Although “do not be afraid” is a very common directive throughout the scriptures, as human beings who’ve literally been biologically wired to experience fear to survive, it’s a pretty tall order. This series encourages us not to focus on our inability to be fearless, but to focus on our ability to fear-less because the resurrection of Jesus is proof that in the end, love and life will overcome evil, injustice and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves. Christ is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!

Although “do not be afraid” is a very common directive throughout the scriptures, as human beings who’ve literally been biologically wired to experience fear to survive, it’s a pretty tall order. This series encourages us not to focus on our inability to be fearless, but to focus on our ability to fear-less because the resurrection of Jesus is proof that in the end, love and life will overcome evil, injustice and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves. Christ is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!

Although “do not be afraid” is a very common directive throughout the scriptures, as human beings who’ve literally been biologically wired to experience fear to survive, it’s a pretty tall order. This series encourages us not to focus on our inability to be fearless, but to focus on our ability to fear-less because the resurrection of Jesus is proof that in the end, love and life will overcome evil, injustice and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves. Christ is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!

Although “do not be afraid” is a very common directive throughout the scriptures, as human beings who’ve literally been biologically wired to experience fear to survive, it’s a pretty tall order. This series encourages us not to focus on our inability to be fearless, but to focus on our ability to fear-less because the resurrection of Jesus is proof that in the end, love and life will overcome evil, injustice and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves. Christ is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!

Although “do not be afraid” is a very common directive throughout the scriptures, as human beings who’ve literally been biologically wired to experience fear to survive, it’s a pretty tall order. This series encourages us not to focus on our inability to be fearless, but to focus on our ability to fear-less because the resurrection of Jesus is proof that in the end, love and life will overcome evil, injustice and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves. Christ is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!

Following Jesus leads to a richer, more expansive life, but it’s not necessarily comfortable. Jesus’ ministry can be described as “radical” which comes from the Latin word “radicalis,” meaning “root” or “ground.” Therefore, the good news should bring us back to our roots. Emulating Jesus and embodying his teachings should ground us in who God created us to be. Can we be “good news” people in a world too often burdened by bad news? Yes! We can and we must! 

Following Jesus leads to a richer, more expansive life, but it’s not necessarily comfortable. Jesus’ ministry can be described as “radical” which comes from the Latin word “radicalis,” meaning “root” or “ground.” Therefore, the good news should bring us back to our roots. Emulating Jesus and embodying his teachings should ground us in who God created us to be. Can we be “good news” people in a world too often burdened by bad news? Yes! We can and we must! 

Following Jesus leads to a richer, more expansive life, but it’s not necessarily comfortable. Jesus’ ministry can be described as “radical” which comes from the Latin word “radicalis,” meaning “root” or “ground.” Therefore, the good news should bring us back to our roots. Emulating Jesus and embodying his teachings should ground us in who God created us to be. Can we be “good news” people in a world too often burdened by bad news? Yes! We can and we must! 

Following Jesus leads to a richer, more expansive life, but it’s not necessarily comfortable. Jesus’ ministry can be described as “radical” which comes from the Latin word “radicalis,” meaning “root” or “ground.” Therefore, the good news should bring us back to our roots. Emulating Jesus and embodying his teachings should ground us in who God created us to be. Can we be “good news” people in a world too often burdened by bad news? Yes! We can and we must! 

Following Jesus leads to a richer, more expansive life, but it’s not necessarily comfortable. Jesus’ ministry can be described as “radical” which comes from the Latin word “radicalis,” meaning “root” or “ground.” Therefore, the good news should bring us back to our roots. Emulating Jesus and embodying his teachings should ground us in who God created us to be. Can we be “good news” people in a world too often burdened by bad news? Yes! We can and we must! 

Following Jesus leads to a richer, more expansive life, but it’s not necessarily comfortable. Jesus’ ministry can be described as “radical” which comes from the Latin word “radicalis,” meaning “root” or “ground.” Therefore, the good news should bring us back to our roots. Emulating Jesus and embodying his teachings should ground us in who God created us to be. Can we be “good news” people in a world too often burdened by bad news? Yes! We can and we must! 

