Peace In Aiken http://peaceinaiken.com/ Peace Lutheran Church pastor@peaceinaiken.com Peace Lutheran Church Real Peace for Real People. Hear the Peace that Jesus brings us through sermons from Peace Lutheran Church in Aiken, SC. Real Peace for Real People. Hear the Peace that Jesus brings us through sermons from Peace Lutheran Church in Aiken, SC. en © 2026 Peace Lutheran Church no Christians Answer Anxiety With Faith Pastor Simeon Crass <p>How do we know Romans 8:28 is true? How do we know that God is actually doing everything for our good? Verses 29-39 give us the answer!</p> <p>How do we know Romans 8:28 is true? How do we know that God is actually doing everything for our good? Verses 29-39 give us the answer!</p> How do we know Romans 8:28 is true? How do we know that God is actually doing everything for our good? Verses 29-39 give us the answer!

]]> Sun, 23 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1240 1 b30ed41f430864520548d955fee4f271 no Christians Trust God to Provide Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Our God gave us a purpose as he provided us with everything we need for this life. It was to be like him. He is a generous God... and he has generous children!</p> <p>Our God gave us a purpose as he provided us with everything we need for this life. It was to be like him. He is a generous God... and he has generous children!</p> Our God gave us a purpose as he provided us with everything we need for this life. It was to be like him. He is a generous God... and he has generous children!

]]> Sun, 16 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1311 2 9458b37d27b709af21f954a519d38cf4 no Christians Value Spiritual Wealth Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Wisdom comes from faith. Without faith, we could receive blessing after blessing from God, and it wouldn't matter. We would always want, need, and demand more. Instead, the spiritual wisdom we receive by faith tells us that our God is enough.</p> <p>Wisdom comes from faith. Without faith, we could receive blessing after blessing from God, and it wouldn't matter. We would always want, need, and demand more. Instead, the spiritual wisdom we receive by faith tells us that our God is enough.</p> Wisdom comes from faith. Without faith, we could receive blessing after blessing from God, and it wouldn't matter. We would always want, need, and demand more. Instead, the spiritual wisdom we receive by faith tells us that our God is enough.

]]> Sun, 09 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1345 3 b892f798d2cd3fbad2d8b9aca0361daf no Power Pastor Simeon Crass <p>The Power of the Lord's Supper comes from the cross. There, our sins are forgiven. This is the core of the blessing of communion: sins are brought and sins are left at the table. </p> <p>The Power of the Lord's Supper comes from the cross. There, our sins are forgiven. This is the core of the blessing of communion: sins are brought and sins are left at the table. </p> The Power of the Lord's Supper comes from the cross. There, our sins are forgiven. This is the core of the blessing of communion: sins are brought and sins are left at the table.

]]> Sun, 26 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1394 4 6ce5c357f6868466b41ea69d67e012c2 no Unity Pastor Simeon Crass <p>At the Lord's Supper, we aren't just confessing a healed relationship with God. God has something more in mind. He has a horizontal relationship in mind as well. As we celebrate the Lord's Supper, we are confessing our unity with those who celebrate it with us. At the same time, God binds us more tightly together and strengthens our church family!</p> <p>At the Lord's Supper, we aren't just confessing a healed relationship with God. God has something more in mind. He has a horizontal relationship in mind as well. As we celebrate the Lord's Supper, we are confessing our unity with those who celebrate it with us. At the same time, God binds us more tightly together and strengthens our church family!</p> At the Lord's Supper, we aren't just confessing a healed relationship with God. God has something more in mind. He has a horizontal relationship in mind as well. As we celebrate the Lord's Supper, we are confessing our unity with those who celebrate it with us. At the same time, God binds us more tightly together and strengthens our church family!

]]> Sun, 19 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1370 5 b742c9b030ff71bb3f302aa1f6fc9a01 no Love God Above All Else Pastor Simeon Crass <p>"We love God." Anyone who goes to church would have no problem confessing that. "I love God more than anything else." Now that's a different conversation. We have been blessed with so many things to love and care about that we can get distracted and find ourselves replacing God with other gods. How do we combat this? We stare deeply into the work of God, who showed the importance that he placed on our salvation. We love God above all else because he first loved us.</p> <p>"We love God." Anyone who goes to church would have no problem confessing that. "I love God more than anything else." Now that's a different conversation. We have been blessed with so many things to love and care about that we can get distracted and find ourselves replacing God with other gods. How do we combat this? We stare deeply into the work of God, who showed the importance that he placed on our salvation. We love God above all else because he first loved us.</p> "We love God." Anyone who goes to church would have no problem confessing that. "I love God more than anything else." Now that's a different conversation. We have been blessed with so many things to love and care about that we can get distracted and find ourselves replacing God with other gods. How do we combat this? We stare deeply into the work of God, who showed the importance that he placed on our salvation. We love God above all else because he first loved us.

]]> Sun, 28 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1242 6 3102cae7174f3cdb958d1d7380d0412d no Keep the Faith Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Sometimes our God has to say hard things to us. He doesn't do it to hurt us or to make us sad. He does so to remind us of our spiritual need for him. He says the hard thing so that he might say the beautiful thing: the good news of the gospel.</p> <p>Sometimes our God has to say hard things to us. He doesn't do it to hurt us or to make us sad. He does so to remind us of our spiritual need for him. He says the hard thing so that he might say the beautiful thing: the good news of the gospel.</p> Sometimes our God has to say hard things to us. He doesn't do it to hurt us or to make us sad. He does so to remind us of our spiritual need for him. He says the hard thing so that he might say the beautiful thing: the good news of the gospel.

]]> Sun, 21 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1242 7 4c800cfaa3314da6c98eb99010c6edc1 no Jesus Leads Us Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Our God leads us. He leads us through the Spirit. He leads us by his Word. But he doesn't stop there. God leads us through people he has established to do the difficult work of leading. By doing that work, leaders serve those they lead while they serve their Savior.</p> <p>Our God leads us. He leads us through the Spirit. He leads us by his Word. But he doesn't stop there. God leads us through people he has established to do the difficult work of leading. By doing that work, leaders serve those they lead while they serve their Savior.</p> Our God leads us. He leads us through the Spirit. He leads us by his Word. But he doesn't stop there. God leads us through people he has established to do the difficult work of leading. By doing that work, leaders serve those they lead while they serve their Savior.

]]> Sun, 14 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1363 8 cdee485036bce6794ad03e04165caaaf no God Loves Sinners Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Paul doesn't call himself the worst to speak hyperbolically. Instead, he teaches us to know our sin better than we know anyone else's. The more I understand my sin, the more I understand my Savior's love.</p> <p>Paul doesn't call himself the worst to speak hyperbolically. Instead, he teaches us to know our sin better than we know anyone else's. The more I understand my sin, the more I understand my Savior's love.</p> Paul doesn't call himself the worst to speak hyperbolically. Instead, he teaches us to know our sin better than we know anyone else's. The more I understand my sin, the more I understand my Savior's love.

]]> Sun, 07 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1128 9 eb5cc527a782e14631bfbbea715bd591 no Our God Is Triune Pastor Simeon Crass <p>It's fun to learn how things work. Sometimes it feels extremely important to know how certain things function. However, when we start contemplating the Trinity, we have to pump the brakes. I don't want a God who is supposedly beyond me to be able to be perfectly understood and explained by me.</p> <p>It's fun to learn how things work. Sometimes it feels extremely important to know how certain things function. However, when we start contemplating the Trinity, we have to pump the brakes. I don't want a God who is supposedly beyond me to be able to be perfectly understood and explained by me.</p> It's fun to learn how things work. Sometimes it feels extremely important to know how certain things function. However, when we start contemplating the Trinity, we have to pump the brakes. I don't want a God who is supposedly beyond me to be able to be perfectly understood and explained by me.

]]> Sun, 31 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1191 10 dc1fe0a933963650e851c0344f271944 no The Only Way Pastor Simeon Crass <p>There is one way to heaven. To some, that sounds terrifying. It sounds elitist. It sounds exclusive. And while it might not be either of the first two, it certainly is the third. Salvation is exclusive to those who trust in Jesus as Savior. In this exclusivity, we find beauty. As Jesus makes the gospel the exclusive way to heaven, he makes salvation endlessly inclusive!</p> <p>There is one way to heaven. To some, that sounds terrifying. It sounds elitist. It sounds exclusive. And while it might not be either of the first two, it certainly is the third. Salvation is exclusive to those who trust in Jesus as Savior. In this exclusivity, we find beauty. As Jesus makes the gospel the exclusive way to heaven, he makes salvation endlessly inclusive!</p> There is one way to heaven. To some, that sounds terrifying. It sounds elitist. It sounds exclusive. And while it might not be either of the first two, it certainly is the third. Salvation is exclusive to those who trust in Jesus as Savior. In this exclusivity, we find beauty. As Jesus makes the gospel the exclusive way to heaven, he makes salvation endlessly inclusive!

]]> Sun, 03 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1123 11 e45566beb59645d82d7c57485fad58ec no He Lives to Be My Good Shepherd Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Sheep are good at one thing. You're a sheep. Let's find out what God wants you to be "good at" as we follow the Good Shepherd.</p> <p>Sheep are good at one thing. You're a sheep. Let's find out what God wants you to be "good at" as we follow the Good Shepherd.</p> Sheep are good at one thing. You're a sheep. Let's find out what God wants you to be "good at" as we follow the Good Shepherd.

]]> Sun, 26 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1209 12 7ad3f3b6454c6d777c968ae514f532ae no He Restores My Hope Pastor Simeon Crass <p>On the Road to Emmaus, the two disciples were steeped in confusion and disappointment. When Jesus reveals himself and shows himself to be the center of all Scripture, hope comes rushing back!</p> <p>On the Road to Emmaus, the two disciples were steeped in confusion and disappointment. When Jesus reveals himself and shows himself to be the center of all Scripture, hope comes rushing back!</p> On the Road to Emmaus, the two disciples were steeped in confusion and disappointment. When Jesus reveals himself and shows himself to be the center of all Scripture, hope comes rushing back!

]]> Sun, 19 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1106 13 b4c6b96de4d2c040020da33ffe2d582a no He Gives Me Proof and Peace Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Is there enough evidence for the resurrection to persuade you? If I want to rest my faith on evidence, I might wind up grasping at straws. But our faith isn't manmade. It is created by the Spirit and nourished through the Word and Sacraments.</p> <p>Is there enough evidence for the resurrection to persuade you? If I want to rest my faith on evidence, I might wind up grasping at straws. But our faith isn't manmade. It is created by the Spirit and nourished through the Word and Sacraments.</p> Is there enough evidence for the resurrection to persuade you? If I want to rest my faith on evidence, I might wind up grasping at straws. But our faith isn't manmade. It is created by the Spirit and nourished through the Word and Sacraments.

]]> Sun, 12 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1148 14 f41a66dc64a5b304c55578c44cd82e8e no Death to Life Easter Sunday 2026 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>On Easter Sunday, we're reminded of the heart of our faith: Jesus died to take away the sins of the whole world, and he rose again to promise us that we too would live in the face of death.</p> <p>On Easter Sunday, we're reminded of the heart of our faith: Jesus died to take away the sins of the whole world, and he rose again to promise us that we too would live in the face of death.</p> On Easter Sunday, we're reminded of the heart of our faith: Jesus died to take away the sins of the whole world, and he rose again to promise us that we too would live in the face of death.

]]> Sun, 05 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1011 15 26db9c636cf9f38a7fc2294e0cc3daac no Life Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Your life is in the palm of your Savior's hand... is there any place better?</p> <p>Your life is in the palm of your Savior's hand... is there any place better?</p> Your life is in the palm of your Savior's hand... is there any place better?

]]> Sun, 22 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 967 16 70bad851b0655e38f748ada974b141c2 no ... To Get A Glimpse of Heaven - Holy Thursday Pastor Simeon Crass <p>What must it be like to dine with God? We won't fully understand just how breathtaking that experience is until we find ourselves in heaven. But here on earth, we get a foretaste of what that will be like every time we come to the Lord's Supper!</p> <p>What must it be like to dine with God? We won't fully understand just how breathtaking that experience is until we find ourselves in heaven. But here on earth, we get a foretaste of what that will be like every time we come to the Lord's Supper!</p> What must it be like to dine with God? We won't fully understand just how breathtaking that experience is until we find ourselves in heaven. But here on earth, we get a foretaste of what that will be like every time we come to the Lord's Supper!

]]> Thu, 02 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1128 17 6ad2bd6e3434a01db0e4bf20bce0744a no ... To See Your King - Palm Sunday Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Jesus wouldn't let one prophecy go unfulfilled. Palm Sunday reminds us that as Jesus completes the work laid forth for him by the Father, he leaves no stone unturned. On his way to the cross, he solidifies this truth in our hearts: this week, he is not merely an undeserving victim. He is OUR king who lives to secure OUR victory.</p> <p>Jesus wouldn't let one prophecy go unfulfilled. Palm Sunday reminds us that as Jesus completes the work laid forth for him by the Father, he leaves no stone unturned. On his way to the cross, he solidifies this truth in our hearts: this week, he is not merely an undeserving victim. He is OUR king who lives to secure OUR victory.</p> Jesus wouldn't let one prophecy go unfulfilled. Palm Sunday reminds us that as Jesus completes the work laid forth for him by the Father, he leaves no stone unturned. On his way to the cross, he solidifies this truth in our hearts: this week, he is not merely an undeserving victim. He is OUR king who lives to secure OUR victory.

