Sermons from the past

December 2025

12-07-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

12-03-2025 Wednesday Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Isaiah’s Mountain Vision & Advent Hope”

1. Introduction: Long Journeys & Beautiful Views
Earl Shaffer’s Appalachian Trail journey: the beauty at the mountaintop motivates perseverance.
Parallel: Isaiah’s vision is a “mountaintop view” of God’s future hope.
2. Isaiah’s Vision (Isaiah 2:1–5): A Future of Peace, Justice & Restoration
A. God’s Mountain Exalted
Isaiah sees a future where people from all nations flow “uphill” toward God.
Like water defying gravity, this upward flow reflects the Holy Spirit drawing hearts back to God.
B. A Picture of Renewed Desire for God
People seek God’s presence, God’s teaching, and God’s ways.
Contrast with our present separation caused by sin (Fall & Tower of Babel imagery).
3. Part 1: Jesus Heals Our Separation From God
Isaiah’s vision shows the Fall reversed—people returning to God instead of hiding from Him.
Babel reversed—nations united, not scattered; drawn together by God’s wisdom.
Illustration: In LOTR, Sam asks, “Is everything sad going to come untrue?”—a picture of hope fulfilled in Christ.
Jesus’ coming (Advent) is the beginning of God’s great restoration.
4. Part 2: Jesus Heals Our Separation From One Another
A. Peace Replaces Conflict (Isaiah 2:3–4)
God settles disputes.
Weapons become tools for farming—“swords into plowshares.”
War ceases; God’s original design for unity is restored.
B. Humanity’s Brokenness: Reasons for War
Selfishness, pride, injustice—products of our fallenness.
Illustration: Robert Capa’s dream—“War Photographer, Unemployed”—fulfilled in God’s kingdom.
5. Living as People of the Light
A. The Wauconda Story
When city crosses were banned, families lit up their homes with Christian symbols.
Light became their witness—symbol of hope and unity.
B. Advent Application
First creation: God made light.
Last vision (Revelation): God’s presence is light.
Advent calls us to:
- Walk in God’s light.
- Heal separation from God through repentance.
- Heal separation from others through forgiveness and justice.
- Reflect God’s hope and peace in a dark world.

November 2025

11-30-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Watch With Expectancy”

1. Childlike Joy and Trust
Children naturally live with wonder, excitement, and trust.
They celebrate life instead of fearing it: “Bang it again, God!”
Jesus teaches: “Unless you become like little children…”
Childlike enthusiasm flows from trust, not fear.
2. The Loss of Expectancy
Adults learn cynicism and despair.
Many Christians stop watching and start worrying.
Modern believers often operate from fear, not faith.
Early Christians, though outnumbered and persecuted, lived with bold confidence in God.
3. Faith Creates Expectancy
Early disciples believed Christ’s promise: they would do greater works—and they did.
Faith gives urgency and hope: waking each day expecting God to act.
God often works in the “improbable”; therefore Jesus says, “Watch!”
4. The Poverty of Expectation
Many believers expect very little from God.
“Our weakness is not that we expect too much from God, but that we trust Him far too little.”
Like the child with a “small backyard,” our faith is often too limited.
5. Perspective Shapes Reality
What we expect is often what we experience.
We can focus on thorns or roses.
A negative mindset creates a negative life; a hopeful mindset opens the door to God’s work.
Self-fulfilling prophecy: expectation influences experience.
6. Living With Joyful Anticipation
Life feels different when we watch for God’s gifts and possibilities.
Joy returns when we look at life through the “spectacles” of faith.
Even small blessings become reasons to celebrate—like Snoopy dancing through life.
7. The Christmas Invitation
Helen Keller: Christ’s birth brings new love, kindness, mercy, compassion.
Christmas renews hope and awakens joy.
Instead of living in despair, we lift our eyes and watch for the Savior.
8. Jesus’ Command
“Watch therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.”
A call to:
- Expectancy
- Trust
- Joy
- Readiness
- Childlike faith

11-25-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon (Message by Janis Richert)

11-23-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Jesus, Remember Me — Christ the King”

1. Introduction: What Is the “Last Sermon” You Would Preach?
Seminary professor’s surprising final exam:
- “Your last sermon: Choose the text, theme, and a full outline.”
- An exercise that reshaped the pastor’s understanding of Christ the King.
2. Our Demand for a Superhero King
The crowd at the cross echoes Satan’s temptation:
- “If you are the Son of God… save yourself!”
- Desire for spectacle: miracles, power displays, instant rescue.
Our modern expectations:
- “Fix poverty, end war, stop evil.”
- “Heal my pain, save my marriage, fix my circumstance.”
We want a king defined on our terms: powerful, triumphant, convenient.
3. Jesus Defines His Own Kingship
No one else—crowds, soldiers, disciples, Satan—gets to define his reign.
Jesus’ self-description:
- Good news to the poor.
- Release to the captives.
- Healing for the blind and lame.
- A servant among his people.
- Seeker of the lost.
His rule is revealed not in spectacle but in compassion.
4. The Unspectacular Marks of His Reign
Jesus saves not with fireworks but with:
- Forgiveness – “Father, forgive them…”
- Remembrance – “Remember me.”
- Communion – presence with the forgotten.
These “small” acts hold divine power.
5. Example: Father Greg Boyle’s Ministry
Works in gang-ridden East L.A. doing simple but profound things:
- Listening, remembering birthdays, visiting prisons.
- Providing jobs, love, and dignity.
His ministry models the unspectacular marks of Christ’s Kingdom:
- Loving-kindness.
- Consistent presence.
- Seeing the forgotten.
- Calling people “son” and “daughter.”
6. Two Thieves: Two Responses to the King
A. The First Thief
Wants rescue from his situation, not salvation from sin.
Seeks a Messiah of convenience, not transformation.
B. The Second Thief
Recognizes Jesus’ true kingship.
Sees his own guilt, Jesus’ innocence, and God’s mercy.
Prays the humble prayer: “Jesus, remember me.”
Jesus grants:
- Mercy
- Presence
- A place in the Kingdom
C. Key Lesson
True salvation begins when we admit our need and ask for mercy.
Quote: “Before we see the cross as something done for us, we must see it as something done by us.” — John Stott.
7. God’s Grace: The Door Is Always Unlocked
Story of the runaway daughter:
- Mother prayed continuously and left the front door unlocked every night.
- A picture of God’s ever-open door of grace.
The cross is the key that unlocks the Kingdom.
God’s Kingdom is chosen, not imposed:
- You must want it, seek it, ask for it.
8. Receiving Jesus as King
When we accept Christ’s reign:
- Our identity is rooted in God’s love.
- God’s will becomes our agenda.
- God’s work becomes our calling.
- Eternal life becomes our inheritance.
Jesus does not remove all circumstances:
- He enters them with us.
- Uses them to transform us into His image.
9. The Heart of Christ Beats in Us
Story of the mother whose son’s heart beats in another person.
God listens for His Son’s heartbeat in our lives.
Christ died so that we may truly live.
10. The Cross That Changes Everything
Archbishop of Paris story:
- Young man dared to mock confession.
- Could not utter: “All this you did for me, and I don’t give a damn.”
- He was converted—now a preacher.
Encountering the cross transforms:
- Our understanding of love.
- Our relationship with God.
- Our desire to let Jesus reign again.
11. Conclusion
Christ the King does not prove himself by spectacle.
He reigns through:
- Forgiveness
- Remembrance
- Communion
The only prayer we truly need:
“Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.”
When we pray this, He answers—and His Kingdom becomes our life.

11-16-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“It’s Okay. I Have You.”

1. Introduction
Brief personal story from Pastor Lori about Hurricane Agnes (1972).
Rising floodwaters, entrapment in a VW Beetle, and rescue by firefighters.
Key moment: Firefighter saying, “It’s okay. I have you.”
This phrase illustrates the theme of divine trust and assurance.
2. From Storms to Scripture: Jesus’ Apocalyptic Warning
Jesus describes destruction of the Temple and future turmoil:
- Wars, insurrections.
- Natural disasters.
- Famines, plagues.
- Persecution, betrayal, even death.
Disciples’ likely reaction: fear, confusion.
Central reassurance:
“Not a hair of your head will perish. By your endurance you will gain your souls.”
3. God’s Assurance of Value and Care
Jesus’ teaching on God’s intimate care (Matt. 10 / Luke 12):
- Sparrows fall under God’s watchful eye.
- Hairs of your head are numbered.
- “Do not be afraid—You are worth more than many sparrows.”
Jesus acknowledges hardships but promises eternal security.
4. The Purpose of Apocalyptic Literature
Not written to terrify but to reassure believers.
Messages of hope for those faithful in the face of chaos.
God sees, values, and protects—no matter what happens around them.
5. Modern Application: The Storms We Face
Today’s “storms” may differ but still bring fear:
- Disease, depression, trauma, loss, abuse.
- Societal uncertainty, conflict, and instability.
We all need moments where God’s presence says, “I’ve got you.”
Worship and community as places of comfort and renewed strength.
6. Grace in Ordinary Encouragement
Story of Douglas Maurer, the teenager with leukemia.
Profound encouragement came not from medical staff but from a florist’s employee who survived similar illness.
Lesson: small acts of compassion carry great power.
Christians are called to active encouragement while awaiting Christ’s return.
7. Our Calling While We Wait for Christ
We don’t stand around watching the sky.
We engage in:
- Loving work.
- Encouraging work.
- Work that reflects God’s care to others.
Strength to do this comes from God’s abiding presence.
8. Conclusion
When the world crumbles, we can continue because God is with us.
God promises endurance and strength beyond ourselves.
Like the firefighter in the floodwaters, God gathers us and reassures us:
“It’s okay. I have you.”

11-09-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Life After Death: More Wonderful Than We Can Imagine”

1. Humanity’s Eternal Question
People throughout history — from Hollywood to theologians — wonder: What happens after we die?
Example: Albert Brooks’ film “Defending Your Life” humorously explores judgment and the afterlife.
Deep inside, all people — believers and skeptics alike — long for assurance that there’s more beyond this life.
Key Point: Our curiosity about heaven reveals our built-in hunger for eternity.
2. The Sadducees’ Trick Question
The Sadducees, who denied resurrection, tried to trap Jesus with a riddle about a woman who married seven brothers.
Their question wasn’t sincere — it was a test designed to embarrass Him.
Jesus turned their trap into truth: “Those who are considered worthy of taking part in the age to come… are like angels and are children of God.”
Heaven transcends earthly categories like marriage, status, or possession.
Key Point: Earthly logic cannot explain heavenly realities — heaven is qualitatively different, not just an improved version of earth.
3. Setting the Record Straight
Like Jesus, we encounter people with wrong or shallow questions about faith and eternity.
Every encounter is a chance to “set the record straight” — to share truth and hope.
Example: Dr. Harry Denman, who used unexpected conversations to awaken people’s faith — even in a hotel bar!
Key Point: People are searching for meaning — we are called to point them toward the living hope found in Christ.
4. Heaven Is Beyond Comparison
Earthly relationships and experiences — even the best ones — can’t compare to the joy of God’s presence.
As Fr. Andrew Greeley said: “We will love one another in the resurrected life even more intensely and joyfully than we do now.”
Even humorist Garrison Keillor imagined heaven’s perfection overwhelming us — “too much bliss” for ordinary folk.
Yet heaven’s glory will exceed all imagination.
Key Point: Heaven is not the loss of love — it’s the fulfillment of love, magnified by God’s presence.
5. Experiencing Heaven Now
Heaven isn’t only a future hope; it’s a present reality wherever God’s presence is felt.
Example: James Loder’s accident — even in near death, he experienced divine love, peace, and humor that transformed the hospital room.
God’s life-giving presence brings heaven to earth in moments of faith, prayer, and love.
Key Point: Eternal life begins the moment we experience the living presence of God.
6. Final Truth
Jesus’ message to the Sadducees — and to us — is clear:
- There is life after death.
- It is more beautiful and more real than anything we know.
- And heaven begins here and now for those who walk with the living God.
Closing Line: “For wherever God is, there is life. And there is heaven.” AMEN.

11-02-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Sharing God’s Love with Everyone”
Giving is not just about keeping the church running — it’s about participating in God’s mission to bless the world through the ministries of Streams in the Desert Lutheran Church.
1. A Call to Purposeful Giving
Many approach giving pragmatically — to “pay the church’s bills.”
But Christian giving is not about maintenance; it’s about mission.
Our gifts extend far beyond our walls, furthering God’s plan to bless all humankind.
Key Question: How does my giving help Streams share God’s love with others?
2. Streams’ Three Core Ministries
The Narrative Mission Plan identifies three major areas of ministry:
Worship – $133,000
- Sunday worship, live-streams, Lenten/Advent services, and other special observances.
Education – $72,000
- Adult Bible studies, women’s groups, youth ministry, Vacation Bible School, and Via de Cristo.
Community Service – $91,000
- Food pantry, Caring Ministries, 12-step programs, facility use, and outreach partnerships.
Annual Budget: $295,000
But with volunteer labor factored in, the impact equals over $600,000 of ministry value!
3. The Power of Volunteering
- Members volunteer over 1,100 hours per month — the equivalent of 7 full-time staff positions.
- Volunteers manage the office, cleaning, maintenance, finances, altar guild, and more.
- Their work doubles the church’s effective ministry impact.
- Every act of service multiplies God’s blessings in the congregation and community.
Key Point: Our time is as valuable as our treasure — together they make God’s love visible.
4. Streams’ Global and Local Impact
Through giving to the Grand Canyon Synod and ELCA ministries, Streams supports:
- 164 international scholarships in 41 partner churches.
- World Hunger programs in 62 countries.
- Lutheran Disaster Relief in 53 countries.
- 101 long-term missionaries in 35 nations.
Locally, Streams blesses:
- Families through the food pantry (“The food I received today means I can survive until the 1st of the month”).
- 12-Step groups, where participants testify that programs “saved my life, marriage, and family.”
- SLAA participants, finding God and freedom from abuse through meetings hosted at Streams.
Key Point: Every dollar and every hour given here reaches across the world — and across the street.
5. Living Our Mission: “To Share God’s Love with Everyone”
Testimonies from worship, education, and outreach confirm:
- Lives are being changed.
- Faith is being renewed.
- God’s love is being shared.
As we prepare for Walk to the Altar Sunday, we are reminded that giving is not duty — it’s discipleship.
Final Challenge:
“When you give to Streams, you are not just supporting a church — you are helping fulfill God’s mission to share His love with everyone.”

October 2025

10-26-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Gift of Outrageous Grace”

1. We Often Fail to Listen — Especially to God
We’re easily distracted and often hear only what we want to hear — we’re selective listeners.
Like those who listened to Jesus’ parables, our pride, stress, and self-focus can block our ability to hear God’s truth.
Illustration: Pastors facing wild distractions during sermons — slippery pews, flying bats — remind us how easily attention drifts.
Jesus uses parables to break through our noise and ego, helping us truly listen to God.
Key Point: Hearing God requires humility — a heart ready to listen, not defend.
2. Comparing Ourselves to Others Turns Faith into Competition
The Pharisee thanked God that he was “not like other men.”
When we compare ourselves to others, faith becomes prideful, not relational.
Illustration: The Tennessee coach’s tailor story — “In Tuscaloosa, you’re not nearly as big a man as you are in Knoxville.” Pride distorts perspective.
Lesson: Religion is not about measuring up to people; it’s about knowing and being shaped by God.
God desires relationship, not performance or self-righteousness.
Key Point: Holiness is not about being better than others — it’s about becoming more like God.
3. Comparing Ourselves to God Leads to Mercy and Grace
The tax collector compared himself not to people, but to a holy God.
His humble prayer — “God, have mercy on me, a sinner” — opened the door to grace.
Illustration: From C.S. Lewis’ The Great Divorce — the man who refused heaven because he wouldn’t accept “bleeding charity.”
Grace (Greek charis) means “gift.” The tax collector received the gift he could never earn.
Jesus’ verdict: “This man went home justified before God.”
Key Point: Grace begins when we stop pretending we deserve it.
4. If You Don’t Know Grace, You Don’t Know God
The Pharisee did the right things, but missed the heart of God — mercy.
Grace isn’t achieved by effort; it’s received by faith.
Illustration: Timothy Paul Jones’ adopted daughter — excluded by her first family, terrified she’d never be “good enough.”
- After finally being taken to Disney World, she said, “Daddy, I got to go to Disney World… not because I was good, but because I’m yours.”
- That’s grace — not earned by goodness, but given through belonging.
Key Point: “Outrageous grace” means we are loved, not because we’re good, but because we’re God’s.
5. The Heart of Reformation: Grace Alone
Martin Luther’s discovery — salvation is by grace through faith, not works — echoes this parable’s message.
The Pharisee’s pride represents religion without relationship.
The tax collector’s prayer embodies the Reformation truth: “We are justified by faith, not by works.”
Final Truth:
“Our salvation is not about our goodness, but about God’s grace.”
“All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

10-19-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Never Give Up!”

1. The Parable: A Widow Who Wouldn’t Quit
Jesus tells of a widow seeking justice from a heartless judge who “neither feared God nor cared about people.”
Though powerless and poor, she kept coming back until the judge gave in.
Her persistence is the key lesson: faith that refuses to quit.
Jesus’ message: Keep praying, keep believing, keep trusting—don’t give up!
2. Determination Is Powerful
Illustration – Grand Forks Herald:
During the 1997 flood, the local paper kept publishing even after its offices burned down. Their headline: “COME HELL AND HIGH WATER.”
➜ Determination inspires others and keeps hope alive.
Winston Churchill once said, “Never give up! Never give up! Never give up!”
Persistence in the face of hardship builds strength, character, and faith.
3. People Who Keep Fighting Sometimes Win
Success and healing often come to those who refuse to quit.
Example – Michael Blake: endured 25 years of rejection before writing Dances with Wolves — an Oscar-winning story.
➜ His message: Stay committed, your dreams can come true.
The same applies to faith—those who keep praying and working often see God’s blessings in time.
4. Perseverance Changes the Soul
Even if circumstances don’t change, we change.
Example – W. Mitchell: burned and paralyzed in accidents, but refused to give up. Became a mayor and motivational speaker.
➜ His truth: “It’s not what happens to you that matters, but how you react to what happens to you.”
Perseverance reveals hidden strength and transforms suffering into purpose.
5. Perseverance Leads Us to God
Jesus’ parable is ultimately about persistent prayer and enduring faith.
- God sometimes seems silent, but He is not absent.
- Faith is tested not by doubt or attack, but by waiting.
Jesus asks: “When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?”
➜ True faith endures through silence, pain, and unanswered prayers.
6. The Reward of Perseverance
Those who persist find that:
1. Sometimes they win — faith bears fruit.
2. Sometimes their soul is changed — faith deepens and matures.
3. Sometimes they find God Himself — faith becomes relationship, not results.
God keeps His promises — all 33,000 of them. Faith that refuses to quit will one day be crowned with life.

10-12-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Where Are the Other Nine?”

1. Only One Returned — The Power of Gratitude
Jesus healed ten lepers, yet only one came back to give thanks.
The story reveals that faith and gratitude are inseparable — true faith always leads to thanksgiving.
“If you trust God, you can’t help but be thankful. If you aren’t thankful, check whether faith truly lives in your heart.”
2. Faith and Gratitude Go Hand in Hand
Illustration: Jeremy — a teenager who endured abuse, poverty, and loss, yet was filled with gratitude for God’s care.
Gratitude is not about circumstances; it’s about perspective.
Jeremy’s faith produced gratitude; gratitude strengthened his faith.
True believers live in a continual state of thankfulness, even through suffering.
3. We Often Forget to Say “Thank You”
Illustration: Randy Phillips (“Phillips, Craig & Dean”) — never thanked “Mama Ruth,” a woman who prayed for him daily for 20 years.
We all have “Mama Ruths” in our lives — people who have blessed us, but whom we’ve never thanked.
Forgetting to thank others often reflects that we’ve also forgotten to thank God.
Gratitude transforms gloom into joy and anxiety into peace.
“If we ever really thanked God, our lives would be transformed.”
4. Gratitude Heals the Heart
The thankful leper not only received physical healing but spiritual wholeness — “Your faith has made you well.”
Gratitude brings emotional and even physical healing.
Illustration: Barbara Sholis, a cancer survivor, found that gratitude in each new day is the “purest measure of one’s character and spiritual condition.”
Gratitude is medicine for the soul — it heals fear, stress, and bitterness.
5. The Ultimate Reason for Gratitude — Christ Himself
Quote: Salvation Army preacher —
“Born in another man’s stable, buried in another man’s grave… His first pillow straw, and His last a crown of thorns. And it was for you and me.”
Jesus gave everything for us — and yet, how often do we thank Him?
Ingratitude is not a small sin; it is the “damning sin” that forgets the cost of grace.
The cross has become the place of life, not death — and that alone should fill us with unending gratitude.

10-05-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“A Little Faith Goes a Long Way”

1. Faith Is More Than Belief
Illustration: The circus high-wire artist — everyone believes he can do it, but only true faith climbs on his shoulders.
Lesson: Faith is not passive agreement; it’s active trust. Belief stays in the bleachers. Faith gets on the wire.
2. Even a Little Faith Can Do the Impossible
Jesus said faith the size of a mustard seed can uproot a tree and plant it in the sea.
Key truth: It’s not about how much faith you have, but who your faith is in.
Illustration: Mary McLeod Bethune started a school with $1.50 and faith—eventually founding Bethune-Cookman College. Even the smallest faith, when placed in God, produces extraordinary results.
3. Use the Faith You Already Have
The disciples said, “Increase our faith.” Jesus replied, “You already have enough.”
The issue isn’t quantity but use.
Illustration: Dr. Willimon’s story — A student, inspired by a sermon, leaves pharmacy school to serve God among migrant children. We already have the faith we need to answer God’s call—what matters is acting on it.
4. Faith Empowers Us to Serve, Not to Shine
Jesus teaches that faith makes us servants who simply “do what we ought to do.”
True faith aligns our will with Christ’s; it’s expressed in obedience and humility. Faith is not for fame but for faithfulness.
5. Faith Makes God’s Love Personal
Illustration: Frederick Buechner’s communion story — “The body of Christ, Freddy, the bread of heaven.”
Jesus’ words, “This is my body, broken for you,” are deeply personal. Faith begins when we realize Christ’s love is not just for humanity — it’s for me.

September 2025

09-28-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Wake Up Before You Die”

1. Wake Up Before You Die
A child’s prayer mistake—“If I should wake before I die”—reminds us of the need to be spiritually awake and aware before our life ends.
Many of us live in a state of habituation—so used to things around us that we no longer notice what’s truly important.
2. The Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus
The rich man became habituated to Lazarus at his gate—eventually ignoring his suffering.
We are more like the rich man than Lazarus: wealthy, healthy, educated, blessed with comforts.
The real question: Who is the Lazarus at our gate?
3. Needs Come in Many Forms
Not all needs are financial—people hunger for love, recognition, encouragement, role models, and a relationship with Christ.
Examples:
- Verna, the USO girl, longed for love and purpose.
- In marriages or families, spouses and children may be silently longing for attention, understanding, or guidance.
4. Spiritual Blindness & Insensitivity
Like the rich man, we risk becoming blind to the needs of those closest to us—family, coworkers, neighbors.
Ignoring these needs leads to brokenness, missed opportunities, and eternal consequences.
5. A Warning and a Call to Action
The rich man’s plea after death: “Send someone to warn my family.” Abraham replied, “They have Moses and the prophets.”
If we won’t listen to God’s Word now, even a miracle won’t change us.
The challenge: Wake up before it’s too late.
6. Application – Who Is Your Lazarus?
Someone near you needs your attention—perhaps a spouse, a child, a friend, or a stranger.
Don’t overlook or “trample on” the people God has placed in your path.
Wake up, notice, care, and act in love.

09-21-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

The Unjust Steward

1. The Parable’s Tension
Like the clever tailor in Italy, the unjust steward used deception to save himself.
At first glance, his behavior seems unethical — so why does Jesus make him the hero?
2. Not About His Ethics, But His Ingenuity
Jesus wasn’t praising dishonesty — He was praising action, creativity, and determination.
The steward didn’t sit idle or complain. He made a plan and acted on it.
3. Moral Numbness Is Dangerous
Our society normalizes “small” lies and dishonesty (insurance claims, exaggerations, cutting corners).
Like oil on ducks’ feathers, dishonesty gradually numbs the soul until it destroys trust and integrity.
Jesus reminds us: “He who is faithful in little will be faithful in much.”
4. The Real Lesson: Zeal for the Kingdom
“The children of this world are wiser than the children of light.”
Too often Christians settle for being “nice” but passive. Jesus calls us to active faith — plowing, not just feeding.
Illustration: Spurgeon — “The oxen were plowing, but the asses were feeding!”
5. Faith Is More Than Niceness
Example: Wilbur Pinney’s ministry of simply greeting and smiling at lonely seniors each Sunday. Small acts done with love can become a true ministry.
Being nice is a good start — but God calls us to find a ministry, a way to make an eternal difference.