Following Jesus leads to a richer, more expansive life, but it’s not necessarily comfortable. Jesus’ ministry can be described as “radical” which comes from the Latin word “radicalis,” meaning “root” or “ground.” Therefore, the good news should bring us back to our roots. Emulating Jesus and embodying his teachings should ground us in who God created us to be. Can we be “good news” people in a world too often burdened by bad news? Yes! We can and we must! 

The "Awakened To Grace" sermon series invites us to begin the year by rediscovering the simple, transformative practices that open us to God’s presence — Prayer, Scripture, Silence, Fasting, Sabbath, and Service. May these practices, made visible in ordinary life and everyday discipleship, open us to extraordinary love.

The "Awakened To Grace" sermon series invites us to begin the year by rediscovering the simple, transformative practices that open us to God’s presence — Prayer, Scripture, Silence, Fasting, Sabbath, and Service. May these practices, made visible in ordinary life and everyday discipleship, open us to extraordinary love.

The "Awakened To Grace" sermon series invites us to begin the year by rediscovering the simple, transformative practices that open us to God’s presence — Prayer, Scripture, Silence, Fasting, Sabbath, and Service. May these practices, made visible in ordinary life and everyday discipleship, open us to extraordinary love.

The "Awakened To Grace" sermon series invites us to begin the year by rediscovering the simple, transformative practices that open us to God’s presence — Prayer, Scripture, Silence, Fasting, Sabbath, and Service. May these practices, made visible in ordinary life and everyday discipleship, open us to extraordinary love.

The "Awakened To Grace" sermon series invites us to begin the year by rediscovering the simple, transformative practices that open us to God’s presence — Prayer, Scripture, Silence, Fasting, Sabbath, and Service. May these practices, made visible in ordinary life and everyday discipleship, open us to extraordinary love.

There is no shadow of turning with Thee;

Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not

As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be.

The words of the beloved hymn “Great is Thy Faithfulness” was written by Rev. Thomas O. Chisholm in 1923. He was ordained a Methodist minister in 1903, but served only a single, brief appointment at Scottsville, Kentucky, due to ill health. Despite this unexpected adversity, Rev. Chisholm saw God’s faithful hand in the gifts that still surrounded him, and it was in that spirit of generous gratitude he not only survived, but he thrived!

This three-week stewardship series uses both the Psalms and this classic hymn, to guide, encourage, and challenge us to be faithful caretakers of the gifts we’ve been given. As together, we love boldly, serve joyfully, lead courageously, and give generously, the ministries of First UMC will THRIVE!

Sun, moon and stars in their courses above,

Join with all nature in manifold witness

To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.

The words of the beloved hymn “Great is Thy Faithfulness” was written by Rev. Thomas O. Chisholm in 1923. He was ordained a Methodist minister in 1903, but served only a single, brief appointment at Scottsville, Kentucky, due to ill health. Despite this unexpected adversity, Rev. Chisholm saw God’s faithful hand in the gifts that still surrounded him, and it was in that spirit of generous gratitude he not only survived, but he thrived!

This three-week stewardship series uses both the Psalms and this classic hymn, to guide, encourage, and challenge us to be faithful caretakers of the gifts we’ve been given. As together, we love boldly, serve joyfully, lead courageously, and give generously, the ministries of First UMC will THRIVE!

Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;

Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,

Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

The words of the beloved hymn “Great is Thy Faithfulness” was written by Rev. Thomas O. Chisholm in 1923. He was ordained a Methodist minister in 1903, but served only a single, brief appointment at Scottsville, Kentucky, due to ill health. Despite this unexpected adversity, Rev. Chisholm saw God’s faithful hand in the gifts that still surrounded him, and it was in that spirit of generous gratitude he not only survived, but he thrived!

This three-week stewardship series uses both the Psalms and this classic hymn, to guide, encourage, and challenge us to be faithful caretakers of the gifts we’ve been given. As together, we love boldly, serve joyfully, lead courageously, and give generously, the ministries of First UMC will THRIVE!