]]> Sun, 29 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1182 18 0c075652c6e311f66d5b86d899b75552 no Sight Pastor Simeon Crass <p>He couldn't see. But that wasn't the biggest drag on his life. The biggest drag was his spiritual blindness. When you don't know Jesus, you don't know yourself, your world, or your God. When you know Jesus... you see things as they are.</p> <p>He couldn't see. But that wasn't the biggest drag on his life. The biggest drag was his spiritual blindness. When you don't know Jesus, you don't know yourself, your world, or your God. When you know Jesus... you see things as they are.</p> He couldn't see. But that wasn't the biggest drag on his life. The biggest drag was his spiritual blindness. When you don't know Jesus, you don't know yourself, your world, or your God. When you know Jesus... you see things as they are.

]]> Sun, 15 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1260 19 cb4b5290ea5af0ebf808eff61f5eefc8 no Water Pastor Simeon Crass <p>When the Samaritan woman went to the well, she was expecting one thing: water. Little did she realize, Jesus was going to use the most important conversation of her life to give her living water!</p> <p>When the Samaritan woman went to the well, she was expecting one thing: water. Little did she realize, Jesus was going to use the most important conversation of her life to give her living water!</p> When the Samaritan woman went to the well, she was expecting one thing: water. Little did she realize, Jesus was going to use the most important conversation of her life to give her living water!

]]> Sun, 08 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1524 20 11d9b630b03d6bf3c8146ebc78739a6b no Faith Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Why is faith so important? As we examine the conversation between Nicodemus and Jesus, we see what faith means to us.</p> <p>Why is faith so important? As we examine the conversation between Nicodemus and Jesus, we see what faith means to us.</p> Why is faith so important? As we examine the conversation between Nicodemus and Jesus, we see what faith means to us.

]]> Sun, 01 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1152 21 911f37e238b5d0a3127ab8de1607d201 no A Champion Pastor Simeon Crass <p>We needed more than a teacher. We needed more than a model. We needed a champion who would live, obey, and die in our place so that his resurrection could be ours.</p> <p>We needed more than a teacher. We needed more than a model. We needed a champion who would live, obey, and die in our place so that his resurrection could be ours.</p> We needed more than a teacher. We needed more than a model. We needed a champion who would live, obey, and die in our place so that his resurrection could be ours.

]]> Sun, 22 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1047 22 0e776a277fcd182a06da84b92ac82329 no Endless Glory Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Transfiguration Day is the day in the church year when we celebrate glory. But there is a blunt reality to this day: we focus on a delayed glory. We don't expect God's glory to be on full display in our lives in the here and now. Instead, while we suffer under our crosses this side of heaven, we look forward to the day when we get to meet the glory of Jesus face to face.</p> <p>Transfiguration Day is the day in the church year when we celebrate glory. But there is a blunt reality to this day: we focus on a delayed glory. We don't expect God's glory to be on full display in our lives in the here and now. Instead, while we suffer under our crosses this side of heaven, we look forward to the day when we get to meet the glory of Jesus face to face.</p> Transfiguration Day is the day in the church year when we celebrate glory. But there is a blunt reality to this day: we focus on a delayed glory. We don't expect God's glory to be on full display in our lives in the here and now. Instead, while we suffer under our crosses this side of heaven, we look forward to the day when we get to meet the glory of Jesus face to face.

]]> Sun, 15 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1217 23 74c8bf36b0da11a593513e109c9aae4b no Salt & Light Pastor Simeon Crass <p>God calls you salt and light. When he does that, he's doing 2 things. 1st, he is reminding who he has made you to be. You are already these things by the grace of Jesus. 2nd, he is reminding you of your calling. God has made YOU salt and light!</p> <p>God calls you salt and light. When he does that, he's doing 2 things. 1st, he is reminding who he has made you to be. You are already these things by the grace of Jesus. 2nd, he is reminding you of your calling. God has made YOU salt and light!</p> God calls you salt and light. When he does that, he's doing 2 things. 1st, he is reminding who he has made you to be. You are already these things by the grace of Jesus. 2nd, he is reminding you of your calling. God has made YOU salt and light!

]]> Sun, 08 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1033 24 0c86670de53acfbf4f59261de8664e87 no Godly Self Talk Pastor Simeon Crass <p>How does the way God speaks about us impact our self-talk? There might be times when God calls us to speak more kindly about ourselves. There might be other times in which we need to be reminded to speak more realistically about ourselves. Rule of thumb: Let's speak about ourselves the way God does!</p> <p>How does the way God speaks about us impact our self-talk? There might be times when God calls us to speak more kindly about ourselves. There might be other times in which we need to be reminded to speak more realistically about ourselves. Rule of thumb: Let's speak about ourselves the way God does!</p> How does the way God speaks about us impact our self-talk? There might be times when God calls us to speak more kindly about ourselves. There might be other times in which we need to be reminded to speak more realistically about ourselves. Rule of thumb: Let's speak about ourselves the way God does!

]]> Sun, 01 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1346 25 96ae45b84044648dac468629dedaa57b no "You Are Peter" Pastor Simeon Crass <p>God makes promises to his church. God does not lie. These are the two beautiful comforts we have going into Matthew 16:13-19. Why? Because Jesus makes 3 intensely important promises to his church as he speaks to his disciples. </p> <p>God makes promises to his church. God does not lie. These are the two beautiful comforts we have going into Matthew 16:13-19. Why? Because Jesus makes 3 intensely important promises to his church as he speaks to his disciples. </p> God makes promises to his church. God does not lie. These are the two beautiful comforts we have going into Matthew 16:13-19. Why? Because Jesus makes 3 intensely important promises to his church as he speaks to his disciples.

]]> Sun, 18 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1333 26 6f4fcd82f01c508e6cef77f70e2c9dfa no The Anointed Beloved Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Jesus' baptism is more than just a historical fact. It's more than a cool connection that you share with him. Jesus' baptism grants your baptism validity. It shows how our Savior placed himself under the expectations of God that he might meet all of them on your behalf. Now, when the Father looks at you, he calls you exactly what he called Jesus on the day he was baptized: "my beloved."</p> <p>Jesus' baptism is more than just a historical fact. It's more than a cool connection that you share with him. Jesus' baptism grants your baptism validity. It shows how our Savior placed himself under the expectations of God that he might meet all of them on your behalf. Now, when the Father looks at you, he calls you exactly what he called Jesus on the day he was baptized: "my beloved."</p> Jesus' baptism is more than just a historical fact. It's more than a cool connection that you share with him. Jesus' baptism grants your baptism validity. It shows how our Savior placed himself under the expectations of God that he might meet all of them on your behalf. Now, when the Father looks at you, he calls you exactly what he called Jesus on the day he was baptized: "my beloved."

]]> Sun, 11 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1290 27 ab2e344a510503b24122d2cda15f3ecd no Born for Everyone Pastor Simeon Crass <p>When the wise men visited Jesus, something unbelievable happened. God showed all of mankind that he didn't send his Son for a select few. He sent him for everyone. That means, through Jesus, God grants access to his limitless grace to everyone through his Word.</p> <p>When the wise men visited Jesus, something unbelievable happened. God showed all of mankind that he didn't send his Son for a select few. He sent him for everyone. That means, through Jesus, God grants access to his limitless grace to everyone through his Word.</p> When the wise men visited Jesus, something unbelievable happened. God showed all of mankind that he didn't send his Son for a select few. He sent him for everyone. That means, through Jesus, God grants access to his limitless grace to everyone through his Word.

]]> Sun, 04 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1346 28 cffb77182b090148323f4bbdb93d818f no Welcome to the Family Pastor Simeon Crass <p>God sends his son so that he might expand his family. The work of Jesus makes you a child of God. Then, God sends his Holy Spirit to teach you, encourage you, equip you, and empower you to live as part of his family.</p> <p>God sends his son so that he might expand his family. The work of Jesus makes you a child of God. Then, God sends his Holy Spirit to teach you, encourage you, equip you, and empower you to live as part of his family.</p> God sends his son so that he might expand his family. The work of Jesus makes you a child of God. Then, God sends his Holy Spirit to teach you, encourage you, equip you, and empower you to live as part of his family.

]]> Sun, 28 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1072 29 3a790aae09f7262b42ecfa0599b5a7db no In All His Glory Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Why did God need to get so close to the human race? Why would he not have stayed in heaven on his throne where he belongs and hold to his perfect expectations? Why did God become flesh? To take away the sin of the world, God entered it and when he did so, he revealed his true glory.</p> <p>Why did God need to get so close to the human race? Why would he not have stayed in heaven on his throne where he belongs and hold to his perfect expectations? Why did God become flesh? To take away the sin of the world, God entered it and when he did so, he revealed his true glory.</p> Why did God need to get so close to the human race? Why would he not have stayed in heaven on his throne where he belongs and hold to his perfect expectations? Why did God become flesh? To take away the sin of the world, God entered it and when he did so, he revealed his true glory.

]]> Thu, 25 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1108 30 55815dc3dc70573d1b41f2be580a4ed9 no Imminent Arrival of Emmanuel Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Emmanuel literally means "God with us." That's what it took to pry mankind from the clutches of death and despair. It took God himself becoming a man so that he could set you free. </p> <p>Emmanuel literally means "God with us." That's what it took to pry mankind from the clutches of death and despair. It took God himself becoming a man so that he could set you free. </p> Emmanuel literally means "God with us." That's what it took to pry mankind from the clutches of death and despair. It took God himself becoming a man so that he could set you free.

]]> Sun, 21 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1113 31 8ff866aafecf8992c7f254fcf6ce9c92 no Imminent Arrival of the Messiah Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Jesus the Messiah is exactly who he is supposed to be. He's supposed to be more than a teacher and more than a moral model. He's supposed to be the promised Savior of the World.</p> <p>Jesus the Messiah is exactly who he is supposed to be. He's supposed to be more than a teacher and more than a moral model. He's supposed to be the promised Savior of the World.</p> Jesus the Messiah is exactly who he is supposed to be. He's supposed to be more than a teacher and more than a moral model. He's supposed to be the promised Savior of the World.

]]> Sun, 14 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1372 32 ae6c9af49a096cbca9db8cf2330502de no Imminent Arrival of the One Who Calls Pastor Simeon Crass <p>The coming Savior is obsessed with one thing: calling sinners to himself. This is the very reason for his arrival. Since we have a Savior who has called us to faith, we carry with us his mandate to call others to him.</p> <p>The coming Savior is obsessed with one thing: calling sinners to himself. This is the very reason for his arrival. Since we have a Savior who has called us to faith, we carry with us his mandate to call others to him.</p> The coming Savior is obsessed with one thing: calling sinners to himself. This is the very reason for his arrival. Since we have a Savior who has called us to faith, we carry with us his mandate to call others to him.

]]> Sun, 07 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1250 33 4c3f12fb007ea9e42c2b10e62cc82de1 no Imminent Arrival of the Judge <p>John the Baptist is known for preparing the people for Jesus. How did he do so? Did he tell them to clean up their acts? Not really. Did he preach love and understanding? Not quite. Instead, he preaches harshly about repentance. John knew something that we would do well to be reminded of today: On every day throughout our lives, we are called to repent because we know that the Kingdom of heaven is near. Our judge draws near every day... and he declares us not guilty. That's the perfect way to kick off Advent!</p> <p>John the Baptist is known for preparing the people for Jesus. How did he do so? Did he tell them to clean up their acts? Not really. Did he preach love and understanding? Not quite. Instead, he preaches harshly about repentance. John knew something that we would do well to be reminded of today: On every day throughout our lives, we are called to repent because we know that the Kingdom of heaven is near. Our judge draws near every day... and he declares us not guilty. That's the perfect way to kick off Advent!</p> John the Baptist is known for preparing the people for Jesus. How did he do so? Did he tell them to clean up their acts? Not really. Did he preach love and understanding? Not quite. Instead, he preaches harshly about repentance. John knew something that we would do well to be reminded of today: On every day throughout our lives, we are called to repent because we know that the Kingdom of heaven is near. Our judge draws near every day... and he declares us not guilty. That's the perfect way to kick off Advent!

]]> Sun, 30 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 857 34 3fa1f87357332fdab6dc8ec74c55d93d no Scripture / Anticipation Pastor Simeon Crass <p>As we end a church year, we're left with a question: How many more times will we do this? How many more years will go by before Jesus comes back to take us home to be with him? Often it feels that day may never come. Today, in our lesson from Revelation, we are reminded to maintain our stamina and renew our hope in the day of the Lord. The place we do that? Scripture.</p> <p>As we end a church year, we're left with a question: How many more times will we do this? How many more years will go by before Jesus comes back to take us home to be with him? Often it feels that day may never come. Today, in our lesson from Revelation, we are reminded to maintain our stamina and renew our hope in the day of the Lord. The place we do that? Scripture.</p> As we end a church year, we're left with a question: How many more times will we do this? How many more years will go by before Jesus comes back to take us home to be with him? Often it feels that day may never come. Today, in our lesson from Revelation, we are reminded to maintain our stamina and renew our hope in the day of the Lord. The place we do that? Scripture.

]]> Sun, 16 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1112 35 d36c4e45abef851ea9fc5a8cfb250f4f no Grace / Joy Pastor Simeon Crass <p>How does Zacchaeus go from scoundrel to good Samaritan? What drives such a change? Only the grace, love, and forgiveness of Jesus closes the book on a chapter of deceit and sin and opens the door to joyfully living in grace!</p> <p>How does Zacchaeus go from scoundrel to good Samaritan? What drives such a change? Only the grace, love, and forgiveness of Jesus closes the book on a chapter of deceit and sin and opens the door to joyfully living in grace!</p> How does Zacchaeus go from scoundrel to good Samaritan? What drives such a change? Only the grace, love, and forgiveness of Jesus closes the book on a chapter of deceit and sin and opens the door to joyfully living in grace!