09-14-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“God is the ultimate Keeper; we are called to be Finders”

1. The Nature of Being Lost
Like the lost sheep or lost coin, we may not always know we’re lost.
Being lost can feel disoriented, helpless, and even frantic.
Both people and situations can cause “lostness.”
2. The Good News of God’s Grace
God doesn’t abandon the lost—He seeks them with relentless love.
Jesus is the Shepherd searching for the one, the woman seeking the coin.
Salvation and redemption are purely by grace, not our worthiness.
3. The Rejoicing of Heaven
When the lost are found, heaven celebrates—a “new birth day” party.
God throws a party when sinners repent and return.
Our role is to rejoice with Him, not to criticize or exclude like the Pharisees.
4. Our Calling as Finders
We are not the “keepers” who judge, but the “finders” who seek and love.
Everyone is either someone who has experienced God’s forgiveness or someone who needs it.
We’re called to share grace and welcome others into God’s family.
5. The Church as a Place of Radical Love
Tony Campolo’s story: a birthday party for a prostitute illustrates God’s love.
The church should reflect this same love—spontaneous, unconditional, grace-filled.
If churches embodied that radical hospitality, people would be drawn in.

09-07-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Are You Available?”

1. Availability Matters
To be a disciple is to be ready when God calls.
True availability means: “I’m here, willing, and ready to serve.”
2. Available to Walk in Jesus’ Steps
Jesus asks for love and loyalty above all else, even family or comfort.
Like Tsali, who sacrificed for his people, Christ gave His life for us — and calls us to follow in His footsteps.
3. Available to Suffer the Consequences
Discipleship may cost comfort, security, or even dreams.
Example: Chiune Sugihara risked his career to save 6,000 Jews — choosing faithfulness over ambition.
Following Christ means carrying our own cross.
4. Available to Tell the Story
Many hesitate to share their faith, but God uses even the simplest witness.
Example: A girl with Down’s Syndrome prompted a missionary to share Jesus with a searching stranger.
God works through those willing to speak up.
5. The Call
God is always calling — the question is not if, but when.
Our response should be: “I’m available.”

August 2025

08-31-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“True Greatness”

1. The Danger of Pride
Pride leads to foolishness, self-absorption, and isolation.
Craving recognition can blind us to our real needs and keep us from growth.
Jesus warned: “Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled.”
2. The Value of Healthy Self-Worth
Pride is not the same as knowing your God-given worth.
You are a child of God, worth the life of Christ Himself.
Don’t measure yourself with the wrong “ruler” — see yourself through God’s eyes.
3. The Call to Serve Others
True greatness in God’s kingdom comes through humility and service.
Examples: Albert Schweitzer, William Booth, Mother Teresa — lives marked by serving “the least of these.”
Jesus modeled this as the ultimate man for others.
4. The Path to Lasting Recognition
Worldly status fades (wealth, possessions, reputation).
Eternal recognition is found in humble service and living for others.
“He who humbles himself will be exalted.”

08-24-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Sabbath: Rise Up and Live”

1. Obedience Matters
True obedience often requires sacrifice.
Like the boy refusing candy or David abstaining from basketball, obedience reflects love for God above personal comfort.
2. The Sabbath as Freedom
Sabbath is not about rules, but about release.
Jesus healed the bent woman on the Sabbath to show that setting people free is Sabbath work.
God designed the Sabbath to remind us of His power to free us from slavery, sin, and suffering.
3. Freedom Leads to Praise
The healed woman immediately praised God.
Praising God—even in hardship—lifts us up and sets our hearts free.
Worship is the ultimate act of Sabbath rest.
4. The Call to Help Others Rise Up
Jesus restores people so they can rise up and live fully.
Like the girl in Botswana learning to walk, God has something better in store for each life.
We are called to help others discover that freedom and walk in it.

08-17-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Reading the Times”

1. We Are Materially Rich
Our culture is filled with prosperity, possessions, and comforts.
Yet wealth can blind us to eternal values.
True treasure is not stored on earth but in heaven (example: Schaeffers and the founding of L’Abri).
2. We Are Spiritually Poor
Despite wealth, society faces moral decline and empty values.
“Feeling good” has replaced “being good.”
Real fulfillment comes not from quick fixes or self-help tricks, but from living by God’s truth.
3. We Are Afraid
Anxiety lingers despite progress in science, wealth, and technology.
Fear reveals a God-shaped void that only faith can fill.
Psalm 91 reminds us: God’s presence drives out fear.

08-10-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Be Prepared”

1. Preparation is the Difference Between Success and Failure
In life, work, and faith, those who prepare are ready when opportunities come.
Ted Williams, Bryant Gumbel, and others succeeded because they were prepared when the “perfect pitch” or moment arrived.
2. Preparation Can Mean Life or Death
In high-risk situations (pilots, surgeons, soldiers), readiness determines survival.
Spiritual life is no different — we must be ready to respond instinctively to temptation, trials, and crises.
3. Preparation Brings the Master’s Blessing
Jesus taught that servants ready for the Master’s return will be richly rewarded.
Abraham Lincoln’s life and leadership flowed from deep spiritual preparation in Scripture and prayer.
Daily time with God equips us to receive His strength and blessings.
4. Our Call: Spiritual Readiness
Commit to practices that build spiritual preparedness: prayer, Scripture, worship, fellowship.
Like the Texas A&M “Twelfth Man,” be ready to step in and do your part.
When Christ knocks, those who are prepared will rejoice in His blessing.

08-03-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Money: Wise or Foolish?”

1. Money Has Value
It is not money, but the love of money that Scripture condemns (1 Tim. 6:10).
Denying money’s importance is foolish — it can provide necessities like food, education, and security.
But money is only a tool, not the goal.
2. Hoarding Money Brings No Joy
The rich man in Jesus’ parable kept everything for himself and missed the true purpose of wealth.
Genuine happiness comes from giving and relationships, not possessions.
“The only thing we keep is what we give away.”
3. Money Must Never Become Your God
When wealth becomes the ultimate pursuit, it destroys lives (examples: market crashes, greed, and despair).
Earthly riches are worthless in eternity — like shells and beads in Spurgeon’s story.
True wealth is being “rich toward God.”
4. The Call to Generosity
Wise people use money for higher purposes: serving others, advancing God’s kingdom, and blessing those in need.
What we give lasts forever; what we cling to is lost.

July 2025

07-27-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Teach Us to Pray”

1. Prayer Begins with God, Not Us
Half of the Lord’s Prayer focuses on God: His name, His kingdom, His will.
Prayer is first about praising God and aligning ourselves with His greatness.
2. Prayer is Simple and Honest
Jesus teaches us to ask only for what we truly need: daily bread, forgiveness, protection.
Prayer is not a shopping list but a conversation with a loving Father.
3. Prayer Addresses Our Deepest Needs
Daily bread → security.
Forgiveness → freedom from guilt.
Protection → strength to resist temptation and evil.
4. Prayer is Rooted in Trust
“For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever.”
Real prayer rests on confidence that God hears, cares, and knows what is best.
Trust means letting go and leaving outcomes in God’s hands.

07-20-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Take Time to Pray”

1. Neglecting Prayer Dries Up Our Spiritual Well
Like an unused well that clogs and dries up, our spiritual lives weaken when we stop praying.
Prayer keeps the channels of God’s grace flowing in our lives, homes, and churches.
2. Prayer is Our Power Source
Without prayer, we are like a vacuum cleaner unplugged from the wall.
Luther: the busier the day, the more time he spent in prayer.
Prayer restores inner strength when life leaves us tired inside.
3. Prayer Puts Our Priorities in Order
Like Charles Schwab’s daily list, prayer helps us sort what truly matters.
Meeting with God re-centers our lives around His will rather than our frantic busyness.
4. Prayer Gives Endurance When Problems Remain
Not all prayers bring immediate solutions; sometimes problems persist.
Prayer provides the inner strength to face struggles with faith, like Hereford cattle standing firm in the storm.
Trusting God daily enables us to persevere until victory comes.

07-13-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Good Samaritan & Kindness Without Reward”

1. The Power of Unintended Good Works
Peter Godwin’s life was spared years later because of his mother’s medical work and his own act of giving a sugar cube.
Good works often bear fruit in ways we cannot anticipate.
2. The Parable of the Good Samaritan
A priest and Levite passed by—reminding us that religion without compassion is empty.
The Samaritan acted with mercy, despite prejudice.
Even the innkeeper modeled costly, long-term care and trust.
3. The Call to Renew Sensitivity
Kindness and decency are possible—and essential—in following Jesus.
True discipleship means noticing and responding to need, not just fulfilling religious duty.
4. Compassion Is Contagious
Studies show people often ignore cries for help until someone acts first.
Followers of Jesus are called to be the “first responder”—the light that encourages others to act.
5. Loving God Means Loving Neighbor
Eternal life is not only about worship but also about action.
Faith without love expressed in service is incomplete.

07-06-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Sent Out With Power”

1. Disciples Are Called to Stand Out
Unlike spies who must blend in, Jesus wants his followers to be noticed.
He sends them out “like lambs among wolves”—their lives and message would make them different.
2. The Mission Requires Relentless Focus
Jesus instructs them: travel light, don’t waste time, keep moving, keep healing, keep telling.
Pastor T.D. Jakes: the key to ministry is being relentless, not gifted or resourced.
3. Not Everyone Will Welcome the Message
Some, like Benji in the story, don’t want the “responsibility” of discipleship.
Faith is more than attending church—it means embracing the call to serve, obey, and share Christ.
4. Discipleship Is About Transformation, Not Qualifications
Jesus doesn’t choose based on height, status, or ability—only a life changed by him.
Our role is to witness: “The kingdom of God has come near to you.”
5. The Power of Testimony
Example: Nicky Cruz, once violent, became a bold witness after Christ transformed him.
A changed life speaks louder than arguments—our stories open hearts to God.
6. Our Faith Pushes Back Darkness
Jesus said, “I saw Satan fall like lightning.”
Evil is defeated not only by Christ’s authority but also by our faith, witness, and obedience.

June 2025

06-29-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Commitment Without Excuses”

1. Excuses weaken commitment
“I will follow you, Lord, but…” — the little word but cancels out our devotion.
Churches are full of excuses: “too tired, too busy, too many other priorities.”
Jesus wants faithfulness, not excuses.
2. Jesus’ example of total commitment
He “set his face toward Jerusalem” — determined to go to the cross for us.
Calls us to the same kind of lifelong, sacrificial commitment.
3. Three kinds of excuses from the Gospel lesson
Comfort excuse: “I’ll follow you” → but only if life stays easy.
Family excuse: “Let me first take care of…” → Jesus must come first.
Looking back excuse: “Let me go say goodbye” → those who look backward cannot serve well going forward.
4. True discipleship is costly but Spirit-filled
Commitment may mean sacrifice (like the woman who sold herself into service to fund a mission).
A committed life is not just “show” (like tubas with no sound).
Daily living in the Spirit produces fruit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.
5. Living commitment in everyday life
Small acts of kindness show the Spirit’s fruit (man giving shoes for a little girl to get ice cream).
Even children can witness (Joel standing up against bad language, though he was mocked).
Following Jesus won’t be easy, but He promises His presence and eternal reward.
6. Final call
Don’t live with excuses.
Live for Jesus, empowered by the Spirit, serving others.
Say with conviction: “I will follow you, Lord.”

06-22-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Seeing Ourselves Through Christ’s Eyes”

Like Rapunzel, many of us are held captive by lies that we are unworthy or “ugly.” But in Christ’s eyes, we see our true beauty and identity as children of God.

1. The Lies That Bind Us
The “witch” in Rapunzel’s story removed mirrors and told her she was ugly.
Spiritually, the Law plays that role: it exposes failure but cannot give love or acceptance.
We feel confined, cursed, and unworthy when we try to live under impossible standards.
2. Freedom Through Christ
Paul discovered freedom when he encountered the risen Christ on the Damascus road.
In Jesus’ eyes, we see our true worth: we are sons and daughters of God.
Like Tony Sanchez, who only discovered his value through his adoptive mother’s love, we are transformed when we realize Christ loves us unconditionally.
3. Living the Christ Life Today
Faith in Christ breaks down barriers: “neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female…”
Self-esteem apart from faith is fragile. True identity is found only in God’s love.
Once we “put on Christ,” our lives can be shaped like Michelangelo’s unfinished statues—set free to realize our God-given potential.

06-15-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Mystery of the Trinity”

The Trinity is not something we can fully explain—it is a divine mystery meant to draw us into awe, worship, and relationship with God.

1. The Limits of Explanation
People throughout history have tried to explain the Trinity with illustrations: ice/water/steam, egg, shamrock, sun, mirror, etc.
Every attempt falls short and risks heresy because God cannot be fully captured by human language.
The Trinity is mystery—not to be explained away, but to be worshiped with awe.
2. The Danger of Oversimplifying God
Like Augustine’s seashore story: our minds are too small to contain the immensity of God.
God is not a “walking stick” to lean on only in trouble, nor a weapon to defend our narrow truth.
Any God we can fully explain isn’t truly God.
3. The Heart of the Trinity: Relationship
God revealed as Creator, Son, and Spirit is relational—meeting us where we are.
Laurie Beth Jones’ story of Jesus in blue jeans reminds us: God comes to us in ways we understand.
The Trinity means God is not distant, but present with us in love.
4. The Greatest Truth
Karl Barth, one of the greatest theologians, summed up theology with: “Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so.”
The essence of the Trinity isn’t abstract doctrine but experiencing God’s love personally.

06-08-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Fire of the Spirit”

Pentecost reminds us that the church—and our lives—cannot thrive on intellect, resources, or sincerity alone. We need the power of the Holy Spirit to set us on fire for God’s work.

1. The Spirit Moves in Mysterious Ways
Just like the sudden wind that saved a mother and daughter in Denver, the Spirit acts unseen but with life-saving power.
At Pentecost, the Spirit came as wind and fire, empowering disciples to speak in many languages and spread the gospel boldly.
2. The Church’s Missing Ingredient: Power
Today’s church has knowledge, sincerity, and resources—but often lacks the fire of the Spirit.
Without the Spirit, our worship becomes routine, our faith becomes “decaf,” and we risk looking like we’re building fires without lighting them.
3. The Spirit Brings Enthusiasm (“In God”)
True faith is more than intellect—it engages heart, imagination, and emotion.
Like the disciples, we should not fear being seen as “enthusiastic” or “on fire,” because Spirit-filled joy is contagious and transformative.
4. The Spirit Empowers Us for Today’s Challenges
We face global crises (terrorism, poverty, secularism, environmental destruction) that cannot be solved with human power alone.
Personally, we need the Spirit’s courage and compassion to live with integrity in a culture of greed and compromise.
5. The Danger of Playing It Safe
Like the S.S. Californian during the Titanic disaster, the church can drift powerless when it extinguishes its fire.
The Spirit gives us the steam to move into action and be Christ’s hands in the world.

06-01-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Jesus’ Final Prayer”

1. Jesus’ last prayer was for us
He prayed not only for his disciples but for “those who will believe in me through their message”—that’s us.
His priority at the end wasn’t politics, power, or miracles—it was prayer, faith, hope, forgiveness, and unity.
2. There is still work to do
Jesus entrusts us with carrying on his mission: spreading the gospel, serving others, and building God’s kingdom.
Like the “next man up” principle in football or the military—when one falls, the mission continues. We are called to step up.
3. God equips the called
We may feel unqualified, but God doesn’t call the qualified—He qualifies the called.
Our availability matters more than our ability—God’s Spirit supplies the power.
4. Our calling is shared with joy
As Bob Goff says: God leans over us and whispers, “Let’s go do that together.”
God wants us to live with purpose, doing eternal work that goes beyond self-interest.
5. Unity is the greatest witness
Jesus’ prayer is often called the “Unity Prayer.” He knew that unity multiplies our impact.
Google’s Project Aristotle found that the best teams thrive when they listen and respect each other—Jesus already modeled that truth.
Our unity in Christ proves to the world that Jesus is real and that God loves us.
6. The Master’s unfinished work
Like Puccini’s opera, completed by his students after his death, Jesus entrusted us to finish his work on earth.
“Thus far the Master wrote, but he died… his disciples finished his work.”
The church today must pick up the baton and continue the mission together.

May 2025

05-25-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Peace in a Troubled World”

1. We live in a “driven” world filled with stress
Stress-related illnesses affect up to 90% of patients (ulcers, insomnia, high blood pressure, etc.).
Many live with the C.D.T.s — the Cares, Difficulties, and Troubles of life.
Like Magellan finding the Pacific after stormy seas, we long for peace. Jesus promises that peace.
2. Fear robs us of peace
Ann Landers said most letters she received were about fear: loss of health, marriage, job, or vague dread.
Jesus promises we are never abandoned—He gives us the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, the Father’s heartbeat in our lives.
3. Guilt keeps us trapped in “The Land of Look-Behind”
Runaway slaves lived in constant fear, always looking over their shoulders.
Many today live the same way because of unresolved guilt.
Only Christ’s forgiveness can move us from The Land of Look-Behind to The Land of Beginning Again.
4. Anxiety about tomorrow blinds us to today’s blessings
Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount: “Do not be anxious about tomorrow.”
Example: Roger Maris pausing mid-game to marvel at geese flying overhead—he knew the peace of enjoying the present moment.
Worry drains energy without solving problems.
5. Faith unlocks peace
Jesus: “Believe in God, believe also in me.”
Faith gives strength greater than any burden, like cables on a bridge built to bear more than required.
Through the Spirit, we can endure trials, overcome temptation, and live triumphantly.

05-18-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Love Is Not Optional”

1. Love Requires Work
Love doesn’t “just happen”—it takes effort, nurture, and daily commitment.
Example: President Truman wrote daily letters to his wife, even while leading a nation.
Families today—especially blended ones—must work extra hard at love.
2. Love is the Mark of a Christian
Jesus said the world would recognize His disciples by their love (not just by right living, church attendance, or giving).
Example: Kent Hill’s gentle, loving response to a hostile Russian professor diffused tension and testified more powerfully than arguments.
True discipleship is recognized through Christlike love.
3. Love is Christ’s Most Powerful Weapon
Love is how Jesus conquered darkness, death, and despair.
Example: Vietnamese refugee families transformed bitter, wounded veteran Bill Fero by consistently showing kindness until his hatred melted into compassion.
Love can unlock the hardest and coldest hearts.

05-11-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“God’s love is like the love of a faithful parent—personal, giving, and unending”

1. God’s love is personal.
Like a good shepherd knowing his sheep by name, God knows each of us individually.
In a world where people feel like numbers, God calls us by name and values us.
Illustration: Irish mother refusing to reduce her children to “numbers.”
2. God’s love is giving.
God gives life, sustains us daily, and offers eternal life.
Love, like a mother’s patient responses to endless questions, “never gets tired.”
Even when we ask selfishly (“Got any more?”), God continues to give.
3. God’s love never quits.
Jesus promises, “No one will snatch them from me.” Paul says, “Nothing can separate us from the love of God.”
Like a mother who never stops caring, even for her grown child, God’s love endures.
Illustration: John Deckard’s prized rose ruined by his son—yet he displayed his son’s picture instead, showing love matters more than perfection.

05-04-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Jesus meets us in our moments of confusion and distraction to confront, challenge, and call us into deeper discipleship”

1. Christ Confronts Us
The disciples retreated to fishing, seeking comfort after confusion and grief.
Jesus interrupts them to remind them their mission is not over—it is just beginning.
Like the parable of the man in the iron tank, Christ sometimes confronts us to pull us out of isolation or retreat.
2. Christ Challenges Us
Around the fire, Jesus asks Peter three times: “Do you love me?” → undoing Peter’s three denials.
The challenge: love must be proven through action—feeding Christ’s sheep.
Modern challenge: will we prioritize possessions, comfort, and self… or sacrificial service to others?
3. Christ Calls Us
Jesus repeats the first call he gave his disciples: “Follow me.”
He doesn’t send us alone—he goes before us as Leader and Shepherd.
Zig Ziglar’s story: real meaning and purpose come only when we surrender our lives fully to Christ.

April 2025

04-27-2025 Sermon – Guest Precher – Pastor David Pavesic (see Stream’s YouTube page for full service)

04-20-2025 9:00am Easter Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Christ is risen!“

1. The Resurrection is the Most Important Part
Like the little boy said, the story of Jesus doesn’t end at the cross—He’s alive again!
St. Paul’s Cathedral bears the inscription Resurgam (“I shall rise again”)—a permanent witness to resurrection hope.
2. Easter Removes the Fear of Death
Christ conquered the grave—death no longer has dominion over us.
We were created for life, not death; because Jesus lives, we too shall live.
3. Easter Removes the Fear of Life
There are things worse than dying—living without dignity, hope, or freedom.
Easter assures us that God is involved in His world, giving us strength and purpose even in hardship.
4. Easter Declares Victory
For 2,000 years the church has proclaimed: Christus Victor—Christ is victorious.
Easter is the true celebration of God’s triumph over sin, death, and despair.
5. Easter Proves We Matter to God
Christianity is not just morals or philosophy—it is Easter faith.
The resurrection shows that our lives hold eternal significance: God’s love is so deep that even death cannot separate us from Him.

04-18-2025 Good Friday Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“TGFGF – Thank God for Good Friday”

1. Why “Good” Friday?
Despite the suffering, it is “good” because Jesus took on the sins of the world.
Good Friday reminds us to say with gratitude: “He died for me.”
2. Good Friday is about Suffering
Crucifixion was brutal, painful, and humiliating—yet Jesus endured it.
His suffering gives hope to those enduring their own trials (example: Pastor Ed Dobson with ALS found encouragement in focusing on the “suffering Jesus”).
3. Good Friday is about Service and Sacrifice
Jesus willingly submitted to the Father’s will (“Not my will but Yours be done”).
His sacrifice has inspired countless others (example: Dr. Albert Schweitzer leaving a comfortable life to serve in Africa).
Like Emil Mettler’s nail in the cash register, the cross reminds us of the cost of salvation and what we owe Christ in return.
4. Good Friday is about Salvation
Through Jesus’ death, we are reconciled to God and welcomed into His family.
His life and death were marked by healing, teaching, feeding, and loving—culminating in the cross for our salvation.
5. The Call of Good Friday
To remember Christ’s suffering.
To live lives of service and sacrifice.
To rejoice in the salvation offered to us.

04-17-2025 Maundy Thursday Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Lord’s Table is a place of remembrance, repentance, and preparation”

Remembrance
Communion reminds us of Christ’s sacrifice: “Do this in remembrance of me.”
Just as we take pictures or tell stories to hold on to important moments, the Table helps us never forget Jesus.
Even a child’s voice reminds us of the heart of the message: “Don’t forget me!”
Repentance
The bread and cup remind us of grace that covers our sins.
Like the man who asked, “Is there enough in there for me?”—the answer is yes. There is forgiveness for all.
At Christ’s table, “all the world is welcome here.”
Preparation
Communion points us toward Christ’s return: “You proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.”
Taking the bread and cup is also taking Christ into our hearts, preparing us to meet him face to face.
The goal: to leave the Table with Christ’s presence going home with us.

04-13-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Jesus humbled Himself to walk where we walk”

1. The Incarnation: God stooped to us
C.S. Lewis’ picture: Christ became man as if we became a dog—limiting Himself to reach us.
Jesus walked the valleys of rejection, poverty, suffering, and shame.
He knows our struggles because He lived them.
2. A Love that Reaches the Least and the Lowest
On the cross Jesus prayed forgiveness for His enemies and promised paradise to a thief.
His ministry consistently lifted the outcast, the broken, and the forgotten.
Like Starr Daily’s story, a lack of love can destroy—but Jesus’ love redeems even the most broken.
3. The Light that Overcomes Darkness
Darkness fell at the cross, but it could not defeat the Light of the world.
Sin, shame, rejection, and death were conquered in Him.
His resurrection proves the final word is victory, not despair.

04-09-2025 Wednesday Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The greatest prize in life is not wealth, success, or status—it is knowing Christ and pressing on toward the goal of eternal life in Him”

1. Earthly prizes are temporary
Sweepstakes and trophies may promise excitement, but they pale in comparison to the eternal prize of knowing Christ.
2. Paul’s single focus
Paul “pressed on toward the goal” with determination, forgetting what was behind and striving for what was ahead.
His ultimate aim was to know Christ in both His suffering and resurrection.
3. Purpose sustains us in life’s struggles
Like the castaway who survived by clinging to the hope of seeing his mother again, having a clear goal gives strength and direction.
Many people suffer from spiritual aimlessness, but fulfillment comes from pursuing God’s call.
4. God gives new direction and purpose
Testimonies (like Peter’s transformation from a criminal to a Christian leader) show how God calls people to meaningful lives.
Purpose turns brokenness into blessing.
5. Pressing on despite obstacles
Like Michelangelo who refused to quit because he was under assignment from the pope, Paul would not quit because he was under assignment from God.
Our calling in Christ gives us courage and perseverance.
6. The ultimate prize
Not material gain or recognition, but the eternal joy of knowing Christ fully.
“I want to know Christ … I press on toward the goal.”