When Jesus asks in our scripture lesson this week, “Where are the other nine?” (vs.17), he isn’t fishing for a thank you. Instead, he’s declaring that gratitude which leads to praise of God is an important part of our wellness: body, mind and spirit. We are living most fully into faithful discipleship when we live thankfully.

Verse 17 says "Then Jesus asked, “Were not ten made clean? So where are the other nine? Did none of them return to give glory to God except this foreigner?”

Verse 1 of Luke 18 says “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”

Persistence. What does that mean for us as individuals and as a community of faith? Week after week, we pray for God’s kingdom to come and for God’s will to be done on earth as it is in heaven. As we pray that prayer, we are signing up again to be a part of the redeeming force at work, reconciling the world to God. It’s a high calling, but we are up to it.

Verse 13 of Luke 18 says “But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven but was beating his breast and saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’”

Humility grounded in faith, firm on the foundation of Christ, is humility that no longer needs to prove itself. We stand secure in the truth that even when we miss the mark, we are loved by God. We practice our witness to the world as we worship “under our roof and beyond our walls” in humble faith.

Verse 3 of 2 Thessalonians 1 (NRSV) says “We must always give thanks to God for you, brothers and sisters, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing.”

These few verses give us some quick pointers on identifying saints. The Thessalonians are worried, apparently, and needed some reassurance. Paul responds to their concerns by affirming them in glowing terms. Today we remember and give thanks for those who’ve been encouragers on our individual and corporate journeys of faith.

No power in the sky above or in the earth below - indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.

There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear; for fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not reached perfection in love. We love because he first loved us.

Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay. God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another.

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.

This sermon reflects on Charles Wesley's hymn, "Maker in Whom We Live", hymn 88 in the United Methodist Hymnal and its basis in Psalm 8.

This sermon reflects on the African American Spiritual, "There is a Balm in Gilead", hymn 375 in the United Methodist Hymnal and its basis in Psalm 42.

This sermon reflects on the hymn by Katherine Hankey, "I Love to Tell the Story", hymn 156 in the United Methodist Hymnal and its basis in Psalm 40.

This sermon reflects on the hymn by John B. Foley, "One Bread, One Body", hymn 620 in the United Methodist Hymnal and its basis in Psalm 133.

This sermon reflects on the familiar Christmas hymn by Charles Wesley, "Hark! the Herald Angels Sing", hymn 240 in the United Methodist Hymnal and its basis in Psalm 33.

This sermon reflects on the hymn by Francis of Assisi, "All Creatures of Our God and King", hymn 62 in the United Methodist Hymnal and its basis in Psalm 148.

This sermon reflects on the hymn by Kathleen Tomerson, "I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light", hymn 206 in the United Methodist Hymnal and its basis in Psalm 95.

This sermon reflects on the hymn by Charles Wesley, "And Can It Be That I Should Gain", hymn 363 in the United Methodist Hymnal and its basis in Psalm 22.

This sermon reflects on the hymn by Henry Van Dyke, "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee", hymn 89 in the United Methodist Hymnal and its basis in Psalm 16.

This sermon reflects on the hymn by Charles Wesley, "O For A Thousand Tongues to Sing ", hymns 57 and 58 in the United Methodist Hymnal and its basis in Psalm 98.

Jesus used common examples like “tend my sheep,” “feed my lambs,” and “cast your nets on the other side” to call the disciples to follow in his footsteps—inviting all to a life of freedom. And like Saul whose eyes were opened to the freedom to follow the ways of Jesus, this Sunday’s scriptures invite us to leave aside our hesitations and claim our discipleship.

This Sunday’s scripture points to a revival, a restoration, and the promise of an overflowing cup of life. The dramatic image of Tabitha rising from her death bed urges us to hear the Voice of Freedom that says, “come on, you can do it, get up!” No matter how down and out we might feel, God reaches out a hand to help us up. And we say, “Yes!”