]]> Sun, 09 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1386 36 78c7458bfbe3fb6511d869b89b91daeb no Sainthood / Stamina Pastor Simeon Crass <p>How can we go on? In a world marred by sin and sadness, how do we take the next step forward? How do we face tomorrow? As we celebrate All Saints' Day we are reminded that we have a God who carries us from one day to the next by his grace. </p> <p>How can we go on? In a world marred by sin and sadness, how do we take the next step forward? How do we face tomorrow? As we celebrate All Saints' Day we are reminded that we have a God who carries us from one day to the next by his grace. </p> How can we go on? In a world marred by sin and sadness, how do we take the next step forward? How do we face tomorrow? As we celebrate All Saints' Day we are reminded that we have a God who carries us from one day to the next by his grace.

]]> Sun, 02 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1342 37 cf7ec4ef3a46b08c85074c5a0f19f495 no Truth / Freedom - Reformation 2025 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>How can we be free? The world sees freedom as doing whatever you want, whenever you want. But true freedom is more than that. True freedom is not being a slave to urges, and it's not being a slave to the law... it's knowing Christ and living in him!</p> <p>How can we be free? The world sees freedom as doing whatever you want, whenever you want. But true freedom is more than that. True freedom is not being a slave to urges, and it's not being a slave to the law... it's knowing Christ and living in him!</p> How can we be free? The world sees freedom as doing whatever you want, whenever you want. But true freedom is more than that. True freedom is not being a slave to urges, and it's not being a slave to the law... it's knowing Christ and living in him!

]]> Sun, 26 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1278 38 11f0684d02e5ef54b21915d4bfe2a953 no Promise / Prayer Pastor Simeon Crass <p>What drives your prayer life? Is it anxiousness or fear? Is it concern over the present life or the life to come? Is it care for the lives of the people around you that you love? ALL of these might factor into our prayer lives, but the reality is, there is one thing that drives it: the promises of God.</p> <p>What drives your prayer life? Is it anxiousness or fear? Is it concern over the present life or the life to come? Is it care for the lives of the people around you that you love? ALL of these might factor into our prayer lives, but the reality is, there is one thing that drives it: the promises of God.</p> What drives your prayer life? Is it anxiousness or fear? Is it concern over the present life or the life to come? Is it care for the lives of the people around you that you love? ALL of these might factor into our prayer lives, but the reality is, there is one thing that drives it: the promises of God.

]]> Sun, 19 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1357 39 ee75d78ea3c661ce78a687ec89835ad4 no Generosity / Thanks Pastor Simeon Crass <p>What drives us to be thankful individuals? In our sermon for this weekend, Jesus shows us that his mercy and forgiveness will always stir up thanks within us.</p> <p>What drives us to be thankful individuals? In our sermon for this weekend, Jesus shows us that his mercy and forgiveness will always stir up thanks within us.</p> What drives us to be thankful individuals? In our sermon for this weekend, Jesus shows us that his mercy and forgiveness will always stir up thanks within us.

]]> Sun, 12 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1295 40 36582e6b1408a53dab64aea4294687cc no Honorable Marriage Pastor Simeon Crass <p>"Is marriage worth it?" I'm sure you've heard the question asked. Maybe you've even asked the question yourself. In a world in which marriage is being called "old-fashioned" and "not workable," do you feel like it's easy to honor marriage? Let's explore the reasons why God gave marriage and allow his gift and promises to inspire a newfound honor for marriage!</p> <p>"Is marriage worth it?" I'm sure you've heard the question asked. Maybe you've even asked the question yourself. In a world in which marriage is being called "old-fashioned" and "not workable," do you feel like it's easy to honor marriage? Let's explore the reasons why God gave marriage and allow his gift and promises to inspire a newfound honor for marriage!</p> "Is marriage worth it?" I'm sure you've heard the question asked. Maybe you've even asked the question yourself. In a world in which marriage is being called "old-fashioned" and "not workable," do you feel like it's easy to honor marriage? Let's explore the reasons why God gave marriage and allow his gift and promises to inspire a newfound honor for marriage!

]]> Sun, 28 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1240 41 891969db524beb432778ce4b800f7730 no Our Best Effort Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Do we use everything at our disposal for the sake of God's kingdom? No, that's not really a question about giving to the church. It's more of a question about our personal lives. Do we use every second, every gift, every treasure to accomplish the work of Jesus? </p> <p>Do we use everything at our disposal for the sake of God's kingdom? No, that's not really a question about giving to the church. It's more of a question about our personal lives. Do we use every second, every gift, every treasure to accomplish the work of Jesus? </p> Do we use everything at our disposal for the sake of God's kingdom? No, that's not really a question about giving to the church. It's more of a question about our personal lives. Do we use every second, every gift, every treasure to accomplish the work of Jesus?

]]> Sun, 21 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1299 42 bc5b778f01011ced207de097b7e396bb no A Worthwhile Pursuit Pastor Simeon Crass <p>How does the Christian approach the broken world? Do they detach themselves? Do they get angry and lash out? God gives us a beautiful task in a world so full of ugliness. He calls us to pursue the lost with the same care and passion with which he pursued us. Our power is the gospel. Only through that gospel are lives eternally transformed!</p> <p>How does the Christian approach the broken world? Do they detach themselves? Do they get angry and lash out? God gives us a beautiful task in a world so full of ugliness. He calls us to pursue the lost with the same care and passion with which he pursued us. Our power is the gospel. Only through that gospel are lives eternally transformed!</p> How does the Christian approach the broken world? Do they detach themselves? Do they get angry and lash out? God gives us a beautiful task in a world so full of ugliness. He calls us to pursue the lost with the same care and passion with which he pursued us. Our power is the gospel. Only through that gospel are lives eternally transformed!

]]> Sun, 14 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1434 43 39214bf8e96d165286ba25d64fc9bd8e no Two Paths Pastor Simeon Crass <p>In our reading this weekend, God presents before his people 2 paths. One path walks with him. One path walks without him. The first path is characterized by trust and obedience. The second path is characterized by doubt and disinterest. The first path leads to life. The second path is a death march. God lays these paths before his people and tells us, "I have set you on the first path... stay there!"</p> <p>In our reading this weekend, God presents before his people 2 paths. One path walks with him. One path walks without him. The first path is characterized by trust and obedience. The second path is characterized by doubt and disinterest. The first path leads to life. The second path is a death march. God lays these paths before his people and tells us, "I have set you on the first path... stay there!"</p> In our reading this weekend, God presents before his people 2 paths. One path walks with him. One path walks without him. The first path is characterized by trust and obedience. The second path is characterized by doubt and disinterest. The first path leads to life. The second path is a death march. God lays these paths before his people and tells us, "I have set you on the first path... stay there!"

]]> Sun, 07 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1259 44 973e74fbb6cf67f8ee7d5e48593957bf no The Humble Are Exalted Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Is humility a nice quality to have, or is it necessary? Jesus shows us that humility is important to our eternity, not just helpful for getting through life. When we humble ourselves this side of heaven, we are humbling ourselves before the Savior who humbled himself first. Jesus humbled himself and was exalted by the Father. We humble ourselves before Christ and because of his work, we are exalted by the Father!</p> <p>Is humility a nice quality to have, or is it necessary? Jesus shows us that humility is important to our eternity, not just helpful for getting through life. When we humble ourselves this side of heaven, we are humbling ourselves before the Savior who humbled himself first. Jesus humbled himself and was exalted by the Father. We humble ourselves before Christ and because of his work, we are exalted by the Father!</p> Is humility a nice quality to have, or is it necessary? Jesus shows us that humility is important to our eternity, not just helpful for getting through life. When we humble ourselves this side of heaven, we are humbling ourselves before the Savior who humbled himself first. Jesus humbled himself and was exalted by the Father. We humble ourselves before Christ and because of his work, we are exalted by the Father!

]]> Sun, 31 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1492 45 ece7cef4da17f70d978d32259e532da1 no God's Narrow Door Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Do all roads lead to the same place? When death strikes, many people want to tell themselves that there are many, maybe even endless ways to enter the Kingdom of God. Today, in order for us to truly enter the kingdom, God reveals to us an important truth: Jesus is the ONLY way!</p> <p>Do all roads lead to the same place? When death strikes, many people want to tell themselves that there are many, maybe even endless ways to enter the Kingdom of God. Today, in order for us to truly enter the kingdom, God reveals to us an important truth: Jesus is the ONLY way!</p> Do all roads lead to the same place? When death strikes, many people want to tell themselves that there are many, maybe even endless ways to enter the Kingdom of God. Today, in order for us to truly enter the kingdom, God reveals to us an important truth: Jesus is the ONLY way!

]]> Sun, 24 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1335 46 f9d81a602043141e234362720bf90801 no God's Word Divides Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Our first hard truth that God wounds us with is the truth that God's Word divides. People disagree about what God's Word says, means, and whether or not it's still relevant. We know God's Word to be irrefutable truth. That means, God's Word is going to inevitably divide.</p> <p>Our first hard truth that God wounds us with is the truth that God's Word divides. People disagree about what God's Word says, means, and whether or not it's still relevant. We know God's Word to be irrefutable truth. That means, God's Word is going to inevitably divide.</p> Our first hard truth that God wounds us with is the truth that God's Word divides. People disagree about what God's Word says, means, and whether or not it's still relevant. We know God's Word to be irrefutable truth. That means, God's Word is going to inevitably divide.

]]> Sun, 17 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1356 47 cb590263c6fe88e34d8ac69006bbae60 no Pay Attention to Heavenly Treasure Pastor Simeon Crass <p>How well do you handle worry? Jesus attacks our worry in our reading today. He makes us reevaluate our approach to all of these things that seemingly matter and refocuses on what matters for our eternity.</p> <p>How well do you handle worry? Jesus attacks our worry in our reading today. He makes us reevaluate our approach to all of these things that seemingly matter and refocuses on what matters for our eternity.</p> How well do you handle worry? Jesus attacks our worry in our reading today. He makes us reevaluate our approach to all of these things that seemingly matter and refocuses on what matters for our eternity.

]]> Sun, 10 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1262 48 5b18c150403077aacdb93c7e20a9f726 no Pay Attention to How Rich You Are Pastor Simeon Crass <p>How rich are you? If someone asks you that question, the first place you would look might be your bank account. You could check out the value of your house or your car. If someone asks you how rich you are, you can put a number on it! This week, Jesus wants you to see how rich you truly are. You aren't rich because of all the stuff you have. You're rich because you know your God well. You know that he is the source of forgiveness and salvation. That alone makes you rich. But you also know that this same God is the one who gives you all of your earthly blessings. With that in mind, any amount he gives us makes us rich, because we know the source of the blessings!</p> <p>How rich are you? If someone asks you that question, the first place you would look might be your bank account. You could check out the value of your house or your car. If someone asks you how rich you are, you can put a number on it! This week, Jesus wants you to see how rich you truly are. You aren't rich because of all the stuff you have. You're rich because you know your God well. You know that he is the source of forgiveness and salvation. That alone makes you rich. But you also know that this same God is the one who gives you all of your earthly blessings. With that in mind, any amount he gives us makes us rich, because we know the source of the blessings!</p> How rich are you? If someone asks you that question, the first place you would look might be your bank account. You could check out the value of your house or your car. If someone asks you how rich you are, you can put a number on it! This week, Jesus wants you to see how rich you truly are. You aren't rich because of all the stuff you have. You're rich because you know your God well. You know that he is the source of forgiveness and salvation. That alone makes you rich. But you also know that this same God is the one who gives you all of your earthly blessings. With that in mind, any amount he gives us makes us rich, because we know the source of the blessings!

]]> Sun, 03 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1290 49 d755098e88636f79f516351f212383d8 no Pay Attention to God's Gift of Prayer Pastor Simeon Crass <p>God gave us prayer for a reason. He wants us to use it consistently and boldly. So how should we treat that gift? We use trusting his promises, for the benefit of others, and deferring to his goodness.</p> <p>God gave us prayer for a reason. He wants us to use it consistently and boldly. So how should we treat that gift? We use trusting his promises, for the benefit of others, and deferring to his goodness.</p> God gave us prayer for a reason. He wants us to use it consistently and boldly. So how should we treat that gift? We use trusting his promises, for the benefit of others, and deferring to his goodness.

]]> Sun, 27 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1146 50 4f39be3cdd203092cd0ca0bf0643dd74 no Pay Attention to the One Thing Needed Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Martha seemed to have the right idea: Welcome the Savior to her home, pull out all the stops, and serve him to the best of her God-given ability. When she did that, she was rebuffed by Jesus. He pointed her away from what she thought was important and to what he knew was important. To serve, we must be served first.</p> <p>Martha seemed to have the right idea: Welcome the Savior to her home, pull out all the stops, and serve him to the best of her God-given ability. When she did that, she was rebuffed by Jesus. He pointed her away from what she thought was important and to what he knew was important. To serve, we must be served first.</p> Martha seemed to have the right idea: Welcome the Savior to her home, pull out all the stops, and serve him to the best of her God-given ability. When she did that, she was rebuffed by Jesus. He pointed her away from what she thought was important and to what he knew was important. To serve, we must be served first.

]]> Sun, 20 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1114 51 48ba10ba35f5e486e5cff6ffc9c66d39 no Pay Attention to the Need of Others Pastor Simeon Crass <p>"Do I really have time to pay attention to the needs of others? Maybe a little... but not too much. No, if I pay too much attention to the needs of others, my life might begin to lack. I might lose energy. I might become embittered." This seems like a reasonable internal conversation. In today's sermon, Ruth shows us how to answer these feelings as she models our sacrificial Lord.</p> <p>"Do I really have time to pay attention to the needs of others? Maybe a little... but not too much. No, if I pay too much attention to the needs of others, my life might begin to lack. I might lose energy. I might become embittered." This seems like a reasonable internal conversation. In today's sermon, Ruth shows us how to answer these feelings as she models our sacrificial Lord.</p> "Do I really have time to pay attention to the needs of others? Maybe a little... but not too much. No, if I pay too much attention to the needs of others, my life might begin to lack. I might lose energy. I might become embittered." This seems like a reasonable internal conversation. In today's sermon, Ruth shows us how to answer these feelings as she models our sacrificial Lord.