04-06-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Extravagant love for Jesus is shown not in words alone, but in wholehearted devotion and service”

1. Love Expressed Through Sacrifice
The children’s gift of yellow roses for their friend’s funeral shows love that gives everything, even when resources are limited.
Mary’s anointing of Jesus with costly ointment was her extravagant act of love and devotion.
2. Service Is Honorable
Martha served, and Jesus did not condemn her—serving is a true expression of love.
Real servants are willing to get “dirty” in everyday acts of love, not just reserved for special occasions.
3. Mary’s Anointing: A Foreshadowing
Anointing symbolized preparation for burial; Mary’s act pointed ahead to Jesus’ coming death.
She may not have fully understood, but her love and gratitude poured out in action.
4. Extravagant Love vs. Selfish Concern
Judas criticized Mary, pretending to care for the poor, but his motives were selfish.
Jesus reminded them: “The poor you will always have, but you will not always have me.” True worship must focus on Him first, then flow outward to others.
5. Modern Application of Loving Jesus
We can’t anoint His feet today, but we love Him by worshiping, serving, and loving others.
Example: The man running an after-school program faithfully serves despite little recognition—love for God fuels his perseverance.
6. A Simple, Pure Witness
A boy with spastic paralysis said only, “Jesus loves me—and I love Jesus!” His authenticity moved hearts and sparked revival.
Our love for Jesus, however simple, can deeply impact others.

04-02-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Becoming a New Creation in Christ”

1. The “Seven-Year Switch” – Renewal is Part of Life
Every seven years, our bodies are completely renewed at the cellular level.
This illustrates God’s promise of resurrection and new life.
Our soul—our true self—remains, showing we are already experiencing a taste of immortality.
2. Christ Brings Immediate New Life
Unlike the slow renewal of the body, Christ can make our inner person new today.
A new beginning is possible here and now through Him.
3. Steps to Becoming a New Person in Christ
Recognition – Acknowledge who we really are (broken, longing, incomplete without Christ).
Admission – Accept that we are helpless to save ourselves; salvation is God’s finished work through Jesus.
Reconciliation – As new creations, we are called to be ambassadors of reconciliation, reaching out in love to others.
4. Illustrations of Transformation
Tom Landry: Emptiness filled when he realized faith is not about what we do for God but what God has done for us.
Billy Sunday’s response: Salvation is already complete in Christ—it must be received, not earned.
Fisherman story: As renewed people, we throw out lifelines, helping others endure storms until they too are free.

March 2025

03-30-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view Youth Skit

03-26-2025 Wednesday Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Life’s Tests and God’s Faithfulness”

1. Life is full of tests
From childhood through old age, everyone faces trials: school, relationships, health, finances, loss, rejection, etc.
These tests can be painful or simple, but they shape us and help us grow. No pain, no gain.
2. Tests help us mature
Just as children grow by facing challenges, we grow spiritually through trials.
Without obstacles, there is no growth or maturity.
3. God’s promise in trials
1 Corinthians 10:13: “God is faithful… He will not let you be tested beyond your strength… He will provide a way out so you can endure it.”
Even in overwhelming situations, God sustains us and provides strength to endure.
4. Weakness can become strength
Story of the one-armed boy who mastered a single judo move: his greatest weakness became his greatest advantage.
In God’s hands, our struggles and shortcomings can be used for His glory.
5. Faith through suffering
Example: Terry Waite, held hostage for years, trusted God even when facing execution. His faith sustained him.
Even in death, God’s presence brings hope and new life.
6. Our response to trials
Instead of despair, we are called to ask: “Lord, where is the open door in this?”
Trials are opportunities for endurance, growth, and testimony of God’s power.

03-23-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Fruitful Life”

1. Life is short – live with urgency.
Like the fig tree on borrowed time, our days are limited.
Any good we would do needs to begin now.
Example: Sharon Carr, who lived boldly and joyfully after her cancer diagnosis, showing that life can be a triumph when lived with purpose.
2. Fruitfulness is measured by reflecting God’s character.
True success isn’t years lived, but positive impact made.
Fruitless living = being “severed from the source” (like bonsai trees without a taproot).
A fruitful life shows the spirit and image of God—the fruit of the Spirit in action.
3. A fruitful life leaves a legacy.
Legacy building is intentional—living with values that outlast us.
God calls us to bear fruit so that others experience His love through us.
Illustration: the baseball glove—like the glove, we can only fulfill our purpose when God’s hand is in us.

03-19-2025 Wednesday Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Stand Firm in the Lord”

1. Life Needs a Rallying Cry
Just as coaches motivate teams with phrases like “Win the Whole Banana” or “Get a bulldog grip,” Paul’s call is: “Stand firm in the Lord.”
Faith requires perseverance, focus, and resolve.
2. Tool #1 – Get Connected with Believers
We cannot follow Jesus alone — we need community for support, encouragement, and accountability.
Paul: “Keep your eyes on those who live as we do” (Phil. 3:17).
Model Christians are like “demonstration homes” — showing what God can build out of our unfinished lives.
3. Tool #2 – Remember Your Citizenship Is in Heaven
We are spiritual beings having a physical experience.
Living with eternity in view brings hope and strength to endure trials.
Illustration: Navy SEAL trainees sang in the mud, showing how hope lifts people above misery.
4. Tool #3 – Eagerly Await Christ’s Return
Our ultimate hope is Jesus’ promised return.
This transforms our waiting into joyful, purposeful living.
Illustration: Six Tongan boys survived on a deserted island for over a year by working together, praying, and keeping faith until rescue — just as the early church endured persecution with hope in Christ’s return.
5. Paul’s Example of Standing Firm
Paul wrote from prison, beaten and persecuted, yet still joyful and faithful.
His life testifies that God gives strength to endure, no matter the cost.

03-16-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Hoping for a Hug”

1. Jesus’ Determination and Compassion
Despite threats from Herod, Jesus stays focused on His mission.
He laments over Jerusalem’s rejection: “How often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings.”
This shows His tender, protective love—even for those who resist Him.
2. We Long for Grace, Not Lectures
Like Snoopy hoping for a hug, people often need compassion more than correction.
The Church can fall into lecturing and judging, when Jesus calls us to offer forgiveness and embrace.
Example: A woman burdened by guilt for decades was freed when she finally heard the gospel of forgiveness.
3. Jesus as Our Rescuer
Story of Nepal’s earthquake: people trapped with no escape until rescuers came from above.
Likewise, humanity is trapped in sin until our Rescuer—Jesus—comes to save us.
Salvation isn’t just religion or teaching—it’s rescue at the cost of His life (Gal. 1:3).
4. Who Is Jesus? (Gregory of Nazianzus’ classic description)
Hungry → Bread of Life
Thirsty → Living Water
Weary → Our Rest
Paid tribute → The King
Accused → Casts out demons
Wept → Wipes away our tears
Sold → Redeemer of the world
Slain → Good Shepherd
Died → Destroyer of death
5. Call to Response
Jesus faced the cross because He cared for us.
He offers not judgment but embrace, not rejection but rescue.
The invitation: Make Jesus the Master of your life, let Him hug and hold you.

03-12-2025 Wednesday Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Good News in a World of Bad News”

1. The World Is Filled with Bad News
Pain, brokenness, and suffering dominate headlines and homes.
Often people try unhealthy ways to cope (addictions, distractions) that make things worse.
2. The Good News of Jesus Christ
Romans 10:9–11 – “If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Trust in Christ does not remove hardship, but it gives strength to overcome it.
3. Faith Gives Power to Overcome Adversity
Examples: one-armed athletes excelling in football, people who rise above limitations.
With God’s Spirit, weakness can become strength.
4. Two Elements of Trusting in Christ
Believe with your heart – not just intellectually, but with full experience and trust.
- Faith is more than abstract belief; it is personal encounter (like a child’s wonder at snow).
- Believing in the resurrection changes how we see life, death, and suffering.
Confess with your mouth – openly acknowledging Jesus as Lord.
- Sharing faith may be harder than believing, but it is essential.
- Doesn’t require eloquence—often it’s listening, caring, and gently pointing others to Christ.
5. The Power of Belief and Confession
Belief shapes life—whether in truth or false hope (story of the placebo medicine).
True belief in Christ transforms how we face death, fear, and adversity.
Confession can be as simple as telling others what scripture or prayer has meant to us.
6. Practical Challenge
Believe deeply in Christ’s resurrection and trust Him with your whole being.
Share your faith in everyday conversations—not with preaching, but with love, listening, and encouragement.
Remember: “Anyone who trusts in Him will never be put to shame.”

03-09-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Faith in the Wilderness”

1. The Wilderness as Preparation
Wilderness experiences are often prerequisites for authentic faith.
Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness before beginning his ministry.
Israel wandered for 40 years before entering the Promised Land; struggle shapes faith.
2. The Purpose of Struggle
Struggles deepen our spiritual “roots,” like trees deprived of easy water.
Faith is not built on comfort but on challenge and testing.
“No pain, no gain” applies spiritually as much as physically.
3. God and Suffering
God doesn’t cause our suffering, but He uses it to shape us into the likeness of Christ.
The wilderness is not punishment but part of growth.
How we respond to hardship reveals who we are inside.
4. Two Possible Responses to the Wilderness
Some lose faith in hardship (like the grieving pastor who no longer believed).
Others discover a deeper, stronger faith in God (like Nina Mason Bergman, who found gratitude and closeness to God through MS).
Suffering can make us bitter—or better. The choice is ours.
5. Stories of Transformation in Hardship
Russian civilians offered bread to starving German POWs after WWII, showing love instead of hate.
Even in deep pain, some choose compassion and grace instead of bitterness.
6. The Wilderness Produces Gratitude and Awareness of God
Wilderness experiences can open our eyes to God’s sustaining power.
Rough roads in life can still lead us home.
God’s grace is sufficient, and His power is revealed in our weakness.
7. Final Challenge
Jesus passed His wilderness test; so can we, by God’s grace.
Don’t fear the wilderness—move through it, for it leads to deeper faith, hope, and love.
Are you in the wilderness? Trust God—He will see you through.

03-05-2025 Ash Wednesday Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Big Boys Do Cry”

1. Crying is not weakness—Jesus Himself wept.
Jesus wept at Lazarus’ tomb (John 11:35).
He also wept over Jerusalem (Luke 19:41–42).
Even the strongest and most faithful can express sorrow.
2. It’s right to weep over the state of our nation.
Jesus wept for Jerusalem’s blindness to the things that bring peace.
Today’s society faces broken families, violence, addictions, and hopelessness among young people.
Tears can reflect compassion for a world in need of God’s peace.
3. It’s right to weep over those we love.
Grief and tears are natural responses to loss.
Example: C.S. Lewis after the death of his wife.
Tears often bring temporary relief and remind us of deep love.
4. It’s right to weep over our sins.
Joel 2:12–13 calls for repentance with fasting, weeping, and mourning.
Peter wept bitterly after denying Jesus (Matthew 26:75).
True closeness to God makes us aware of our brokenness and need for His grace.
5. The world minimizes sin, but God calls us to face it.
Society may glamorize or laugh at sin, but Scripture calls for mourning over it.
Genuine repentance is shown not in outward show (“rending garments”) but in a broken, contrite heart.
6. The closer we draw to God, the deeper our awareness of sin.
Like those at the Wailing Wall, the nearer we come to the Holy One, the more our hearts are moved.
Tears of repentance open the way to God’s grace and renewal.

03-02-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Hope in the Middle of Our Long Night”

1. The Long Night of Life
Andy Rooney’s line: “The middle of the night seems longer than it used to” → many know the long, lonely nights of worry, grief, or fear.
The disciples faced their “long night” after Jesus predicted his suffering and death (Luke 9).
2. The Transfiguration as God’s Answer
After days of silence and despair, Jesus took Peter, James, and John up the mountain.
They saw his glory revealed → a reminder that beyond suffering and death, Christ is Lord.
The Transfiguration gave hope and light in their darkest moment.
3. We All Face Long Nights
Storms of life: illness, grief, financial stress, watching loved ones struggle.
Like the little girl in a tornado who said, “I just cried and prayed to Jesus” → prayer and faith carry us through.
Stories of resilience (Cambodian family, grieving daughter, even laughter at the wrong funeral) remind us: God brings hope, love, and new beginnings out of despair.
4. Hope Beyond the Darkness
In the Transfiguration, the disciples learned: Christ is still Lord, God is still God.
Every darkness leads to dawn; every ending leads to a new beginning in Christ.
“Hope brought him home”: just as Dr. Hope helped a boy return home before death, our hope in Christ brings us home to God.

February 2025

02-23-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“How we deal with our enemies reveals our spiritual health”

1. Who is your enemy?
Enemies aren’t always obvious; they can be family members, coworkers, competitors, or even those who tempt or hurt us.
Sometimes enemies arise simply because we try to do the right thing (“fighting the wolves”).
2. How enemies affect us spiritually:
Retaliation – Striking back only damages us, twisting us into what we hate.
Resentment – Harboring grudges poisons our spirit, often hurting us more than our enemy.
Both retaliation and resentment are spiritually destructive.
3. The third way – Love your enemies (Jesus’ command):
Loving enemies may begin with forgiveness.
Story of Kenneth Godfrey and his mother burning unpaid debts → forgiveness freed them from bitterness.
The Lord’s Prayer ties our forgiveness from God to our willingness to forgive others.
4. Practical truth:
Forgiving isn’t always easy, but refusing to forgive usually harms us more than the one who wronged us.
Clearing away resentment allows us to live with peace and spiritual freedom.

02-16-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“True Happiness”

1. Jesus Redefines Happiness
The Beatitudes sound upside-down: “Blessed are the poor, hungry, persecuted.”
Jesus challenges worldly definitions of success, power, and happiness.
His kingdom is spiritual, not built on force or wealth, but on humility and grace.
2. Worldly Pursuits Cannot Satisfy
Wealth, status, and even family can bring temporary joy, but they are fragile and can disappoint.
Stories of millionaires, grieving parents, and broken relationships show how earthly sources of happiness often collapse.
When people look for happiness elsewhere, they end up emptier, not fuller.
3. God’s Way Brings Lasting Joy
True blessedness comes when life is God-centered and other-centered, not self-centered.
Living out love for God and neighbor, cultivating gratitude, and growing spiritually leads to a zest for life.
Happiness is rooted not in circumstances but in relationship with God.

02-09-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Launch Out Into the Deep”

1. Opportunity and Christ’s Knock
Like the horse kicking in the glass door, sometimes opportunities (and Christ Himself) come knocking unexpectedly.
Christ does not break down the door — we must open it from the inside.
2. The Fishermen’s Discouragement
The disciples had worked hard all night and caught nothing.
Their situation mirrors our own discouragements — in business, school, family life, or personal struggles.
Failure and rejection can make us weary and ready to give up.
3. Into the Scene Steps Jesus
Throughout history and personal stories, Christ’s presence transforms despair into hope.
- Dave Dravecky (pitcher who lost his arm) – strength came from God, not self.
- Prisoners of faith found joy even in confinement.
- A robber who once stole from John Wesley later became a Christian after remembering his words.
Jesus’ presence brings peace, hope, and change.
4. Jesus Calls Us to Faith and Action
He told the fishermen: “Launch out into the deep … let down your nets.”
Faith requires action and risk. Fear of change often keeps us from joy or success.
Like the disciples, we are called to trust His word and step forward, even when it doesn’t make sense.
5. The Abundant Catch
When the disciples obeyed, their nets overflowed with fish.
Blessing and abundance come when we trust God and act in faith.
6. Lessons for Us Today
Don’t let fear or discouragement stop you.
Launch out into new opportunities — in relationships, work, faith, or service.
God’s provision may already surround you (“let down your buckets” into the Amazon’s fresh waters).
7. Final Call
Christ still knocks at the door of our lives.
He will not force His way in — we must open the door by faith.
When we do, He brings abundance, purpose, and new life.

02-02-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“We Need Direction In Life”

1. The Need for Direction
Like Charlie Brown with his unopened deck chair, many of us struggle with where we’re going in life.
Prayer and God’s Word provide the orientation we need.
2. Three Essential Prayers (Anne Lamott)
Help – Admitting we can’t do life on our own; surrendering to God.
Thanks – Gratitude for God’s provision and unexpected grace.
Wow – Awe and wonder at God’s creation and blessings.
→ These prayers center and re-orient us toward God.
3. The Power of the Word
We are bombarded with human words, but what we need is The Word of God.
Jesus is the Word made flesh—the living revelation of God’s truth and love.
His mission, as declared in Luke 4, was to bring good news to the poor, freedom for the oppressed, and sight for the blind.
4. God’s Favor for All
Jesus fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy—He is the embodiment of God’s promise.
His ministry prioritized the marginalized but extended to everyone.
Today is the day of salvation; His grace is available now.
5. The Story of Cagular
A Persian chieftain’s wife only noticed the face of the man who would die for her.
In the same way, we are called to fix our eyes on Jesus, the One who gave His life for us.

January 2025

01-26-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Overcoming the Dachshund Dilemma”

1. The Church Must Have a Clear Mission
Jesus began His ministry with a clear statement of purpose: bringing good news, freedom, healing, and hope.
Churches often drift like plankton—alive but without direction.
Our mission:
- Reach individuals with the good news of Christ.
- Influence society so the kingdoms of earth reflect the Kingdom of God.
Even a small group (2%) with a clear vision can transform culture.
We are salt and leaven—meant to make an impact.
2. The Church Must Be Unified in Fellowship
Paul taught that though the body has many parts, it is one body in Christ.
A divided church cannot fulfill its mission.
Unity stories:
- 101st Airborne on D-Day – strength came when general and private stood together.
- 97-year-old recalling childhood hike – survival came by holding hands in the fog.
- Canadian geese – loyalty, care, and protection for the weak.
The church thrives when it holds onto one another in love and unity.
3. Every Member Must Recognize Their Ministry
Each believer is part of Christ’s body with a role to fulfill.
No part is greater; all are necessary.
Examples:
- Andrew bringing Simon Peter to Jesus.
- Barnabas encouraging and validating Paul.
Evangelists, encouragers, leaders, servants—all gifts are vital.
A church grows when every member embraces their calling.

01-19-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“From Water to Wine”

1. The Problem of Life Without Christ
People long for meaning, excitement, and fulfillment.
Dreams of romance, money, and success often leave us empty.
Our world struggles with loneliness, boredom, and lack of direction.
2. The Miracle at Cana – Symbol of Transformation
Jesus turned ordinary water into rich wine.
Symbolizes the transformation He offers: dullness to joy, emptiness to abundance.
Christ brings more than mere survival—He brings true life.
3. How Christ Transforms Us
- New Mental Attitude – We can choose hope and faith, even in suffering (Victor Frankl’s lesson from the camps).
- New Mission – Moving from playing it safe to living with purpose and joy (Anne Walter Fearn’s “Delighted” cable).
- New Motivation – Christ gives meaning beyond self-indulgence, leading to discipleship and service (St. Francis of Assisi’s conversion).
- New Measure of Worth – We find our true identity and value as children of God (Dean Jones, Tom Landry testimonies).
4. Application for Us
Christ changes “maintenance living” into “mission living.”
He replaces boredom and despair with delight and purpose.
Our worth is not in wealth or achievement, but in being loved by God.
5. Closing Challenge
Jesus said, “I have come that they might have life, and have it more abundantly.”
Will you let Him change your water into wine—your ordinary life into something extraordinary?

01-12-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Baptizatus Sum: I Have Been Baptized”

1. Baptism reminds us: IT IS GOD WHO SAVES US
Water itself doesn’t save—only God’s grace does.
Baptism is not about our worthiness or willpower but God’s love freely given.
True posture: humility, coming before God as “a poor sinner, your brother/sister.”
2. Baptism reminds us: IT IS GOD WHO CALLS US
Baptism gives us a new identity—from “no people” to “God’s people.”
Like fabric dipped in dye (baptizo), we are changed permanently.
Faith is not just for Sundays—it is a way of life (“I have no time at all, not one minute, without Christ”).
To be baptized means living as disciples daily, not disappearing after the ritual.
3. Baptism reminds us: IT IS GOD WHO GOES WITH US
In baptism, God claims us: “You are my beloved child.”
Even in doubt or despair, we can say, “I have been baptized.”
Baptism is God’s promise that we are never alone—through grief, hardship, or loss.
Example: Grandma Richardson’s faith sustained her through tragedy, and she passed that faith on to others.

01-05-2025 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Word Became Flesh”

1. The Power of the Word
Words shape lives and history—examples: lullabies, court rulings, Hitler’s words in Mein Kampf.
Our words (“I love you” / “I hate you”) carry power.
If human words have power, how much greater is the Word of God that brought creation into being.
2. Jesus Is the Word of God
Not just Scripture, but Jesus Himself is the living Word.
Jesus was with God from the beginning; all things were created through Him.
Greek thought (Heraclitus, Logos): the Word (Logos) is the principle of order, reason, and truth in the universe. John identifies that Logos with Jesus.
3. Jesus Makes God Accessible
“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14).
Jesus is God’s love translated into human flesh.
Through Christ, we can see, hear, and know God personally.
4. The Word in Simple Terms
Illustration of professor’s complex sermon vs. African pastor’s translation: “Let me tell you about my friend Jesus.”
The Gospel is not abstract philosophy but a personal invitation into relationship with Christ.
5. Grace and Truth Through Christ
The Law came through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus.
Jesus reveals the Father in a way no one else can—He is God made known.
6. Jesus as Our Guide
Story of Mark Wellman, paraplegic climber of Half Dome, aided by Mark Corbett who prepared the path.
Jesus is our “guide climber”—He goes before us, shows the way, makes God accessible.

December 2024

12-29-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“It Happens in the Best of Families”

1. Jesus Came from a Devout, Loving Family
Mary and Joseph faithfully worshiped, taught Scripture, and modeled devotion to God.
Yet even in this godly family, misunderstandings and tension arose — as seen when the 12-year-old Jesus stayed behind in the temple.
Lesson: Faithful families are not conflict-free — they are families that grow through conflict.
2. Conflict Happens — Even in the Best Families
Mary and Joseph were anxious when Jesus stayed behind; Jesus gently reminded them of His divine mission: “Did you not know I must be about my Father’s business?”
Every home experiences generational tension and emotional distance — parents and children, husbands and wives.
Illustrations:
- Ann Landers’ poll — 60% of parents said they wouldn’t have children again (showing honest strain).
- Porcupine story — families huddle and hurt, yet need one another for warmth.
Conflict is part of growth and God’s design for maturity.
“Don’t panic when hurtful words or disagreements arise. Even Jesus’ family had them.”
3. Communication Is Essential
Mary expressed concern; Jesus listened and obeyed. Later, she “pondered these things in her heart.”
Healthy families practice both listening and loving conversation.
Illustrations:
- A mother who could sleep through city noise but awoke instantly to her child’s faint cry — symbolizing sensitivity.
- Teenagers today need parents who can “hear their silent cries” as they face pressures of identity and acceptance.
- “If you want to make your mother happy, talk to her. If you want to make your father happy, listen.”
Lesson: Communication grows from sensitivity, listening, and love.
4. Commitment Is What Holds Families Together
Strong families are built on long-term commitment — both between spouses and between parents and children.
Illustrations:
- The honeymoon story — we laugh about taking each other for granted, but lasting marriages deepen in love over time.
- Sloan Wilson’s bicycle analogy — parents must “let go” at the right time; love sometimes means releasing control.
Commitment extends beyond family bonds to commitment to God.
- Families who worship and serve together grow stronger.
- Scripture affirms: “Train up a child in the way he should go…”
5. A Family Model for the New Year
Jesus’ family shows us three realities of healthy homes:
Conflict – Communication – Commitment
These are the marks of love in action.
Goal for the New Year: Strengthen our family ties, renew communication, and deepen our spiritual commitment to God.

12-24-2024 Christmas Eve Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“It Just Doesn’t Get Any Better Than This”

1. The Joy of Christmas
Opening humor: a reflection on Santa’s reindeer (must be female!) reminds us that Christmas Eve is a time of wonder and laughter.
There’s a spirit of expectancy — families together, children excited, hearts full.
“How can you be a cynic on Christmas Eve?”
Christmas Eve is faith at its simplest and hope at its highest.
2. The Story That Changed the World
Luke’s Gospel recounts the journey of Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem for the census.
Explains Jewish marriage customs (engagement, betrothal, marriage) to show Mary and Joseph’s faithfulness and vulnerability.
Jesus’ humble birth — no room in the inn, born in a stable, laid in a manger.
Shepherds receive the angel’s message: “Good news of great joy for all people.”
Heaven rejoices: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace…”
3. The Humility of the King
Jesus, the Savior of the world, is born not in a palace but in a stable in Bethlehem, fulfilling prophecy.
His birthplace — small, poor, and humble — reminds us that God draws near to the lowly and forgotten.
Illustration: Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade — the true “Holy Grail” was the plain, humble cup; likewise, Christ came simply and humbly.
The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem requires visitors to stoop to enter — a beautiful symbol that we must all bow low to approach the Christ Child.
4. The Meaning of the Manger
Christmas isn’t about status, success, or possessions — it’s about humility, gratitude, and worship.
We bow before the One who emptied Himself completely for our sake.
For those who suffer or grieve, the manger reminds us that God entered our pain and understands our struggles.
5. The Peace That Never Ends
Illustration: Linus from A Charlie Brown Christmas — he drops his security blanket when he recites the story of Jesus’ birth.
- Symbol: in Christ, we find our true security.
This night, we exchange fear for faith, anxiety for peace, loneliness for love.
“Here is our security. Here is our peace, our hope, our joy.”

