example of a Servant Leader. Give us the strength and wisdom to lead with humility, courage, and love. Help us to see every opportunity, conversation, and challenge as a chance to serve You by serving others. May our leadership bring glory to Your name and build a culture where people thrive and You are honored. In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Have a great week of leading by serving—putting others first and advancing God’s Kingdom through how you love and lead!

Katie Burns 11/7/25 Katie Burns 11/7/25

Word of the Week - Health

“Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security.” Jeremiah 33:6

Health is one of God’s greatest blessings and it reflects His desire for His people to live in wholeness and peace. As I reflected on this verse, I was reminded that God’s plan for health and healing is not limited to the physical—it includes every part of who we are: spirit, soul, and body. Throughout Scripture, we see God as the Restorer, the Healer, the One who takes what is broken and makes it whole.

Over the past 24 plus years that I have walked with Jesus, I’ve come to realize that true health is a reflection of our alignment and connection to God. When we are spiritually connected to Him, peace flows into our emotional, relational and physical well-being. When we drift from that connection, stress, anxiety, and weariness often follow. God desires His children to walk in balance and harmony—physically strong, emotionally steady, and spiritually anchored in Him. When I surrendered by heart to Jesus 24 years ago, I was broken and unhealthy in almost every area of my life. My physical health was mediocre, my financial situation was poor, most of my relationships were strained and fractured, I was dealing with bouts of anxiety and depression, not to mention I really didn’t even know what true peace felt like. That all changed in a major way when I surrendered my life and heart to Jesus. The Lord began a restorative work in me that has continued steadily for the past 24 years. I can honestly testify that today at 57, I am more whole and healthy than I have ever been in my life and I can attribute all of this to my abiding relationship with Jesus and how He has transformed and renewed every aspect of my life. “Therefore outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” 2 Corinthians 4:16

Health and healing from God’s perspective are holistic—wholeness that begins in the heart and extends to every part of life. As 3 John 1:2 says, “Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.” God wants us to flourish in all areas so that we can serve Him fully and reflect His glory to others. I am not saying that if we are abiding followers of Christ we will not get sick or have any health issues; the truth is that we live in a fallen world with sin and disease and we are subject to these things just as non-believers. What I am saying is that God’s plan for us is health and healing in the here and now, but most importantly in the life to come for eternity!

Principles of God’s Healing and Wholeness:

Spiritual Health – Healing Begins in the Heart
Our relationship with God is the foundation of all healing. Sin and spiritual distance create brokenness, but forgiveness restores peace and wholeness. When our spirit is aligned with God, we begin to experience healing in every other area of life. “Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.” (Psalm 103:2–3)

Emotional Health – Peace for the Mind and Soul
Emotional healing comes as we surrender our anxieties, worries, and fears to God. His presence brings calm to the chaos. In a world filled with stress and noise, peace becomes the greatest sign of health. God promises that His peace will guard our hearts and minds when we bring everything to Him in prayer. “Do not be anxious about anything... And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6–7)

Physical Health – God as Our Healer and Sustainer
God cares about our physical health and invites us to trust Him as our healer. He gives wisdom for how we care for our bodies—His temple—and promises to strengthen and sustain us. When we walk in obedience and dependence on Him, we can experience His supernatural power and natural provision for health. We are called to be good stewards of our bodies as they are the temple of God’s spirit within us. How we train and treat our bodies does matter. “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come” 1 Timothy 4:8

Jesus is the ultimate picture of God’s healing power. Everywhere He went, He brought restoration—opening blind eyes, forgiving sins, calming storms, and healing hearts. His mission was holistic redemption: to make us whole again. The cross was not just about saving souls—it was about restoring all that sin had fractured. As Isaiah 53:5 declares, “By His wounds we are healed.” When we abide in Him, His healing presence flows through every part of our being.

Challenge Question: Where in your life do you need God’s healing touch today—spiritually, emotionally, or physically—and how can you invite His healing power into your area of need?

Closing Prayer: Father, thank You that You are Jehovah Rapha—the Lord who heals. Thank You for caring about every part of our lives. Heal our hearts where they are wounded, restore peace to our minds where we are anxious, and strengthen our bodies where we are weary. Help us to walk in wholeness and reflect Your restoring power to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

I pray we have a week filled with God’s peace, strength, and restoring health in Christ!

Katie Burns 11/3/25 Katie Burns 11/3/25

Word of the Week - Gentleness

“Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” - Philippians 4:5

Gentleness is often misunderstood in our culture, especially by leaders. Many equate it with weakness or passivity, but biblically, gentleness means power under restraint—strength that’s submitted to the control of the Holy Spirit. It is self-controlled strength expressed through humility, kindness, and grace toward others.

