Faith Facts

• Fresh Life Church co-pastor Jennie Lusko is releasing a new devotional titled ‘Fresh Mercies Every Day’ on June 2
• Lusko has openly shared her journey of grief following the death of her 5-year-old daughter
• Her upcoming book focuses on finding God’s faithfulness through suffering, grief, and the need for rest

As Mother’s Day approaches, Jennie Lusko, co-pastor of Fresh Life Church, is opening her heart about one of life’s most devastating experiences: losing a child. Her upcoming devotional, “Fresh Mercies Every Day,” set to release June 2, draws from her deeply personal journey through grief and her discovery of God’s unwavering presence in the darkest valleys.

Lusko’s story resonates with countless mothers who have faced unimaginable loss. The death of her 5-year-old daughter became a watershed moment that tested her faith to its core. Yet rather than turning away from God in anger or despair, she found herself drawn closer to the only source of true comfort and hope.

The forthcoming devotional addresses themes that many Christians grapple with but few discuss openly: the reality of grief in the life of a believer, the biblical necessity of rest, and God’s faithfulness even when circumstances seem to contradict His promises. These aren’t abstract theological concepts for Lusko—they represent hard-won truths forged in the furnace of personal tragedy.

Her willingness to share her story provides a powerful testimony to other believers walking through their own seasons of suffering. In a culture that often demands we present a polished, pain-free image to the world, Lusko’s authenticity offers a refreshing alternative rooted in biblical honesty about the human condition.

The timing of her book’s release, just after Mother’s Day, acknowledges the complex emotions many women experience during this holiday. For mothers who have lost children, Mother’s Day can bring a fresh wave of grief alongside precious memories. Lusko’s ministry to these hurting hearts demonstrates the body of Christ at its best—bearing one another’s burdens and pointing toward eternal hope.

Her message emphasizes that God’s mercies are indeed new every morning, even when mornings feel unbearable. This biblical truth from Lamentations 3:22-23 takes on profound meaning when processed through the lens of profound loss. The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, and His mercies never come to an end—they are new every morning, and great is His faithfulness.

As co-pastor alongside her husband at Fresh Life Church, Jennie Lusko has built a ministry characterized by transparency and reliance on Scripture. Her upcoming devotional promises to continue this pattern, offering daily encouragement grounded in God’s Word rather than empty platitudes or superficial positivity.

For Christians navigating their own grief, whether from loss of a loved one, broken dreams, or other trials, “Fresh Mercies Every Day” offers the hope that healing is possible without denying the reality of pain. It’s a message the American church needs—one that acknowledges suffering while pointing steadfastly toward the God who redeems all things.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Faith Facts

• Greg Locke, pastor of Global Vision Bible Church in Lebanon, Tennessee, announced the death of his 20-year-old son, Evan Roberts Locke
• The young man died from a drug overdose, highlighting the ongoing epidemic affecting families across America
• Pastor Locke has been transparent about his family’s struggles, using this tragedy to minister to others facing similar battles

Greg Locke, the outspoken pastor of Global Vision Bible Church in Lebanon, Tennessee, shared devastating news with his congregation and followers on Friday. His son, Evan Roberts Locke, just 20 years old, has passed away from a drug overdose.

The tragedy serves as a sobering reminder that the drug crisis in America spares no family, regardless of faith, position, or social standing. Even pastors and ministry leaders face the heartbreak of addiction’s grip on their loved ones.

Pastor Locke has built a reputation for bold, uncompromising preaching and advocacy for Christian values in the public square. Now, he faces one of the most painful trials a parent can endure—the loss of a child.

The opioid and drug epidemic continues to devastate communities across our nation, claiming tens of thousands of lives each year. Christian families are not immune to this scourge, and many in the faith community are calling for both spiritual revival and practical solutions to address the crisis.

This heartbreaking loss reminds us of the importance of prayer, community support, and the desperate need for effective intervention in the lives of those struggling with addiction. It also underscores the reality that behind every statistic is a real family experiencing unimaginable grief.

As the body of Christ, we are called to bear one another’s burdens and support families walking through the valley of the shadow of death. The Locke family will undoubtedly need the prayers and support of believers across the country during this incredibly difficult time.

This tragedy also highlights the need for churches to address addiction openly and compassionately, providing resources and support for families battling this epidemic within their own homes.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Faith Facts

• A growing number of pastors report feeling less satisfied with their ministry calling, according to new Barna research
• Despite declining job satisfaction, pastors show improvements in mental health and report feeling better equipped for ministry than a decade ago
• The findings reveal a complex picture of modern pastoral ministry with both encouraging and concerning trends

America’s pastors face a paradox in their calling: while their mental health and ministry readiness have improved over the past decade, a troubling trend shows fewer shepherds finding deep fulfillment in the work God has called them to do.

New research from Barna reveals this concerning shift in pastoral satisfaction, even as other metrics show positive movement. The findings paint a complex picture of ministry life in America today, one that demands attention from congregations nationwide.

The research indicates that while pastors feel more equipped and mentally healthier than their counterparts from ten years ago, something fundamental has shifted in their sense of calling and purpose. This disconnect between capability and satisfaction raises important questions about the state of pastoral ministry in our nation.

For churches across America, these findings serve as a wake-up call. Our pastors need more than just better tools and improved mental health resources—they need renewed vision for the eternal impact of their calling and strong support from their congregations.

The decline in pastoral fulfillment comes at a critical time when strong, faithful leadership is needed more than ever. As our culture grows increasingly hostile to Christian values, pastors stand on the front lines, shepherding flocks through unprecedented challenges to faith and family.

This research underscores the importance of prayer, encouragement, and tangible support for those called to lead God’s people. Churches must prioritize not just the effectiveness of their pastors, but the joy and fulfillment they experience in their sacred calling.

The tension between improved preparation and declining satisfaction suggests that technical competence alone cannot sustain the pastoral calling. Spiritual vitality, community support, and a clear sense of divine purpose remain essential for those who serve in ministry leadership.

As we face mounting cultural pressures and spiritual battles, the well-being of our pastors directly impacts the health of our churches and communities. Their fulfillment in ministry isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for effective kingdom work.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.