]]> Sun, 13 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1288 52 d9eba9bbc417ceeb3bb5496944b92c23 no Pay Attention to His Harvest Fields Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Our God has called workers to serve him in his harvest fields. He's called men and women, Christians to go on his behalf to the people in their loves to call them with the good news of Jesus. How often do we recognize that as our calling?</p> <p>Our God has called workers to serve him in his harvest fields. He's called men and women, Christians to go on his behalf to the people in their loves to call them with the good news of Jesus. How often do we recognize that as our calling?</p> Our God has called workers to serve him in his harvest fields. He's called men and women, Christians to go on his behalf to the people in their loves to call them with the good news of Jesus. How often do we recognize that as our calling?

]]> Sun, 06 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1478 53 7b4ea52b6f48284e0d6ea664d632f6e1 no Pay Attention to The Decisions You Make Pastor Simeon Crass <p>How many decisions do you make in a week? Maybe the better question: how many of your decisions have something to do with your faith? We have been called to follow the Savior who so lovingly follows us with his love and faithfulness first. So how can we orient our lives in service to following him with every decision we make?</p> <p>How many decisions do you make in a week? Maybe the better question: how many of your decisions have something to do with your faith? We have been called to follow the Savior who so lovingly follows us with his love and faithfulness first. So how can we orient our lives in service to following him with every decision we make?</p> How many decisions do you make in a week? Maybe the better question: how many of your decisions have something to do with your faith? We have been called to follow the Savior who so lovingly follows us with his love and faithfulness first. So how can we orient our lives in service to following him with every decision we make?

]]> Sun, 29 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1371 54 cf9d906615b98de3a1b38cd99db908ae no Pay Attention to Who Your Triune God Is Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Why should we take the time to look closely at the Trinity? Why not just say, "3 in 1... good enough"? Because who your God is is connected to what your God does. So if you want to understand your God better, see what he does for you!</p> <p>Why should we take the time to look closely at the Trinity? Why not just say, "3 in 1... good enough"? Because who your God is is connected to what your God does. So if you want to understand your God better, see what he does for you!</p> Why should we take the time to look closely at the Trinity? Why not just say, "3 in 1... good enough"? Because who your God is is connected to what your God does. So if you want to understand your God better, see what he does for you!

]]> Sun, 22 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1255 55 d0e7abeb274cce264eba9920c442484e no Pay Attention to the Mission He's Given You Pastor Nate H <p>God has equipped us with an incalculable number of gifts. He starts by equipping us with our salvation, and then he piles more on top. The real question that lies before us is this: how do we even begin to use them? Pastor Nate Holz helps us explore this daunting and exciting task before us! </p> <p>God has equipped us with an incalculable number of gifts. He starts by equipping us with our salvation, and then he piles more on top. The real question that lies before us is this: how do we even begin to use them? Pastor Nate Holz helps us explore this daunting and exciting task before us! </p> God has equipped us with an incalculable number of gifts. He starts by equipping us with our salvation, and then he piles more on top. The real question that lies before us is this: how do we even begin to use them? Pastor Nate Holz helps us explore this daunting and exciting task before us!

]]> Sun, 15 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1110 56 e0cf356456187c156eee8231f7de3786 no The Spirit Working Tirelessly Pastor Simeon Crass <p>God has not left us alone. There might be times in your life in which you feel like he has... but he hasn't. He proves that to us as he sends us the Holy Spirit. And make no mistake: the Holy Spirit isn't just doing "church stuff." He is working tirelessly in your life as he draws you near your Savior!</p> <p>God has not left us alone. There might be times in your life in which you feel like he has... but he hasn't. He proves that to us as he sends us the Holy Spirit. And make no mistake: the Holy Spirit isn't just doing "church stuff." He is working tirelessly in your life as he draws you near your Savior!</p> God has not left us alone. There might be times in your life in which you feel like he has... but he hasn't. He proves that to us as he sends us the Holy Spirit. And make no mistake: the Holy Spirit isn't just doing "church stuff." He is working tirelessly in your life as he draws you near your Savior!

]]> Sun, 08 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1381 57 5b0213abd6bb2031ab16dc73af0926ab no He Rules All Things For You Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Why did Jesus have to ascend into heaven? It wasn't simply to give a satisfying end to the story of his earthly ministry. Instead, Jesus ascended into heaven for a purpose: to rule and serve you. As Jesus ascends into heaven and takes his seat at the right hand of the Father, we know that his new mission is to rule all things for the benefit of you, his Church. </p> <p>Why did Jesus have to ascend into heaven? It wasn't simply to give a satisfying end to the story of his earthly ministry. Instead, Jesus ascended into heaven for a purpose: to rule and serve you. As Jesus ascends into heaven and takes his seat at the right hand of the Father, we know that his new mission is to rule all things for the benefit of you, his Church. </p> Why did Jesus have to ascend into heaven? It wasn't simply to give a satisfying end to the story of his earthly ministry. Instead, Jesus ascended into heaven for a purpose: to rule and serve you. As Jesus ascends into heaven and takes his seat at the right hand of the Father, we know that his new mission is to rule all things for the benefit of you, his Church.

]]> Sun, 01 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1218 58 6ee2c38babc26b773bb30bfb879849c8 no Unity Under Christ Pastor Simeon Crass <p>How does God make it work? When he groups sinners together in these things called churches, why don't they fall apart at the first sign of trouble? One word: unity. God creates unity inside of his church as he calls people from different backgrounds to one Lord, one faith, and one baptism. See how he does this in the life of Lydia!</p> <p>How does God make it work? When he groups sinners together in these things called churches, why don't they fall apart at the first sign of trouble? One word: unity. God creates unity inside of his church as he calls people from different backgrounds to one Lord, one faith, and one baptism. See how he does this in the life of Lydia!</p> How does God make it work? When he groups sinners together in these things called churches, why don't they fall apart at the first sign of trouble? One word: unity. God creates unity inside of his church as he calls people from different backgrounds to one Lord, one faith, and one baptism. See how he does this in the life of Lydia!

]]> Sun, 25 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1184 59 49b99d4ae842cdf3d94b1f7cdb4f04a1 no Joy in an Unhappy World Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Generally speaking, life is a roller coaster of emotions. When you're on an emotional high, you usually don't stay that way for long. And perhaps, as a blessing to us, when we hit those emotional lows, God draws us out of them. But maybe life doesn't need to be so inconsistent. Maybe our joy can be deep and lasting. This is the joy we find in the resurrection. It isn't contingent on circumstance or mood... simply the lasting truth of mankind at peace with God!</p> <p>Generally speaking, life is a roller coaster of emotions. When you're on an emotional high, you usually don't stay that way for long. And perhaps, as a blessing to us, when we hit those emotional lows, God draws us out of them. But maybe life doesn't need to be so inconsistent. Maybe our joy can be deep and lasting. This is the joy we find in the resurrection. It isn't contingent on circumstance or mood... simply the lasting truth of mankind at peace with God!</p> Generally speaking, life is a roller coaster of emotions. When you're on an emotional high, you usually don't stay that way for long. And perhaps, as a blessing to us, when we hit those emotional lows, God draws us out of them. But maybe life doesn't need to be so inconsistent. Maybe our joy can be deep and lasting. This is the joy we find in the resurrection. It isn't contingent on circumstance or mood... simply the lasting truth of mankind at peace with God!

]]> Sun, 18 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1334 60 b79eb2b600db2dcbc5ae3fcea834c914 no A Voice You Can Trust Pastor Simeon Crass <p>How do we know we can trust the words of the Savior? He makes some bold promises. The resurrection assures us that we are listening to the right voice. Now, the Savior urges us to be that voice for those around us!</p> <p>How do we know we can trust the words of the Savior? He makes some bold promises. The resurrection assures us that we are listening to the right voice. Now, the Savior urges us to be that voice for those around us!</p> How do we know we can trust the words of the Savior? He makes some bold promises. The resurrection assures us that we are listening to the right voice. Now, the Savior urges us to be that voice for those around us!

]]> Sun, 11 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1191 61 c17fb1ec8a9dd11647a93fd78ff64b80 no Beauty in Clarity Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Does it matter how deep your faith goes? Is it worth spending hours of your life focusing on a truth you already know? How much can you really learn from the Scriptures when you already get the gist? In our sermon this Sunday, we explore how learning the deep truths of Scripture and imprinting them on our hearts reveals the deep beauties of the gospel!</p> <p>Does it matter how deep your faith goes? Is it worth spending hours of your life focusing on a truth you already know? How much can you really learn from the Scriptures when you already get the gist? In our sermon this Sunday, we explore how learning the deep truths of Scripture and imprinting them on our hearts reveals the deep beauties of the gospel!</p> Does it matter how deep your faith goes? Is it worth spending hours of your life focusing on a truth you already know? How much can you really learn from the Scriptures when you already get the gist? In our sermon this Sunday, we explore how learning the deep truths of Scripture and imprinting them on our hearts reveals the deep beauties of the gospel!

]]> Sun, 04 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1213 62 bba5eb0a874e9ebb448b25da4184f9dc no We Have a Meaningful Message Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Why should I share my faith? It's a good question. We find the answer with the disciples in the locked room where they were terrified after the death of Jesus. Jesus appeared to them, and all of a sudden, they couldn't help but spread the news and share their faith. It wasn't as if they were forced into doing it. Instead, they understood that they were witnesses to something miraculous with eternal consequences. We are witnesses too.</p> <p>Why should I share my faith? It's a good question. We find the answer with the disciples in the locked room where they were terrified after the death of Jesus. Jesus appeared to them, and all of a sudden, they couldn't help but spread the news and share their faith. It wasn't as if they were forced into doing it. Instead, they understood that they were witnesses to something miraculous with eternal consequences. We are witnesses too.</p> Why should I share my faith? It's a good question. We find the answer with the disciples in the locked room where they were terrified after the death of Jesus. Jesus appeared to them, and all of a sudden, they couldn't help but spread the news and share their faith. It wasn't as if they were forced into doing it. Instead, they understood that they were witnesses to something miraculous with eternal consequences. We are witnesses too.

]]> Sun, 27 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 901 63 e93978276a803bca490acb1751de05d4 no Death Loses Its Sting Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Easter is the day that gives the church meaning and purpose. If Jesus died and stayed in the tomb, our hopes would be dashed to pieces. We would have some wise words... but what good is that? Instead, Jesus secures the victory we need for us. He defeated sin and then proved it by stomping death to pieces. Now, we see death with new eyes. It's not the end but the beginning for those who trust in him.</p> <p>Easter is the day that gives the church meaning and purpose. If Jesus died and stayed in the tomb, our hopes would be dashed to pieces. We would have some wise words... but what good is that? Instead, Jesus secures the victory we need for us. He defeated sin and then proved it by stomping death to pieces. Now, we see death with new eyes. It's not the end but the beginning for those who trust in him.</p> Easter is the day that gives the church meaning and purpose. If Jesus died and stayed in the tomb, our hopes would be dashed to pieces. We would have some wise words... but what good is that? Instead, Jesus secures the victory we need for us. He defeated sin and then proved it by stomping death to pieces. Now, we see death with new eyes. It's not the end but the beginning for those who trust in him.

]]> Sun, 20 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 938 64 5383ad38e82d175c15b4c15010d08a79 no Palm Sunday & Confirmation • Luke 19:28-40 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>It's all going according to plan. Don't be fooled. There is nothing about Holy Week that is outside of the Savior's power. He is not being overcome. He is not being overwhelmed. He is our willing sacrifice, our perfect substitute.</p> <p>It's all going according to plan. Don't be fooled. There is nothing about Holy Week that is outside of the Savior's power. He is not being overcome. He is not being overwhelmed. He is our willing sacrifice, our perfect substitute.</p> It's all going according to plan. Don't be fooled. There is nothing about Holy Week that is outside of the Savior's power. He is not being overcome. He is not being overwhelmed. He is our willing sacrifice, our perfect substitute.

]]> Sun, 13 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 983 65 035dd667dbcb931b04c9a050ab84a4d4 no Spring Cleaning • Philippians 3:4-14 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>What is necessary to your spiritual life? In our sermon today, we are reminded of this simple truth: what God has done for us is far greater than what we have done for him!</p> <p>What is necessary to your spiritual life? In our sermon today, we are reminded of this simple truth: what God has done for us is far greater than what we have done for him!</p> What is necessary to your spiritual life? In our sermon today, we are reminded of this simple truth: what God has done for us is far greater than what we have done for him!

]]> Sun, 06 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1239 66 c0aebab46a9da399ca1548f860e43a5e no An Unfair Savior • Luke 23:20-25 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>In our fourth Lent devotion, we see how our Savior treats "fairness".</p> <p>In our fourth Lent devotion, we see how our Savior treats "fairness".</p> In our fourth Lent devotion, we see how our Savior treats "fairness".

]]> Wed, 26 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 290 67 18ddb6c99cbf6c3b71947ad19e5b63f5 no Our Greater Father • Luke 15:15-32 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>The story of the Prodigal Son gives us insight into God's dealings with humanity. The father in the story has two completely different sons. One that has been struck by the plague of disobedience and the other that struggles with pride. How does he respond? He reminds them that their relationship with him is entirely dependent on grace.</p> <p>The story of the Prodigal Son gives us insight into God's dealings with humanity. The father in the story has two completely different sons. One that has been struck by the plague of disobedience and the other that struggles with pride. How does he respond? He reminds them that their relationship with him is entirely dependent on grace.</p> The story of the Prodigal Son gives us insight into God's dealings with humanity. The father in the story has two completely different sons. One that has been struck by the plague of disobedience and the other that struggles with pride. How does he respond? He reminds them that their relationship with him is entirely dependent on grace.