God’s promise of a new covenant is with all who seek it—all are gifted with the Spirit. There is no distinction of gender, age, or background. We are all given the freedom to follow Christ’s new commandment, to love one another.

Blessings are always meant to be shared. As God gives grace generously to us, so we are to give grace generously to others. The more we commit our lives to service over self and the common good, the more Christ-like we become.

Jesus prepares the disciples to be witnesses, to continue to preach the Gospel message, and to be his Body alive in the world by opening their understanding. We have the freedom to open our hearts and minds to receive what God will give—and that gift is the Holy Spirit.

On this day of Pentecost, we celebrate the birth of the Body of Christ filled with the Holy Spirit alive in the world in and through us, the disciples of Jesus. The presence of Christ through “the Advocate,” as promised, is always real. When we see each other and know each other as Beloved of God, this is the source of our peace and our freedom.

On this Ash Wednesday, we join Jesus as he “sets his face toward Jerusalem.” As Jesus makes his way toward Jerusalem, he is approached by people from local towns who promise to follow him. Jesus’ response is harsh, but urgent. He needs real commitment. He needs disciples who are willing to be rejected and persecuted— and who will embody hope, compassion, and peace along the way. It becomes apparent that these potential disciples aren’t quite ready for the task at hand. And so, as Lent begins, let us also ask ourselves: are we ready? Are we willing to be transformed? Will our actions reflect our best intentions?

This parable begins and ends with the question, “Who is my neighbor?” and the answer is surprisingly, “the stranger.” The Samaritan, whose place of worship and customs are different from the lawyer who questions Jesus, is both a stranger and a neighbor to the man who was beaten and left in a ditch. In our world, many of our physical neighbors are strangers to us, and many of our neighbors—those closest to us—feel like strangers in divisive political climates. If we align our intentions and actions, then maybe we need to reconsider who we label as “stranger,” and ask ourselves if we have acted as good neighbors.

In many translations, Jesus says that “Mary has chosen the better part,” which has been used to create a divide between Mary and Martha. However, in the Greek, Mary has chosen the “good portion,” and Martha’s tasks are called “ministry.” Therefore, perhaps Mary represents our faith, our desire to know God intimately, and Martha represents our good works, our desire to transform the world. Both are needed, and both are good.

The gardener in the vineyard knows the fig tree needs rest, nutrients, and time - and it also needs to produce fruit. Both things are true, which is also true for us. If we are always striving for more growth without taking time to rest, we will burn out. But if we are only ever resting, we won’t bear fruit or grow. The fig tree also teaches us that the in between time - of nurture before fruit - can be where transformation begins.

Herding sheep is a never-ending task. As soon as one is found, another may go missing. Our lives have a similar ebb and flow - in one moment we might feel like we have it all together, and in the next, we’re struggling to survive. The promise of this parable is that no matter how “lost” we feel, the Good Shepherd is by our side.

Jesus doesn’t instigate his own parade. Instead, just his quiet presence alone inspires the multitude to shout out and praise God. When the religious leaders try to silence the crowd, Jesus tells them that the noise level isn’t the point—even the stones would cry out if they were silent. It takes wisdom to know when our voice is needed and when it’s just noise.

The sanctuary is full of fragrant lilies and alleluia choruses. The community is decked out in colorful hues, their “Sunday best.” Visitors' faces mix with familiar ones in the pews. Easter Sunday is meant to be jubilant, joyful—a chance to begin again in a weary world. And yet, for far too many, grief can feel like a heavy weight tugging at their hearts. For far too many, shame encroaches if they can’t find their way to joy. This Easter, we hope you will make space for grief and joy, mourning and hope, for all these things can coexist. May the good news of this story be that no matter how you arrive this Easter morning—whether you are steeped in grief, stunned in disbelief, or running in the direction of hope—resurrection is for you. This story is for you.

In this series, we explore the beginnings of Jesus’ ministry in the Gospel of Luke. What can we learn from the choices that Jesus and those around him made? What difference did the “ripples” of those choices make both then and now? As followers of Jesus, how will the “ripples” of our choices make a difference on our campus, in our community, and around our world?

