You know those people who challenge you to live a better life just by the way they live theirs? Those who are so wholly comfortable in their own skin that they're brave enough to take risks and dive deep. They have a way of knowing who they are, and reminding you of who you are too. When you find a friend like that, you're inspired to take more risks and in the process you discover more of who you're made to be.
Aaron Niequist is that kind of friend to Steve and I. We lived a few blocks from each other in Michigan and met weekly in our little house church, sharing meals and the ups and downs of life. It was a sweet season for each of us. We learned a lot, we grew up a bit, faced some fears, and discovered what it meant to be family for each other while living far from extended relatives. I'm so thankful for those years and the ways they shaped each of us.
Aaron led worship at the church we were a part of in Grand Rapids. On Sundays, he made space where we felt free to have an authentic experience with our Creator. He's the sort of artist and leader who innately creates inspiring environments wherever he is. He is also someone who takes life - and the opportunity we have to live our lives with holy, infused purpose - incredibly seriously. 
The Niequist's have since moved to Chicago and us to Orange County, but his songs continue to pastor us from afar. I am so grateful for his latest project, A New Liturgy. Aaron has created a series of liturgies, 25 minute worship experiences we can download and take with us anywhere. "A moveable, sonic sanctuary." More than simply another worship album, its really a journey of music, prayer, scripture, and space that helps open us to The Almighty in any location, season, or emotion. It has been so so good for my heart. I've been playing two: Blessed to Be a Blessing whenever I'm in the car or out for a run. It centers me and gives me a place to process my thoughts when they seem jumbled and out of control.
Aaron, thank you for being brave with your life, for taking risks and putting your art out there. Because I need it and I believe a lot of others do too. May we all be inspired to dive deep and trust the places our hearts want to take us.
so well said. celebrating what you have shared with aaron/shauna - what a rare gift. we miss aaron at mars hill and take with us the ways that he inspired us and made us feel "whole" and "at home."
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