]]> Sun, 30 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1117 68 50f607b4df4005d2f3c525bd788356b8 no Dealing With Betrayal • Luke 22:59-62 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>In our third Lent devotion, we see how our Savior deals with the betrayal of a brother.</p> <p>In our third Lent devotion, we see how our Savior deals with the betrayal of a brother.</p> In our third Lent devotion, we see how our Savior deals with the betrayal of a brother.

]]> Wed, 26 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 294 69 5254d8133c1be57d0a2057d047489db6 no Always Present, Always Patient • Luke 13:1-9 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Why do bad things happen? This is the timeless question we want God to answer so badly. Luke 13:1-9 is the perfect time for Jesus to give us a look into the inner-workings of God. But he doesn't. Instead, he reminds us that in those moments of tragedy and grief, we should remember that our God is using it to patiently and graciously call us to repentance.</p> <p>Why do bad things happen? This is the timeless question we want God to answer so badly. Luke 13:1-9 is the perfect time for Jesus to give us a look into the inner-workings of God. But he doesn't. Instead, he reminds us that in those moments of tragedy and grief, we should remember that our God is using it to patiently and graciously call us to repentance.</p> Why do bad things happen? This is the timeless question we want God to answer so badly. Luke 13:1-9 is the perfect time for Jesus to give us a look into the inner-workings of God. But he doesn't. Instead, he reminds us that in those moments of tragedy and grief, we should remember that our God is using it to patiently and graciously call us to repentance.

]]> Sun, 23 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1199 70 cedb239dcbfdf317878e5b632ce5fa48 no Sacrificing The Will • Luke 22:41-42 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>In our second Lent devotion, we see the sacrifice of the Savior take shape. And he starts by sacrificing his will. </p> <p>In our second Lent devotion, we see the sacrifice of the Savior take shape. And he starts by sacrificing his will. </p> In our second Lent devotion, we see the sacrifice of the Savior take shape. And he starts by sacrificing his will.

]]> Wed, 19 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 288 71 bb33fce5c51669d1b26cb52d6e6a1d93 no Are You Distracted? • Philippians 3:17-4:1 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>It's a done deal! Your citizenship is in heaven. No one can take that away from you. So why does Paul issue such a dire warning about walking in opposition to the cross? Because he knows better than anyone what type of distractions the world might throw at us so that we would give our citizenship away. </p> <p>It's a done deal! Your citizenship is in heaven. No one can take that away from you. So why does Paul issue such a dire warning about walking in opposition to the cross? Because he knows better than anyone what type of distractions the world might throw at us so that we would give our citizenship away. </p> It's a done deal! Your citizenship is in heaven. No one can take that away from you. So why does Paul issue such a dire warning about walking in opposition to the cross? Because he knows better than anyone what type of distractions the world might throw at us so that we would give our citizenship away.

]]> Sun, 16 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1151 72 2b69b7805aed4b026fba64a58b683e1e no THE Greatest • Luke 22:24-27 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Our midweek devotion is taken from our Sunday passion reading, Luke 22:1-38.</p> <p>Our midweek devotion is taken from our Sunday passion reading, Luke 22:1-38.</p> Our midweek devotion is taken from our Sunday passion reading, Luke 22:1-38.

]]> Wed, 12 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 342 73 448a34eb6c026ca1df31dc07345ba2e5 no Our Champion • 1st Samuel 17 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Salvation can't be a joint effort. Why? 2 reasons: 1. Our enemy is too strong. 2. We aren't strong enough. So God takes the battle for our eternity into his hands. In this sermon, we use the story of David and Goliath to see how God intervenes, not to battle WITH us against evil, but to battle FOR us against evil.</p> <p>Salvation can't be a joint effort. Why? 2 reasons: 1. Our enemy is too strong. 2. We aren't strong enough. So God takes the battle for our eternity into his hands. In this sermon, we use the story of David and Goliath to see how God intervenes, not to battle WITH us against evil, but to battle FOR us against evil.</p> Salvation can't be a joint effort. Why? 2 reasons: 1. Our enemy is too strong. 2. We aren't strong enough. So God takes the battle for our eternity into his hands. In this sermon, we use the story of David and Goliath to see how God intervenes, not to battle WITH us against evil, but to battle FOR us against evil.

]]> Sun, 09 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1163 74 dc686cfd0099049ee980716ccdb4c2ab no Ash Wednesday • Lowering Our Defenses • 2 Samuel 12:1-13 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>When David sinned, did he realize what he had done? We're not sure. What we do know is that God sent a prophet to the king in order to call him to repentance. This is how far God will go to bring his children back. How far has he gone in your life. As we begin Lent, we contemplate the sin that brought Jesus from heaven to carry out our salvation. In this time of reflection we're reminded that no matter how far sin has carried us away from the Savior, he is always our way back!</p> <p>When David sinned, did he realize what he had done? We're not sure. What we do know is that God sent a prophet to the king in order to call him to repentance. This is how far God will go to bring his children back. How far has he gone in your life. As we begin Lent, we contemplate the sin that brought Jesus from heaven to carry out our salvation. In this time of reflection we're reminded that no matter how far sin has carried us away from the Savior, he is always our way back!</p> When David sinned, did he realize what he had done? We're not sure. What we do know is that God sent a prophet to the king in order to call him to repentance. This is how far God will go to bring his children back. How far has he gone in your life. As we begin Lent, we contemplate the sin that brought Jesus from heaven to carry out our salvation. In this time of reflection we're reminded that no matter how far sin has carried us away from the Savior, he is always our way back!

]]> Wed, 05 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 938 75 37efa074c2fdd1142d4bc1ec0cb82ab1 no Blinding Glory • 2nd Corinthians 3:7-18 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Where is God's glory found in our lives. You may see it partially revealed as you see his grace unfold in your lives. But if you want to see his glory on full display, if you want to see glory face to face, look at your Savior. On Transfiguration Sunday, we are reminded that the love of God has been completely revealed in Jesus!</p> <p>Where is God's glory found in our lives. You may see it partially revealed as you see his grace unfold in your lives. But if you want to see his glory on full display, if you want to see glory face to face, look at your Savior. On Transfiguration Sunday, we are reminded that the love of God has been completely revealed in Jesus!</p> Where is God's glory found in our lives. You may see it partially revealed as you see his grace unfold in your lives. But if you want to see his glory on full display, if you want to see glory face to face, look at your Savior. On Transfiguration Sunday, we are reminded that the love of God has been completely revealed in Jesus!

]]> Sun, 02 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1165 76 35d5d6d2cb261ee095386083e6eb826b no God Overcomes Evil With Good • Luke 6:27-38 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>How do you deal with people who treat you badly? The world would tell you to have nothing to do with them. The world might even tell you to get back at or get even with them. That's the way of the world. But that's not how the family of believers works. Instead, Jesus teaches us the family business of love by showing us first hand what compassion and mercy looks like. He showed it to you... now we get to show it to others!</p> <p>How do you deal with people who treat you badly? The world would tell you to have nothing to do with them. The world might even tell you to get back at or get even with them. That's the way of the world. But that's not how the family of believers works. Instead, Jesus teaches us the family business of love by showing us first hand what compassion and mercy looks like. He showed it to you... now we get to show it to others!</p> How do you deal with people who treat you badly? The world would tell you to have nothing to do with them. The world might even tell you to get back at or get even with them. That's the way of the world. But that's not how the family of believers works. Instead, Jesus teaches us the family business of love by showing us first hand what compassion and mercy looks like. He showed it to you... now we get to show it to others!

]]> Sun, 23 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1285 77 d62d52706f9e5ad4c38461a3688afa21 no Sufficient For You • 2nd Corinthians 12:7-10 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>When you go through struggles, do you attribute them to God? Maybe we ask God why he's doing this to us. Maybe it feels like the struggles of life are outside of his control. As we read 2 Corinthians 12, we see that our struggles are in God's control. In fact, our struggles need not be seen as a bad thing at all. Instead, they can be used by God to draw us closer to him!</p> <p>When you go through struggles, do you attribute them to God? Maybe we ask God why he's doing this to us. Maybe it feels like the struggles of life are outside of his control. As we read 2 Corinthians 12, we see that our struggles are in God's control. In fact, our struggles need not be seen as a bad thing at all. Instead, they can be used by God to draw us closer to him!</p> When you go through struggles, do you attribute them to God? Maybe we ask God why he's doing this to us. Maybe it feels like the struggles of life are outside of his control. As we read 2 Corinthians 12, we see that our struggles are in God's control. In fact, our struggles need not be seen as a bad thing at all. Instead, they can be used by God to draw us closer to him!

]]> Sun, 16 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1238 78 bcad956364fa00ba1f5b109d7a5538fa no Qualified to Fish • Luke 5:1-11 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Are you qualified to talk about Jesus? For so many, they feel inadequate to speak about the graces of Jesus. But in our reading, Jesus recruits fishermen to do this important job. As he does so, he shows us what he sees as the most necessary qualification: knowing his grace for sinners. Because you, like the disciples, know the grace Jesus granted to you, you are qualified and called to speak about the riches of Christ's mercy!</p> <p>Are you qualified to talk about Jesus? For so many, they feel inadequate to speak about the graces of Jesus. But in our reading, Jesus recruits fishermen to do this important job. As he does so, he shows us what he sees as the most necessary qualification: knowing his grace for sinners. Because you, like the disciples, know the grace Jesus granted to you, you are qualified and called to speak about the riches of Christ's mercy!</p> Are you qualified to talk about Jesus? For so many, they feel inadequate to speak about the graces of Jesus. But in our reading, Jesus recruits fishermen to do this important job. As he does so, he shows us what he sees as the most necessary qualification: knowing his grace for sinners. Because you, like the disciples, know the grace Jesus granted to you, you are qualified and called to speak about the riches of Christ's mercy!

]]> Sun, 09 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1264 79 069cc65074da112d8d219e7cf2efa840 no On His Terms • 2nd Timothy 3:14-4:5 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>In modern Christianity, a "relationship with God" is a hot button topic. It seems like every church uses this phrase in their marketing. What are we to make of it? It's safe to say that Scripture is a book about the restoration of our relationship with God. But the relationship created between us and God isn't on OUR terms. It's on HIS. While this might not be a popular view of that relationship, it's the view that is so clearly outlined in the Holy Scriptures.</p> <p>In modern Christianity, a "relationship with God" is a hot button topic. It seems like every church uses this phrase in their marketing. What are we to make of it? It's safe to say that Scripture is a book about the restoration of our relationship with God. But the relationship created between us and God isn't on OUR terms. It's on HIS. While this might not be a popular view of that relationship, it's the view that is so clearly outlined in the Holy Scriptures.</p> In modern Christianity, a "relationship with God" is a hot button topic. It seems like every church uses this phrase in their marketing. What are we to make of it? It's safe to say that Scripture is a book about the restoration of our relationship with God. But the relationship created between us and God isn't on OUR terms. It's on HIS. While this might not be a popular view of that relationship, it's the view that is so clearly outlined in the Holy Scriptures.

]]> Sun, 02 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1329 80 62ac29c00da3d485c1243ec8801638d1 no He Always Gives More • John 2:1-11 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Does Jesus ever short change us? Absolutely not! Even when it feels as if the blessings we are given aren't all that we had hoped for, we are reminded that everything Jesus does, he does to the best of his divine ability. Therefore, everything you have... it's God's best!</p> <p>Does Jesus ever short change us? Absolutely not! Even when it feels as if the blessings we are given aren't all that we had hoped for, we are reminded that everything Jesus does, he does to the best of his divine ability. Therefore, everything you have... it's God's best!</p> Does Jesus ever short change us? Absolutely not! Even when it feels as if the blessings we are given aren't all that we had hoped for, we are reminded that everything Jesus does, he does to the best of his divine ability. Therefore, everything you have... it's God's best!

]]> Sun, 19 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1261 81 30f29fc40ef80ad40bba7102a1e89bd7 no Finding Your Identity In Baptism • Titus 3:1-7 Pastor Simeon Crass <p>When the world demands an answer, are you ready to give one? "Who are you?" Vocations, sins, descriptions flood our minds. When it comes down to giving an answer that can fully define you, we start at the baptismal font. This is where God tells you who you are.</p> <p>When the world demands an answer, are you ready to give one? "Who are you?" Vocations, sins, descriptions flood our minds. When it comes down to giving an answer that can fully define you, we start at the baptismal font. This is where God tells you who you are.</p> When the world demands an answer, are you ready to give one? "Who are you?" Vocations, sins, descriptions flood our minds. When it comes down to giving an answer that can fully define you, we start at the baptismal font. This is where God tells you who you are.

]]> Sun, 12 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1242 82 94859a8051f5431186cc7e70077ff1a4 no How Can This Gift Be For All? Pastor Simeon Crass <p>God can bring salvation to the ends of the earth. And he chooses to use us. You get to be a light in this dark world... and you are certainly prepared to do it.</p> <p>God can bring salvation to the ends of the earth. And he chooses to use us. You get to be a light in this dark world... and you are certainly prepared to do it.</p> God can bring salvation to the ends of the earth. And he chooses to use us. You get to be a light in this dark world... and you are certainly prepared to do it.