In my own journey, gentleness has been one of the hardest fruits of the Spirit to grow. By nature, I’m driven, focused, and direct—traits that can serve well in leadership and business in the formative years, but can easily overshadow sensitivity and care. Over the years, the Lord has patiently shaped this area in me. I’m not where I want to be, but by His grace, I’m far from where I used to be. I’ve learned that true strength is not found in forcefulness or urgency, but in calm, patient restraint. Gentleness reflects God’s heart—it’s how Jesus leads us, and how we are called to lead others.

Gentleness is a Christlike posture of strength under control. It’s choosing to respond with care, even when you have the power or right to be harsh. As Galatians 5:22 reminds us, it’s a fruit of the Spirit—evidence that our lives are yielded to God.

Principles of Growing in Gentleness

Awareness – Gentleness Flows from God’s Presence
The more aware we are of God’s Spirit within us, the more gentle our approach becomes. We carry His light in fragile jars of clay, which reminds us to treat others with care. Gentleness is the byproduct of closeness with Jesus. “For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made His light shine in our hearts… But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.” (2 Corinthians 4:6–7)
Security – Gentleness Is the Language of the Secure
When we know who we are in Christ, we don’t need to dominate or prove ourselves. Insecurity shouts; security listens. A gentle person operates from peace, not pride. Our tone changes when we rest in our identity as sons and daughters of God. “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1)
“For He chose us in Him before the creation of the world… In love He predestined us for adoption to sonship.” (Ephesians 1:4–5)
Forgiveness – Gentleness Is the Fruit of Grace
Gentleness is the outward expression of a forgiven heart. Because we’ve received grace, we extend grace. Even when we’re wronged, we restore others with compassion, not condemnation. True gentleness reflects the cross—strength restrained by love. “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any sin, you who are spiritual should restore that person gently.” (Galatians 6:1) “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” (Ephesians 4:2)

Gentleness doesn’t mean avoiding truth—it means delivering truth with love. Jesus was both the Lion and the Lamb: strong, yet tender; bold, yet compassionate. When we walk in gentleness, we mirror His heart to a harsh and hurried world.

Challenge Question: Where in your life or leadership do you need to slow down, soften your tone, or extend grace so that your gentleness is evident to all?

Closing Prayer: Father, thank You for the example of Jesus, who leads us with strength and gentleness. Teach us to walk in humility and grace, even when it’s difficult. Help us to be aware of Your Spirit within us, secure in who we are in You, and quick to extend the same forgiveness You’ve given us. May our lives reflect Your gentleness in every interaction this week. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Have a week of strength under control—leading with humility, grace, and the gentleness of Christ!

Katie Burns 10/27/25 Katie Burns 10/27/25

Word of the Week - Holy (Set apart for His purpose)

“But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.” - 1 Peter 1:15–16

This weekend I attended the “Made for More” conference presented by Triumph of Hope Ministries. Best selling Author John Bevere spoke on Friday evening about Holiness and the reality that we can only expect God’s manifest presence and power in our lives if we walk in Holiness. Holiness is a requirement for God’s presence. It was a powerful message from his recent book Awe of God, that emphasizes the need for believers to have a healthy fear of God.

As I’ve reflected on what it means to live a holy life, I’ve been reminded that holiness isn’t about perfection—it’s about being set apart. To be holy means to live with a heart that is fully devoted to God and aligned with His purpose. In a world that constantly pulls us toward compromise, comfort, and conformity, God calls us to something higher—to live distinct, intentional, and surrendered lives that reflect His character. In the book of Titus, Chapter 1, Saint Paul talks about what a leader (elder/overseer) in the church should demonstrate in how they live. “He must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined.” Titus 1:8

When I look back over my 24-year journey with Jesus, I can see seasons where I tried to live for God but still wanted to keep control of certain areas of my life. As I mature in my walk with Jesus, I realize that the abundant life comes through full surrender. Holiness is about who we belong to and being fully committed to the Lord, and in our love and healthy fear of God living our lives in a way that is pleasing to the Father. When our hearts are set apart for God, our actions, attitudes, and leadership begin to reflect His nature in every area of our lives to include our marriage, family, business, ministry, recreation, and community.

Holiness means to be “set apart” for God’s use. It is the process of aligning our lives with His character and purposes so that everything we do reflects His nature. To be holy is to live differently because we belong to a different Kingdom. It’s not about self-righteousness—it’s about surrender. True holiness flows from intimacy with God, not religious effort.

