[soundcloud url="https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/211971897" params="auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true" width="100%" height='450' iframe="true" /] The past four weeks, Mount Olivet has explored and engaged in what makes us unique: we are a community who believes, experiences, and practices what it means to listen, observe and respond to God in the world.

There is an eternal movement of the Holy Spirit which leads and guides us individually and as a greater community of faith to view each moment, each breath as faithful encounter. The spirit encourages us to be intentional and present every moment of every day. It is a practice where we:

LISTEN: Listen to God, to each other, to our neighbors, and the world. It is deep listening and attending to the brokenness in the world and how God's redeeming word restores it. Dwelling in the Word and the world, the polarities God's life and the brokenness of the world come into focus.

POINT: Listening to God focuses our perspective on what God is up to in the world and in us.We point to the Spirit at work declaring God's activity in us. BUT the world also engages us - pointing out to us where God is moving. That movement of God's spirit inspires us to respond.

DO: When we listen to and observe God in us and the world, we are enveloped in God's movement. We become God's humble partners in the good work of justice and mercy. As we respond, we reflect on how God is working in our midst which moves us back into listening.

It's a beautiful rhythm of the spirit of which we are an intentional part. It is a rhythm that guides every conversation, decision, and struggle. The intention is in the practice. And the practice grows the muscle memory, making it a natural filter for every faithful moment of life.

Peace and promise, Pete Erickson