]]> Sun, 05 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1082 83 4fe18daffd3d0b2d6e9c7cfbcc327239 no I HAVE To Pastor Simeon Crass <p>What relationship do you have to obedience to God? In this small insight into the early life of Jesus, we find our motivation to obey God. See as he lives not just as the template for obedience, but as the sacrifice of obedience in our place.</p> <p>What relationship do you have to obedience to God? In this small insight into the early life of Jesus, we find our motivation to obey God. See as he lives not just as the template for obedience, but as the sacrifice of obedience in our place.</p> What relationship do you have to obedience to God? In this small insight into the early life of Jesus, we find our motivation to obey God. See as he lives not just as the template for obedience, but as the sacrifice of obedience in our place.

]]> Sun, 29 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1263 84 a6524278e903c49c52114caad9389af6 no Christmas Day - Emmanuel Pastor Simeon Crass <p>What does it mean that "God is with us?" In our every day lives, it is us living according to the promise Jesus made to his disciples: "I will be with you always to the very end of the age." But in the manger, God shows what Emmanuel truly means. It means having more than a teacher, protector, or friend. It means having a Savior who is truly God and man so that he might save human beings.</p> <p>What does it mean that "God is with us?" In our every day lives, it is us living according to the promise Jesus made to his disciples: "I will be with you always to the very end of the age." But in the manger, God shows what Emmanuel truly means. It means having more than a teacher, protector, or friend. It means having a Savior who is truly God and man so that he might save human beings.</p> What does it mean that "God is with us?" In our every day lives, it is us living according to the promise Jesus made to his disciples: "I will be with you always to the very end of the age." But in the manger, God shows what Emmanuel truly means. It means having more than a teacher, protector, or friend. It means having a Savior who is truly God and man so that he might save human beings.

]]> Wed, 25 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1105 85 8144f72836b6f0c17d6df547654f1ba2 no A Christmas Eve Mess Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Joseph had a mess on his hands. Not a mess created by sin... but a mess nonetheless. He had his imperfect plan to make the best of a bad situation. This is when the Lord comes to him and lets him know that he is actually right in the middle of His own plan. This is how the Lord approaches the mess that is our sin. See his perfect gift! </p> <p>Joseph had a mess on his hands. Not a mess created by sin... but a mess nonetheless. He had his imperfect plan to make the best of a bad situation. This is when the Lord comes to him and lets him know that he is actually right in the middle of His own plan. This is how the Lord approaches the mess that is our sin. See his perfect gift! </p> Joseph had a mess on his hands. Not a mess created by sin... but a mess nonetheless. He had his imperfect plan to make the best of a bad situation. This is when the Lord comes to him and lets him know that he is actually right in the middle of His own plan. This is how the Lord approaches the mess that is our sin. See his perfect gift!

]]> Tue, 24 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000 669 86 6fd7eb398d346e37191c39a11a362ae5 no Mary's Song of Exaltation Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Mary's Song is one for the ages. It is this beautiful song by a godly young woman who knows that the Lord was in the middle of working something extraordinary through her and for her people. She regards herself as humble. We are humbled regularly in our lives. This Christmas, allow Mary's Song to be your song.</p> <p>Mary's Song is one for the ages. It is this beautiful song by a godly young woman who knows that the Lord was in the middle of working something extraordinary through her and for her people. She regards herself as humble. We are humbled regularly in our lives. This Christmas, allow Mary's Song to be your song.</p> Mary's Song is one for the ages. It is this beautiful song by a godly young woman who knows that the Lord was in the middle of working something extraordinary through her and for her people. She regards herself as humble. We are humbled regularly in our lives. This Christmas, allow Mary's Song to be your song.

]]> Sun, 22 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000 942 87 8428d8a6506f88b76922eb3497e2d967 no Lived Joy Pastor Simeon Crass <p>John the Baptist calls the crowds to repentance. They receive a baptism, hear their sins forgiven in the comings Savior... but now what? How do they go forward? What should they do when they leave the Jordan. John gives direction to the crowds: "Bear fruit in keeping with repentance." The message is clear! Live lives of joy knowing that your sins are fully and freely forgiven.</p> <p>John the Baptist calls the crowds to repentance. They receive a baptism, hear their sins forgiven in the comings Savior... but now what? How do they go forward? What should they do when they leave the Jordan. John gives direction to the crowds: "Bear fruit in keeping with repentance." The message is clear! Live lives of joy knowing that your sins are fully and freely forgiven.</p> John the Baptist calls the crowds to repentance. They receive a baptism, hear their sins forgiven in the comings Savior... but now what? How do they go forward? What should they do when they leave the Jordan. John gives direction to the crowds: "Bear fruit in keeping with repentance." The message is clear! Live lives of joy knowing that your sins are fully and freely forgiven.

]]> Sun, 15 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1326 88 e0d00321ca71cd63d6df500a2d96b98f no Rooted In Repentance Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Will you prepare for Jesus like your in-laws are coming over or like the plumber is on his way?</p> <p>Will you prepare for Jesus like your in-laws are coming over or like the plumber is on his way?</p> Will you prepare for Jesus like your in-laws are coming over or like the plumber is on his way?

]]> Sun, 08 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000 996 89 a435cc36dd1877d012687b8e79797a1f no Staying Awake Pastor Simeon Crass <p>When Jesus ascended into heaven, he promised that he would return again. Today, in our message, we examine what it is the believer is called to do in fulfillment of Jesus command: STAY AWAKE!</p> <p>When Jesus ascended into heaven, he promised that he would return again. Today, in our message, we examine what it is the believer is called to do in fulfillment of Jesus command: STAY AWAKE!</p> When Jesus ascended into heaven, he promised that he would return again. Today, in our message, we examine what it is the believer is called to do in fulfillment of Jesus command: STAY AWAKE!

]]> Sun, 24 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1271 90 389afa729df9a16cd2a31b349d91370f no A Highly Anticipated Verdict Pastor Simeon Crass <p>NOT GUILTY! The verdict from our God, the righteous judge comes down. He's talking about you. He has declared you not guilty even though you know you were. For anyone else sitting at the throne of God waiting to be judged, this would be terrifying. But, because you know the verdict has been predetermined, you're okay. The question for us to consider: Why is the verdict predetermined?</p> <p>NOT GUILTY! The verdict from our God, the righteous judge comes down. He's talking about you. He has declared you not guilty even though you know you were. For anyone else sitting at the throne of God waiting to be judged, this would be terrifying. But, because you know the verdict has been predetermined, you're okay. The question for us to consider: Why is the verdict predetermined?</p> NOT GUILTY! The verdict from our God, the righteous judge comes down. He's talking about you. He has declared you not guilty even though you know you were. For anyone else sitting at the throne of God waiting to be judged, this would be terrifying. But, because you know the verdict has been predetermined, you're okay. The question for us to consider: Why is the verdict predetermined?

]]> Sun, 17 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1331 91 574d69230761c07d19b0fa57289bf291 no Generosity Breeds Generosity Pastor Simeon Crass <p>How can I be generous if I don't have much? It's a good question. If you look around at your life and you don't see too many blessings, it would be difficult to be generous. But when you find yourself contemplating the lavish blessings of forgiveness and the promise of eternal life, you realize that you actually do have quite a bit. In that way, we can be extraordinarily generous with those around us.</p> <p>How can I be generous if I don't have much? It's a good question. If you look around at your life and you don't see too many blessings, it would be difficult to be generous. But when you find yourself contemplating the lavish blessings of forgiveness and the promise of eternal life, you realize that you actually do have quite a bit. In that way, we can be extraordinarily generous with those around us.</p> How can I be generous if I don't have much? It's a good question. If you look around at your life and you don't see too many blessings, it would be difficult to be generous. But when you find yourself contemplating the lavish blessings of forgiveness and the promise of eternal life, you realize that you actually do have quite a bit. In that way, we can be extraordinarily generous with those around us.

]]> Sun, 10 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1242 92 2d61d98c5d30e7f6a68a0192f77793a6 no Life Only Gets Better Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Our expectations of this world always seem to be to high. We want our lives to look a certain way, but because of sin, they always seem to fall short. What do we do about that? We could try to better our lives here on earth... but I think we all know how that is going to go: temporary relief until dissatisfaction raises its head again. How about a new approach? Instead of trying to make this life all we want it to be, let's set the bar high for our life hereafter. Hear what God has to say to you about your eternal home in heaven!</p> <p>Our expectations of this world always seem to be to high. We want our lives to look a certain way, but because of sin, they always seem to fall short. What do we do about that? We could try to better our lives here on earth... but I think we all know how that is going to go: temporary relief until dissatisfaction raises its head again. How about a new approach? Instead of trying to make this life all we want it to be, let's set the bar high for our life hereafter. Hear what God has to say to you about your eternal home in heaven!</p> Our expectations of this world always seem to be to high. We want our lives to look a certain way, but because of sin, they always seem to fall short. What do we do about that? We could try to better our lives here on earth... but I think we all know how that is going to go: temporary relief until dissatisfaction raises its head again. How about a new approach? Instead of trying to make this life all we want it to be, let's set the bar high for our life hereafter. Hear what God has to say to you about your eternal home in heaven!

]]> Sun, 03 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1204 93 be8268f4873c21cf4a972a98982309d8 no Taking A Stand on Grace Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Is it worth it to take a stand? You ask yourself that question at various moments throughout life. How do we approach those moments when the situation is black and white? God's Word speaks his grace to us... and we take our stand.</p> <p>Is it worth it to take a stand? You ask yourself that question at various moments throughout life. How do we approach those moments when the situation is black and white? God's Word speaks his grace to us... and we take our stand.</p> Is it worth it to take a stand? You ask yourself that question at various moments throughout life. How do we approach those moments when the situation is black and white? God's Word speaks his grace to us... and we take our stand.

]]> Sun, 27 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1072 94 9886712790477dd643f3b80d84764d03 no Free to Make Sacrifices Pastor Simeon Crass <p>What rights would you give up for the gospel? It seems like a weird question. As a Christian, it seems as if we wouldn't HAVE to give up anything. Guess what... you're right. You don't HAVE to give up anything. You make sacrifices because of Jesus' sacrifice for you. He gave you everything, so you don't need anything from anyone. That's freedom!</p> <p>What rights would you give up for the gospel? It seems like a weird question. As a Christian, it seems as if we wouldn't HAVE to give up anything. Guess what... you're right. You don't HAVE to give up anything. You make sacrifices because of Jesus' sacrifice for you. He gave you everything, so you don't need anything from anyone. That's freedom!</p> What rights would you give up for the gospel? It seems like a weird question. As a Christian, it seems as if we wouldn't HAVE to give up anything. Guess what... you're right. You don't HAVE to give up anything. You make sacrifices because of Jesus' sacrifice for you. He gave you everything, so you don't need anything from anyone. That's freedom!

]]> Sun, 20 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1244 95 44bd9c3d90c0c115dde1455f6221d302 no Keeping God's Priorities Our Priorities Pastor Simeon Crass <p>The most important things in life get most of our time, attention and resources. In fact, the amount of time and money we devote to something can often be an indicator as to how important it is to us. In our reading, Jesus challenges us to give serious thought to our priorities with one question in mind: are GOD'S priorities OUR priorities?</p> <p>The most important things in life get most of our time, attention and resources. In fact, the amount of time and money we devote to something can often be an indicator as to how important it is to us. In our reading, Jesus challenges us to give serious thought to our priorities with one question in mind: are GOD'S priorities OUR priorities?</p> The most important things in life get most of our time, attention and resources. In fact, the amount of time and money we devote to something can often be an indicator as to how important it is to us. In our reading, Jesus challenges us to give serious thought to our priorities with one question in mind: are GOD'S priorities OUR priorities?

]]> Sun, 13 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1170 96 4070fa9effc8364848a5ce39ccb5ac75 no Your Family is God's Family Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Families are complicated. There are dynamics and methods of communication that are understood only by those within the family. In every family, there are roles, spoken or unspoken, which Mom, Dad, and children make their own. So how do we know if our family is functioning according to God's model? Take a look at Ephesians 5:21-6:4 and see God's template for a loving marriage and healthy family life.</p> <p>Families are complicated. There are dynamics and methods of communication that are understood only by those within the family. In every family, there are roles, spoken or unspoken, which Mom, Dad, and children make their own. So how do we know if our family is functioning according to God's model? Take a look at Ephesians 5:21-6:4 and see God's template for a loving marriage and healthy family life.</p> Families are complicated. There are dynamics and methods of communication that are understood only by those within the family. In every family, there are roles, spoken or unspoken, which Mom, Dad, and children make their own. So how do we know if our family is functioning according to God's model? Take a look at Ephesians 5:21-6:4 and see God's template for a loving marriage and healthy family life.

]]> Sun, 06 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1336 97 925ccefaf6df15e320ba9c302c36cc99 no Strong Allies Pastor Simeon Crass <p>The angles of God serve a purpose. That purpose is illustrated by the encounter that Elisha had with God's angel army. While God doesn't give us much insight into HOW he uses the angels, he does show us WHY: to protect and defend his church physically and spiritually. </p> <p>The angles of God serve a purpose. That purpose is illustrated by the encounter that Elisha had with God's angel army. While God doesn't give us much insight into HOW he uses the angels, he does show us WHY: to protect and defend his church physically and spiritually. </p> The angles of God serve a purpose. That purpose is illustrated by the encounter that Elisha had with God's angel army. While God doesn't give us much insight into HOW he uses the angels, he does show us WHY: to protect and defend his church physically and spiritually.