Principles of a Holy Life

Be Set Apart for God’s Purpose
Holiness begins with belonging. When we understand that our lives, time, and resources are not our own but His, it changes how we live. Like utensils set apart for a special use, God calls us to be vessels that honor Him. To be set apart we need to remember that even though we live in the world we are not of the world. As followers of Christ and especially leaders set apart for His special purpose; our lives and how we live (our behavior) should look very different then those around us who are not walking with Jesus. “Those who cleanse themselves… will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.” (2 Timothy 2:21)
Pursue Purity of Heart and Mind
Holiness starts on the inside. It’s about cultivating integrity, humility, and purity in our thoughts, motives, and desires. The more time we spend with God, the more His Spirit refines and transforms us. The goal is not perfection but progress—a daily choice to let Him purify our hearts. What we allow into our hearts and minds impacts our purity. We must guard our hearts and minds from the pollution of this world, especially what we consume through our eyes and ears in the media!
“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10)
Live Distinctly in the World but Not of It
God calls us to stand out, not to blend in. Holiness is countercultural—it’s living by Kingdom values in a world driven by self-interest. We are called to be light in darkness and truth in confusion. Our holiness is meant to influence, not isolate. This can only be accomplished by connecting to the vine of Christ daily so we are transformed from the inside out into the likeness of Jesus.
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2)

Jesus modeled holiness perfectly—not through distance or judgment, but through love and obedience. He was both approachable and pure, full of grace and truth. The more we abide in Him, the more we reflect His holiness. Holiness is not about separating ourselves from the world—it’s about being set apart for God so that the world sees Him through us. “Holy, holy, holy is the Lod Almighty; the whole earth is full of His Glory” Isaiah 6:3

Challenge Question:
What area of your life is God asking you to set apart for His purpose—to make holy and fully devoted to Him this week? What specific thing in your life do you need to fully surrender to God and sacrifice. What is your Isaac?

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for calling us to live holy and set-apart lives. Help us to walk in purity, integrity, and full devotion to You. Refine our hearts, renew our minds, and make us vessels useful for Your purpose. May our lives reflect Your holiness in how we live, love, and lead. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

As we walk in Holiness this week, I pray we experience the manifest presence and power of God in our lives for His Glory!!!

Katie Burns 10/20/25 Katie Burns 10/20/25

Word of the Week - Health

“Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security.” - Jeremiah 33:6

Principles of God’s Healing and Wholeness:

Spiritual Health – Healing Begins in the Heart
Our relationship with God is the foundation of all healing. Sin and spiritual distance create brokenness, but forgiveness restores peace and wholeness. When our spirit is aligned with God, we begin to experience healing in every other area of life. “Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.” (Psalm 103:2–3)

Emotional Health – Peace for the Mind and Soul
Emotional healing comes as we surrender our anxieties, worries, and fears to God. His presence brings calm to the chaos. In a world filled with stress and noise, peace becomes the greatest sign of health. God promises that His peace will guard our hearts and minds when we bring everything to Him in prayer. “Do not be anxious about anything... And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6–7)

Physical Health – God as Our Healer and Sustainer
God cares about our physical health and invites us to trust Him as our healer. He gives wisdom for how we care for our bodies—His temple—and promises to strengthen and sustain us. When we walk in obedience and dependence on Him, we can experience His supernatural power and natural provision for health. We are called to be good stewards of our bodies as they are the temple of God’s spirit within us. How we train and treat our bodies does matter. “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come” 1 Timothy 4:8

Challenge Question: Where in your life do you need God’s healing touch today—spiritually, emotionally, or physically—and how can you invite His healing power into your area of need?

I pray we have a week filled with God’s peace, strength, and restoring health in Christ!

Katie Burns 10/13/25 Katie Burns 10/13/25

Word of the Week - Influence

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” - Matthew 5:16

As spouses, parents/grandparents, friends, colleagues, and leaders each of us has influence—whether we realize it or not. Influence isn’t reserved for people with big titles, fame, or large followings; it’s simply the effect our lives have on others. We all have influence. Early in my career, I viewed influence through the lens of success, leadership, and persuasion. But as I’ve grown in my walk with Jesus, I’ve come to understand that true, lasting influence comes from character, consistency, and Christ-likeness. Our greatest influence doesn’t come from what we achieve but from how we live. Our day to day lives tell the real story of who we are on the inside, and over time can become a meaningful force of influence, especially within our sphere of influence. People are watching how we treat others, handle adversity, and honor God in our daily conduct.

