What the Commandments Are Really For

Jesus did not give commandments as a test to pass, but as practices that shape us into people who can live the way of the Kingdom here and now. In this first installment of Practicing the Kingdom, I explore Sabbath, distraction, desire, and what it means to become fully human together.A Practice for the WeekSet aside ten quiet minutes at the end of one day this week. No phone. No television. No music. Just silence.Then ask yourself:* What shaped my heart today?* What most captured my attention?* What hurried me?* What gave me peace?* What helped me love God and other people more deeply?What pulled me away from the main thing?Do not judge yourself harshly. Simply notice.Then end with this prayer:Lord Jesus, teach me the way of your Kingdom. Reorder my desires. Quiet what distracts me from you. Shape my life by your love so that I may become more fully human in you. Amen. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit jakeowensby.substack.com/subscribe