12-22-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Baby Leaped for Joy”

1. The Excitement of Christmas – “The Baby Leaped!”
Opens with a humorous story about a Christmas pageant gone wrong, where a “flying baby Jesus” on a fishing line wouldn’t descend — a reminder that while we laugh at human mistakes, the real Christmas story brings genuine joy.
When Mary visited Elizabeth, John the Baptist leaped in her womb—a sign of joy and divine excitement.
Like the little girl in “Sharon’s Christmas Prayer”, who “jumped in the air” after telling the story of Jesus’ birth, the proper response to the Incarnation is childlike wonder and joy.
God did “come down here”—He entered human life through Jesus Christ. That’s why Christmas should make us leap for joy.
2. The Uniqueness of Jesus – “The Baby Leaped Because He Recognized the Lord.”
Even unborn, John recognized the presence of the Messiah—a testimony to the divine identity of Jesus.
Illustration: A proud chief learns humility when an old woman teaches him that even the greatest must serve a baby.
- Moral: True greatness lies in servanthood and humility, modeled by God Himself coming as a helpless child.
The most astonishing truth of Christianity: God became human.
- Not as a conqueror, but as a baby.
- Not to dominate, but to redeem.
- “The baby leaped because of the uniqueness of Christ.”
3. The Fulfillment of God’s Plan – “You Cannot Stop God.”
The leaping baby also symbolizes God’s unstoppable plan of redemption.
Illustration: During the civil rights movement, jailed freedom riders sang hymns until the jail itself shook with their joy. Though imprisoned, they were spiritually free.
- God’s work cannot be contained by oppression or sin.
From the manger to the cross, God’s saving work moves forward, redeeming humanity and transforming the world.
Christmas is not just a sweet story—it’s a decisive act of God’s victory and love.
4. Takeaway Truths
Christmas calls for excitement. The right response to the Incarnation is joy that leaps.
Christmas reveals Christ’s uniqueness. God’s greatness came in humility and vulnerability.
Christmas fulfills God’s plan. No human power can stop what God has begun.
Therefore, like John, we should leap for joy—for God has entered our world, and His redemption is at work still.

12-15-2024 – Cantata service no sermon (see Stream’s YouTube page for full service)

12-11-2024 Wednesday Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Working Together in Christ”

1. Every Part Matters in the Body of Christ
Illustration – The Mother’s Watch:
The small inner pieces of a watch are just as important as the visible ones.
➜ Likewise, every believer — no matter how visible or humble — plays a vital role in God’s work.
The Church functions like that watch: each part dependent on the other, all centered on Christ.
2. Christ Is Our Model of Humility and Servanthood
Paul reminds us that Jesus, though divine, “emptied himself” — the ultimate riches-to-rags story.
Dr. Bill Hybels’ observation: Most success stories are rags-to-riches, but Christ’s story is the reverse — God voluntarily demoted Himself for our salvation.
Illustration – The Mother Mouse: Knowing a “second language” (like barking) can save your life.
➜ As believers, we must learn Christ’s “language” of humility and service — not the world’s language of pride and power.
3. The True Beauty of Faith Is Found in Service and Sacrifice
Dr. Fred Craddock’s story – The Wounded Cat:
A father and his children take in a wounded, smelly, half-dead cat. They nurse it back to health — and in the process, the father’s hands become scratched.
➜ That’s what God did for us in Christ — came down to our level, took on our suffering, and bore our wounds.
Christmas meaning: God entered our pain — Emmanuel, “God with us.”
Jesus’ hands are nail-scarred because He came to heal what was broken.
4.Keep Your Eyes on Christ, Not the Lions
Dr. Charles Stanley’s story:
An elderly woman reminds him that in Daniel’s story, the prophet’s eyes aren’t on the lions — they’re on God.
➜ Like Paul in prison, we must keep our focus on Christ, not our circumstances.
Adversity is inevitable, but with Christ at the center, we can control how it shapes us.
➜ “We do not know about tomorrow, but we can know Him who holds tomorrow.”
5. Unity Requires Humility and Shared Purpose
Like the hub of a wheel or the mechanism of a watch, the Church must stay connected to Christ to function properly.
Illustration – The Organist and the Boy:
The famous musician forgets the unseen boy who pumped the bellows — until the boy stops.
➜ We all depend on one another; there is no “I” in the body of Christ.
Paul calls us to mutual love, humility, and teamwork for the sake of the Gospel.

12-08-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Have You Got Your Ducks in a Row?”

1. Advent is a Call to Preparation
Opens with a humorous story about engineers describing a delay as a “severe nonlinear waterfowl issue” — meaning they didn’t have their ducks in a row.
John the Baptist asks the same of us spiritually: Are we ready for the coming of Christ?
Isaiah’s prophecy — “Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him” — calls us to build not physical roads, but inner highways of righteousness, repentance, and justice.
2. Spiritual Readiness Takes Intentional Preparation
Like the “Big Dig” highway project, preparing for Christ takes effort, patience, and cost.
The Amish example reminds us to always be ready: even when you don’t know when you’ll be called to speak or serve, you must “always be prepared.”
Advent is a time to pause, reflect, and prepare internally for the Savior’s arrival — not just externally for holiday busyness.
3. Prepare by Renewing Your Relationship with God
John preached a baptism of repentance and forgiveness.
Sin distorts our relationship with God and complicates life, like being lost in a maze (illustration from Max Lucado).
When we feel lost, we must listen to God’s voice “from above” guiding us back to the right path.
4. Prepare by Healing Relationships with Others
Broken relationships create obstacles on the “road” into our hearts.
Christmas highlights both the beauty of family togetherness and the pain of estrangement.
Illustration: A young man in the Air Force who slapped his father and was disowned — a reminder of how painful unresolved conflict can be, especially at Christmas.
Advent invites us to seek reconciliation and forgiveness.
5. Focus on the True Meaning of Christmas
Charles Schulz’s Peanuts cartoon captures how easily we lose focus:
- Linus reads deep theology about Bethlehem’s meaning, while Sally just wants more presents.
- Like Sally, we can miss the spiritual heart of Christmas if our priorities are misplaced.
Advent asks: Is Christ at the center of your celebration?
6. Key Takeaways
Advent preparation means aligning your heart — getting your “ducks in a row” for Christ.
Repent — restore your relationship with God.
Reconcile — heal broken relationships.
Refocus — remember the true reason for the season: the coming of the Savior.
When the road is made straight, Christ can be born anew in your heart.

12-04-2024 Wednesday Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Days Are Coming”
1. Waiting for God’s Promise
Illustration – Glinda’s Broken Bubble:
Just like the cast waiting for Glinda to descend, Israel waited for their Savior. They grew impatient, but Jeremiah reminded them:
➜ “The days are coming, says the Lord…”
God’s promises may take time (it took 600 years for Christ to come), but His timing is perfect — what He promises, He fulfills.
Advent reminds us: the waiting is not wasted — it prepares our hearts for what God is doing.
2. The Days Are Coming When There Will Be Justice
Jeremiah’s first promise: “He shall execute justice and righteousness in the land.”
We all long for justice — fairness, truth, equality — but human justice often fails.
Illustration – The Prince and the Judge:
A prince steals land from a widow; the wise judge makes him realize the weight of his guilt.
➜ God’s justice is inevitable and perfect — no one escapes accountability.
True justice isn’t just about punishing the guilty — it’s about building a society where everyone lives with dignity and fairness.
Challenge: Are we contributing to a just world, or benefiting from injustice?
3. The Days Are Coming When There Will Be Righteousness
Justice is social; righteousness is personal.
God wants both: a just society and righteous hearts.
Illustration – The Jewish Mechanic:
After repairing a car perfectly, the mechanic says “Zaddik!” — meaning “righteous,” or “set right.”
➜ Righteousness is when our hearts and lives function as God designed — aligned with His will.
Western Christianity often separates “social gospel” (justice) and “personal gospel” (piety), but God unites them — both are essential to His Kingdom.
4. A Child’s Faith in a Coming Day
Illustration – Ruby Bridges (1960):
At six years old, Ruby faced racism and hatred while integrating her school. Yet she prayed for her persecutors every day, believing, “There will come a day. You can count on it.”
Ruby’s courage and forgiveness embody Jeremiah’s message — hope and righteousness in action.
Even when injustice prevails, faith holds onto the promise: the days are coming.
5. Advent Hope: Justice and Righteousness Through Christ
Jeremiah’s prophecy found its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the “Righteous Branch” from David.
Jesus came to bring both justice (setting the world right) and righteousness (setting hearts right).
Advent calls us to look ahead — to a future where:
- The first shall be last, and the last shall be first.
- Every wrong will be made right.
- God’s peace and fairness will reign forever.

12-01-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“It’s Better Higher Up”

1. The Second Advent: Christ’s Coming in Power and Glory
Jesus’ words about “signs in the sun, moon, and stars” remind us that Advent isn’t just about Bethlehem — it’s also about His second coming.
Hollywood could dramatize the chaos, but Scripture’s purpose is not fear — it’s faithful anticipation.
The “cloud” symbolizes God’s divine presence and mystery — not technology’s “cloud,” but the sovereign cloud of God’s glory.
Main truth: The future doesn’t belong to Google or Amazon; the cloud belongs to God, and Christ will reign over all.
2. Christians Live in Expectation of God’s Future
God’s people throughout history have waited expectantly for His promises:
- Israel waited for the Messiah.
- The early church waited for Christ’s return.
We are a people of anticipation, living with confidence that God is still at work.
Illustration: Dwight L. Moody’s bedridden woman — despite her poor surroundings, she smiled and said, “It’s better higher up.”
- A reminder that hope transcends hardship; the believer’s future is always brighter.
3. God Does Not Forget His People
The early Christians suffered persecution — yet Scripture promised: “Hold on! God has not forgotten you.”
Illustration: The story of Hanukkah — the oil that miraculously burned for eight days — is a sign that God provides and remembers His people.
Advent faith means trusting that even when life feels dark, God’s light still burns.
4. Living Now in Light of the Final Victory (“Realized Eschatology”)
We can live today with the joy of tomorrow’s victory.
Illustration: Dan Bauman as a boy shaking the Christmas gift he knew were golf clubs — enjoying them before Christmas morning.
- Likewise, Christians can rejoice now in the future triumph of Christ — the gift is already ours, even if not fully unwrapped.
This is “realized eschatology”: experiencing hope, joy, and peace now because the outcome is certain.
5. The Call of Advent: Watch, Wait, and Hope
Advent is not passive waiting — it’s active expectancy.
Like the woman who raised foster children saying, “I saw a new world a-comin’,” we too live by faith in what God is bringing to pass.
Jesus’ promise: “They will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.”

November 2024

11-27-2024 Thanksgiving Eve Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon (Sermon by WELCA)

11-24-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“What Is Truth?”

1. The Difficulty of Knowing Truth Today
The world is flooded with conflicting voices — in media, politics, and even religion.
Everyone has their own agenda; heroes are few, and trust is fragile.
Illustrations:
- A humorous story of Jon and the bishop — sometimes truth is right in front of us, and we don’t recognize it.
- The preacher’s wife photographing Bill Clinton — she missed the “truth moment” because she wasn’t prepared.
Key idea: Truth is often missed or distorted, even when it’s near us.
2. Truth Is Essential to Life and Relationships
A world without truth cannot stand — no trust in marriages, businesses, or society.
Integrity is the foundation of civilization: without it, chaos reigns.
Illustrations:
- Ancient Chinese “rice test” — fear and lies are exposed when truth is tested.
- M. Scott Peck’s idea: people choose “peacekeeping” over “truth-telling,” creating shallow, surface relationships.
- Children are often our best truth-tellers — they speak with innocent honesty (“Mom, I may need more power for this one!”).
- The widow who didn’t call the Better Business Bureau — afraid to hear the truth she didn’t want.
Lesson: Truth may hurt, but dishonesty destroys. Healthy relationships and societies require courage to tell and face the truth.
3. Truth and the Spiritual Life
Beyond human honesty, spiritual truth is grounded in Christ Himself.
Illustrations:
- The young boy learning to identify jade — by constant exposure to the real thing, he could instantly detect the false.
  - Likewise, believers must immerse themselves in Jesus’ teachings to recognize what is genuine.
- There are many “religious truths” today, but only one true measure: “What would Jesus do?”
Key idea: Truth isn’t an idea — Truth is a Person. “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” (John 14:6)
4. Finding Truth in the Face of Christ
Story: A British soldier in WWI, lost and despairing, climbs what he thinks is a signpost — only to find himself face-to-face with a crucifix. That moment reoriented his life.
Lesson: When we are lost or uncertain, the answer is not more information but a clearer view of Jesus.
Truth is not a signpost pointing somewhere else — Truth is the Cross.
5. The Call to Action
Be seekers and speakers of truth — in words, relationships, and faith.
Test every claim by the spirit and example of Christ.
When confused, turn your eyes toward the face of Jesus — the living Truth who never deceives, never fails, and always leads home.

11-17-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Will the Church Stand or Fall?”

1. The Danger of Valuing Tradition Over Mission
Illustration: Pastor Bohlman’s church — people fought harder to keep a pew than to fill it.
Many are more committed to preserving structures and traditions than to fulfilling Christ’s mission.
Jesus warned that even the magnificent Temple would fall — no earthly institution is eternal.
The same warning applies to the modern church if it loses its purpose.
2. The Church Has What the World Desperately Needs
People today crave connection — with God and with one another.
Illustration: Charles Wesley’s hymn “Jesus, Lover of My Soul” — written as a prayer of refuge.
- The Church is meant to be a shelter from life’s storms.
Yet many seek spirituality outside the church because they see it as irrelevant, judgmental, or lifeless.
Application: We must make our churches places of welcome, authenticity, and renewal.
3. The Church Must Adapt Its Ministry to Reach Its Community
Illustration: German carmakers succeeded in Japan by understanding the culture — they adapted the steering wheel to the right side.
The fastest-growing churches are those that listen to their communities and shape ministry accordingly.
- Contemporary worship, child care, community service — whatever meets real needs.
The goal is not to compromise the Gospel, but to make it accessible.
Sometimes we must “tear down” outdated structures (attitudes, programs, comfort zones) to build up Christ’s Church.
4. The Church Must Tell Its Story
Many people would consider church if someone simply invited them.
- 7 out of 10 unchurched people say they’d attend if asked.
- 80% of new believers come through personal relationships.
If you’ve experienced God’s grace, share your story.
- Tell others how the church has strengthened, comforted, or changed you.
Application: Evangelism is not just preaching — it’s personal storytelling.
5. The Church Must Reflect the Character of Christ
Our greatest witness is not words, but Christlike behavior.
Illustration: The Rabbi and the scientist — those who believe they are closer to God treat others with greater love and respect.
The key question: How close are we to God?
- Closeness to God produces kindness, humility, and grace.
- Far from God produces pride, judgment, and hypocrisy.
As Tony Campolo put it: “How to Be a Christian Without Embarrassing God.”
6. The Hope of the Church
Church analyst George Barna once warned that the American church had only five years to survive — that was 35 years ago!
The Church still stands because Christ still reigns.
But renewal depends on three things:
- Looking inward honestly — are we alive in faith or clinging to forms?
- Telling our story boldly — sharing what Christ has done for us.
- Drawing closer to God daily — so that His light shines through us.

11-10-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Widow’s Mite — Giving that Honors God”

1. Giving Reveals the Depth of Our Faith
Illustration: A wealthy man loses everything and wakes his pastor at 2 a.m. — the pastor comforts him, but worries all night about the lost church pledge.
True giving comes from faith, not from abundance.
The widow gave her last two coins — she trusted God fully with her future.
Quote/Insight: “We don’t give in proportion to our resources; we give in proportion to our faith.”
- Little faith = little giving.
- Big faith = generous giving.
Statistic: If every Christian on welfare tithed, the Church’s income would double — showing that giving is a faith issue, not an income issue.
2. God Measures Our Giving by the Sacrifice, Not the Size
Illustration:
- Helen Douglas — poor woman gives $3.30, sparking the greatest offering in her church’s history.
- Her gift, like the widow’s mite, showed sacrificial love and inspired others.
Illustration:
- Dave Simmons’ daughter, Helen — gives her quarter so her brother can enjoy the petting zoo; she lives out the family motto:
  - “Love is Action… Love is Sacrificial Action.”
God values what costs us something.
- “They gave out of their wealth; she, out of her poverty, put in all she had.”
Real love and real generosity always involve sacrifice.
3. Even the Smallest Gift Can Have Immense Impact
God multiplies what we give in faith.
- The widow’s mite became a timeless lesson in generosity.
- A boy’s small lunch fed thousands (John 6).
- Helen Douglas’s $3.30 inspired record-breaking giving.
- Mrs. Rolf’s 25¢ gift helped shape a lifetime of ministry in a young pastor.
Key truth: You never know how God will use even the smallest act of giving.

11-03-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Jesus Wept — The God Who Cries With Us”

1. Tears Are Part of Being Human — and Healing
Opening Illustration: Comedienne Pam Stone joked that men are taught not to cry while women are encouraged to — which is why men become “snipers” and women “emotional.”
Crying is healthy; it helps us process pain.
Example: Pete, a “tough” man, finally wept after his mother’s death — that’s when he became real.
There is healing in tears. Honest emotion opens the heart to God’s grace.
2. “Jesus Wept” — The Compassion of God
Jesus’ tears at Lazarus’s tomb show His love and empathy, not despair.
- He wasn’t weeping because Lazarus died — He knew He would raise him.
- He wept because Mary and Martha were hurting, and their pain moved Him.
We do not live in an impersonal universe. God sees and feels our suffering.
- Hebrews 4:15: “We do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses.”
Illustration: The Oklahoma City bombing memorial shows a statue of Jesus with His face in His hands — “And Jesus Wept.”
Jesus weeps over death, over sin, and over the brokenness of His people.
3. Jesus Not Only Weeps — He Acts
Compassion alone is not the end; Jesus also confronts and defeats death.
- “Lazarus, come forth!” — and life triumphs over death.
Illustration: A woman in depression said she didn’t want a God who sits with her in the pit — she wanted a God who pulls her out of it.
- Jesus is that God — He not only sits with us, but also calls us out of darkness.
Illustration: The Mayo Brothers observed that faith sometimes awakens “an immortal spark” beyond what medicine can do.
Jesus’ power brings real hope: physical, emotional, and spiritual resurrection.
4. The Promise of a Tearless Future
The raising of Lazarus points toward the final resurrection — when there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain (Revelation 21:1–4).
Jesus’ tears at Lazarus’s tomb are mirrored by the image of God Himself wiping every tear from His children’s eyes.
This is the heart of the gospel: God cares. God weeps. God restores.
5. You Are Never Alone in Your Tears
Illustration: Ella Wilcox’s famous quote — “Laugh and the world laughs with you, weep and you weep alone.”
- But the gospel says otherwise — you never weep alone.
When you are broken, Christ is near — He weeps with you and calls you to life.
One day, the One who cried at a friend’s grave will wipe away your tears forever.

October 2024

10-27-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Truth Will Set You Free”

1. What Is Freedom?
Opening Illustration – Little Tommy:
Young Tommy’s innocent freedom shows that society quickly teaches limits — freedom isn’t always what it seems.
Jesus redefines freedom: not doing whatever we want, but living in the truth that brings real liberation.
2. “Freedom From…” – The World’s Idea
Many define freedom as “freedom from” — from rules, responsibility, or limits.
- Example: Professor Higgins in My Fair Lady — wanting to live “exactly as I like.”
Western culture has long prized “freedom from…” — from tradition, community, morality, and even family ties.
Ellen Goodman: calls America “a nation of leavers” — leaving home, commitments, and relationships.
Not all ‘freedom from’ is bad:
- The Reformation and America’s founding sought freedom from tyranny and corruption.
- Chelsey Thomas’ story: surgery freed her from a physical limitation — a good kind of freedom.
But when “freedom from” becomes selfish or destructive (addiction, moral drift, isolation), it enslaves rather than frees.
3. “Freedom To…” – God’s Higher Calling
True freedom is not just freedom from, but freedom to — the power to become what God created us to be.
Illustration – Skydiving Elvises: freedom to take risks, to soar, to live boldly.
Illustration – Olympic athletes: their discipline gives them freedom to excel — freedom comes through commitment, not escape.
The same applies to musicians, scientists, or students — real freedom grows from discipline and training, not avoiding effort.
- “Sometimes we give up one freedom to gain a greater one.”
- Education, practice, and self-denial open doors that laziness closes.
4. Spiritual Freedom Comes Through Christ
Just as athletes train their bodies, believers must train their souls — through prayer, obedience, and sacrifice.
God’s grace is free, but joy and maturity require commitment to living the Christ-life.
Jesus is the Truth, and knowing Him brings a higher freedom — freedom from guilt, shame, and spiritual bondage.
5. Illustration – The Lunch Box of Love
Marion Bond West’s story:
Her grown daughter Julie confessed she felt unloved as a child because she never had a lunch box like others.
Years later, Marion sent her one filled with love notes and treasures.
Julie’s response: “It was like being seven again — I realized, Mama does care. I am important.”
That’s what Christ does for us — He heals old wounds, restores our sense of worth, and reminds us we are deeply loved.
6. The Freedom Christ Offers
In Christ we find:
- Freedom from sin and guilt.
- Freedom to live joyfully and purposefully.
- Freedom to know we are loved and valued.
Jesus invites us:
“If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.”
His truth sets us free from:
- Past failures
- Inner pain
- Meaninglessness and despair

10-20-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Secret of Greatness”

1. The Human Desire to Be First
Opening Illustration – The Rolls-Royce & MG Midget Story:
A humorous example showing our obsession with being “bigger, better, and more impressive.”
Like James and John, people crave to be number one — it’s part of human nature.
James and John privately asked Jesus to sit at His right and left hand in glory — a “power grab” motivated by ambition.
Jesus responded not with anger but with teaching: “You don’t know what you’re asking.”
- True greatness, He said, isn’t about privilege — it’s about sacrifice and service.
2. The Drive for Greatness Isn’t Wrong — It Just Needs Redirection
Jesus didn’t condemn ambition — He redefined it.
Examples:
- Larry Bird: “I never put on a uniform to play a game. I put it on to win.” Commitment is good — if it’s for the right purpose.
- Dayville High volleyball team: small but persistent; when they lost, they said, “Now we have a winning streak of one.” Determination and optimism matter.
Lesson: God wants passionate, confident followers — not timid ones.
- The disciples were bold — “Sons of Thunder.”
- Jesus needs strong leaders who channel their drive toward service, not self-promotion.
3. The World’s Path vs. Jesus’ Path
In the world: Power = Prestige = Greatness.
In Christ’s kingdom: Service = Sacrifice = Greatness.
Jesus flipped worldly values upside down:
“Whoever wishes to be great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first must be slave of all.”
Greatness isn’t about climbing higher — it’s about stooping lower in love.
4. True Greatness: Service That Costs Something
Bob Pierce’s Story (World Vision Founder):
He gave away his only bottle of sleeping pills to a suffering girl, sacrificing his own comfort for her peace.
- “He knew he’d lose ten nights of sleep, but he did it anyway.”
- Real greatness requires giving up something valuable for someone else’s sake.
Doug Meland – The “White Indian”:
A missionary who served humbly, washing the blood-caked foot of a boy.
- The villagers said, “This man is from God.”
- Service transformed both how people saw him and how they saw God.
5. Service Is the Heart of the Kingdom
Jesus came “not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
The key question: Who am I serving?
- Recognition fades, but serving others makes a lasting difference.
In life and faith:
- Doctors, teachers, helpers, servants — we honor those who meet needs.
- Greatness is measured not by what we achieve, but by whom we help.

10-13-2024 Sermon – Sermon by David Hernandez, CLICK on date to view sermon

10-06-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“God’s Design for Marriage”

1. The Context: Wrong Question, Right Answer
Pharisees’ Question: “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?”
→ They were testing Jesus with a legal question, not seeking God’s heart.
Jesus’ Response: He went deeper — “Because of your hardness of heart.”
→ The problem isn’t legal; it’s spiritual — human hearts grow cold and selfish.
Jesus reaffirmed God’s original intention:
“The two shall become one flesh… therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
Key Truth: Marriage is not just a human arrangement; it’s a divine covenant.
2. Strong Marriages Require Attentiveness
To thrive, couples must know and care about each other’s needs.
Humorous Example: The husband who thought his wife’s “favorite flower” was “Pillsbury.”
→ Many couples live under the same roof but don’t really know each other.
Real-Life Story:
- Jim & Suzanne Shemwell, stranded in a blizzard, rediscovered love and teamwork.
- Tragedy reminded them how much they needed each other.
Reflection: How well do you know your spouse’s heart, dreams, and struggles?
3. Words Matter — Speak Life
Is your marriage marked by positive words and encouragement?
Example:
- Carol & Jim’s “I love you before noon” rule — their last exchange before his death were words of love.
Lesson:
- Don’t let the last words you speak be ones of criticism or bitterness.
- Consistent affirmation builds connection and resilience.
4. Forgiveness and Grace Sustain Love
Dr. John Gottman’s Insight: Healthy marriages show “positive sentiment override” — where love outweighs irritation.
→ Overlook faults; assume the best; forgive quickly.
Illustration: Percy & Florence Arrowsmith (married 80 years).
- Florence’s advice: “Never go to sleep bad friends.”
- Percy’s secret: “Yes, dear.”
Key Point: Forgiveness and humility are the oil that keep love from grinding to a halt.
5. Commitment Is the Foundation
Illustration – “Don’t Hope, Decide”:
- A husband greeted his wife passionately after only two days away.
- When told, “I hope my marriage is like that,” he replied, “Don’t hope—decide.”
- Strong marriages aren’t built on emotion but commitment.
Final Story: The husband who faithfully visited his wife with Alzheimer’s.
- “She doesn’t remember me, but I remember who she is — and who I am.”
- Love keeps its promises even when the other cannot.
6. God’s Grace in Brokenness
Divorce happens — sometimes even among good people.
- It grieves God, but it does not end His love for those involved.
- The church must extend compassion, not condemnation.
Main Truth: Whether in success or failure, God’s love remains constant.