Influence is the ability to shape the thoughts, actions, and beliefs of others through our example. For followers of Jesus, influence is not about control or status—it’s about impact. God calls us to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13–16), living in such a way that our actions reflect His character and draw others toward Him. Authentic Christian influence flows from integrity, humility, and a heart surrendered to Christ.

Principles of Godly Influence:

Influence Flows from Integrity
Integrity is the foundation of influence. People are not moved by our words alone—they’re shaped by the consistency of our walk. When our private life matches our public message, our example carries spiritual weight. As Proverbs reminds us, “The righteous lead blameless lives; blessed are their children after them.” (Proverbs 20:7). Integrity builds trust, and trust multiplies influence.

Influence Is Fueled by Love and Service
Jesus turned the world upside down by influencing others through love and service. Leadership in God’s Kingdom looks like humility, not hierarchy. When we serve others with genuine care, people see Jesus through us. “For even the Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45). Every act of kindness, forgiveness, and generosity extends God’s influence through us.
Influence Multiplies Through Example
Our lives are living testimonies that ripple through families, businesses, and communities. People rarely remember sermons they hear, but they remember the life they see. When we live with joy, integrity, and peace in Christ, it becomes contagious. Paul reminded the Corinthians, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1). Our faithfulness today may be the spark that ignites faith in someone else tomorrow.

Jesus is the ultimate influencer—not through fame or power, but through love, sacrifice, and obedience. His influence changed the world and continues to shape hearts through those who follow Him. When we live as His ambassadors, we extend His Kingdom one relationship at a time. God’s design is that our everyday lives—our families, our work, our leadership—be the stage upon which His light shines.

Challenge Question: Who is your sphere of influence? Who within this sphere is God calling you to intentionally impact this week—by your words, example, or quiet act of love?

Closing Prayer: Lord, thank You for calling us to be Your light in the world. Help us to live with integrity, humility, and love so that our lives reflect Your goodness. May our influence draw others to You and multiply Your Kingdom through how we live, lead, and serve. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

I pray we have a week of shining brightly and influencing others for Christ!

Katie Burns 10/6/25 Katie Burns 10/6/25

Word of the Week - Authenticity

“But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” - 2 Corinthians 12:9

In my formative years much of my training came through culture, mentors, sports, the military, and business school. These environments taught me to be tough, strong, and guarded—not vulnerable. Authenticity was not valued. But over the past 24 years of walking with Jesus and other believers, I’ve learned the power of authenticity. When I began embracing it, I found freedom, integrity, identity, and abundance. My relationship with Christ—and with those closest to me—compels me toward living authentically.

Authenticity means being the same on the inside as we are on the outside. It is living true to our identity, values, and beliefs regardless of outside pressures. Authenticity asks: Am I the same person at church, at work, at the lodge, and at home? Do my actions align with my words? Do I confess and own my weaknesses instead of hiding them? Authenticity is not perfection—it is truthfulness, consistency, and vulnerability.

Principles of Authentic Living

Know Who You Are in Christ
True authenticity begins with identity. Before I surrendered my life to Jesus, I was always trying to figure out who I was or who I wanted to be like. But when I realized God created me uniquely in His image, it was life-changing. We are called to be the best version of ourselves in Christ. “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” (Psalm 139:14)
Embrace Your Humanness
Authenticity doesn’t hide flaws—it acknowledges them. As we grow in Christ, He frees us from past sins while also exposing new areas for refinement. That’s how transformation works. Jesus is made strong in our weakness. Admitting our struggles and seeking forgiveness makes us real before God and others. “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?” (Matthew 7:3)
Pursue Authentic Relationships
We were created to live authentically in community. Real growth happens when we open our lives to trusted friends who can speak truth, encourage us, and help us see blind spots. Authenticity requires humility and trust, but it leads to growth and strength. “Two are better than one…If either of them falls down, one can help the other up…A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9–12)

God calls us to authenticity because He is authentic with us. He knows us fully—our strengths, flaws, and potential—and loves us anyway. When we walk in truth and vulnerability, His grace and power are displayed in our weakness. And as 1 Samuel 16:7 reminds us, “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”.” Authentic people in authentic communities become God’s instruments for growth and impact.

Challenge Question: Where in your life is God calling you to drop the mask and live more authentically—with Him, with your family, or with trusted friends?

Closing Prayer: Father, thank You for loving us fully and authentically through Christ. Teach us to embrace who we are in You, to acknowledge our weaknesses, and to pursue real relationships where we can be known by you and those around us. May our authenticity draw others to You and reflect the power of Your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Have a week of living truly authentic—inside and out—in Christ!