]]> Sun, 29 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000 440 98 1c73f0910a7ea2e107d35ef12483c493 no How Are You Doing? Easter Sunday Pastor Simeon Crass <p>The hymn I Know that My Redeemer Lives is based on the words of Job, uttered when he was in the depths of despair and was forced to still find his hope in a God who seemed to abandon him. The reason these words of Job and the song writer are so poignant is that in the midst of trouble, the resurrection of Jesus changes death and life itself. If Christ has been risen from the grave, why on earth should I walk around being afraid of dying? And if death is not my primary concern in life, how does that shape my worldview?</p> <p>The hymn I Know that My Redeemer Lives is based on the words of Job, uttered when he was in the depths of despair and was forced to still find his hope in a God who seemed to abandon him. The reason these words of Job and the song writer are so poignant is that in the midst of trouble, the resurrection of Jesus changes death and life itself. If Christ has been risen from the grave, why on earth should I walk around being afraid of dying? And if death is not my primary concern in life, how does that shape my worldview?</p> The hymn I Know that My Redeemer Lives is based on the words of Job, uttered when he was in the depths of despair and was forced to still find his hope in a God who seemed to abandon him. The reason these words of Job and the song writer are so poignant is that in the midst of trouble, the resurrection of Jesus changes death and life itself. If Christ has been risen from the grave, why on earth should I walk around being afraid of dying? And if death is not my primary concern in life, how does that shape my worldview?

]]> Sun, 31 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000 984 99 032b32fa375d8347b754fc5c879d6a46 no "Stop Doubting and Believe" Pastor Simeon Crass <p>When Jesus says “stop doubting,” we can’t help but notice an edge in his voice. In fact, he says that those who believe without seeing are blessed because they didn’t NEED to make God prove himself. When the doubts of life come our way, how should we react? Do we wallow in them and allow them to take ownership of our mind, or do we answer them with the truth of the resurrection?</p> <p>When Jesus says “stop doubting,” we can’t help but notice an edge in his voice. In fact, he says that those who believe without seeing are blessed because they didn’t NEED to make God prove himself. When the doubts of life come our way, how should we react? Do we wallow in them and allow them to take ownership of our mind, or do we answer them with the truth of the resurrection?</p> When Jesus says “stop doubting,” we can’t help but notice an edge in his voice. In fact, he says that those who believe without seeing are blessed because they didn’t NEED to make God prove himself. When the doubts of life come our way, how should we react? Do we wallow in them and allow them to take ownership of our mind, or do we answer them with the truth of the resurrection?

]]> Sun, 07 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1158 100 47b52561679d0b9deb46137a726b273b no More Than A Slogan Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Do we have something worthwhile to say? Or are the words that Christians speak just as relevant and useful as any common catchphrase of the world? The Apostle John delivers phrases that stick in our mind, but they carry more weight than anything the world offers. Why? Because they are rooted in truth and reality!</p> <p>Do we have something worthwhile to say? Or are the words that Christians speak just as relevant and useful as any common catchphrase of the world? The Apostle John delivers phrases that stick in our mind, but they carry more weight than anything the world offers. Why? Because they are rooted in truth and reality!</p> Do we have something worthwhile to say? Or are the words that Christians speak just as relevant and useful as any common catchphrase of the world? The Apostle John delivers phrases that stick in our mind, but they carry more weight than anything the world offers. Why? Because they are rooted in truth and reality!

]]> Sun, 14 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1186 101 e254a43719bbdaec439edf431277af6c no Don't Settle for the Hired Hand Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Paying someone to do a job usually works out. You give them a sum of money, sometimes a large sum of money, and they do their work well and on time. But that’s not always the case. Sometimes, the one motivated by simple money isn’t willing to sacrifice what it takes to get the job done well. In John 10, Jesus points out the difference between the Good Shepherd and the hired hand. See the difference in our sermon for this weekend!</p> <p>Paying someone to do a job usually works out. You give them a sum of money, sometimes a large sum of money, and they do their work well and on time. But that’s not always the case. Sometimes, the one motivated by simple money isn’t willing to sacrifice what it takes to get the job done well. In John 10, Jesus points out the difference between the Good Shepherd and the hired hand. See the difference in our sermon for this weekend!</p> Paying someone to do a job usually works out. You give them a sum of money, sometimes a large sum of money, and they do their work well and on time. But that’s not always the case. Sometimes, the one motivated by simple money isn’t willing to sacrifice what it takes to get the job done well. In John 10, Jesus points out the difference between the Good Shepherd and the hired hand. See the difference in our sermon for this weekend!

]]> Sun, 21 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1226 102 31a66ff0c1fe5f9d8b0c7927a3c967d4 no Remain, Remain, Remain Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Your connection to Christ need not be tenuous. When he says, “Remain in me,” he isn’t calling on us to do the impossible. Instead, he is calling us to make use of the means that he has established to keep us near to him. In all of this, we understand a critical point: Jesus and Jesus alone is the one who keeps our relationship strong. In that resolute relationship, we find ourselves bearing fruit.</p> <p>Your connection to Christ need not be tenuous. When he says, “Remain in me,” he isn’t calling on us to do the impossible. Instead, he is calling us to make use of the means that he has established to keep us near to him. In all of this, we understand a critical point: Jesus and Jesus alone is the one who keeps our relationship strong. In that resolute relationship, we find ourselves bearing fruit.</p> Your connection to Christ need not be tenuous. When he says, “Remain in me,” he isn’t calling on us to do the impossible. Instead, he is calling us to make use of the means that he has established to keep us near to him. In all of this, we understand a critical point: Jesus and Jesus alone is the one who keeps our relationship strong. In that resolute relationship, we find ourselves bearing fruit.

]]> Sun, 28 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1063 103 83fa7dbc7559fd5d9f7e979378f3cbf0 no But How Do I Do It? Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Even the most casual Christian understands a basic principle of Jesus’ teaching and the teaching of Scripture: love those around you. Rarely, the problem is not knowing if we should love our neighbor or our God. The problem is execution. So how do go from a place of understanding God’s call to love to making it happen? We look to the model of our love. </p> <p>Even the most casual Christian understands a basic principle of Jesus’ teaching and the teaching of Scripture: love those around you. Rarely, the problem is not knowing if we should love our neighbor or our God. The problem is execution. So how do go from a place of understanding God’s call to love to making it happen? We look to the model of our love. </p> Even the most casual Christian understands a basic principle of Jesus’ teaching and the teaching of Scripture: love those around you. Rarely, the problem is not knowing if we should love our neighbor or our God. The problem is execution. So how do go from a place of understanding God’s call to love to making it happen? We look to the model of our love.

]]> Sun, 05 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1203 104 b10f4e1b5c4327f4e7647b078fff4ab5 no His Ascension Draws Him Closer Pastor Simeon Crass <p>In many ways, the ascension of Jesus ties a bow on his earthly ministry. He had defeated sin, the devil and hell itself. But that doesn’t mean Jesus is done. He still has an agenda even as he sits at the right hand of God the Father. Hear about that agenda in this Sunday’s sermon.</p> <p>In many ways, the ascension of Jesus ties a bow on his earthly ministry. He had defeated sin, the devil and hell itself. But that doesn’t mean Jesus is done. He still has an agenda even as he sits at the right hand of God the Father. Hear about that agenda in this Sunday’s sermon.</p> In many ways, the ascension of Jesus ties a bow on his earthly ministry. He had defeated sin, the devil and hell itself. But that doesn’t mean Jesus is done. He still has an agenda even as he sits at the right hand of God the Father. Hear about that agenda in this Sunday’s sermon.

]]> Sun, 12 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1188 105 0d7c3f5f754abed0bcb2020909ccac53 no Selling the Holy Spirit Short Pastor Simeon Crass <p>The power of God is present inside the walls of our church on Sunday morning. Some people might even say that they can feel it. But as you exit the doors, it might feel like things go “back to normal.” Just you, your strength, and the problems of the day. In our reading from Acts, we learn that on the Day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit was poured out on the church with a purpose. Jesus wanted his people to know that the power to change hearts, work faith, and save souls was a power far beyond the power of human beings. Yet, it was human beings that God chose to use as his instruments for that power.</p> <p>The power of God is present inside the walls of our church on Sunday morning. Some people might even say that they can feel it. But as you exit the doors, it might feel like things go “back to normal.” Just you, your strength, and the problems of the day. In our reading from Acts, we learn that on the Day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit was poured out on the church with a purpose. Jesus wanted his people to know that the power to change hearts, work faith, and save souls was a power far beyond the power of human beings. Yet, it was human beings that God chose to use as his instruments for that power.</p> The power of God is present inside the walls of our church on Sunday morning. Some people might even say that they can feel it. But as you exit the doors, it might feel like things go “back to normal.” Just you, your strength, and the problems of the day. In our reading from Acts, we learn that on the Day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit was poured out on the church with a purpose. Jesus wanted his people to know that the power to change hearts, work faith, and save souls was a power far beyond the power of human beings. Yet, it was human beings that God chose to use as his instruments for that power.

]]> Sun, 19 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1229 106 04939e58f716475d3c91e038b1414c68 no The Triune God Doing "Triune God Things" Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Every other religion has a god. This god is described in a variety of ways: powerful, wise, angry, loving, perfect, flawed… every religion thinks something about their god. What should we think about our Triune God? Who he is is revealed to us by what he has done. This week, we discover a God who reveals himself as a God who is more complex than we could possibly imagine. We understand more and more about him as we see his work in our lives. Let’s take a look!</p> <p>Every other religion has a god. This god is described in a variety of ways: powerful, wise, angry, loving, perfect, flawed… every religion thinks something about their god. What should we think about our Triune God? Who he is is revealed to us by what he has done. This week, we discover a God who reveals himself as a God who is more complex than we could possibly imagine. We understand more and more about him as we see his work in our lives. Let’s take a look!</p> Every other religion has a god. This god is described in a variety of ways: powerful, wise, angry, loving, perfect, flawed… every religion thinks something about their god. What should we think about our Triune God? Who he is is revealed to us by what he has done. This week, we discover a God who reveals himself as a God who is more complex than we could possibly imagine. We understand more and more about him as we see his work in our lives. Let’s take a look!

]]> Sun, 26 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1033 107 a73e9635279b90bdc25f4965731ccf91 no Do You Really Deserve a Break? Pastor Simeon Crass <p>People get burnt out when they continuously work without a rest. It should be no surprise, then, that the same applies to our spiritual lives. If we spend our time loving and serving those around us without any time for spiritual R&R for ourselves, we inevitably burn out. Thankfully, the rest we have a God who knows that. He knows you so well that he is willing to say, “for your own good, take a break!” We take a break, we rest every time we find our ease of heart and mind in what Jesus did for us.</p> <p>People get burnt out when they continuously work without a rest. It should be no surprise, then, that the same applies to our spiritual lives. If we spend our time loving and serving those around us without any time for spiritual R&R for ourselves, we inevitably burn out. Thankfully, the rest we have a God who knows that. He knows you so well that he is willing to say, “for your own good, take a break!” We take a break, we rest every time we find our ease of heart and mind in what Jesus did for us.</p> People get burnt out when they continuously work without a rest. It should be no surprise, then, that the same applies to our spiritual lives. If we spend our time loving and serving those around us without any time for spiritual R&R for ourselves, we inevitably burn out. Thankfully, the rest we have a God who knows that. He knows you so well that he is willing to say, “for your own good, take a break!” We take a break, we rest every time we find our ease of heart and mind in what Jesus did for us.

]]> Sun, 02 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1287 108 78c1d3ec43b67dc57e5076212ab35176 no Don't Believe Your Eyes Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Is Christianity winning? I think most who examine the falling church attendance throughout the country and the lack of respect for Christian institutions would say no. Christianity seems as if it’s on the ropes. But don’t let your eyes deceive you. Christ still sits on his throne. Knowing this is key to reading the book of Revelation and is vital to your walk in the faith. </p> <p>Is Christianity winning? I think most who examine the falling church attendance throughout the country and the lack of respect for Christian institutions would say no. Christianity seems as if it’s on the ropes. But don’t let your eyes deceive you. Christ still sits on his throne. Knowing this is key to reading the book of Revelation and is vital to your walk in the faith. </p> Is Christianity winning? I think most who examine the falling church attendance throughout the country and the lack of respect for Christian institutions would say no. Christianity seems as if it’s on the ropes. But don’t let your eyes deceive you. Christ still sits on his throne. Knowing this is key to reading the book of Revelation and is vital to your walk in the faith.

]]> Sun, 09 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1125 109 98f9e3c181bc295f8a319010118a359b no Kingdom Work for Dummies Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Do we make it more complicated than it is? Spreading the Kingdom of God can seem like such daunting work. But do we overthink it. God says, “preach the gospel.” We have to do more than that, right? In his 2 parables that Jesus shares with us today, he tells us not to overthink it. Go forth with the gospel, and let him worry about the rest.</p> <p>Do we make it more complicated than it is? Spreading the Kingdom of God can seem like such daunting work. But do we overthink it. God says, “preach the gospel.” We have to do more than that, right? In his 2 parables that Jesus shares with us today, he tells us not to overthink it. Go forth with the gospel, and let him worry about the rest.</p> Do we make it more complicated than it is? Spreading the Kingdom of God can seem like such daunting work. But do we overthink it. God says, “preach the gospel.” We have to do more than that, right? In his 2 parables that Jesus shares with us today, he tells us not to overthink it. Go forth with the gospel, and let him worry about the rest.

]]> Sun, 16 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1222 110 9f35e20bb27ef1a69421bdaf5e81750f no In the Back of Your Boat Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Did he even care? This was the question on the minds of the disciples as they scurried around the boat trying to make sure that it wouldn’t sink. They were doing their part, but by all accounts, Jesus wasn’t doing his. But this was not even remotely true! Even if Jesus didn’t frantically spring into action, it wasn’t as if the situation was out of control. Jesus was still in the back of the boat.</p> <p>Did he even care? This was the question on the minds of the disciples as they scurried around the boat trying to make sure that it wouldn’t sink. They were doing their part, but by all accounts, Jesus wasn’t doing his. But this was not even remotely true! Even if Jesus didn’t frantically spring into action, it wasn’t as if the situation was out of control. Jesus was still in the back of the boat.</p> Did he even care? This was the question on the minds of the disciples as they scurried around the boat trying to make sure that it wouldn’t sink. They were doing their part, but by all accounts, Jesus wasn’t doing his. But this was not even remotely true! Even if Jesus didn’t frantically spring into action, it wasn’t as if the situation was out of control. Jesus was still in the back of the boat.