September 2024

09-29-2024 – Youth Service with video from Skit Guys in place of sermon (see Stream’s YouTube page for full service)

09-22-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Serving Our True Customers”

1. Introduction: A Lesson from the Business World
Many companies struggle to define their mission — what they exist to do.
Johnson & Johnson’s credo offers a model:
1. Serve customers first.
2. Then employees.
3. Then the community.
4. Stockholders last.
Parallel to the Church:
- Do we put people first — or our own comfort and image?
- Jesus’ teaching redefines greatness: “To prosper, you must be driven to serve.”
Key truth:
Jesus invented service — His entire life was about serving others.
2. Our First “Customers” — The Little Ones 👶
Jesus took a child in His arms and said,
“Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me.”
Children matter deeply to God.
Many churches unintentionally make children feel unwelcome (like the “gift shop” that valued its fragile displays over people).
Illustrations:
- A child questioning the pastor’s sermon (“Doesn’t he know?”) — kids are curious and honest!
- The “Irritable Irene” gift shop story — a warning not to prioritize rules or appearances over people.
- A condemned man once said, “If in my childhood I had been paid one percent of the attention I’m getting now, I wouldn’t be here.”
Application:
- We must love, welcome, and nurture our children — spiritually and emotionally.
- Neglecting the little ones neglects Christ Himself.
3. Our Second “Customers” — The Least of These 🤝
Jesus said,
“I was hungry and you gave me food, thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me.” (Matthew 25:35)
“The least of these” includes all who are hurting, lonely, or in need.
Loneliness is epidemic:
- Sociologist Robert Weiss found 25% of Americans feel extremely lonely every month.
- It affects all ages and professions — even pastors.
Application:
- The church must be a family for the lonely.
- If we reached the lonely around us with the love of Jesus, our churches would overflow.
- Serving the least is not optional — it’s a reflection of Christ’s heart.
4. Our Third “Customers” — The Lost 🙏
Jesus said,
“There will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.” (Luke 15:7)
Many people around us are spiritually dead, but we don’t notice — like the parking officer who ticketed a car without realizing the driver inside was already dead.
Illustration — Mark Marcelis:
- An Australian man dying of melanoma used his remaining time to warn others and save lives.
- His story stirred a nation — he became an evangelist for life and hope.
Application:
- Like Mark, Christians must use their lives to share what they know — God’s love and salvation.
- We are called to live out the gospel at home, at work, and in our communities.
- Evangelism isn’t always preaching — it’s living Christ’s compassion openly.
5. The Question: How Well Are We Serving Our Customers?
In business, success comes from serving customers well.
In the church, our customers are:
1. The little ones — children who need care.
2. The least of these — those who are hurting and lonely.
3. The lost — those who need Christ’s saving grace.
We are not here to serve ourselves, but to serve others.

09-15-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Power of Self-Denial”

1. Introduction — “Put On Your Shoes and Get Into Action” 👣
A funny jungle football story about a centipede who missed the first play because he was “still putting on his shoes.”
→ Moral: it’s time for us to get ready, take action, and follow Christ’s call.
Jesus calls us not to comfort but to commitment: “Deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Me.”
2. The Challenge — Living in a “ME” Generation 🙋‍♀️🙋‍♂️
Our culture says, “I want what I want, and I want it now.”
- From Margaret Trudeau’s self-centered independence to drive-through funerals — society avoids sacrifice and inconvenience.
Even simple comforts, comparisons, and consumerism (like the mail-order catalog story) lead us away from gratitude and contentment.
We’ve forgotten that discipline and self-denial bring deeper joy than instant gratification.
3. The Truth — Self-Denial Is Key to Real Success 🏆
Even in secular life, people know that success requires discipline and restraint:
- Yom Kippur: self-denial symbolizes mastery over self.
- The bishop with horses “Pride” and “Prejudice” — true strength is keeping them under control.
- William James’ “Moral Equivalent of War” — real courage is in enduring hardship, not causing it.
Athletes and achievers model this:
- Babe Didrikson Zaharias: greatness comes from relentless, painful practice.
- Rocky Bleier: overcame war injuries to become an NFL champion.
Self-denial is not weakness — it’s the foundation of discipline, character, and victory.
4. The Deeper Lesson — Self-Denial for God, Not Just for Self 🙏
Denying yourself for your own gain may lead to success but not fulfillment.
→ True joy comes when we say, “I’m doing this for God.”
Dr. John A. Redhead’s illustration:
- Two full buckets — one your will, one God’s.
- You can’t receive God’s will until you empty your own.
- Real peace comes from trusting God’s plan over our own.
Paul’s truth:
“I live, yet not I, but Christ lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20)
- When we surrender self, Christ fills us with His power, purpose, and presence.
5. The Example — Total Commitment Changes Everything ⚔️
Alexander the Great’s soldiers obeyed without hesitation — even to death — showing absolute loyalty.
Likewise, Christ calls us not to self-destruction, but to complete devotion and willingness to sacrifice for God’s mission.
If enough believers lived this way — denying self, taking up the cross, following Jesus — the world would be transformed.

09-08-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Don’t Stay in the Huddle”

1. The Huddle Isn’t the Game
Illustration: A football team huddles endlessly, reshaping the huddle into triangles and squares — but never runs a play. The crowd leaves; the team forfeits.
👉 The huddle = worship, study, fellowship — necessary for encouragement and strategy.
👉 But the game = living out our faith in the world.
We gather to prepare — not to stay comfortable. Christ calls us from the huddle into action.
2. Authentic Faith Doesn’t Need Hype
Jesus healed the deaf man privately and told the crowd to “tell no one.”
Yet, “the more He charged them, the more zealously they proclaimed it.”
→ True faith spreads naturally.
We don’t need gimmicks, publicity, or pressure — real transformation sells itself.
- Illustration: A hobo cleverly called himself “Come Eat a Bite” — gimmicky but shallow. The Gospel doesn’t need tricks; it needs authenticity.
3. The Gospel That Cannot Be Hidden
Story: The five missionaries killed by the Huaorani tribe (Jim Elliot, Nate Saint, and others).
- Their families returned to minister to the very people who killed them.
- The tribe came to faith because they saw forgiveness lived out.
  👉 When people live like Christ — with compassion, courage, and forgiveness — the Gospel speaks louder than words.
4. Our Lives Are the Best Advertising
A bumper sticker or slogan means nothing if our behavior contradicts it.
- Funny illustration: A teacher asks what the sign of the Cross means; a boy replies, “It means I’m going to shoot a free throw.”
- Religious symbols or words can confuse — but a Christ-like life is unmistakable.
True evangelism isn’t about noise; it’s about consistency, integrity, and love in daily living.
5. Quiet Faith Can Transform the World
Example: 19th-century England’s peaceful “revolution” of compassion — schools, reforms, care for the poor — sparked by faithful Christian nannies who quietly taught children and families about Jesus.
→ No hype. No headlines. Just steady, faithful living.
The same kind of quiet, faithful witness can reshape communities today.

09-01-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Good Taste or Good Religion?”

1. Good Manners vs. Good Religion
Story: “The Polite Robbers” — even thieves can have manners, but manners don’t equal morality.
Politeness, charm, and good breeding can impress others — but God looks at the heart, not etiquette.
Example: Doctors avoid lawsuits not because they’re perfect but because they treat people with respect and courtesy — relationships matter more than skill.
2. Jesus Confronts Empty Religion
The Pharisees criticized Jesus’ disciples for not washing their hands — a ritual rule, not a moral one.
Jesus replied:
“This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.”
He reminded them (and us) that faith is not about traditions or appearances but about love and authenticity.
The disciples lacked polish, but their hearts were right — and that’s what counted with Jesus.
3. Good Taste Can’t Replace Good Faith
We often face the same tension in the modern church:
- Some value quiet, order, and tradition in worship.
- Others seek liveliness, energy, and contemporary expression.
  👉 The real question: Are we worshiping God — or just protecting our preferences?
Tradition and taste should never block compassion.
4. A Church That Chose “Good Taste” Over Love
Story: The woman with Tourette’s Syndrome (“Estelle”) who made noises during worship.
- The congregation found her distracting and eventually drove her away.
- Later, they learned she was a nurse who lovingly cared for a dying woman — embodying the heart of Christ.
- When she returned to church, they welcomed her fully, realizing her noises were part of her “joyful noise unto the Lord.”
Lesson: God values compassion over decorum; love over appearances.
5. The Heart of the Gospel
Jesus didn’t come to create polite gatherings — He came to create loving communities.
The church’s mission isn’t to be impressive or refined; it’s to be a place where everyone feels:
- Loved
- Accepted
- Genuinely cared for

August 2024

08-25-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Wonderful Words of Life”

1. Opening Humor: Aging Gracefully
Begins with a lighthearted list of “senior hymns” (e.g., “Precious Lord, Take My Hand—and Help Me Up”).
Sets a warm, relatable tone about aging and change.
2. Scripture Focus: John 6:67–69
Jesus asks the disciples: “Do you also wish to go away?”
Peter responds: “Lord, to whom can we go? You have the words of eternal life.”
Central truth: Jesus alone offers the words of eternal life—words that bring meaning, hope, and transformation.
3. Life in a Dying World
Everything in this world is temporary—life, youth, even familiar ways of living.
Whether young or old, people seek something lasting amid change and decay.
We come to Jesus because He speaks life in a dying world.
4. The “Wonderful Words of Life”
Jesus’ words assure us of our value and God’s care:
- “Not one sparrow falls apart from your Father.”
- “In my Father’s house are many mansions.”
His words remind us that every life—no matter how small or limited—matters deeply to God.
5. Faith in Ourselves as God’s Instruments
The greatest heresy is not doubting God, but doubting what God can do through us.
Story of Rabbi Harold Kushner’s son shows that even a short life can have enduring influence.
When we accept our worth in God’s eyes, we can effectively share His love with others.
6. Feeling Good → Doing Good
Story from The Good Samaritan Study:
- People who found coins were 4× more likely to help a woman in need.
- Lesson: When we feel good, we tend to do good.
Spiritually, when we feel loved and valued by Christ, we naturally love and serve others.
Many Christians feel defeated or inadequate; Jesus’ acceptance restores our sense of worth so we can serve joyfully.
7. “Playing Possum” – Fear of Commitment
Illustration: The opossum survives by “playing dead.”
Many believers do the same spiritually—immobile, lifeless from fear of full commitment.
True vitality comes when we stop “playing dead” and fully open ourselves to Christ’s transforming words.
8. Closing Story: The Letter to Santa
A grieving little girl asks Santa to bring her father “some eternity.”
Moving reminder: Only Jesus offers eternity—the cure for all sorrow and loss.

08-18-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Bread of Life – Finding Meaning in Jesus”

1. Opening Humor: The Ride of Life
Jerry Seinfeld and Cynthia Kraman humorously describe life’s ups, downs, and absurdities.
Sets the tone: life can feel confusing, chaotic, or even meaningless — yet we keep riding.
The sermon asks: Where do we find lasting meaning in life’s ride?
2. The Crowd and the Bread
After Jesus fed the 5,000, the people followed Him for more miracles and material blessings, not for who He truly was.
Jesus challenges this self-centered motivation:
Many follow Him for what they can get, not for who He is.
Modern believers can be guilty of the same — seeking what God gives, not simply seeking God.
3. Wrong Motives, Right Person
Story of the Canadian arsonist’s prayer: “Oh God, let me get away with it just this once.”
→ Illustrates selfish prayers focused on personal gain, not repentance or devotion.
We often come to God asking Him to bless our plans, instead of submitting to His.
4. Our True Significance Comes from Christ
Jack Hayford’s visit to Winston Churchill’s boyhood home inspired his hymn “Majesty.”
Reflection: Just as Churchill’s home evoked greatness, so Christ’s presence instills dignity and purpose in believers.
When we sense His majesty, we realize our significance in Him.
5. The Need for Meaning
Story of donkeys on a treadmill — blinded, going in circles, unaware they’re not moving forward.
Without God, people also live aimlessly, chasing success or pleasure without direction.
We must have purpose — but true purpose comes only from the Bread of Life.
6. Looking for Meaning in the Wrong Places
Anecdote of the confused pilot boarding the wrong plane.
→ Even leaders can lose direction when they don’t know their true destination.
Many today are on “the wrong plane” spiritually — following false religions, empty philosophies, or self-help fads.
Jesus alone gives direction, sustenance, and eternal life.
7. Jesus, the Bread of Life (John 6:33–35)
“I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry.”
Bread = basic nourishment, something we cannot live without.
Jesus is the spiritual nourishment that gives life meaning and strength.
To know Christ is to know purpose, peace, and eternal fulfillment.
8. Hearing What Others Can’t
Story from Max Lucado: On a turbulent flight, one passenger laughed — he was tuned into a comedy channel that others couldn’t hear.
Lesson: Jesus lived serenely in chaos because He was tuned into the Father’s voice.
Likewise, when we stay connected to God, we experience peace and clarity others can’t understand.
9. Worship’s True Focus
The church exists to exalt Jesus and help people find meaning in Him.
Our hymns and worship reflect this dual purpose:
- To strengthen community among believers.
- To glorify Christ as Lord and Savior.
10. The Only Real Choice (C.S. Lewis)
“Jesus was either a lunatic, a liar, or Lord.”
We must decide who Jesus is — no neutral ground.
If He truly is the Son of God, then He is worthy of our full devotion and trust.
11. Closing Message
Life’s meaning isn’t found in possessions, pleasure, or power — it’s found in a Person.
Jesus is the Bread of Life, the source of satisfaction for all who hunger for truth, peace, and purpose.
“He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.”

08-11-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Bread of Life — Finding True Meaning in Jesus”

Based on John 6:35 — “I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry.”
Central message: Life’s true meaning, satisfaction, and purpose are found only in Jesus Christ.
1. Life’s Journey and the Search for Meaning
Opening humor: Jerry Seinfeld and Cynthia Kraman remind us that life can seem chaotic, humorous, and hard to understand.
We all want life to make sense — to find purpose and direction amid the confusion.
2. Wrong Reasons People Follow Jesus
After Jesus fed the 5,000, the crowd followed Him not for who He was, but for what He could do — food, healing, excitement.
Many today do the same: seeking blessings, not relationship; asking, “What can Jesus do for me?” instead of “What can I do for Jesus?”
3. Illustration: The Arsonist’s Prayer
The man who prayed, “Oh God, let me get away with it just this once,” shows a faith rooted in selfish gain, not surrender.
Many approach God this way — wanting divine help but not divine holiness.
4. True Majesty and Our Significance in Christ
Jack Hayford’s visit to Churchill’s home inspired the hymn “Majesty.”
He realized that our true dignity and worth come from our identity in Christ — knowing we belong to a majestic God.
5. The Need for Purpose
The Jewish “treadmill” parable: the donkeys walked in circles, thinking they were moving forward.
Likewise, people without spiritual vision live busy but purposeless lives.
Everyone seeks meaning — but many look in the wrong places and follow the wrong guides.
6. Illustration: The Confused Pilot
A pilot boards the wrong plane — a metaphor for people who don’t know where they’re headed spiritually.
Many are sincere, but sincerely lost, following philosophies or religions that can’t save.
7. Jesus: The True Source of Life
Jesus alone is “the Bread of Life.”
In Him, we find sustenance, purpose, and satisfaction — He nourishes both body and soul.
Only through Jesus can we hear God’s voice, as Max Lucado illustrated with the man laughing on the plane — Jesus was in tune with the Father.
8. The Purpose of Worship
The church exists to exalt Jesus and help people find meaning in Him.
Worship should both unite believers and lift up Christ — songs and services that glorify Him renew our sense of purpose.
9. C.S. Lewis’ Challenge
Jesus cannot be reduced to a “great moral teacher.”
We must choose: either He is Lord and God, or He is not who He claimed to be.
10. Conclusion
Jesus Christ is the Bread of Life.
Those who come to Him will never hunger or thirst again.
True meaning, fulfillment, and destiny are found not in what Jesus gives us, but in who Jesus is.

08-04-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The One Thing Missing”

1. The Universal Search for Meaning
Somerset Maugham, one of the world’s most successful authors, confessed that his fame and fortune brought him no happiness — “My success means nothing to me.”
Paul Newman, despite fame and fortune, admitted, “I’m just not happy. I don’t have inner serenity.”
These examples reflect a deep emptiness in the human heart — a hunger that wealth, success, or pleasure cannot fill.
People echo the question: “Is this all there is?”
2. False Substitutes for Fulfillment
We try to fill the emptiness with things that cannot satisfy:
Affluence – Example: Mill Valley, California — a wealthy community filled with addiction, broken families, and despair. Money cannot buy peace or purpose.
Fame – Zig Ziglar recounts a TV commentator who said she knew no celebrity who was truly happy. Fame does not equal joy.
Attraction / Pleasure – Illustrated by Pastor Thielmann’s story of the snake and the mouse — sin fascinates but eventually destroys.
Power – From the boy who enjoyed stopping cars to the child disappointed with his Superman cape, we see that human power is an illusion; it cannot fill the inner void.
3. The Real Issue: Missing Meaning
What’s missing is not money, success, or excitement — it’s meaning.
Modern art (e.g., Jackson Pollock’s random paintings) mirrors society’s belief in purposelessness — life without direction or design.
Evelyn Underhill observed: “We spend our lives conjugating three verbs: to Want, to Have, to Do — and miss the one that matters, to Be.”
4. The True Source of Fulfillment
Jesus declares: “I am the bread of life.”
Only Christ can fill the emptiness of the human soul.
E. Stanley Jones, even after a debilitating stroke, found unshakable peace because his life was anchored in Christ.
M. Scott Peck, psychiatrist and author, found his missing piece when he committed his life to Jesus Christ at age 43.
5. The Invitation
We search for satisfaction in power, wealth, fame, or pleasure — but none can satisfy the soul.
Only the Bread from Heaven — Jesus Christ — can give lasting meaning, purpose, and peace.
Until we “feed on Him,” we will always be hungry.

July 2024

07-28-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Bounteous Goodness of God”

1. God’s Provision Reveals His Bounty
Opening story: A humorous tale of the preacher and the “foamy glass of milk” reminds us of God’s rich provision — “Lord, what a bounteous God!”
The feeding of the 5,000 shows that God meets both physical and spiritual hunger.
2. Sit Down — Stop the Endless March
“Make the people sit down.” – John 6:10
We experience God’s bounty when we take time to be still.
Mother Teresa: The greatest problem is spiritual deprivation — emptiness from being separated from God.
Hawaiian convert’s story: Christians often pray “without breath” — without depth or reflection.
Fabre’s caterpillars: A vivid image of people endlessly circling — busy but going nowhere.
→ Many of us starve spiritually because we never stop long enough to receive from God.
3. Receive What God Offers
G. Campbell Morgan’s story: A woman refused to open the door, thinking it was her landlord — missing the help her pastor brought.
→ We often shut God out in fear or unbelief, blocking the blessings He wants to give.
God’s nature is to give generously — love always gives.
4. Don’t Miss God’s Abundance
Jamestown settlers (1610): Starved surrounded by food because they didn’t know how to receive it.
→ Likewise, many starve spiritually though God’s provision is all around them.
Jesus blessed and broke the loaves — and all ate as much as they wanted.
5. God’s Extravagance
Twelve baskets of leftovers — a picture of divine abundance.
Throughout Scripture, God provides more than enough:
- Wine overflowing at Cana
- A feast for the Prodigal Son
- A cup that “runneth over” (Psalm 23)
6. The Universe Itself Testifies to His Bounty
The vastness of creation — millions of earths could fit inside the sun — reflects the extravagance of a generous Creator.
Galileo: “The sun… can ripen a bunch of grapes as if it had nothing else to do.”
→ God’s attention to small things amid grandeur shows His love for His children.
7. God’s Extravagance Prepares Us for Heaven
Heaven’s joy and beauty will surpass anything we can imagine.
Story of the two men in Heaven: “We could have gotten here ten years sooner if we hadn’t eaten all that oat bran!”
→ God’s eternal blessing far exceeds earthly striving or self-preservation.

07-21-2024 Sermon – Message by Dan Curtis, CLICK on date to view sermon

“Sent to Serve — The Bountiful Joy of Faithful Service”

1. From Disciples to Apostles — Sent with Purpose
In Mark 6:30, the twelve are called apostles (Greek apostellō — “to send”) for the first and only time in the Gospel of Mark.
They return from being sent out by Jesus to heal, cast out demons, and proclaim the good news.
Jesus Himself was sent by the Father — and now He sends His followers to continue that mission.
Application: We too are sent people — disciples who are called to act as apostles in our world.
2. The Rhythm of Ministry — Work and Rest
Jesus invites the apostles to “come away and rest a while” after their mission (Mark 6:31).
Yet their rest is interrupted by the crowds. Instead of frustration, Jesus shows compassion, seeing the people as “sheep without a shepherd.”
Lesson:
- God often interrupts our plans with opportunities to love and serve.
- True discipleship means being flexible and compassionate when God redirects our path.
- How do we respond — with resentment or compassion?
3. Compassion — The Heart of God’s Mission
Matthew 9:36 echoes the same truth — Jesus’ heart breaks for the lost and weary.
God continually provides guidance through:
- The prophets in the Old Testament
- Jesus Christ, His Son
- Scripture and the Holy Spirit today
The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19–20) calls all believers to make disciples, teaching and baptizing in His name.
The goal of discipleship: To become like the Master — by learning, living, and sharing His Word.
4. The Call to Labor — The Harvest Is Plentiful
Jesus said, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few” (Matthew 9:37–38).
We are called to pray for more workers and to serve faithfully with the gifts we have been given.
God doesn’t call us to do everything — only what aligns with the time, talent, and treasure He has entrusted to us.
5. Time, Talent, and Treasure — Our Gifts Back to God
Everything we have is a gift from God; our stewardship is our gift back to Him.
Reflective questions:
- Do we give back even 10% of our time in prayer, service, and study?
- Do we share our talents freely or reserve them for profit and personal gain?
- Do we tithe faithfully to support God’s mission, or cling to material comforts?
Martin Luther: “I have held many things in my hands and have lost them all; but whatever I have placed in God’s hands, that I still possess.”
Sacrificial giving lives on for eternity.
6. Streams in the Desert — Living the Gospel
The congregation is already living out this call:
- Office volunteers serving five days a week.
- Food bank teams feeding the hungry.
- Committee members leading ministries.
- Grounds crews maintaining God’s house.
- Quilters, musicians, cleaners, and volunteers serving quietly without recognition.
These servants embody Jesus’ words from Mark 9:35:
“Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all.”
7. The Joy of the Master
Those who serve selflessly experience the deep joy of Christ, echoing His words:
“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your master.”
Service may look like hard work, but for the faithful, it feels like love in action.
The joy of serving — as seen in ministries like Via de Cristo — transforms both giver and receiver.

07-14-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“God’s Chosen People and His Eternal Plan”

1. The Church Must Know Where It’s Going
Illustration: A sad dog in a crate had chewed off his tag and didn’t know where he was going — a picture of many modern churches.
The church has immense resources, talent, and the power of Christ, yet often lacks vision and direction.
Key Question: Have we “chewed off our tag” — forgetting who we are and what we are called to do?
2. God Has Chosen a Special People
From Israel → to Jesus → to His followers today, God works through people to accomplish His purposes.
God’s people are His instruments of grace in the world.
Illustration: The “style horse” — looks impressive but serves no purpose. Some churches or Christians appear successful but fail to serve.
When we forget our calling, the mission of Christ is delayed.
3. God’s People Must Act Like God’s People
Story: Ernest Gordon, who found faith through self-sacrificing Christians in a WWII prison camp, was later discouraged when a churchgoer asked him to move because he sat in “someone’s pew.”
Many people are turned off by Christians who forget who they are.
Warning: Churches focused on their past—like the “floogee bird” flying backward singing, “I don’t know where I’m going, but look where I’ve been!”—lose their mission.
4. God Has Revealed His Eternal Plan
God’s plan is not hidden: He has revealed His vision for humanity through Christ.
Every great work begins with a vision — like the engineers who dreamed the George Washington Bridge before it was built.
God’s vision: To bring everything in heaven and on earth into unity under Christ (Ephesians 1:10).
Illustrations:
- The A-Team—“I love it when a plan comes together!”—reminds us that God’s plan will come together.
- Fortune tellers who lost their crystal balls symbolize a world without divine direction. But believers know both what is coming and their role in it.
5. God’s Plan: Unity and Reconciliation
God’s “new world order” is not political but spiritual—a world where all people live as God’s children in dignity, peace, and harmony under Christ’s lordship.
2 Corinthians 5:18: “God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself and giving to us the ministry of reconciliation.”
The church’s mission: to bring people into the family of God through love, unity, and witness.
6. Where Do We Begin?
Right here, right now. Reaching out in love to people around us.
Illustration: Fred Craddock’s story of his father, who rejected the church thinking it only wanted “another name and another pledge.”
- When he lay dying, surrounded by flowers from church groups, he wrote on a Kleenex box: “I was wrong!”
- The church had cared all along — he just hadn’t seen it until the end.
Our mission begins with compassion, humility, and outreach to those right beside us.
7. Our Identity and Purpose
We are:
- Chosen — God’s special people.
- Called — to live as Christ’s ambassadors.
- Commissioned — to bring the world into unity under Christ.
The church fulfills God’s purpose when it:
Knows its mission,
Lives as Christ’s body, and
Works to reconcile the world to God through love.