Katie Burns 9/29/25 Katie Burns 9/29/25

Word of the Week - Hospitality

"Show Hospitality to one another without grumbling” - 1 Peter 4:9

Growing up in South Louisiana, in the heart of Cajun country, I was surrounded by some of the most hospitable people you’ll ever meet. The Cajun culture is known for making strangers feel like family—welcoming them, feeding them, and loving them without hesitation. That spirit of open-handed hospitality became one of our Donner family values and has shaped how I live and lead today. As leaders, husbands, fathers, and CEOs, we have countless opportunities to extend this same kind of Christ-like welcome to others in both our homes, businesses, and communities.

Hospitality is the posture of a host toward a guest—receiving others with goodwill, warmth, and genuine care. At its core, biblical hospitality is more than entertaining; it’s loving people in a way that reflects the heart of Christ. It is about making others feel valued, seen, and accepted—whether they can return the favor or not. It is about adding value to others without expecting something in return.

Principles of Biblical Hospitality

Warmth that Breaks Down Barriers
Hospitality begins with a smile, a kind word, or a handshake. A simple act of warmth helps people feel seen and lowers defenses. This small but powerful practice creates space for trust and deeper connection.
Personalization that Honors Others
Our God is personal; He not only knows our name, He knows the number of hairs on our head. Remembering a person’s name, asking about their family, or paying attention to their preferences communicates, “You matter.” In business and in life, intentional hospitality honors people and reflects the personal love of Christ for each of us.
Service that Reflects God’s Heart
Hebrews 13:1–2 reminds us: “Let brotherly love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” Biblical hospitality is distinctive because it goes beyond friends and family—it extends to strangers, the hurting, and even those who cannot repay us. Romans 12:13 calls us to “contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.” In this way, hospitality becomes both outreach and discipleship: it draws outsiders toward Christ and deepens relationships inside the body of Christ. God uses our homes, tables, and lives as tools to build His Kingdom both inside and outside the Church.

God is so gracious that He welcomed us into His family and made us co-heirs with Christ. Each day He invites us to His table for daily bread through abiding in Him. In response, He calls us to extend His love and grace to others. As John Maxwell says, “People will forget what you said, forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Hospitality is one of the simplest, most tangible ways to live out the Great Commandment: Love God, Love Others.

Challenge Question: Who is one person—inside or outside your circle—that you can intentionally invite in this week to experience the love of Christ through your hospitality? Maybe a neighbor, a colleague or just someone God has put on your heart.

Prayer: Father, thank You for welcoming us into Your family through Christ. Help us to reflect Your heart by showing hospitality to others without grumbling. Give us the eyes to see opportunities, the courage to open our lives, and the love to make people feel valued and at home in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Have a great week showing hospitality to those in your sphere!

Katie Burns 9/22/25 Katie Burns 9/22/25

Word of the Week - Commitment

"The eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him. - 1 Chronicles 16:9

Personal Reflection - We will never experience the best of God’s plan for our lives without being fully committed. Every meaningful pursuit begins with a decision followed by commitment—whether it’s a new exercise routine, a job, a relationship, or a spiritual discipline. Yet in today’s culture of instant gratification and options, commitment can feel like a negative word. The truth is, the best things in life are born out of commitment, especially being and staying committed over the long haul.

Our commitment to Christ is the most important one we will every make. I fully surrendered and committed my life to Christ 25 years ago and my life has never been the same. I have had many ups and downs over the past 25 years, and at times I have grown weary, but the Lord has sustained me. I have remained committed to my walk with Jesus, primarily by making my relationship with Him a daily priority. He is the source of life and living water that we need each day, but we have a choice every day when we wake up to decide if we will drink of the living water. I’ve never heard anyone say they regret staying connected and committed to a walk with Christ, though many who’ve have lost their way in their connection and commitment to Christ have many regrets. Commitment is a key to living an abundant and fruitful life.

What is Commitment - Commitment is the act of wholeheartedly devoting ourselves to something or someone with steadfast loyalty and perseverance—regardless of feelings, convenience, or changing circumstances. In the context of our walk with God, commitment means making Christ the highest priority and aligning our decisions, actions, and values with Him daily. It is a covenant posture of the heart that says: “I am fully in, for the long haul.”

