While we would like to control things so that problems, hassles, and suffering are avoided, life is not like that. A lot of living is responding to what is happening and for Christians, they do so never alone, for Jesus is with them.

Open doors and loud tables are places where God does His quiet work of changing lives, one dinner invitation at a time.

• China and Vatican prepare to renew historic deal that allows Chinese Communist Party to appoint Catholic bishops • Thy will be done: Alexa, read me the prayer book • Discord takes a ‘toxic’ turn at Westminster Cathedral’s renowned choir school • 'Jesus of Siberia' arrested in Russian security services raid

“By what authority are you doing these things…?” Understanding Jesus' authority in our lives is crucial especially when we ask why continuing to follow Jesus makes sense.