This week's Weekly Word is inspired by Jeremiah 29:7, "But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare." As a lover of all things urban, I am a bit biased about the wonder of the City. Yes, there is pain and struggle in the city, but EVERY region contains its own manifestation of pain and struggle. Be it rural, suburban, village, or city each has its own places of beauty and brokenness. For most of my life, the city is all that I have known. My soul and spirit have been formed by the energy, creativity, and diverse populations that are drawn to urban centers. The city is not for everyone, but if you find yourself in the city for any amount of time, please drop a prayer for the welfare of all who call it home. The City Exile and invitation interwoven and intertwined Pain and beauty startling and striking Neighbors and strangers dancing and dodging Buildings stretch up to the skies P...