Here are a few guiding principles for living a life fully committed to the Lord:

God’s Commitment to Us - God demonstrates ultimate commitment in Christ: “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8). His love and sacrifice compel us to respond with full devotion and commitment to Him. Our lives reveal what we are truly committed to.
Commitment Brings Blessing - God promises to bless those who commit their way to Him: “Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him and He will do this.” (Psalm 37:4–5). Commitment to God unlocks His provision, protection, and purpose. Often, His blessings come through perseverance and waiting. Commitment over time proves the depth of our love.
Commitment Unlocks Potential - Being fully committed is the only way to realize our God-given potential. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5–6). God has prepared good works in advance for us (Ephesians 2:10), and we only walk in them when He is our first priority. Commitment to God in our time, relationships, and resources demonstrates our love and becomes a light to the world (Matthew 5:16).

Challenge Question

What area of your life is God calling you to move from half-hearted effort to full commitment this week?

Closing Prayer

Lord, thank You for being fully committed to us through Christ. Help us to live with undivided hearts, to put You first in every area of our lives, and to persevere in faith through seasons of testing. May our commitment bring You glory and bless those around us.

Katie Burns 9/16/25 Katie Burns 9/16/25

Word of the Week - Harmony

“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity (Harmony)! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robe. It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the Lord bestows His blessing, even life forevermore.” Psalm 133

Personal Reflection - The tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk at a public event is a sobering reminder of how far our country has drifted from unity and harmony. In the aftermath, we see politicized blame, hateful rhetoric, fear, and distrust—symptoms of deep disharmony in our culture. It presses on me how much we need what Psalm 133 describes: harmony that comes from shared values and a higher purpose. For me, this is a call not only for our nation but also for my personal relationships—to soften my words, to choose compassion over being right, and to seek unity even when differences remain. In these fractured times, pursuing harmony isn’t optional; it is essential if we are to reflect Christ to the world.

What is Harmony - Harmony is the state of living with an agreeable and conforming spirit toward others, with shared values and a higher purpose in mind. Like a willing spirit, harmony is a blessing but requires intentionality. Our sinful nature leans toward independence and disharmony, while culture today often magnifies division instead of common ground. But in Christ, we have a foundation to live in peace and unity with one another.

Here are a few guiding principles for building Harmony in our lives, relationships, and the cultures we steward:

Start with Common Ground - If we are in relationship with someone—whether family, friends, or colleagues—we already share much. Building on those shared values and purposes strengthens trust and creates unity. In business, family, or church, when the team’s vision and values are placed above personal preferences, harmony follows. “Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.” (Philippians 2:2)
Define the Majors and Minors - Harmony does not mean uniformity. We can have different personalities, methods, or preferences without undermining unity. The key is not to major in the minors. In faith, the essentials (the Cross, Trinity, Christ as the way to the Father) must remain central. But secondary things like style of worship or denomination should not divide us. “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 14:17)
Be Willing to Yield and Compromise - Harmony grows out of humility. None of us are without flaws or blind spots. Valuing others’ perspectives—even when different—requires a posture of yielding. It is far better to be united with some compromise than to be divided and “right.” “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:2–3)

Challenge Question

Where do you need to lay down personal preference or pride this week in order to pursue greater harmony in your marriage, family, friendships, workplace—or even in how you engage with the division in our nation?

Closing Prayer

Lord, help us to pursue harmony with those around us—at home, at work, in our churches, and in our nation. Give us the humility to yield when needed, the wisdom to focus on what truly matters, and the courage to place shared values above personal agendas. May our unity be a witness of Your love and power in a divided world.

“We must learn to live together as brothers and sisters or perish as fools.”
– Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Have a week filled with peace and harmony!

Katie Burns 9/8/25 Katie Burns 9/8/25

Word of the Week - Willing Spirit

"Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit to sustain me." Psalm 51:12

Personal Reflection – The Lord continues to do a good work on me in this area mainly through my closest relationships—my marriage, my family, my friends, and even in our business. My nature leans toward being efficient and direct, but at times that can come across as harsh or lacking grace. At the worst of times, it is offensive and hurtful. God is showing me that part of having a willing spirit is allowing Him to soften me, to lead me toward more gentleness, kindness, and patience. He keeps reminding me that His way is not just about being truthful and direct, but about speaking the truth in love. This refining work has not always been easy, but it is producing fruit in my relationships and refining me more into the image of Christ.

What is a Willing Spirit? - A willing spirit is a posture of “yes, Lord.” It’s a heart ready to receive, obey, and trust God even when we don’t see the full picture or fully understand. Growth, maturity, and blessing in our walk with Christ hinge on whether our spirit is open and surrendered to Him. Without it, we risk missing the best God has for us.