07-07-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Is Anybody Listening?”

1. The Question that Haunts Every Preacher: “Is Anybody Listening?”
Opening story – Fred in the back pew: A grumpy man clipping his nails during sermons — a humorous picture of those who come to church but don’t really listen.
Like Fred, many attend worship but never open their hearts to hear God’s Word.
A pastor’s lament: “I’ve preached thousands of sermons and people remember none.”
Response letter: “I’ve eaten thousands of meals I can’t recall, but without them I’d have starved.”
→ Even if we don’t remember every sermon, they feed our souls week after week.
2. Preaching Must Speak to Real People
Illustration – Thomas Gillespie at Princeton Seminary: A professor told him, “Come down from your theological high horse and speak to Aunt Fannie in the front pew.”
True preaching isn’t about fancy words or lofty intellect — it’s about connecting God’s truth to everyday life.
Preaching is a conversation between God and His people through an imperfect human voice.
3. Every Sermon Should Contain Good News
Example – Jonathan Edwards’ “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God”: Isaac Watts read it and wrote, “A most terrible sermon, which should have had a word of Gospel at the end.”
Christian preaching must always point to Jesus Christ — the good news of God’s love and redemption.
Without Christ at the center, sermons become mere moral lectures or theological mist.
4. Even Jesus Faced Unhearing Ears
In Mark 6, Jesus preached in his hometown, but His listeners “took offense at Him.”
- They saw Him as too familiar: “Isn’t this the carpenter’s son?”
- Their hearts were closed — they couldn’t see God in the ordinary.
As a result, Mark writes, “He could do no mighty works there.”
→ When we refuse to listen, even God’s power is hindered in our lives.
5. Why People Don’t Listen
Familiarity: “We’ve heard all this before.”
Skepticism: “Who is this person to tell me anything?”
Distraction: “I didn’t come to church to be preached to.”
Resistance to change: The Gospel challenges comfort, habits, and pride.
Someone once said, “There are two kinds of sermons people don’t want to hear — bad sermons and good ones.”
6. The Risk and Power of Listening
To truly hear God’s Word is risky — it may change your direction, challenge your comfort, or call you to sacrifice.
Listening means coming to worship prepared — with a hungry heart and an open spirit, ready to be transformed by Christ’s voice.
God still speaks in our messy, complicated lives — calling us to pick up the cross and follow.
7. When Someone Listens — God Moves
Illustration – South Africa, 1989:
Pastor Pieter Bingle preached to newly elected President F. W. de Klerk, saying,
“God calls you not to serve some of the people, but all the people of South Africa.”
De Klerk wept, prayed, and obeyed — leading to Nelson Mandela’s release and the end of apartheid.
→ One sermon, one listener, one act of obedience — and history changed.

June 2024

06-30-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“When Life Is Put on Hold”

1. Life on Hold — A Frustrating Experience
Opening illustration: Candy Postlethwaite received a government check that didn’t belong to her — and no matter what she did, it kept returning! A funny but frustrating example of being “stuck on hold.”
Being “on hold” in life is just as frustrating — especially when the matter feels urgent.
We ask: “God, why aren’t You doing something?”
2. Jairus’ Story — A Father Put on Hold
Jairus, a respected leader, pleads with Jesus to heal his dying daughter.
Jesus agrees — but is delayed when a woman with a hemorrhage touches His robe.
Imagine Jairus’ anguish: time is slipping away, and his daughter’s life is in danger.
Lesson: Sometimes God’s timing feels painfully slow — but His compassion and power are never absent.
3. When God Seems to Delay
We all face moments when God seems to “dawdle” or ignore our prayers.
Illustration – the teacher and the student: “I’m going to turn you over to God.” “Mrs. Jones, God will give him right back!”
→ We often feel like our prayers bounce back unanswered.
Even when God seems silent, He is still sovereign. He is never late; His timing is perfect.
4. “Don’t Be Afraid, Just Believe”
When word comes that Jairus’ daughter has died, Jesus says, “Don’t be afraid, just believe.”
That is the central message:
When life is on hold, hold on tighter to God’s promises.
Jesus goes with Jairus to the house, takes the girl’s hand, and says, “Talitha cumi” — “Little girl, arise.” She lives again.
God’s power is not limited by time, distance, or even death.
5. Stories of Faith When God Delays
Roger Strader’s Story: After losing his young daughter, hymn writer Roger Strader poured out his grief to God and found peace through the lyrics of one of his own songs:
“When it seems your heavy burden is too much to bear, in Jesus there is perfect peace.”
→ Even in tragedy, God meets us with peace beyond understanding.
The Neurosurgeon’s Story: A “dead” boy revived when a doctor inserted a needle into his heart — a modern reminder that life can return in an instant.
→ If human hands can revive the dead, how much more can the Lord of Life restore and redeem?
The Russian parents’ prayer (Turgenev, Fathers and Sons):
→ “O God, grant that one day we three may be together again.”
→ They trusted God to reunite them in eternity — a faith that holds even when earthly hope is gone.
6. The Heart of the Message
God’s delays test our faith — but His timing is always perfect.
Jesus is Lord of both life and death, and He never abandons those who trust Him.
When you feel “put on hold,” remember:
- God still hears your prayers.
- He still walks beside you.
- He will not let go of you.
7. Key Takeaways
- God’s silence is not His absence.
- Delays are not denials — they are opportunities to deepen faith.
- Jesus never forgets or forsakes His people.
- Hold on to His promises when life is on hold.
- He is Lord of both life and death — and He holds us fast.

06-23-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Peace in the Midst of the Storm”

1. The Fury of the Storm
Life’s storms are inevitable. Just as the disciples faced a sudden storm on the Sea of Galilee, every person will encounter trouble, loss, or fear.
Storms may come as sickness, grief, failure, fear for loved ones, or uncertainty about the future.
Illustration – Mary Ellen Clark:
- Olympic diver who suffered from vertigo — a devastating condition for her sport.
- She learned the secret of Philippians 4:12–13: contentment and strength through Christ, even if her dream was taken away.
- By faith, she overcame and won a bronze medal at age 33, the oldest diver in her event.
  → Lesson: Faith in Christ gives strength to face any storm — not just to “win,” but to find peace regardless of the outcome.
2. The Fear of the Disciples
Even seasoned fishermen panicked. They cried, “Teacher, don’t you care that we perish?”
We’ve all been there. Fear grips us when life feels out of control — when we cannot see a way forward.
Illustration – Rembrandt’s painting, “The Storm on the Sea of Galilee”:
- There are fourteen people in the boat — the twelve disciples, Jesus, and Rembrandt himself.
- The artist included himself because we are all in that boat.
Illustration – Hazel B. Goddard’s counseling story:
- A young woman tormented by anxiety found peace by repeating Isaiah 26:3:
  “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee.”
- God’s Word brought her calm and hope through faith.
  → Lesson: Fear focuses on the storm; faith focuses on the Savior.
3. The Faith That Saves
Jesus woke, rebuked the storm, and said, “Peace! Be still!”
Immediately there was calm — not only in nature, but also in the hearts of His disciples.
Jesus then asked, “Why are you afraid? Have you no faith?”
Faith doesn’t always remove the storm, but it anchors us through it.
Illustration – Linda Sledge’s Hawaiian memory:
Swept into the sea as a child, she was rescued by her father, who said, “Don’t be afraid. I’ve been watching you all the time.”
So it is with Christ — He is never asleep, never unaware, always watching over us.
→ Lesson: When we remember who is in the boat with us, we can face any storm with peace.

06-16-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Power of Little Things”

1. SEEDS OF LOVE 🌸
Illustration – “The Talking Pig” Story:
- A child’s unexpected humor reminds us that children absorb everything we say and do — our words plant lasting seeds.
- Our influence matters: the smallest comments and actions shape the hearts of those around us.
Kirk Douglas’ Story:
- The famous actor cherished a simple act of love from his father — a five-cent ice cream cone — more than his Oscar.
- True love isn’t shown in grandeur, but in simple, caring gestures that say “You matter.”
Lesson:
- Every child, every person needs to hear and feel unconditional love.
- Jesus modeled that love — the love that says, “You are mine, no matter what.”
- Plant seeds of love daily: a word of encouragement, a hug, a prayer, a kind deed — these are kingdom seeds that never stop growing.
2. SEEDS OF FAITHFULNESS 🌾
Nick and Liz Thomas’ Story:
- Facing unemployment, they prayed — and God prompted Liz to “make the mustard,” a simple family recipe.
- That small step of obedience became a thriving business — because they trusted and acted on God’s prompting.
Quote:
- “A mustard seed is plain and of little value; but when it is crushed, it shows forth its power.”
- So it is with faith — simple, small, but powerful when tested and trusted.
Lesson:
- Faith means listening to God’s call — even when it seems small or strange.
- God uses the “mustard seeds” of obedience to do amazing things.
3. SEEDS OF GRACE 🌼
Email Story:
- A pastor received an email from “Nobody” asking, “Is there really a God?”
- He replied with a single word: “YES.”
- Days later, the sender wrote back, saying that after losing their job, that one simple word restored their hope in God.
  → Small acts of grace can bloom into life-changing faith.
Letting Go Story (Grand Central Station):
- A man, once burdened by worry, said, “I’ve just resigned as general manager of the universe, and it’s amazing how quickly God accepted the position.”
- True grace means trusting God’s timing and control — letting Him be in charge.
Vacuum Story:
- A woman’s new vacuum kept shutting off — until she realized it was plugged into her Christmas tree blinker outlet.
  → Point: If you’re not connected to the right power source — God — nothing will work properly.
Lesson:
- Grace grows when we surrender control and stay connected to God’s power.
- When we are “plugged in” to His presence, our small efforts blossom into something eternal.

06-09-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“When Jesus Isn’t What You Expect”

1. Life Is Full of the Unexpected 🚗
Illustration – The Cement Truck & the Puppet:
- A woman’s frustration turns to laughter when a truck driver waves with a puppet — a small, unexpected act that changes her attitude.
- Lesson: Life often surprises us; our reactions reveal our hearts.
- The unexpected can be a gift — sometimes God uses it to redirect or soften us.
2. Jesus Was Not What People Expected 👣
Even His family thought He was “out of His mind.”
Religious leaders accused Him of being in league with the devil.
He focused on fishermen, tax collectors, and outcasts — not the powerful or religious elite.
Lesson:
- Jesus refuses to fit into our boxes.
- His ministry breaks norms and expectations — even today.
- Many who claim to follow Him might still be embarrassed by what He says or does.
3. Faith Happens in Unexpected Places ⛪
Story – Will and the Reporter:
- Will said, “I find church happens all the time.”
- He ministered not in a building but in everyday life — to coworkers, friends, and neighbors.
- Lesson: True ministry isn’t confined to steeples or Sunday mornings.
- Jesus meets people where they are — and we are called to do the same.
4. Jesus Reaches Those Others Avoid ❤️
Story – Johnny Cornflakes:
- A poor, alcoholic man interrupts a pastor’s dinner party — a reminder that Jesus would have welcomed him.
- Jesus invites the outcasts — the “Johnny Cornflakes” of the world — to sit at His table.
- Lesson:
  - Jesus’ compassion often makes “respectable” people uncomfortable.
  - Following Him means welcoming the people others overlook.
5. Jesus Cares About People — ALL People 🙌
We can’t always predict Jesus’ stance on political or social issues — but we can be sure He is for people.
Story – Paige Patterson and the Bouncer:
- A pastor witnesses to a suicidal nightclub bouncer — and leads him to faith.
- Lesson: Jesus meets people right where they are — in nightclubs, offices, ballparks, or broken places.
- God’s love is personal, persistent, and practical.
6. The Heart of the Gospel 💗
Jesus confounded expectations — but His purpose was clear: to bring people home to God.
Everything He taught and suffered was for that goal.
Our Call:
- Let Jesus break our expectations.
- See people as He does — not as problems, but as precious souls.
- Be His hands and voice in unexpected places.

06-02-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Joyful Life — God’s Invitation to the Party”

1. People Love to Celebrate — But Often Miss the Joy of Worship 🎈
Illustrations:
- Christopher Walken’s fake birthday — joy brings people together.
- Funny festivals — from Banana Slug Day to Goat Day, humans will celebrate almost anything.
- Yet, when it comes to church, many people associate worship with solemnity, not joy.
- Quote: Robert Louis Stevenson once wrote, “I have been to church today—and am not depressed.”
Lesson: Joy is part of God’s design for worship. Church should feel like a celebration of life with God, not a funeral service.
2. Jesus Brings the Joy Back into Faith 🕊️
Scripture: Mark 2:18–22 — The Pharisees fasted; Jesus’ disciples feasted.
Jesus explained: “How can the guests of the bridegroom fast while he is with them?”
The Pharisees focused on rules and rituals, but Jesus focused on relationship.
Lesson:
- God isn’t impressed by gloomy religiosity.
- Obedience without understanding God’s heart kills joy.
- Jesus came to show that faith is meant to be alive, abundant, and joyful.
3. Joy Flows from Knowing Grace, Not Earning It 💖
Story – Pastor Mike Yaconelli:
- After years of burnout, he found rest and joy among the special-needs community of L’Arche, who simply basked in God’s love.
- He realized, “I connected the amount of God’s grace I received with the quality of my performance.”
Lesson:
- God’s grace is not earned; it’s received.
- When we stop striving and start resting in grace, joy comes naturally.
- Worship becomes a response to love, not an obligation.
4. The Kingdom of God Is a Celebration of Righteousness, Peace, and Joy 🕊️
Romans 14:17–18:
- “The kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.”
God’s kingdom isn’t about rules—it’s about relationship.
When we live in Christ’s presence, joy becomes the hallmark of our lives.
5. Joy That Endures: The Example of Fanny Crosby 🎵
Blinded as a child, endured heartbreak, yet radiated joy.
Her hymns—“Blessed Assurance,” “To God Be the Glory,” “Pass Me Not”—overflow with praise and hope.
Quote: “People grow old because they are not cheerful, and cheerfulness is one of the greatest accomplishments in the world!”
Lesson:
- True joy doesn’t come from circumstances but from knowing Jesus personally.
- Her “foretaste of glory divine” was her daily strength.

May 2024

05-26-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Born Again — A New Life in Christ”

1. Education Can’t Make Us Good — Only God Can Transform the Heart 💡
Illustration – Marian and the Professor:
- A college student asked, “How do you teach people to be good?”
- Her professor replied: “According to the Bible, it’s not education but conversion — true goodness dawns when God’s light shines in the heart.”
Lesson: Nicodemus came to Jesus seeking knowledge, but Jesus pointed him to rebirth, not more information.
The Christian life begins not with self-improvement, but with God’s Spirit creating new life within us.
2. Being Born Again Means Becoming a New Person — “Uh-oh!” Moments of Change 🔄
Illustration – The Child’s “Uh-oh” at Baptism:
- After being baptized, a two-year-old boy said, “Uh-oh.”
- The pastor later reflected — that’s the perfect response! Life with Christ means everything changes.
Many people want progress without change, but new birth means transformation.
Jesus invites us to become new people — not just better versions of ourselves.
3. A New Birth Brings a New Focus — Outward, Not Inward ❤️
Our first birth makes us self-centered — we grasp for what we want.
Spiritual rebirth reorients us toward others, reflecting our Heavenly Father’s love.
Question: Do others see our Father’s likeness in us — His compassion, mercy, and kindness?
Lesson: A born-again heart learns to love others first, not self.
4. A New Birth Brings a New Set of Values 💎
Our first values come from family, culture, and surroundings.
Spiritual rebirth gives us Kingdom values — seeing life through God’s eyes.
Illustration – Homer Simpson’s “Last Days” List:
- When told he would die soon, Homer realized the importance of relationships, amends, and love — not possessions or status.
Lesson:
- When we are “born from above,” material things lose their shine.
- Our hearts shift from earthly treasures to eternal priorities.
5. A New Birth Brings a New Family 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
Jesus said, “Whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”
To be born again is to join the family of God — a community without boundaries.
Illustration – Mrs. Keys and the Boy in Jail:
- A sheriff’s wife took in a lonely, orphaned boy charged with murder and loved him as her own.
- When asked where he wanted to live after reform school, he said, “It ain’t jail — it’s home.”
- Her love made him part of a new family and gave him new life.
Lesson: When we are born again, God adopts us into His family and calls us His own.

05-19-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Drunk and Disorderly — The Power of the Holy Spirit”

1. The Spirit’s Presence Brings Life and Power 🌬️
Opening Illustration – “Drunk and Disorderly”
- Dr. Halford Luccock jokes about “D.D.” meaning “Doctor of Divinity” or “Drunk and Disorderly.”
- At Pentecost, the disciples were accused of being drunk — but they were actually filled with the Holy Spirit!
Lesson:
- The Holy Spirit moves us beyond dull, lifeless religion.
- Like wind filling a ship’s sails, the Spirit is the unseen force that gives believers direction and momentum.
2. The Holy Spirit Gives Guidance 🕊️
We depend on the Spirit to speak through us — especially in preaching, teaching, and daily living.
Illustrations:
- A little girl asks her pastor father, “Does God tell you what to say?” — then wonders why he crosses so much out!
- Even when a preacher falters, the Spirit can speak directly to listeners’ hearts.
Lesson:
- The Spirit’s voice isn’t always loud or flashy — sometimes it’s quiet, steady, and clear.
- Like controlled oil wells, not gushers, the Spirit’s work is powerful even when unseen.
3. The Holy Spirit Gives Comfort 🤍
“God present with us for comfort.”
The Spirit sustains us through sorrow, doubt, pain, and loss.
Illustrations:
- The Rolls Royce story — when asked its horsepower, the company simply replied: “Adequate.”
- God’s strength is always “adequate” — more than enough to meet our needs.
- Atmospheric pressure metaphor — inner spiritual strength from the Spirit balances the outer pressures of life.
Lesson:
- The Spirit’s comfort isn’t passive; it empowers us to keep going when we feel crushed.
4. The Holy Spirit Gives Strength 💪
The Spirit doesn’t only comfort — He equips us for battle against evil and despair.
Illustrations:
- Jesus’ words to Peter: “The gates of hell shall not prevail against my church.”
- The church isn’t hiding from the world — it’s on offense, battering the gates of hell!
- Story of St. Olaf College’s halfback: he succeeded because he “followed the flow of power.”
Lesson:
- True wisdom is knowing where the Spirit’s power is moving — and joining that flow.
5. The Spirit Still Stirs the Church Today ⚡
Too many churches are “in the doldrums” — still, lifeless, without wind.
We need the fresh wind of the Spirit to bring courage, joy, and transformation.
Illustration – The Startled Actor:
- A student rehearses his line: “Hark! I hear the cannons roaring!”
- When the sound effects blare, he blurts out, “What was all that noise?”
- That’s what people should say about the Church — “What’s all that noise?” — when they hear the movement of God’s Spirit!

05-12-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Where the Church Gets Its Power”

1. The Church’s Privilege and Purpose 🙌
Following Jesus is the most exciting calling in the world!
We are honored to be God’s people — entrusted with reconciling the world to Him.
Like the overconfident football player, we shouldn’t understate the power and joy of belonging to Christ’s Church.
The church’s existence fulfills Jesus’ prayer for unity and mission — a prayer that continues to bear fruit 2,000 years later.
2. Source #1: The Church Gets Its Power from the World’s Need 🌍
The world desperately needs what the Church offers — hope, salvation, and love through Christ.
Illustration – The Trapped Man:
- When a man was pinned under his car, church members risked themselves to save him.
- That same urgency should drive us to rescue those in spiritual peril.
Lesson:
- The church’s mission is to meet real needs with real love.
- God sends us to share and show His transforming grace wherever people are hurting.
3. Source #2: The Church Gets Its Power from Our Fellowship in Christ 🤝
Jesus prayed that His followers would be protected and unified.
The Holy Spirit is God’s presence — walking with us, strengthening us, and binding us together.
Illustration – “An Urgent Conversation with God”:
- A man survives a tornado by clinging to a timber, saying, “It was just me and God, and we was havin’ an urgent conversation.”
- God is always near — ready for “urgent conversations” in life’s storms.
Lesson:
- Through prayer and fellowship, the church becomes a family that lifts up one another and supports those outside its walls.
4. Source #3: The Church Gets Its Power from the Presence of Christ and the Holy Spirit 🔥
The Spirit empowers believers to serve even when we feel unprepared or unworthy.
Illustration – The Young Pastor and the Shut-In:
- A pastor felt useless visiting a blind, deaf, bedridden woman — yet later learned his visits deeply blessed her.
- The pastor realized it was Christ, not himself, ministering through those visits.
Lesson:
- God’s presence strengthens us to serve beyond our own limitations.
- Jesus promised, “Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
5. The Church’s Ongoing Mission 🌟
Jesus’ prayer for His church has been answered:
- The Church endures.
- The Gospel still transforms lives.
- Christ still goes with us.
Key Takeaway:
- The Church’s power comes from:
  - The world’s need for the Gospel
  - Our fellowship and unity in Christ
  - The abiding presence of the Holy Spirit

05-05-2024 Sermon – by Rev. Jacqueline Pagel from the Grand Canyon Synod Office, CLICK on date to view sermon

April 2024

04-28-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Bearing Fruit for God”

1. We Are Called to Bear Fruit
Dawson Trotman and the Navigators:
- Trotman discipled one sailor who discipled another, leading to hundreds of Bible studies across Navy ships.
- Lesson: True fruitfulness multiplies—believers reproducing faith in others.
Application:
- The church isn’t just for fellowship or worship—it exists to produce fruit that blesses others.
- Jesus warned: a barren tree will be thrown into the fire (John 15:6).
Challenge:
- Why do so many churches act like museums instead of mission fields?
- We possess what the world desperately needs—the Good News of Christ.
2. Fruitfulness Flows from Connection to the Vine (Christ)
Peanuts illustration:
- Charlie Brown wonders if his life “is just a pilot film”—he feels unproductive.
- Many Christians feel the same—disconnected, unfruitful, stuck.
Donald Grey Barnhouse and the 1,000-year-old grapevine:
- A single root produces abundant fruit because every branch stays connected to the vine.
- Even branches 200 feet away bear fruit because the life of the vine flows through them.
- Spiritual truth: The closer our connection to Christ, the greater our fruitfulness.
Application to the church:
- “Is God home?” (cartoon). A church bears fruit in proportion to how much of God’s presence is truly there.
The Swedish woman’s condition:
- She needed 30 pounds of food a day to survive. Spiritually, we must “hunger and thirst for righteousness” (Matt. 5:6).
- Many suffer a “God-shaped emptiness” from lack of spiritual nourishment.
3. Pruning Produces Greater Fruit
Philip Yancey – “Where Is God When It Hurts?”
- Suffering can turn us toward God and deepen our faith.
Corrie ten Boom’s testimony:
- God was good not only when the weather was fair, but even when her sister died in a concentration camp.
- Betsie reminded her: “He has not forgotten us.”
- Corrie: “There is an ocean of God’s love—plenty for everyone.”
Lesson:
- Adversity is God’s pruning tool—it removes what hinders growth and prepares us for more fruit.
- Faith refined through suffering yields the richest harvest.
4. God Alone Judges Our Fruit
Warning:
- “Bearing fruit” is not a call to worldly success or guilt-driven effort.
- God values faithfulness and compassion more than visible results.
James Herriot’s story:
- The humble country vet who “didn’t miss out” found purpose in small, faithful service.
Letter to Ann Landers:
- A person who overcame suicidal despair by realizing others cared.
- The writer urged readers: Smile. Listen. Care. You could save a life.
Lesson:
- Sometimes the greatest fruit is a word of kindness or an act of compassion.
- God—not society—determines what fruit truly matters.
5. Conclusion – Abide, Endure, and Bear Fruit
- Jesus is the Vine; we are the branches.
- Stay connected to Him through prayer, Scripture, and love.
- Accept pruning as God’s way of shaping you.
- Remember: fruit may look small in human eyes—but in God’s eyes, even a single act of compassion can be the best fruit of all.