In this sermon, we see that Jesus revealed the purpose of his ministry with courage and clarity. “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor…” 

In this series, we explore the beginnings of Jesus’ ministry in the Gospel of Luke. What can we learn from the choices that Jesus and those around him made? What difference did the “ripples” of those choices make both then and now? As followers of Jesus, how will the “ripples” of our choices make a difference on our campus, in our community, and around our world?

In this sermon, Simon Peter, with his partners James and John, had been fishing all night and had caught nothing. Because Jesus told him to, Simon risked letting down the nets one more time and “they caught so many fish that their nets were beginning to break.” Simon Peter risked being honest with Jesus by telling him, “Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.” And all three men risked it all “when they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed him.” 

In this series, we explore the beginnings of Jesus’ ministry in the Gospel of Luke. What can we learn from the choices that Jesus and those around him made? What difference did the “ripples” of those choices make both then and now? As followers of Jesus, how will the “ripples” of our choices make a difference on our campus, in our community, and around our world?

In this sermon, we see that those listening to Jesus “spoke well of him” when they understood his words as confirming their special privilege; however, when they realized this was not the case, they “were filled with rage.” 

In this series, we explore the beginnings of Jesus’ ministry in the Gospel of Luke. What can we learn from the choices that Jesus and those around him made? What difference did the “ripples” of those choices make both then and now? As followers of Jesus, how will the “ripples” of our choices make a difference on our campus, in our community, and around our world?

In this sermon, we see that Jesus taught his disciples that the roles in the Kingdom of God will be reversed from the roles of this world. “Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be filled.” “But woe to you are rich, for you have received your consolation.” 

In this series, we explore the beginnings of Jesus’ ministry in the Gospel of Luke. What can we learn from the choices that Jesus and those around him made? What difference did the “ripples” of those choices make both then and now? As followers of Jesus, how will the “ripples” of our choices make a difference on our campus, in our community, and around our world?

In this sermon, Pastor Harold uses inspiration for a sermon by Martin Luther King, Jr to see how Jesus taught his disciples to release the old way of “an eye for an eye” and instead practice a new way of living, “love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return.”

In this series, we explore the beginnings of Jesus’ ministry in the Gospel of Luke. What can we learn from the choices that Jesus and those around him made? What difference did the “ripples” of those choices make both then and now? As followers of Jesus, how will the “ripples” of our choices make a difference on our campus, in our community, and around our world?

In this sermon, we see that this isn’t the first time in scripture that Jesus has been recognized by God as his Son and Chosen which brings home the point that his disciples of then and now should listen to him.

Verse 14 of Jeremiah 33 say “The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah.”

Verse 28 of Luke 21 says “Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near."

Verse 2 of Malachi 3 says “But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? For he is like a refiner's fire and like washers' soap;”

Verse 4 of Luke 3 says “…as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah, "The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.”

Verse 2 of Micah 5 says “But you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, who are one of the little clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days.”

Verses 43-45 of Luke 1 says “And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the Lord."

Verses 1 and 2 of Psalm 148 say “Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord from heaven! Praise God on the heights! Praise God, all of you who are his messengers!”

Verses 46-47 of Acts 2 says “They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity- all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.” The earliest communities of Jesus followers were radical because they refused to live solely as individuals. Instead, they lived for the good of others as well. The concerns of one were the concern of all, the needs of one were the needs of all. And it was giving; it was generosity that made this possible. Generosity helped them live out Jesus’ command to care for one another, support one another, bear one another’s burdens (Gal. 6:2). For disciples, generosity is more than an act; it’s a value and lifestyle. Generosity is a way of saying yes to others.

Verse 29 of Matthew 25 says “To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. But from those who do nothing, even what little they have will be taken away.” Christ’s light shines through us so that our lives will make a positive difference in the world. This is a basic truth about who we are. But if we never use what God has given us to make an impact in our spheres of influence, then we’re not living as God calls us to live. This truth is illustrated quite literally in the story of the bags of gold (or talents). The master gives each person resources and comes back to see what they did with what they had. This week we will talk about what generosity does for us. Generosity allows us to say yes to making a difference with all that we have been given.