Here are a few ways we can continue to develop a “Willing Spirt” toward God:

Trusting God by His Word –The more we know Him, the more confidence we have in His goodness. Trust grows as we walk with Him, and that trust fuels our willingness to obey. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5–6)
Renewing Our Minds in Truth -God’s Word reshapes how we think and live. A willing spirit is sustained by daily renewal through Scripture. “Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing, and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2)
Dependence on God Alone – King David knew his blessing flowed from God’s presence and Spirit, not his own strength. Before asking for a willing spirit, he prayed: “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.” (Psalm 51:10–11) True willingness is born from and abiding dependence on Him.
A Willing Spirit Sustains Us - God promises to meet those who seek Him wholeheartedly: “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:13). Jesus Himself said, “If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5) A willing spirit anchors us in His sustaining presence.

Challenge Question:

Where in your life right now is God asking for a deeper “yes”—an area where He is calling you to soften, trust, or surrender more fully to His Spirit?

Closing Prayer

Lord, grant us a willing spirit—hearts ready to say “yes” to You, minds renewed in Your truth, and lives fully dependent on Your Spirit. May we never miss the great things You have in store for us because we are not willing to say yes Lord! “For I know the plans I have for you…plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

Have a great “yes Lord” week!!!

Katie Burns 9/2/25 Katie Burns 9/2/25

Word of the Week - Encourage

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another-and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Hebrews 10:24-25

This past week, I lost a dear friend, Tim Lee (Tim Lee's Obituary), who was unexpectedly called home to be with the Lord. I have known Tim for nearly twenty years and had the privilege to serve with him many times through the JH/Outback ministries. Tim was originally from Baton Rouge, LA and a big LSU fan. We shared a passion for LSU football among other things, see attached pics from 2020 National Championship Game we attended together. Tim was likely the greatest encourager I have ever known. He didn’t just love-he loved BIG. His life was a living testimony of encouraging others: he sent daily texts to friends and family each day that were filled with Scripture, words of hope, pictures he had taken of certain memories, and often a song to brighten the day. I have been the recipient of hundreds and possibly thousands of these encouraging messages from Tim over the years. He also carried purple pens with the reminder, “Life can change on a dime”. Tim made sure everyone who crossed his path felt like they mattered. Tim lived Hebrews 10:24-25 to its fullest. He encouraged others daily, and his legacy inspires me-and all of us-to do the same.

The following is the last text I received from Tim on Saturday, August 23rd, “What is friendship in simple words? Friendship is a close relationship between two or more people who care about and support each other. It is built on trust, honesty, and mutual respect. Friends often share common interests and experiences, and enjoy spending time together. “No greater love than a man to lay down his life for a friend” John 15:13 Thank God that Jesus is our Friend. Geaux Be a friend today! Don’t look for a blessing, Be One! Thank God for friends I call them Angels! Grateful for our friendship! P.S. Please pray for Bailey Smith her brain tumor is back, and she needs a miracle in Jesus name. Lift up Landmark Gridiron event on Monday night!

So, what can we learn from the life and legacy of Tim Lee? First and foremost, to follow his amazing example of love and encouragement towards others. Encouragement is so powerful; we all need to be encouraged. Encouragement is defined as the intentional act of strengthening, uplifting, and inspiring another person through words, presence, or actions. At its core, encouragement means “to put courage into” someone-helping them persevere in faith, obedience, and hope when circumstances may tempt them toward fear, weakness, or despair.

The following are a few things I have learned from Tim and his amazing gift of encouragement:

Encouragers Speak Life – Proverbs 18:21 reminds us that “the tongue has the power of life and death.” An encourager uses words to lift, heal, and inspire. Like Tim’s daily texts, our words can remind someone they are loved, seen, and valued by God.
Encouragers Build up Others – 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” Encouragers look for ways to strengthen others, especially if they are walking through times of life challenges, whether through Scripture, prayer, a simple call, or showing up when it matters most.
Encouragers Reflect God’s Heart – True encouragement isn’t just about positivity; it’s about pointing people back to the Source of all hope. Romans 15:5 calls God the “God who gives endurance and encouragement.” When we encourage, we reflect God’s nature and remind other of His O and promises.

