Core Values
Humanity speaks with God. Bound not by a system of rules or the commands of a superior, it is God’s love-nature that compels Him to listen, to allow those made in His image to speak directly to Him. All our open wounds, grievous offenses, dreams of our hearts, and exaltations of the great mystery of God are presentable, accepted as worthy offerings. God speaks with humanity. A conversation is nurtured, a relationship is developed, and in that moment, be it in silence or shouting, God moves. The invisible becomes tangible, and we discover the powerful effect of conversing with our Father.
Sometimes we believe lies that we are worthless, nothing, pitiful. When we embrace the freedom of God in us, restoring us, transforming us, we can begin to see His beautiful image in our very souls. We long to cry out to Him with hearts full of joy, peace, and true adoration. His perfection is amplified in us, and so we resonate His worth in all of life. Our hearts responding to the revelation of Jesus is the beauty of worship in spirit and truth. This response moves us toward our original design to amplify His name to the ends of the earth.
Family is at the core of our devotion. We spend an incredible amount of time investing in our family. We share great joys, deep sorrows, we gather together to celebrate and can be the most blunt with those who are closest to us. The awesome thing about being part of the kingdom of God is that these moments are not isolated to only those with whom we share a last name. Joining God’s family unites us with people of every culture and background. We have been adopted by a heavenly Father. It brings God great joy to see the diversity of his creation united with one common purpose. Our extended family creates the perfect opportunity to strengthen and enhance our lives. It is these bonds that cause us to reflect on the beauty of Jesus and his example of drawing close to impact all of creation.
When a seed falls in a field, it takes its chances alone for survival with weather, nutrition, predators, and competition. Growing well depends on a favorable climate. We too, as God’s creation could take our chances allowing circumstances to dictate our growth. This, however, is not God’s design. Jesus dug deep past the surface into the soil of life to plant the beginnings of whole people. He saw people for who they were, but didn’t stop there. Beyond their current existence He saw holy, deep people, and He was willing to sacrifice Himself for the growth of those around Him. Our role is to follow the example of Jesus by developing, nurturing, investing, celebrating, and sacrificing ourselves for individuals whom God has put in our path and under our care, and allowing others to unearth the best in us.
God is truth, and has made Himself known in His word and in the person of Jesus Christ. Truth is not discovered in the answers of religion, but Truth is experienced with Jesus as our guide. It is the knowledge of experience that brings fullness to life. For this reason Second Mile seeks to know, live, and proclaim Truth which will transform the lives of our neighbors, co-workers, friends, relatives, and peoples of all cultures.