]]> Sun, 23 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1081 111 4f434bdb800d6ab13caa8201e5d8dc8b no Only Sleeping Pastor Simeon Crass <p>In the account of Jesus dealing with a grief stricken father and raising his daughter from the dead, Jesus’ attitude astounds us. In the face of mourning and tragedy, Jesus shows calm, cool confidence. Why? He knows who holds all of the cards. This attitude is an attitude of faith. It’s an attitude, by grace, we can mirror.</p><p>Mark 5:21-24,35-43</p><p><br></p> <p>In the account of Jesus dealing with a grief stricken father and raising his daughter from the dead, Jesus’ attitude astounds us. In the face of mourning and tragedy, Jesus shows calm, cool confidence. Why? He knows who holds all of the cards. This attitude is an attitude of faith. It’s an attitude, by grace, we can mirror.</p><p>Mark 5:21-24,35-43</p><p><br></p> In the account of Jesus dealing with a grief stricken father and raising his daughter from the dead, Jesus’ attitude astounds us. In the face of mourning and tragedy, Jesus shows calm, cool confidence. Why? He knows who holds all of the cards. This attitude is an attitude of faith. It’s an attitude, by grace, we can mirror.

Mark 5:21-24,35-43


]]> Sun, 30 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1405 112 27870a3854845bd95d064a00d229604b no "It's Not You... It's HIM" Pastor Simeon Crass <p>When a couple breaks up because one party is dissatisfied with the relationship, you might hear him or her say to their partner, “It’t not you, it’s me.” The person is taking responsibility for what is objectionable in the relationship. God tells us that when we face rejection for the gospel, we need to keep in mind that the person isn’t rejecting us… they’re rejecting God and his Word. This reminder comforts us knowing, “It’s not you… It’s HIM.”</p> <p>When a couple breaks up because one party is dissatisfied with the relationship, you might hear him or her say to their partner, “It’t not you, it’s me.” The person is taking responsibility for what is objectionable in the relationship. God tells us that when we face rejection for the gospel, we need to keep in mind that the person isn’t rejecting us… they’re rejecting God and his Word. This reminder comforts us knowing, “It’s not you… It’s HIM.”</p> When a couple breaks up because one party is dissatisfied with the relationship, you might hear him or her say to their partner, “It’t not you, it’s me.” The person is taking responsibility for what is objectionable in the relationship. God tells us that when we face rejection for the gospel, we need to keep in mind that the person isn’t rejecting us… they’re rejecting God and his Word. This reminder comforts us knowing, “It’s not you… It’s HIM.”

]]> Sun, 07 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1329 113 80209d94292bb4e24c0e550acf9af205 no Ready for Anything Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Followers of Jesus are equipped for anything? Jesus has made sure of that. Learn how you can use the truths of God's Word about your life to combat every assault of evil!</p> <p>Followers of Jesus are equipped for anything? Jesus has made sure of that. Learn how you can use the truths of God's Word about your life to combat every assault of evil!</p> Followers of Jesus are equipped for anything? Jesus has made sure of that. Learn how you can use the truths of God's Word about your life to combat every assault of evil!

]]> Sun, 15 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1151 114 b646c8090936d63d10c7de7fe76c6c69 no Why Did He Do It? Pastor Simeon Crass <p>His miracle was for one man and one man alone. He brings him to a private place, heals him, and then tells him to tell no one about it. Why was Jesus willing to take the time to make such a narrow impact when he could have made this man well in front of hundreds? Because it wasn’t about the crowd. In this moment, the Savior’s focus was on one man. And Jesus used this moment to bring this man healing for his life and healing for his soul.</p> <p>His miracle was for one man and one man alone. He brings him to a private place, heals him, and then tells him to tell no one about it. Why was Jesus willing to take the time to make such a narrow impact when he could have made this man well in front of hundreds? Because it wasn’t about the crowd. In this moment, the Savior’s focus was on one man. And Jesus used this moment to bring this man healing for his life and healing for his soul.</p> His miracle was for one man and one man alone. He brings him to a private place, heals him, and then tells him to tell no one about it. Why was Jesus willing to take the time to make such a narrow impact when he could have made this man well in front of hundreds? Because it wasn’t about the crowd. In this moment, the Savior’s focus was on one man. And Jesus used this moment to bring this man healing for his life and healing for his soul.

]]> Sun, 08 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1219 115 6776da948f0a931e75758ab4e0956bef no A "Good Person"? Pastor Simeon Crass <p>If we are looking for a good person, we’ve found one. No, she’s not living under our roof, he’s not staring back at you in the mirror. We find one “good person” in our life: Jesus. It is Jesus who knows what perfect obedience is. It is Jesus who knows what perfect love is. Jesus is the only “good person” we know. But he doesn’t keep it to himself. He gives his goodness to us so that we can share in the Father’s favor. This is how we begin our lives of obedience.</p> <p>If we are looking for a good person, we’ve found one. No, she’s not living under our roof, he’s not staring back at you in the mirror. We find one “good person” in our life: Jesus. It is Jesus who knows what perfect obedience is. It is Jesus who knows what perfect love is. Jesus is the only “good person” we know. But he doesn’t keep it to himself. He gives his goodness to us so that we can share in the Father’s favor. This is how we begin our lives of obedience.</p> If we are looking for a good person, we’ve found one. No, she’s not living under our roof, he’s not staring back at you in the mirror. We find one “good person” in our life: Jesus. It is Jesus who knows what perfect obedience is. It is Jesus who knows what perfect love is. Jesus is the only “good person” we know. But he doesn’t keep it to himself. He gives his goodness to us so that we can share in the Father’s favor. This is how we begin our lives of obedience.

]]> Sun, 01 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1096 116 c41078c6e51271ba19f1d3f1a1c5252b no The Offensive Bread of Life Pastor Simeon Crass <p>In general, when people are faced with an idea that they find offensive, they do one of two things. 1. They turn their back on the idea, the person, or the movement. Or 2. They wrestle to get comfortable with this scandalous thought. In John 6, as Jesus ends his Bread of Life discourse, the disciples wrestle with Jesus' teaching and give us a path forward when we are presented with a section of God's Word that makes us uncomfortable. </p> <p>In general, when people are faced with an idea that they find offensive, they do one of two things. 1. They turn their back on the idea, the person, or the movement. Or 2. They wrestle to get comfortable with this scandalous thought. In John 6, as Jesus ends his Bread of Life discourse, the disciples wrestle with Jesus' teaching and give us a path forward when we are presented with a section of God's Word that makes us uncomfortable. </p> In general, when people are faced with an idea that they find offensive, they do one of two things. 1. They turn their back on the idea, the person, or the movement. Or 2. They wrestle to get comfortable with this scandalous thought. In John 6, as Jesus ends his Bread of Life discourse, the disciples wrestle with Jesus' teaching and give us a path forward when we are presented with a section of God's Word that makes us uncomfortable.

]]> Sun, 25 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1450 117 723273b5bb68f8fe002e3a53c52cc89d no Everything Means Everything Pastor Simeon Crass <p>What can be used to serve Jesus? Often, we shrink the scope of service far beyond the way God presents it in Scripture. God has filled each and every Christian up with exactly what they need AND MORE so as to serve others and serve him. God is so generous with his blessings toward us and allows for so many opportunities for service that we are forced to stop asking what can be used to serve God and start asking WHAT CAN’T be used to serve God?</p> <p>What can be used to serve Jesus? Often, we shrink the scope of service far beyond the way God presents it in Scripture. God has filled each and every Christian up with exactly what they need AND MORE so as to serve others and serve him. God is so generous with his blessings toward us and allows for so many opportunities for service that we are forced to stop asking what can be used to serve God and start asking WHAT CAN’T be used to serve God?</p> What can be used to serve Jesus? Often, we shrink the scope of service far beyond the way God presents it in Scripture. God has filled each and every Christian up with exactly what they need AND MORE so as to serve others and serve him. God is so generous with his blessings toward us and allows for so many opportunities for service that we are forced to stop asking what can be used to serve God and start asking WHAT CAN’T be used to serve God?

]]> Sun, 28 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1382 118 100cf1fe741cd0a8a9da27cb00df4898 no Inconvenient Compassion Pastor Simeon Crass <p>When Jesus looks at you, what do you suppose he see? I’m sure he sees your day to day desire to walk in his ways. However, whether we want to admit it or not, he also sees our shortcomings. He sees the deep rooted sin. He sees the ways that we stray from him. But instead of being disgusted or disinterested, he is compassionate. His heart breaks for us. This is the heart of the gospel. This is our heart.</p> <p>When Jesus looks at you, what do you suppose he see? I’m sure he sees your day to day desire to walk in his ways. However, whether we want to admit it or not, he also sees our shortcomings. He sees the deep rooted sin. He sees the ways that we stray from him. But instead of being disgusted or disinterested, he is compassionate. His heart breaks for us. This is the heart of the gospel. This is our heart.</p> When Jesus looks at you, what do you suppose he see? I’m sure he sees your day to day desire to walk in his ways. However, whether we want to admit it or not, he also sees our shortcomings. He sees the deep rooted sin. He sees the ways that we stray from him. But instead of being disgusted or disinterested, he is compassionate. His heart breaks for us. This is the heart of the gospel. This is our heart.

]]> Sun, 21 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1408 119 218f2dd3c8129d7c7137260472f925b4 no God's Representatives Pastor Simeon Crass <p>When we take on the awesome task of serving Jesus in life, we can overlook the fact that we aren’t just to speak his words, but we are to model his behavior. That is the standard that God places on those who want to be overseers in his kingdom. Our first concern might be that we can’t live up to that calling… who can?? The same way that we depend on God’s grace for our salvation, we depend on his grace in dealing with us as we strive to do our best to represent him in his kingdom. </p> <p>When we take on the awesome task of serving Jesus in life, we can overlook the fact that we aren’t just to speak his words, but we are to model his behavior. That is the standard that God places on those who want to be overseers in his kingdom. Our first concern might be that we can’t live up to that calling… who can?? The same way that we depend on God’s grace for our salvation, we depend on his grace in dealing with us as we strive to do our best to represent him in his kingdom. </p> When we take on the awesome task of serving Jesus in life, we can overlook the fact that we aren’t just to speak his words, but we are to model his behavior. That is the standard that God places on those who want to be overseers in his kingdom. Our first concern might be that we can’t live up to that calling… who can?? The same way that we depend on God’s grace for our salvation, we depend on his grace in dealing with us as we strive to do our best to represent him in his kingdom.

]]> Sun, 14 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1281 120 45a56362c87963019199cbd8272bbe2e no WITH You Pastor Simeon Crass <p>What does Jesus mean when he tells us he will be with us? And how is that helpful? When you are going through scary situations or rough patches in life, why does the presence of God matter? In our reading for this Sunday, we are reminded of a simple truth: there is no one we would rather have with us than our Savior. </p> <p>What does Jesus mean when he tells us he will be with us? And how is that helpful? When you are going through scary situations or rough patches in life, why does the presence of God matter? In our reading for this Sunday, we are reminded of a simple truth: there is no one we would rather have with us than our Savior. </p> What does Jesus mean when he tells us he will be with us? And how is that helpful? When you are going through scary situations or rough patches in life, why does the presence of God matter? In our reading for this Sunday, we are reminded of a simple truth: there is no one we would rather have with us than our Savior.

]]> Sun, 04 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1378 121 b6e022578a8fcd2c5badf4f585041eea no A Feast of Wisdom Pastor Simeon Crass <p>Jesus continues his “Bread of Life” discourse as he reminds that disciples that God himself is the one who draws sinners to himself. This is a stark reminder that the wisdom of God is NOTHING like the wisdom of this world.</p> <p>Jesus continues his “Bread of Life” discourse as he reminds that disciples that God himself is the one who draws sinners to himself. This is a stark reminder that the wisdom of God is NOTHING like the wisdom of this world.</p> Jesus continues his “Bread of Life” discourse as he reminds that disciples that God himself is the one who draws sinners to himself. This is a stark reminder that the wisdom of God is NOTHING like the wisdom of this world.

]]> Sun, 18 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1328 122 1fdfd5767a4168009bbd0f8ef7a7dcaa no A Lasting Meal Pastor <p>Tragically, the best meals don’t last forever. Whether it’s the steak that you spent WAY too much money on or it’s that Thanksgiving meal that you fondly remember, we always find ourselves being hungry again. In these beginning verses of Jesus’ conversation about the bread of life, we find him reminding the people that he offers something better. He offers something that is not temporarily satisfying, but eternally filling!</p> <p>Tragically, the best meals don’t last forever. Whether it’s the steak that you spent WAY too much money on or it’s that Thanksgiving meal that you fondly remember, we always find ourselves being hungry again. In these beginning verses of Jesus’ conversation about the bread of life, we find him reminding the people that he offers something better. He offers something that is not temporarily satisfying, but eternally filling!</p> Tragically, the best meals don’t last forever. Whether it’s the steak that you spent WAY too much money on or it’s that Thanksgiving meal that you fondly remember, we always find ourselves being hungry again. In these beginning verses of Jesus’ conversation about the bread of life, we find him reminding the people that he offers something better. He offers something that is not temporarily satisfying, but eternally filling!

]]> Sun, 11 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1251 123 819e4159d7dde08fc3326cd1544c1316 no