Tim Lee’s life and amazing example impacted me and so many in a big way and will continue to do so for years to come! The following is a recent and real life example of Tim’s impact and influence on me. In December of 2024 as I was praying and reflecting on the year ahead, I felt inspired by Tim and prompted by the Holy Spirit toward intentionally encouraging others. This is something I had done from time to time more spontaneously, but not with daily intentionality like my friend Tim. I set a goal to send 2-3 text encouragements a day to friends and family. This is what that looks like for me: After my morning rhythm of abiding time (bible reading, journaling, praying) and working out, I pray and think about who I feel led to encourage for the day. Sometimes it is because I know they are going through a challenging time and other times they are just on my heart and mind. I then self-record a short video encouragement and text it to them with a brief note. I have now been doing this for the past 8 months (Jan – August) and have sent nearly 400 individual encouragements that include the 3 elements noted above (Speak Life, Build up, Share God’s Word/heart). This has become one of my favorite daily activities because it is one of the most fruitful things I get to do each day. It is amazing how much a simple word of encouragement can impact someone. It is truly powerful when spoke with love and under the authority of God’s truth. By the way it only takes my about 5-10 minutes a day. Surely the highest Eternal Rate of Return (ERR) activity of my day.

Challenge Question:

This week, who can you intentionally encourage with your words, actions, or presence? Will you take time to spur someone on toward love and good deeds, just as our dear friend Tim so faithfully did!

In honor and memory of Tim Lee, let’s Geaux be an encouragement to those around us today and everyday for God’s Glory!

Katie Burns 8/26/25 Katie Burns 8/26/25

Word of the Week - Eternal Hope

“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character, and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” Romans 5:3-5

Amy and I attended the funeral service of Camille Hensarling Mahtook yesterday in our hometown of Lafayette, LA. Camille is the daughter and one of five children of our dear and lifelong friends Neil and Rachel Hensarling. Amy and I grew up with Rachel and met Neil in college when they started dating. Rachel and Amy were roommates their junior and senior year in college, so Neil and I became good friends and have maintained a strong friendship since. Camille was diagnosed with Ocular Melanoma cancer over 5 years ago during her freshman year at LSU. Since then, we have walked alongside the Hensarling family for the last 5 years praying fervently and believing that God would heal Camille. I shared Camille’s story with my “Word of the Week” community when she was first diagnosed and a few times along the way, see “WOW” prior post about Camille. It has been an amazing journey of faith; both gut wrenching and deeply inspiring.

Over the past 5 years, I have witnessed Camille and her family walk through this very challenging situation with amazing faith, hope, and love. They have lived life full of hope, trusting and believing for God’s healing power while at the same time acknowledging the reality and weight of this situation and doing everything possible to beat the cancer. Camille and her family continued to “live” life to the full making every-day count. Camille was an amazing beautiful (inside & out) and gifted young woman. You can read her Obituary in the link above to get the full picture of Camille. I attended Camille’s wedding in January of this year. It was one of the most loving and moving experiences of my life and so full of faith, hope, and love.

Camille’s funeral yesterday was so impactful to me and all who attended; there was standing room only. On one hand it was deeply heartbreaking to see her husband Greg, along with her family in the pain of their loss. On the other hand, the faith, hope, and love that was present was overwhelming. I think everyone there experienced the presence of God in a supernatural way. The inspiration of how Camille, her husband Greg, and their family have lived by faith and continue to place their hope in God is nothing short of miraculous and deeply inspiring toward the eternal hope of those who trust God as Savior. “God’s love was poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit” yesterday at Camille’s life celebration service.

So how did Camille, Greg and their family and walk with such faith, hope and love through this tremendous challenge:

Faith - “Faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see” Hebrews 11:1 Camille, Greg and their families walked in faith every day remaining confident with hope even when the circumstances were not lining up. This is true faith, and it is powerful.
Hope – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy, and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit”. Romans 15:13 Camille, Greg and their families put their hope and trust in Jesus as the source. In doing so, they had they experienced supernatural hope and joy through the trial by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Love – “And now these three things remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love” 1 Corinthians 13:13 The essence of God is love; therefore, love wins over all. The love that was manifest in and through Camille, Greg and their family was overwhelming throughout the journey and tangibly present yesterday at the service. I experienced the presence of God’s love through them.

It is hard to understand why this would happen to such an amazing young woman and great family, and why God did not heal her as we all prayed for. With this difficult question in the forefront, there is no doubt that God has and will continue to use the life of Camille, Greg and her family for His purpose and glory to draw people to Jesus. The miracle is how much God did and will continue to do into eternity through Camille and her 24 short years on this earth. Our true hope is not in this short life on earth but in our eternal life in heaven.

“Show me, Lord, my life’s end and the number of days; let me know how fleeting my life is. You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years as nothing before you. Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure.” Psalm 39: 4-5

This has prompted me to reflect on my own life and evaluate if I am living life to the full as if this could be my last day? Am I living full of faith, hope and love? Today is the only day we are promised, so let us make the most of it and live it full of Faith, Hope and Love like Camille, Greg and their family.