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In this episode of the Canyon Pathways podcast, host Noel Bouché explores the profound depth of what it means to be intentional. Drawing inspiration from an unlikely source—the 90s alt-rock hit "Father of Mine" by Everclear—Noel unpacks how intentionality is less about strategic planning and more about the relational effort of reaching toward another.

From the etymology of the word to the character of God as an intentional Father, this field note challenges the "box-checking" mentality of leadership and parenting. Noel invites us to move beyond mere methods and into the heart-level work of stretching out our hands to those we lead, mirroring the way Abba reaches out to us. It is a call to move from the striving of servanthood into the restful security of sonship, finding wholeness in the places that are often the hardest to reach.

Takeaways

• Intentionality is about motives, not just methods. Taking someone to the beach or the movies is just a means; the true goal is reaching the inner person.
• To be intentional is to "stretch out." Rooted in the Latin intendere, it literally means to reach toward another with effort, energy, and passion.
• True intentionality requires relational humility. It means setting aside our own agendas to discover what brings joy and delight to the other person.
• God is the ultimate Intentional Father. He is not distant or passive; He is constantly reaching out to rescue, comfort, and deliver His children.
• Our response to being reached is to reach back. We are invited to stretch out our hands in response to God, moving from fear into the freedom of being a beloved son.
• Intentionality pushes back chaos. By providing order and focus, purposeful intent acts as a proactive force against the dehumanizing disorder of life.

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