Reflection
In today's readings, we witness pivotal moments of transition, courage, and new beginnings. Joshua takes leadership after Moses and leads Israel across the Jordan into the Promised Land. In Psalm 143, David cries out to God in distress, seeking guidance and deliverance. And in Luke 14, Jesus challenges conventional wisdom about status, hospitality, and what it truly means to follow Him.

The key insight we can draw from these passages is this: God calls us to step out in courage, trust His guidance even in unfamiliar territory, and embrace a kingdom perspective that often contradicts worldly values.

Let's break this down into a simple principle we can apply:

Step forward in faith, remembering God's faithfulness in the past and embracing His upside-down kingdom values.

Here are five practical steps we can take to apply today's readings:

1. Identify your "Jordan": What transition or challenge is God calling you to face with courage? Remember Joshua's example of stepping into unknown waters.

2. Set up memorial stones: Like the Israelites, identify specific ways to remember and celebrate God's faithfulness in your life's journey.

3. Practice radical hospitality: Following Jesus' teaching in Luke 14, look for an opportunity today to extend kindness to someone who cannot repay you.

4. Embrace humility: Consider an area of your life where pride might be hindering your spiritual growth, and take a concrete step toward humility.

5. Count the cost: Reflect on Jesus' teaching about discipleship. What might following Him fully cost you today, and are you willing to pay that price?

As you go about your day, reflect on this question: How might adopting God's perspective change the way you navigate transitions and relationships in your life?

Conclusion
Thank you for joining me today. These passages remind us that following God often means stepping into unknown territory, embracing counterintuitive kingdom values, and keeping our eyes fixed on His promises rather than our circumstances. Until tomorrow, may God give you courage to cross your own "Jordan" and live according to His upside-down kingdom values.