Verse 5 of 2 Corinthians 9 says “So I thought I should send these brothers ahead of me to make sure the gift you promised is ready. But I want it to be a willing gift, not one given grudgingly.” When Jesus talks about generosity, it isn’t something he wants from his followers but rather something he wants for them. Jesus knows that generosity leads to joy and a more fulfilled life.  As the letter writer Paul puts it, “I want it to be a willing gift from you” because generosity is a choice for us make.

Pastor Beth closes out the sermon series using Psalm 136:1-9; 23-26

Verses 16 and 17 of Ephesians 3 says "I pray that, according to the riches of his glory, he may grant that you may be strengthened in your inner being with power through his Spirit and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, as you are being rooted and grounded in love."

Verses 16 and 17 of 2 Timothy 3 says "Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another- showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God’s way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us."

As Wesleyan Christians we are rooted in scripture. The Bible is both the source of our faith and the measure of our spiritual authenticity. We embrace a dynamic, not a static view of scripture. The Bible becomes the living Word as we engage it under the guidance of the Spirit and are transformed into the image of Christ. 

Verse 28 of Mark 12 says "One of the scribes came near and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them well he asked him, “Which commandment is the first of all?"

 In the Wesleyan tradition, we believe it is important to translate faith into loving action. Faith without works is dead. We view the Christian life as a dynamic journey rooted in a faith that works by love, leading to holiness of heart and life - active love of God and neighbor. 

Verse 20 of Luke 15 says "So he set off and went to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and kissed him."

We are called to be a people of wide embrace. Our love of the “other” is rooted in God’s love for us. We seek, as Wesleyans, to love others as we have been loved in Christ. We acknowledge that not all people think alike but believe all can love alike.

Verse 40 of Matthew 25 says “And the king will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did it to me.”

God invites us to partner in God’s mission of love. As Wesleyan Christians, therefore, we assume the Christlike posture of a servant. We keep our eyes open to God’s activity around us and join in the practice of shalom—acts of compassion and justice in the peaceable reign of Christ.

This sermon is based on one of Pastor Beth's favorite hymns "Be Thou My Vision". Verses 6 and 7 of Proverbs 3 says "Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go, he’s the one who will keep you on track. Don’t assume that you know it all."

This sermon is based on one of Pastor Harold's favorite hymns.

Verse 9 of 1 Corinthians 1 says “God is faithful; by him you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” We have been brought together in this time and place to grow in our understanding and practice of what it means to be a faithful follower of Jesus Christ, under our roof and beyond our walls.

Verse 11 of 1 Corinthians 12 says “All these are activated by one and the same Spirit, who allots to each one individually just as the Spirit chooses.” Each one of us has gifts that are both given and activated by the Holy Spirit to do the work of Christ, under our roof and beyond our walls.

Verse 18 of 1 Corinthians 12 says “But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose.” Each of our individual gifts are needed and arranged in ways that make up the working body of Christ, under our roof and beyond our walls. 

Verse 13 of 1 Corinthians 13 says “And now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love.” We are assembled, activated and arranged by God and the Holy Spirit in order to be Christ’s ambassadors of love, under our roof and beyond our walls. 

At this time of year, when many of us are packing our suitcases for summer adventures, this series explores the “fruit of the spirit must haves” on our packing list for the daily adventure of life. We’ll also identify what things we need to unpack that weigh us down and keep us from traveling “light”!

At this time of year, when many of us are packing our suitcases for summer adventures, this series explores the “fruit of the spirit must haves” on our packing list for the daily adventure of life. We’ll also identify what things we need to unpack that weigh us down and keep us from traveling “light”!

At this time of year, when many of us are packing our suitcases for summer adventures, this series explores the “fruit of the spirit must haves” on our packing list for the daily adventure of life. We’ll also identify what things we need to unpack that weigh us down and keep us from traveling “light”!