04-21-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Good Shepherd and His Sheep”

1. We Are the Sheep — and There Is Only One Shepherd
Opening story: A man named Horace took offense when his pastor called the congregation “sheep.” A wise old woman corrected him: “It’s better than being called a donkey.”
Lesson: There is only one Shepherd — Jesus — and the rest of us are sheep.
Dale Carnegie’s story: Sheep will follow others without thinking, even jumping over an imaginary stick.
- Truth: Like sheep, people are easily influenced; we often follow others without discernment.
2. The World Glorifies Leaders, But God Calls Us to Be Followers
Everyone wants to be a shepherd, not a sheep.
No one studies how to be a good follower — but Jesus calls us to follow Him faithfully.
True blessing lies not in leading others, but in being led by the Good Shepherd.
3. The Sheep Know and Trust the Shepherd’s Voice
Story from the Scottish Highlands:
- A shepherd’s daughter, lost in the city, hears her father’s familiar call and runs home to him.
- Lesson: God’s call can reach us even in our darkest places; we recognize and return to His voice.
The blind girl in the burning building:
- She jumped to safety only when she heard her father’s voice.
- Lesson: Trusting the Shepherd’s voice gives us courage to take the leap of faith.
4. Hearing the Shepherd’s Voice Amid the Noise
Life is full of distractions — busyness, fear, and confusion drown out God’s voice.
Yet Christ still calls — a voice of calm, assurance, and unconditional love.
When we truly listen, He guides us safely through life’s chaos.
5. God Feeds Our Hungry Souls
Frederick Buechner’s reflection:
- He describes a shepherd who knows each sheep by name, feeds them, protects them, and searches tirelessly for the lost.
- Parallel: God, our Shepherd, knows us personally and meets our deepest spiritual hunger.
Like sheep, we are timid, foolish, and half holy, but God still loves and nourishes us.
6. The Good Shepherd’s Love Is Universal
Jesus is the Shepherd of all people — Jews and Gentiles, rich and poor, saints and sinners.
He calls everyone by name and lays down His life for each of us.
As His followers, we must show the same inclusive love to all people.
7. Every Person Matters to the Shepherd
Story of the nursing students’ pop quiz:
- The final question asked for the name of the woman who cleaned the school.
- The professor’s lesson: “Everyone you meet is significant. They deserve your attention and care.”
Lesson: Discipleship means treating each person as beloved by God — no one is beneath notice.
8. The Shepherd’s Love Is Sacrificial and Unselfish
Story of the boy and the pie:
- When asked what portion he’d get, he replied, “A sixth,” because “you don’t know my mother — she’d say she didn’t want any.”
- Lesson: True love sacrifices for others — like a mother, like the Shepherd, like Christ.
A Christian’s love should mirror that of the Good Shepherd:
- Sacrificial – willing to give for others.
- Personal – knowing and caring for each person.
- Unconditional – loving without limits.
9. Final Challenge – Be a Faithful Follower
The Good Shepherd knows us, calls us, and laid down His life for each of us.
As His sheep, we are called to:
- Listen for His voice,
- Trust His guidance, and
- Love others as He loves us.
Question: Can we follow and love as He loved?
- That is our lifelong goal as disciples of Jesus Christ.

04-14-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Jesus’ Final Words — Repentance and Forgiveness” (Luke 24:46–47)

1. Jesus’ Last Words Define the Church’s Mission
“That repentance and forgiveness should be preached in His name to all nations.”
Famous last words from Voltaire, Oscar Wilde, and Bob Hope are humorous or cynical.
But Jesus’ final words are full of purpose — they summarize His mission and ours.
His focus was not sentiment or philosophy, but transformation through repentance and forgiveness.
2. The First Message: “Turn Around” — Repentance
Repentance means changing direction — turning back to God.
Every life is headed somewhere; repentance asks, “Where are you going?”
Many are on destructive paths — bitterness, addiction, greed, or moral compromise — and Christ cries, “Turn around before it’s too late!”
Illustrations:
Daniel Defoe realized, after his shipwreck, that “people are not ashamed of sin, but ashamed to repent.”
Psychology agrees: we often defend bad decisions instead of humbly changing course.
Repentance requires humility and courage — admitting we’re going the wrong way.
Application:
Examine your direction. If you continue as you are, will you end up where God wants you to be?
3. The Second Message: “You Are Forgiven” — Forgiveness
Forgiveness releases us from regret and frees us for new life.
Everyone has regrets — moments we wish we could undo or words we wish we hadn’t said.
Yet the Gospel says: “The past is past. You are forgiven.”
Illustration — William Borden’s Life Motto:
“No Reserves. No Retreats. No Regrets.”
He gave up wealth and privilege for missionary service, dying young but fulfilled in God’s call.
Forgiven and surrendered, he lived and died without regrets.
Application:
Confess your sins; receive God’s pardon.
Live boldly in grace — no reserves, no retreats, no regrets.
4. The Posture of the Forgiven: Humility
True repentance and forgiveness flow from humility.
Illustrations:
Mother Teresa: “I am but a pencil in the hand of a writing God.”
- The forgiven soul recognizes that all goodness comes from God.
Charlemagne’s funeral:
- The bishop refused him entry until he was presented as “Charles, a lowly sinner who begs the gift of Christ.”
- Only then did the bishop reply, “Him I know.”
- Lesson: Only the humble receive the grace of life.
Application:
Repentance is not weakness — it’s spiritual strength.
The forgiven heart is the healthiest heart — free, humble, and at peace with God.
5. The Church’s Central Task
“Repent and be forgiven.” — This is what Jesus commanded His followers to proclaim.
We cannot limit our message to “love” alone — the Gospel must call people to turn and be changed.
Repentance + Forgiveness = Transformation.
Every Christian is a witness to this message — not just with words, but through a changed life.
6. The Final Call
Before it’s too late, turn around.
Know that through Christ’s cross and resurrection, you are forgiven.
The Good News of Jesus’ last words is still the same today:
“Repentance and forgiveness of sins should be preached in His name to all nations.”

04-07-2024 Sermon – Pastor Jim Dew, Grand Canyon Synod Interim Director of Evangelical Mission, CLICK on date to view sermon

March 2024

03-31-2024 EASTER Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Does It Matter That Christ Is Risen?”

1. The Confusion and Wonder of Resurrection
Opening story: A Japanese family mistakenly thought a loved one had died — only for him to walk through the door alive. Their grief turned instantly into joy.
- Like them, the disciples’ world turned upside down when the one they thought was dead appeared alive.
For the first followers, the resurrection wasn’t easy to believe — Mary didn’t recognize Jesus, the disciples thought the women’s report was “an idle tale,” and even Peter doubted at first.
But soon they all discovered the truth: Christ had risen — just as He said!
2. Why the Resurrection Matters
Many dismiss it as myth — but it matters deeply. Jesus’ resurrection matters if you have ever:
Loved and lost someone,
Valued life itself, or
Searched for meaning in this world.
3. It Matters If You’ve Lost Someone You Love
Story: Pastor Chris Heckert’s Easter field trip to a cemetery.
- As a teen, he unexpectedly stood at his best friend’s grave on Easter morning — realizing, perhaps for the first time, what resurrection really means.
- Easter became personal — not just about Jesus’ tomb, but about every tomb.
Truth: Easter speaks hope into our grief. The resurrection means that love and life are not ended by death.
4. It Matters If You Treasure the Gift of Life
Life is precious; God wired us to want to live and to value this world He made.
Story: The death of “Mr. Hooper” on Sesame Street.
- The producers carefully told children: “When people die, they don’t come back.”
- That’s the reality of life — except for one man: Jesus Christ.
Message: The resurrection declares that death doesn’t have the final word.
- “It’s almost Easter, Big Bird — and Easter tells me they do come back.”
5. It Matters If You Want Life to Make Sense
Without resurrection, existence is empty — we live, die, and are forgotten.
With resurrection, life has meaning — we are part of a divine story that ends in victory, not despair.
The resurrection tells us:
- Love is stronger than hate.
- Hope is stronger than fear.
- Life is stronger than death.
6. The Resurrection: God’s Unfinished Story
Death is not the end — it’s the beginning of the end that shall not end.
Christ’s victory guarantees ours. The author of life is still writing the final chapter — resurrection for all who belong to Him.
7. Conclusion — Why It Matters
Does it matter that Christ is risen?
- ✅ Yes — if you’ve lost someone you love.
- ✅ Yes — if you value life and want it to go on forever.
- ✅ Yes — if you long for meaning, hope, and peace.
  Because Jesus Christ has conquered death, the grave is no longer the end — it is the doorway to eternal life.
He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!

03-29-2024 Good Friday Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Final Words of Christ” (Luke 23 / John 19)

1. The Death of Jesus — An Obituary of Love
Imagined obituary: “Jesus Christ, age 33, of Nazareth, died Friday on Mount Calvary.”
- He died an obscure, unjust, and brutal death — yet His death changed the world forever.
- Even in death, His life of compassion and sacrifice continues to inspire.
Pastor Anthony Evans’ story: A child asks, “Where were the State Police when all this was going on?”
- A humorous but profound reminder: justice was absent, yet mercy was present — “Father, forgive them.”
2. “Father, Forgive Them…” — Love for His Enemies
Though mocked, beaten, and crucified, Jesus prayed for His persecutors.
Pastor Adam Hamilton’s insight: Jesus prayed aloud so that we would hear His forgiveness and learn from it.
- Forgiveness is not silent — it’s the first word of love spoken from the cross.
3. “Today You Will Be With Me in Paradise” — Grace for the Guilty
One thief mocked Jesus; the other confessed his guilt and asked, “Remember me.”
Jesus’ answer: “Today you will be with me in paradise.”
- Even on the cross, He extended mercy to the undeserving.
Lesson: No one is beyond redemption; heaven is open to every repentant heart.
4. “Behold Your Son… Behold Your Mother” — Compassion in Suffering
Jesus’ concern turned toward His mother and John — even in agony, He cared for others.
Love does not stop at the edge of suffering; it continues to give.
5. “My God, My God, Why Have You Forsaken Me?” — The Cry of Abandonment
Darkness covered the land as Jesus experienced the full weight of human sin and separation from the Father.
Illustration: The missionary father watching his child’s surgery without anesthesia.
- The father turns away in agony — as God turned His face from His Son.
- Both experience deep love and deep pain.
Jesus’ cry reveals His complete identification with our loneliness and suffering.
6. “I Am Thirsty” — The Depth of His Humanity
He fulfills Scripture and shows the physical cost of love.
The Creator of living water thirsted so that our souls might never thirst again.
7. “It Is Finished” — The Completion of His Mission
His work of redemption was complete — sin’s debt was paid in full.
The words are not of defeat, but of victory.
8. “Father, Into Your Hands I Commit My Spirit” — Trust to the End
Jesus faced death with complete confidence in His Father.
His final breath was a prayer — surrender and peace.
9. The Meaning of the Cross — Extravagant Love
Pastor Wayne Rouse’s story: Alice Rangal sacrificed her life to save her drunken mother and grandmother from a speeding train.
- Her extravagant love mirrors Christ’s — He gave His life to save those who didn’t deserve it.
On the cross, Jesus took the full force of sin while we stood at a safe distance — saved by His sacrifice.
10. The Glory of It All
Each word from the cross reveals a part of Christ’s heart:
1. Forgiveness — “Father, forgive them.”
2. Grace — “Today you will be with me in paradise.”
3. Compassion — “Behold your son… your mother.”
4. Abandonment — “Why have you forsaken me?”
5. Humanity — “I thirst.”
6. Victory — “It is finished.”
7. Trust — “Into your hands I commit my spirit.”
He took our place — divine love in action, redeeming humanity through pain, faith, and ultimate triumph.

03-28-2024 Maundy Thursday Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“When God Got on His Knees” (John 13:1–17)
1. A Communion Beyond This World
Story: After landing on the moon in 1969, Buzz Aldrin secretly celebrated Holy Communion — the first and only sacrament ever observed on the moon.
- He did so quietly because of legal controversy surrounding earlier NASA astronauts who read Genesis in space.
Lesson: The Lord’s Supper is cosmic in scope — celebrated even on the moon — but its true wonder is that God came down to earth to serve and save humanity.
2. The God Who Washes Feet
Context: At the Last Supper, before breaking bread, Jesus did something shocking — He washed His disciples’ feet.
- In ancient times, people walked dusty, filthy streets filled with garbage and animal waste.
- Foot washing was the lowliest servant’s job.
Meaning:
- No other religion depicts God kneeling before humanity.
- In Christ, the Creator stoops to cleanse the creature.
- This turns religion upside down — it’s not humanity serving God, but God serving humanity.
3. Peter’s Resistance and Jesus’ Response
Peter protests: “You shall never wash my feet.”
Jesus replies: “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.”
- Jesus wasn’t just cleansing feet — He was cleansing souls.
- The washing symbolizes spiritual cleansing and humility required for fellowship with Him.
Peter then says, “Not just my feet but my hands and head as well!” — realizing that he needs all of Christ’s mercy.
4. The Love That Washes Even the Unworthy
Max Lucado’s reflection:
- “I looked for a verse that said Jesus washed all the disciples’ feet except Judas — but I couldn’t find one.”
- Jesus washed Judas’ feet too — the one who would betray Him.
Lesson:
- Jesus forgave before the sin was committed.
- He offered mercy before it was sought.
- This is grace in action — love even for enemies, compassion even for betrayers.
5. “Do You Understand What I Have Done for You?”
After washing their feet, Jesus said:
“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.”
This was not just about a ritual — it was about a new kind of heart.
- A heart of humility.
- A heart that serves rather than seeks status.
- A heart that loves without condition.
6. Seeing Communion with New Eyes
Illustration: Pastor Allen Brindisi’s experience at a pantomime Communion service led by clowns.
- A “gift from God” — a loaf of bread — is nailed to a cross with a spike.
- The bread (symbolizing Christ) is broken and shared as Communion.
- Brindisi realized anew that the bread from the cross is the gift of God’s love — broken for us.
Lesson: The Eucharist is not just a ritual — it’s a living symbol of divine love and sacrifice.
7. The True Meaning of Maundy Thursday
Communion has been served on the moon, but more importantly, it was first served by God Himself kneeling before His creation.
Jesus shows us that real holiness is not pride, but humble service.
To follow Him means to serve others, love the unlovable, and embody grace in action.
8. Key Takeaways
God stoops to serve. The Almighty kneels before sinful humanity.
Grace washes even Judas. Forgiveness comes before repentance.
True discipleship is servanthood. “Do as I have done for you.”
Communion is love made visible. Every loaf and cup remind us of the God who gave Himself.

03-24-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The King on a Donkey”

1. God’s Surprising Ways: A Donkey’s Detour and Divine Purpose
Story from Our Daily Bread:
- A Brazilian evangelist fell asleep riding his donkey home. The animal left the trail, taking a rough shortcut. Later, he discovered men had been waiting on the trail to attack him — his donkey had saved his life.
- Lesson: Sometimes what feels like a detour is God’s protection in disguise. “All things work together for good for those who love God.” (Romans 8:28)
Old Testament link – Balaam’s donkey (Numbers 22):
- Even a stubborn donkey saw what the prophet could not.
- Truth: When we resist God’s direction, we can end up less wise than a donkey.
2. Prophecy Fulfilled: The King Comes in Humility
Zechariah 9:9 foretold:
“See, your King comes to you… gentle and riding on a donkey.”
Jesus deliberately fulfills this prophecy on Palm Sunday, riding a young donkey into Jerusalem.
Contrast:
- Pilate entered from the west on a warhorse, surrounded by soldiers — a symbol of earthly power.
- Jesus entered from the east on a donkey, surrounded by peasants — a symbol of heavenly peace.
- Message: God’s kingdom conquers through humility, not might.
3. The Meaning of True Humility
Sundar Singh’s example:
- When asked if public honor harmed him, he replied,
  “The donkey carried Jesus into Jerusalem. It wasn’t proud — it knew the praise was for Jesus, not for itself.”
- Lesson: Every Christian should live with that same humility — knowing that any honor we receive belongs to Christ alone.
Pastor Dan Bentz’s reflection:
- When President Clinton’s plane flew over his Florida neighborhood, the whole community stood in awe.
- But when Jesus came to Jerusalem, there were no planes, no guards, no grandeur — only a borrowed donkey and palm branches.
4. The Fickleness of the Crowd
The same crowd that shouted “Hosanna!” on Sunday cried “Crucify Him!” on Friday.
Brian La Croix’s “Red River” illustration:
- Just as a herd of cattle stampedes from small noises, mobs are easily swayed.
- Lesson: Faith built on emotion or popularity fades quickly.
- Christ calls us to steady discipleship, not fleeting excitement.
5. The Unworthy Donkey — and the Unworthy Us
The donkey Jesus rode was ordinary, unbroken, and borrowed — yet it carried the King of Kings.
- Likewise, God uses ordinary, unworthy people to carry His message of grace.
Illustration – The wealthy student:
- When caught vandalizing, a rich student offered to “pay the bill.”
- The university president rebuked him: “Do you think a few dollars can repay the sacrifices of those who built this place? Every one of you is a charity student.”
- Truth: We are all charity students of God’s grace. Salvation can’t be bought or earned — it’s received in humility.
6. The Heart of Palm Sunday: Humility, Love, and Grace
Jesus chose humility when He could have demanded honor.
He set His face toward the cross, knowing the suffering ahead.
He did it out of love — not for the deserving, but for the undeserving.
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13)
We are His friends — not because of our worthiness, but because of His amazing love.
7. Key Takeaways
God directs even our detours. His hand may guide us through the most unlikely means — even a donkey.
True power lies in humility. The world admires strength, but Christ modeled service.
Faith must outlast the crowd. Let our “Hosannas” become lifelong obedience, not fleeting emotion.
Grace is a gift, not a wage. We are all charity students at the foot of the cross.
Jesus’ love is personal and sacrificial. He entered Jerusalem knowing it would lead to Calvary — for you and me.

03-20-2024 Wednesday Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Law Written on the Heart”

1. Justice, Law, and Human Imperfection
Lady Justice: Symbolizes fairness and impartiality, but human law is imperfect.
Humor: Examples of absurd U.S. laws (ice cream cones in pockets, burping in church, clergy banned from telling jokes).
Transition: While human laws can be flawed, God’s law is perfect — but even that needed to be transformed through Christ.
2. God’s Promise of a New Covenant
Jeremiah foretold a time when God’s law would be written not on stone tablets, but on human hearts.
Judaism valued the external Law deeply — obedience was the foundation of faith and identity.
Fulfillment in Christ:
- “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.”
- Jesus embodied God’s law — showing us what obedience and love look like in human form.
- The Law became personal, not procedural.
3. Law-Abiding vs. Heart-Living
Obeying rules is good, but Christian faith goes beyond moral conformity.
Ernest Hemingway illustration:
- Rejected his parents’ faith and moral teachings.
- Claimed, “What is immoral is what you feel bad after.”
- His later life — marked by despair and suicide — shows that breaking God’s laws ultimately breaks us.
- E. Stanley Jones: “We don’t break God’s laws. We break ourselves on God’s laws.”
4. When Law-Abiding Isn’t Enough
Bonhoeffer’s Germany example:
- 2,500 pastors supported Hitler, 2,500 opposed, and 15,000 remained silent.
- Being “law-abiding” was not the same as being righteous.
- The people who crucified Jesus were also the most law-abiding — yet missed the heart of God.
Christianity calls us to more than obedience — it calls us to love.
5. The Higher Law: Love Written on the Heart
“A new command I give you… Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” – John 13:34
Jesus replaced a religion of rules with a relationship of love.
Love is the true fulfillment of the Law.
Kent Hughes’ story:
- A missionary’s wife deeply frustrated by vulgar, destructive neighbors.
- Prayed, “Lord, help me love them,” and began showing kindness (baked them a pie).
- The neighbors didn’t change — she did.
- Her heart was transformed by intentional, Christ-like love.
Application: The Spirit enables us to love people we naturally can’t — this is the evidence of the new covenant.
6. Living With the Law on the Heart
God’s law of love is not about legalism, but inner transformation.
To live with God’s law written on our hearts means:
1. Obeying from love, not fear.
2. Loving the unlovable through God’s grace.
3. Reflecting Christ’s heart more than merely His rules.
7. Key Takeaways
The Old Law taught obedience; the New Covenant teaches relationship.
Being moral is not enough — we are called to be merciful.
Breaking God’s law breaks us — but Christ restores us.
The true mark of a believer is love written on the heart.
We are transformed not by rule-keeping but by Christ living within us.

03-17-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Sir, We Would See Jesus”

1. We See Jesus in the Historical Record
The first place we meet Jesus is in the Gospels — Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
- Matthew: Jesus the Teacher and Messiah.
- Mark: Jesus the Man of Action and Miracle Worker.
- Luke: Jesus the Compassionate Savior of the people.
- John: Jesus the Word made flesh — God with us.
The Bible doesn’t tell us what Jesus looked like — tall or short, dark or fair — so people throughout history have painted Him according to their own needs and ideals.
Illustration – Cal Samra (“The Laughing Christ”):
- At his lowest point, sick and depressed, Samra planned to take his life.
- A priest showed him a painting of a smiling, joyful Jesus — not the pale, sorrowful one he imagined.
- That image changed his understanding of Christ and began his healing.
- ✝️ Lesson: The historical Jesus meets us in our need — not distant, but living, joyful, and real.
2. We See Jesus in the Lives of People in Need
“Whatever you did for one of the least of these, you did for me.” – Matthew 25:40
Christ is revealed in the hurting, the helpless, and the broken — those society overlooks.
Illustration – Knofel Staton (The Missing Rescue Team):
- A pilot’s wingman crashed into the ocean; the rescue team never came — they were out shopping.
- Staton writes, “Many are drowning in life’s chaos — where are the rescue teams?”
- The Church is God’s rescue team.
- ⚠️ Lesson: We “see Jesus” when we respond to those in distress — when we refuse to ignore cries for help.
Application:
- People around us are “in the water” — families in crisis, youth lost to addiction, lonely souls without hope.
- To look into the eyes of someone who is suffering and see Jesus there — that’s true discipleship.
Illustration – New York Fire Department parade:
- Buses carried people saved from burning buildings with signs: “All of These Were Saved by Our Fire Department.”
- Imagine a caravan of people who could say, “This church saved me.”
- 🌍 Lesson: When we serve “the least of these,” the world sees Jesus through us.
3. We See Jesus in the Lives of His Disciples
“You are the only Jesus some people will ever meet.”
The Church is called to reflect Christ — not perfectly, but authentically.
Sadly, not all Christians represent Christ well.
- Annie Dillard: “So hard on the heels of Christ come the Christians.”
- Philip Yancey: “Jesus, save us… from your followers.”
Still, the world’s cry remains: “Sir, we would see Jesus.”
Illustration – The Premed Student:
- A Berkeley student became a Christian because a classmate helped him catch up on missed work during illness — without fanfare or complaint.
- That simple act of kindness “tipped the scales” toward faith.
- 🕊️ Lesson: People are watching. Our small acts of love may be the clearest picture of Jesus they ever see.
Robert E. Gibson: “A Christian is the keyhole through which others see God.”
4. The Challenge: Can the World See Jesus in Us?
The world doesn’t just need a sermon about Jesus — it needs a reflection of Jesus.
The question:
- If you were the only Jesus someone ever met,
  would it be enough to “tip the scales” toward faith?
Our mission is to live so that others can say, “I saw Jesus — in you.”

03-13-2024 Wednesday Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“God’s Masterpiece”

1. We All Need Encouragement
Compliments are like “oxygen for the soul.”
Everyone needs affirmation — a reminder of worth and purpose.
Even secular sources like EmergencyCompliment.com reveal humanity’s deep hunger to be valued.
🪞 Spiritual truth: God Himself gives us the ultimate compliment — “You are my handiwork.”
2. We Are God’s Handiwork — Not Because We’re Perfect, But Because of Grace
Paul reminds us that we were once “dead in sin,” but made “alive with Christ.”
We are God’s creation, renewed by His mercy, not our merit.
🗝️ Key insight:
- Our identity determines our behavior.
- “You cannot consistently perform in a manner inconsistent with how you see yourself.” — Zig Ziglar
- Dr. Harry Emerson Fosdick: “Hold a picture of yourself long enough, and you’ll be drawn toward it.”
💡 Lesson: When we see ourselves as God sees us, we start living as He intended.
3. The Battle for Self-Worth Begins Early
Our self-image forms shockingly early in life:
- 50% by age 2
- 60% by age 6
- 80% by age 8
- 99% by age 14
“We are who we are because of where we’ve been.” — Jayne Meadows
Many people carry wounds from early years that shape how they see themselves.
Illustrations:
🧍‍♀️ Nancy Miller – A shy fifth-grader born with only partial fingers.
- Encouraged by her P.E. teacher, she learned to accept herself and thrive.
- Now a mother and accomplished pianist and typist.
- ✅ Lesson: Encouragement can rewrite someone’s self-image.
🦷 Dr. William Dorfman – Gives free dental care to abused and homeless women.
- “She becomes a new person because she sees a new person.”
- Our outward healing often begins with inner transformation.
4. Society Teaches False Measures of Worth
Studies show that:
- Boys overestimate performance.
- Girls underestimate theirs.
- Boys blame failure on luck; girls blame themselves.
Proverbs 23:7: “As a person thinks in his heart, so is he.”
False beliefs about worth can lead to despair — but they can be unlearned through Christ.
Illustrations:
🧠 Bunker Bean – Orphan with no self-esteem.
- Convinced he was Napoleon reborn, he began to act with confidence.
- Even after learning it was a hoax, he had become a new man.
- 💬 Lesson: Changing how you see yourself can change your life.
5. God’s Grace Can Change Your Self-Image
Many people hear the inner voice saying, “You’re overrated… You’ll never change.”
But the truth of Christ says the opposite:
- You are loved.
- You are redeemable.
- You are God’s artwork in progress.
Harry Emerson Fosdick: “Hold a picture of yourself long enough…”
Add to that picture — Christ holding you like a lamb, smiling, knocking at your heart’s door.
Illustrations:
👩‍🏫 Virginia Mollenkott – Tells her struggling students:
- “This grade is for your work, not for you.”
- “You are made in the image of God and of inestimable worth.”
- ❤️ Lesson: Seeing ourselves through God’s eyes changes everything.
6. From Mess to Masterpiece
Paul says we are “created in Christ Jesus to do good works.”
It doesn’t matter what your past is — God can turn your mess into a masterpiece.
Illustrations:
💔 Madam Fauna and Suzy (from Steinbeck’s “Sweet Thursday”)
- A brothel owner tells a prostitute, “Say, ‘I’m Suzy, and I’m a good thing.’”
- Suzy can’t say it through her tears.
- 🙏 Lesson: Many don’t believe they are “a good thing” — but God says we are His “very good creation.”
✝️ Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s poem:
- “Who am I? … Whoever I am, Thou knowest, O God, I am Thine.”
- That is the ultimate answer to low self-worth — belonging to God.
7. The Path to a New You
Accept who you are in Christ — not who the world says you are.
Believe you are God’s masterpiece — even when you feel broken.
Let His Spirit reshape how you see yourself and others.
Then you can live out your purpose: “to do good works which God prepared in advance.”

