Few people have done more work to grow the church than the Apostle Paul. Paul started at least 20 churches on his journeys. Countless more faith communities were started because missionaries from the churches Paul would also travel and preach. In addition to starting so many churches, Paul was a writer and teacher. He is responsible for writing or inspiring over a quarter of the New Testament. Through Paul’s ministry, the church grew and flourished.

I have never walked into my mom and dad’s home as an adult without being asked to sit down—usually at the dining room or kitchen table—to food. It’s not always fancy—though I can remember many elaborate holiday celebrations with standing rib roasts, homemade bread, multiple complex desserts, and a fully set table. It’s always a welcome place, for sure.