At this time of year, when many of us are packing our suitcases for summer adventures, this series explores the “fruit of the spirit must haves” on our packing list for the daily adventure of life. We’ll also identify what things we need to unpack that weigh us down and keep us from traveling “light”!

At this time of year, when many of us are packing our suitcases for summer adventures, this series explores the “fruit of the spirit must haves” on our packing list for the daily adventure of life. We’ll also identify what things we need to unpack that weigh us down and keep us from traveling “light”!

At this time of year, when many of us are packing our suitcases for summer adventures, this series explores the “fruit of the spirit must haves” on our packing list for the daily adventure of life. We’ll also identify what things we need to unpack that weigh us down and keep us from traveling “light”!

At this time of year, when many of us are packing our suitcases for summer adventures, this series explores the “fruit of the spirit must haves” on our packing list for the daily adventure of life. We’ll also identify what things we need to unpack that weigh us down and keep us from traveling “light”!

At this time of year, when many of us are packing our suitcases for summer adventures, this series explores the “fruit of the spirit must haves” on our packing list for the daily adventure of life. We’ll also identify what things we need to unpack that weigh us down and keep us from traveling “light”!

At this time of year, when many of us are packing our suitcases for summer adventures, this series explores the “fruit of the spirit must haves” on our packing list for the daily adventure of life. We’ll also identify what things we need to unpack that weigh us down and keep us from traveling “light”!

“So I've been hearing this phrase y'all got over here that I ain't too crazy about. 'It's the hope that kills you.' Y'all know that? I disagree, you know? I think it's the lack of hope that comes and gets you. See, I believe in hope. I believe in believe."

"You know what the happiest animal on Earth is? It's a goldfish. Y ‘know why? It's got a 10-second memory. Be a goldfish."

"Jamie, I think that you might be so sure that you're one in a million, that sometimes you forget that out there, you're just 1 of 11. And if you just figure out some way to turn that 'me' into 'us'...the sky's the limit for you."

"Taking on a challenge is a lot like riding a horse, isn't it? If you're comfortable while you're doing it, you're probably doing it wrong."

Jesus’ new teaching of help, hope and healing for all made people want to know more and be close to him. How does our connection to Jesus show through and make people want to know more and be close to him today? 

While caring for the never-ending needs of those around him, Jesus took time to share the blessings and release the burdens of ministry to his Heavenly Father in prayer. Are we doing the same?

God is beseeching the disciples, Peter, James and John to listen to Jesus. Are we being good listeners?

Jesus is called beloved by God in the waters of baptism and perseveres through the trials of the wilderness. Both events empower him to begin his public ministry and unleash a love into the world that had never been experienced before. How do our personal celebrations and challenges empower us to be the perfectly imperfect, passionate disciples of Jesus Christ God calls us to be?

Jesus modeled self-sacrificial love always and everywhere, ultimately giving up his own life through death on a cross. How can we increase our own commitment to self-sacrificial love on behalf of a world that God loved so much that he gave his only Son and raised him from the dead to show that LOVE WINS!

“Although John seems angrier than we might expect, John’s ministry and message point to Jesus. John prepares the way, not for himself, but for the coming Messiah. We too often tragically see ourselves as John in the story, and not as the villains. Over time, as our Christmas celebrations lean into our own preferences and traditions, we just might need an ‘ax at the foot of the tree’ in order to help us once again point toward Christ instead of ourselves.” -Pastor Matt Rawle

“At the end of the story, we see that the Grinch, the outsider, the other, the one who should be feared and excluded, was the one who is now at the head of the table, carving the roast beast, as they all sit together in fellowship. Not only does it seem that all things are forgiven, but the Whos have given the Grinch a seat of honor! Something beautiful has taken place. We often mistakenly think that the point of Suess’ story is that Christmas isn’t about presents, but the true gift of this story is the joy of reconciliation. Our Lord is about reconciliation, which came through Christ’s birth, life, and death.”  -Pastor Matt Rawle

“Christmas lights are one of the first glimpses of the changing season. Though they aren’t visible during the day, once night falls, the twinkly, colorful lights remind us of the joy of the season. We are reminded that the dark doesn’t win, which is really the desire of our hearts, isn’t it?” -Pastor Matt Rawle

Verse 5 of 2 Timothy, Chapter 1 says “I remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother, Eunice. And I know that same faith continues strong in you.”

Verse 9 of Ecclesiastes 4 says “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help.”

Verse 25 of Luke 10 says “One day an expert in religious law stood up to test Jesus by asking him this question: “Teacher, what should I do to inherit eternal life?”

Verses 6 and 7 of Colossians 2 says “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, continue to walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.”

This sermon examines the fruit of love using Hebrews 12 where verse 1 says “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.”

This sermon examines the fruit of joy using John 15:1-11 where verse 2 says “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, then you will produce much fruit. Without me, you can’t do anything.”

This sermon examines the fruit of peace using Matthew 11:28-30 where verse 28 says “Come to me, all you who are struggling hard and carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest.”

This sermon examines the fruit of patience using Romans 15:1-7 where verses 1 and 2 say “We who are powerful need to be patient with the weakness of those who don’t have power, and not please ourselves. Each of us should please our neighbors for their good in order to build them up.”

This sermon examines the fruits of kindness and goodness using Mark 14:3-9 where verses 4 and 5 say “While he was eating, a woman came in with a beautiful alabaster jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard. She broke open the jar and poured the perfume over his head.”

This sermon examines the fruit of faithfulness using Luke 12:15-21 where verse 15 says “Then Jesus said to them, “Watch out! Guard yourself against all kinds of greed. After all, one’s life isn’t determined by one’s possessions, even when someone is very wealthy.”

This sermon examines the fruits of gentleness and self-control using Colossians 3:12-17 where verse 17 says “And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.”

The 40 days of Lent are a time for spiritual reflection, rededication, and renewal. This journey begins with repentance.

God was very clear that Adam and Eve could eat the fruit from every tree in the garden except one. However, after a just a little encouragement by the serpent, they both ate the forbidden fruit and faced the consequences. What does this story tell us about our internal inclination to ignore God and “do our own thing” and how does that usually work out? How can we do better as we walk in the world?

Despite humanity’s rough start in the garden, followed by Cain murdering his brother Abel, followed by the great flood, followed by the tower of Babel, God still desired an intimate connection with us. We see this in his call and promise to Abram. Unlike Adam and Eve, Abram followed God’s clear direction which pointed him toward a new frontier. What does this story tell us about our internal inclination to stay where we’re comfortable instead of stepping out on faith? How can we do better as we walk in the world?

Even after God had liberated the Israelites from slavery in Egypt and gave them food in the desert, they still didn’t trust God to provide. What does this story tell us about our internal inclination to quickly forget the many times God has drawn near to us in times of need? How can we do better as we walk in the world?

God surprised everyone when he chose David to be anointed as Israel’s next king. David didn’t appear to have what it takes but God knew better. What does this story tell us about our internal inclination to judge others by outward appearances instead of getting to know their hearts? How can we do better as we walk in the world?

Ezekiel’s vision of God adhering flesh to dry bones and breathing life into death is a vivid reminder of God’s faithfulness to Israel even when they feel cut off and hopeless. What does this story tell us about our internal inclination to lean into life-draining mindsets instead of believing in God’s desire and ability to be life-giving? How can we do better as we walk in the world?

The crowds of people who shouted “Hosanna” in the streets to welcome Jesus were likely very sincere; however, they were nowhere to be found as he suffered the pain and humiliation of crucifixion on the cross. What does this story tell us about our internal inclination to be “fair-weather friends” to those who don’t meet our self-serving expectations? How can we do better as we walk in the world?

Mary Magdalene and the “other Mary” went to find Jesus inside the tomb, but thanks be to God he was out! Now that’s something to cheer about as we walk in this world and the next!

Pastor Beth kicks off the sermon series by describing "another way" to live using Matthew 2.

In this sermon, Pastor Beth examines the grace of covenant using Psalm 33.