03-10-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“For God So Loved the World”

1. Love Begins at Home — Our Closest Relationships
“Love them while there’s still time.”
President Teddy Roosevelt realized that his happiness did not depend on political success but on his love for his wife and children.
True joy comes from people, not possessions.
🧒 Illustration: A little girl, asked if she liked her new baby brother, said, “I don’t like him—I love him.” Even a child knows love is what matters most.
💡 Lesson: Many of us work ourselves to exhaustion trying to “provide” for our families when what they really need is our presence, not our presents.
The pandemic reminded us of what truly counts—time, connection, and care.
➡️ Takeaway:
Cherish and verbalize your love. Don’t wait to say “I love you.” Relationships with those closest to you are sacred gifts from God.
2. Love Extends to the Whole Human Family
“We’ve inherited this wonderful house called Earth. Our task is to learn to live in it together.”
Humanity is one great family—diverse but deeply connected.
Illustration: F. Scott Fitzgerald’s unfinished story of an estranged family who could only inherit their home if they proved they could live together peacefully—just like humanity’s challenge today.
The rabbinic story of the Exodus: When the Egyptians drowned, the angels celebrated—but God rebuked them, saying, “The Egyptians are also my children.”
- 💡 Lesson: Even those we call “enemies” are still God’s beloved children.
Story from Beirut: Pastor Fuad Bahman’s church faced food shortages during war. They chose to feed their Muslim neighbors first, inspired by one elder’s question:
“If we do not demonstrate the love of Christ in this place, who will?”
➡️ Takeaway:
Love that stops at the edge of our comfort zone isn’t Christ’s love.
We are called to demonstrate love beyond barriers of race, religion, or nation.
3. Love Comes from Above — Our Relationship with God
“This is love—not that we loved God, but that He loved us.” – 1 John 4:10
God’s love is not a response to our goodness; it is the source of it.
Illustration: Lucy Hayes, wife of President Rutherford B. Hayes, risked her life crossing battlefields to find her wounded husband.
- Hayes said she searched “over all Kingdom Come” only to find him alive.
- 💡 Parallel: God searched “over all Kingdom Come” to find and rescue us.
God’s love is relentless, pursuing, and personal.
“Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.”
- When we love, God’s love is made complete in us.
➡️ Takeaway:
God doesn’t just love the world in general — He loves you in particular.
He longs for a personal, life-giving relationship with you.
4. The Extravagance of God’s Love
“It would take all the L’s and O’s and V’s and E’s in the universe to contain His love.”
Illustration: Printers preparing Tennyson’s poetry had to order extra “L’s” and “V’s” because he used the word love so often.
God’s love is even more abundant—limitless, overflowing, and unconditional.
The Creator of the universe desires a personal, intimate friendship with every human soul.

03-06-2024 Wednesday Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“God’s Foolish Plan”

1. The World’s Foolishness vs. God’s Wisdom
“There is a lot of foolishness in the world—and that foolishness includes you and me.”
Opening humor: strange laws about behavior in church (tightropes, yo-yos, and red clothing).
- Sets the stage: Human foolishness isn’t limited to lawmaking — it includes all of us.
Paul reminds the Corinthians that God deliberately chose the “foolish,” “weak,” and “lowly” to do His work.
God’s logic reverses the world’s values: greatness isn’t in status or intellect, but in obedience and humility.
➡️ Key Truth:
God delights in using ordinary people — not celebrities or scholars — to accomplish extraordinary things.
2. God Uses Ordinary People, Not Superstars
“God depends on Sunday school teachers, greeters, choir members, and faithful church people.”
Illustration: Loretta Young’s story — she was chosen for her looks, not her skill. Hollywood worships appearance and fame.
- Punchline: DeMille told her to add “awe” to her line; she replied, “Aw, Richard, you gotta save Christianity!”
- Shows how misplaced our idea of greatness can be.
God’s kingdom doesn’t run on celebrity power — it runs on faithfulness.
In biblical times, He chose fishermen, tax collectors, and farmers; today He chooses teachers, nurses, and retirees.
➡️ Key Truth:
God’s plan for saving the world depends on ordinary believers, not the famous or powerful.
3. The Church: God’s Plan for Changing the World
“We are God’s plan for saving the world. God is counting on us.”
Many think Jesus came only to die for sins — true, but incomplete.
- He also came to train disciples and found the Church as His ongoing presence in the world.
Though it looked small and weak, the early church grew to transform the Roman Empire.
Even today, some people (inside and outside the church) dismiss it as powerless or irrelevant.
- Yet the church remains the heart of God’s plan to heal the world.
➡️ Key Truth:
The church — not governments, not corporations, not celebrities — is God’s chosen instrument for redemption.
4. The Church’s Imperfection and Promise
“Sometimes tragic things happen in churches. But the best people I know are in the church.”
The church isn’t perfect. It contains hypocrites, snobs, and bigots — but it also holds the kindest, most compassionate people on earth.
These are people who once stood at an altar, gave their hearts to Jesus, and have lived to serve others ever since.
The only real way to improve our communities is to bring people to Christ — only He changes hearts.
➡️ Key Truth:
The church is imperfect, but still the greatest force for good because it carries Christ’s love into the world.
5. Everyone Has a Part to Play
“If the church is God’s means of changing the world, each of us has a role.”
Illustration: Arthur Gordon’s “Bee Story”
- One bee can’t cool a hive, but together they fan their wings to create a fresh current of air.
- Likewise, Christians working together can “blow out the stale air of sin and oppression.”
- 💡 The church’s power lies in unity and cooperation.
Illustration: Claude, the 75-year-old in East Tennessee
- Attended a dying church of four people and decided, “Things aren’t going to be like this anymore.”
- Personally visited shut-ins and families, offering to drive them to church.
- Within weeks, attendance grew to 58 — and stayed strong for years.
- One ordinary man’s faithfulness revived an entire congregation.
➡️ Key Truth:
When ordinary believers take ownership of God’s mission, extraordinary things happen.
6. God’s “Foolish” Plan Still Works
“God chose to do something foolish… to change the world one person at a time.”
To the world, the church seems small and outdated — but it’s God’s chosen method of transforming humanity.
God entrusts His mission not to angels or geniuses, but to you and me.
The question remains: Was God foolish to count on us?

03-03-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Holy Anger: From Outrage to Action to Reconciliation”

1) We live in an age of anger
Opening story: Older witness under pressure calmly disarms a bullying lawyer: “Could you please scream it at me again?” → composure with courage.
Context: Surveys show anger is up; most see it as negative, some as motivating.
Key insight: Anger reveals our values and boundaries (like a dashboard light).
2) Jesus models holy anger (Temple cleansing)
Why He was angry: Worship space turned into a commercial circus—moneychangers and animal sellers exploiting seekers inside the Temple.
What He did: Flipped tables, drove them out—love for God and people set clear boundaries.
Principle: Christians aren’t doormats. There is a time to be angry—about what angers God (injustice, exploitation, desecration).
3) Holy anger must become holy action
Garret Keizer: “My anger hasn’t carried me far enough toward changing what enrages me.”
Shannon Leigh: Anger is a boundary & signal—act on what needs care.
Illustration—Ray Charles (Augusta, GA): Walked away from a segregated concert despite threats; years later, Georgia apologized and adopted “Georgia on My Mind.”
Application: If you keep thinking, “Someone should do something,” that someone may be you.
4) Unresolved anger becomes a spiritual problem
Jesus’ parable (Unforgiving Servant): Forgiven an unpayable debt, yet won’t forgive a small one.
Lord’s Prayer: “Forgive us… as we forgive…” — unforgiveness blocks our experience of God’s forgiveness.
Illustration—Bud Welch (OKC bombing): Moved from vengeance to shared grief & reconciliation with the bomber’s family:
“We can’t change the past, but we have a choice about the future.”
5) The gospel arc: Anger → Action → Reconciliation
Jesus’ anger protected worshippers and honored the Father.
At the cross, God provides the path to restore relationships—with Him and with others.
Measure of maturity: Not that we never get angry, but that our anger leads to redemptive action and ends in forgiveness.

February 2024

02-28-2024 Wednesday Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Beyond Positive Thinking—Faith in a Powerful God”

1. The Power of Positive Thinking
“If you can think it, you can do it.”
Opening story: Little boy at the dentist asks for a “chocolate filling” — a lighthearted picture of optimism.
For decades, people like Norman Vincent Peale and Robert Schuller inspired millions with “positive thinking” and “possibility thinking.”
A positive attitude does matter—it shapes our behavior and can even influence health and longevity.
- Study: 80-year-olds who received daily encouragement lived longer and healthier lives.
- Proverbs 23:7: “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.”
➡️ Key truth:
Your mindset affects your life, health, and happiness—but it’s not enough on its own.
2. The Limits of Positive Thinking
“Something else is needed.”
Illustration—The Pike Experiment:
A northern pike, conditioned by a glass barrier, stopped trying to eat minnows even when the glass was removed.
- Lesson: Negative expectations can trap us even when freedom is right beside us.
Chuck Swindoll’s quote: “Life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it.”
But: Positive thinking has its limits—there are times when self-confidence won’t carry us through. We need something deeper.
3. Abraham: Faith Beyond Reason
“Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead.”
Abraham wasn’t just optimistic—he was faithful.
At age 100, he still believed God would keep His promise of a son, despite impossible odds.
He didn’t trust in his own ability or attitude, but in God’s power and faithfulness.
Positive thinkers have faith in what they can do; believers have faith in what God can do.
➡️ Key truth:
Faith in God transforms optimism into divine assurance.
4. God at Work Beyond Human Ability
“If I could make that crazy bumblebee do that, I could give you a new liver.”
Illustration—Dr. John Killinger’s friend, Millard Reed:
After a liver transplant, Reed witnessed a bumblebee’s acrobatic flight and heard God’s whisper:
- “If I can make a bumblebee do that, I can heal you.”
- He wept with gratitude and joy for life in “God’s beautiful world.”
Lesson: Faith turns our attention from our own strength to God’s power and provision.
5. Living with Faith-Filled Positivity
“No matter how much you can accomplish with the right attitude, with God’s help you can accomplish much, much more.”
Positive thinking says, “I can.”
Faith says, “God can.”
A hopeful outlook makes life better; trust in God makes life victorious.
Faith invites us to live joyfully, expectantly, and gratefully in God’s care.

02-25-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Paradoxes of the Christian Life”

1. Introduction: What Is a Paradox?
Opening story: A child mishears “paradox” as “pair of ducks” — a lighthearted entry into the idea that truth can sound confusing at first.
A paradox is something that seems contradictory but contains deep truth.
Jesus’ teaching in Mark 8:35 is one of the greatest paradoxes:
“Whoever loses his life for me and the gospel will save it.”
Einstein observed that truth grows more abstract the closer we come to it — yet, Jesus shows that spiritual truth is also profoundly simple.
2. The First Paradox: Anything You Save Will Be Lost
“Whoever wants to save his life will lose it.”
Illustration — Bishop Reuben Job’s son and the track meet:
The boy ran too cautiously, saving his energy, and lost the race — a vivid picture of people who “save” too much of themselves and never give their all.
The tragedy of life isn’t that we receive too little — it’s that we give too little.
We can’t take possessions, time, or opportunity with us; what we hoard, we lose.
Key insight: The happiest people are those giving themselves to something beyond themselves — a purpose, a cause, a relationship.
“If you observe a really happy person,” wrote Dr. W. Beran Wolfe, “you will find him building, creating, or serving others.”
💡 Principle:
A life spent conserving and clutching will end in emptiness. A life spent giving is a life truly lived.
3. The Second Paradox: Anything You Share, You Will Regain
“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35)
We are created for sharing — life’s greatest joys come from giving, not hoarding.
Illustration: Going to an amusement park alone — some experiences lose their joy unless they are shared.
Parable of the sunken barge:
A submerged barge blocking a harbor was freed only when other barges were chained to it and lifted by the rising tide.
- Moral: When we are bound together in love and faith, we lift one another up.
- The church’s strength is found in shared faith, shared service, and shared burdens.
💡 Principle:
What you give away — love, time, forgiveness, generosity — always finds its way back to you, multiplied.
4. The Third Paradox: Anything You Surrender to God Will Be Blessed Beyond Imagination
“We are the clay, He is the potter.” (Isaiah 64:8)
Illustration — The Talking Teacup:
The teacup endured pain, pressure, and heat in the potter’s hands, but when the process was done, it saw its reflection and said, “I am beautiful.”
In the same way, when we surrender to God — our pain, failures, and imperfections — He transforms us into something beautiful.
God blesses what we yield. The boy’s five loaves and two fish became enough to feed thousands.
Surrender isn’t loss — it’s the beginning of transformation.
💡 Principle:
God can take the clay of your life — even broken, marred, or weary — and shape it into something glorious, if you yield it fully to Him.
5. Conclusion: Living the Paradox
The Christian life makes perfect sense only through faith:
- Save your life → lose it.
- Share your life → find it.
- Surrender your life → see it transformed.
Real victory, purpose, and beauty are found in losing self and gaining Christ.
Final appeal:
“Anything you save, you will lose. Anything you share, you will regain. Anything you surrender to God will be blessed beyond imagination.”
Isn’t it time you surrendered your life to Him?

02-21-2024 Wednesday Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The God of Rainbows and Crosses”

1. The Museum of Failed Products — and Humanity’s Failure
The “Museum of Failed Products” in Michigan symbolizes human failure and disappointment.
It raises a spiritual question: Has humanity become one of God’s “failed products”?
Despite God’s perfect design, sin distorts what He made good.
Lesson: Even the best of us fall short; God’s creation is good but flawed by our choices.
2. God Is Disappointed — Even in the Best of Us
The Noah story shows that even the righteous stumble. Noah’s post-flood sin reveals our universal brokenness.
“All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.”
Like Paul McCartney’s word “anticipointment”, God knows human weakness — yet still chooses to love.
Illustration: Abraham Lincoln’s 1863 reflection — America’s pride had made it “too proud to pray to the God who made us.”
Lesson: God knows our failures and frailty, yet never gives up on us.
3. God Is Hopelessly, Passionately in Love — Even with the Worst of Us
Despite disappointment, God’s love endures.
Story: Jürgen Moltmann, a former Nazi soldier, discovered God’s forgiveness and hope through Christ and became a theologian of hope.
Moltmann wrote: “God is our last hope because we are God’s first love.”
Lesson: The cross is proof that God’s love outweighs His disappointment.
4. From Rainbow to Cross — God’s Unbreakable Covenant
The rainbow after the flood marked God’s promise never again to destroy life — a covenant of mercy.
The cross fulfills that covenant — God’s ultimate act of redemption.
Illustration: Chaplain Major Barbara Sherer’s story — from ashes of burned military tents, a silver cross emerged, engraved “Jesus is Lord.”
- A reminder that God’s love survives every firestorm.
Lesson: God walks with us through destruction and despair, marking us not for judgment but for grace.
5. Living Under the Covenant of Love
Humanity still fails, but God’s response is always grace, not rejection.
The rainbow and the cross both say: “You are not abandoned.”
Our call: to live gratefully, humbly, and hopefully as covenant people.

02-18-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“You Are My Beloved”

1. The Deepest Human Need: To Feel Loved and Accepted
Opening story – Harriet Beecher Stowe:
Her father’s proud smile after her first essay meant more to her than any later success. Every child longs for a parent’s approval — “Well done, I’m proud of you.”
At Jesus’ baptism, He heard the ultimate affirmation:
“You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”
Every person, at every age, needs to hear that same message — from parents, friends, or God.
Truth: Our sense of worth is shaped by how we are loved and affirmed.
Key Idea:
“A father’s smile, a mother’s nod of approval — powerful! Every heart needs to know it matters.”
2. We Become What Others Tell Us We Will Become
Illustration – Two altar boys:
- One, scolded and humiliated (Josip Broz Tito), became a bitter, godless man.
- The other, gently encouraged (Fulton J. Sheen), became a great Christian leader.
  → Same mistake, opposite messages — life-changing outcomes.
Affirmation shapes identity. When people are told they are capable, loved, and valuable, they begin to live up to that truth.
Illustration – Goethe and Schopenhauer:
Goethe’s simple words, “He will surpass us all,” inspired a lonely, rejected boy to become one of the great philosophers of his age.
Lesson: We all need someone who sees us as we can be, not just as we are.
Key Idea:
“We become what significant others tell us we will become.”
3. Wise Love: Separate a Person’s Actions from Their Worth
Parenting is hard — but one of its greatest challenges is correcting behavior without condemning the person.
It’s the difference between saying:
- “You did a bad thing” vs. “You are a bad person.”
Every child who fails or makes a mistake asks, “Am I still loved?”
Parents (and all of us) must answer with reassurance: “Yes — you did wrong, but you are loved.”
Spiritual parallel:
This is how God deals with us through Christ.
- God separates who we are from what we’ve done.
- Jesus never labeled people as sinners; He called them to repentance but affirmed their worth.
Key Idea:
“God loves the sinner but not the sin — and so should we.”
4. Healing for the Wounded: God’s Love Restores Our Worth
Many people struggle with wounds from the past — parents who never approved, love that felt conditional, voices that said, “You’re not good enough.”
Illustrations:
- Conductor Arturo Toscanini never knew if his mother loved him — and fame could not fill that void.
- Faye Weldon’s character felt judged even after her mother’s death — “one less pair of eyes to judge me.”
But at the cross, Christ looks at us with eyes full of forgiveness and love.
- He sees the person, not the sin.
- No failure, no past mistake, can erase your worth as God’s child.
Final story – The broken vase:
A child feared her mother’s anger but found only relief and love. “I thought you were hurt,” the mother said. The child later realized, “I am the family treasure.”
Key Idea:
“You are the family treasure. That’s how God sees you.”
5. Conclusion: The Father’s Smile Still Shines
Every person needs to hear:
- “You are loved.”
- “You are valuable.”
- “You are forgiven.”
God says to each of us what He said to His Son:
“You are my beloved child; with you I am well pleased.”
When we truly accept that, we find healing, confidence, and the freedom to love others the same way.

02-14-2024 Ash Wednesday Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Rend Your Heart, Not Your Garments”

1. Ash Wednesday and Valentine’s Day: A Strange Pairing
A humorous opening contrast: “Rend your hearts” doesn’t sound very romantic next to “Be my Valentine.”
Yet the core of both days is love — one romantic, one redemptive.
Illustration – Jack Benny’s daily rose: true love endures beyond death — a faint image of God’s faithful love for us.
The love we honor tonight is the divine love that redeems and renews.
Key truth:
God’s love is deeper than sentiment — it is a call to renewal and restoration.
2. The Locust Plague and the People’s Misunderstanding
Joel’s audience faced a catastrophic locust invasion that devastated their land.
In ancient Israel, suffering was viewed as punishment for sin.
- They tore their clothes, believing God’s anger was destroying them.
Like people today, they asked, “What did we do to deserve this?”
Parallel:
People in every generation misinterpret suffering as divine retribution — but Jesus corrected this.
3. A Biblical Truth: Suffering Is Not God’s Punishment
Jesus taught:
“God causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good.”
Many hardships are natural consequences of living in a broken world, not divine vengeance.
- Example: Gravity, illness, poor choices — natural law, not punishment.
God’s heart breaks with ours in our suffering; He does not delight in it.
Illustration – Rabbi Harold Kushner’s story (“When Bad Things Happen to Good People”):
His son’s fatal illness shattered his old image of God as a divine disciplinarian.
He discovered that suffering is not about punishment but about learning to trust a loving God who grieves with us.
Key truth:
Life’s tragedies are not signs of God’s anger but opportunities to rediscover His compassion.
4. Joel’s Call: “Rend Your Heart, Not Your Garments”
Outward sorrow means little if the heart remains unchanged.
Joel invites us to inner repentance — to return fully to God’s love and mercy.
“Rending the heart” means removing whatever blocks us from God’s healing grace.
Message:
God is “gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.”
Key truth:
The goal of repentance is not to appease an angry God, but to open our hearts to a loving one.
5. The Most Precious Thing: A Tear of Repentance
Illustration – The Legend of the Angel:
- An angel was told to bring back the most precious thing on earth.
- It wasn’t a soldier’s blood or a nurse’s sacrifice — but a tear of repentance from a man who forgave instead of killed.
- God declared, “There is nothing more precious than a tear of repentance.”
Lesson:
True repentance — sorrow joined with mercy — is heaven’s most precious gift.
6. Ash Wednesday’s Invitation
The ashes on our foreheads are not symbols of punishment, but signs of humility and renewal.
God doesn’t ask for torn clothes, but open hearts.
We pray that nothing in us will block His grace from healing and restoring us.
Key truth:
Repentance is not God’s demand for sorrow, but His invitation to wholeness.

02-11-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“From Terrified to Transformed”

1. The Meaning of the Transfiguration
“Transfigured” means changed, transformed, radiant with divine glory.
On the mountain, Jesus’ divine nature shone through—his glory revealed for a moment.
The disciples saw Christ as if “he came down from a higher league” — pure, holy, radiant, divine.
God’s voice declared: “This is my beloved Son; listen to Him!”
Key truth:
The Transfiguration reveals who Jesus truly is — the Son of God — and invites us to listen and follow Him.
2. Terrified in the Presence of Holiness
The disciples were terrified — aware of their inadequacy in the face of divine perfection.
Like them, we often shrink before Christ’s holiness, realizing our own sinfulness.
Illustration – Dave Roever’s Story:
A Vietnam veteran horrifically disfigured by an explosion felt unlovable until his wife kissed him and said, “Welcome home, Davey. I love you.”
Her unconditional love mirrors God’s — Christ sees our scars, our ugliness, and still calls us His own.
Key truth:
The transfigured Christ exposes our imperfections — but also assures us we are still deeply loved.
3. Transformed by the Presence of Christ
The disciples didn’t change overnight — transformation is a process.
Faith grew slowly from fear to courage, from confusion to conviction.
Their encounter with the radiant Christ planted the seed of faith that would one day move mountains.
Illustration – Mary Magdalene in The Man Born to Be King:
When recognized by a soldier, she declared, “Yes, Marcellus, I have changed — He changed me!”
True encounter with Christ always changes us.
C.S. Lewis said:
“We are like eggs; we must be hatched or go bad.”
Christ calls us not to remain ordinary but to become new creations.
Key truth:
The proper response to the transfigured Christ is transformation — becoming more like Him.
4. Turned Loose to Transform the World
Peter wanted to stay on the mountain, but Jesus led them back down.
The glory experienced on the mountaintop must be carried to the valleys of need below.
Christ’s mission — and ours — is to bring light and love into a dark and hurting world.
Illustration – The Village of Shimmabuke, Okinawa:
A missionary shared Christ with two men; their faith transformed the entire village.
When Christ transforms us, we become His instruments to transform others.
Key truth:
We are not called to stay on the mountaintop — we are sent into the world to bring transformation.
5. The Transfigured Christ Still Calls Us
Like Peter, James, and John, we are invited to:
1. Look upon His glory
2. Listen to His voice
3. Let His presence change us
4. Live out His mission in the world
Summary progression:
Terrified → Transformed → Turned Loose

02-04-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Prayer That Powers Service”

1. Jesus’ Ministry Was Fueled by Prayer
The Gospel of Mark emphasizes action — Jesus is constantly teaching, healing, and serving.
Yet in the midst of His busy ministry, Jesus made time for prayer:
“In the morning, while it was still very dark, He got up and went out to a deserted place, and there He prayed.” (v. 35)
Prayer was the source of His energy, focus, and purpose.
If Jesus — the Son of God — needed to pray, how much more do we?
Illustration:
Like a well that runs dry without underground water, our spirits dry up without daily renewal in God’s presence.
Key Truth:
Prayer is not optional; it is essential spiritual nourishment.
2. Prayer Must Be Intentional
Catherine Marshall’s “Coffeepot Experiment” shows that the best time to pray isn’t found — it’s made.
Prayer requires intentional time and space to reconnect with God and regain spiritual strength.
Illustration:
A little girl, before saying her bedtime prayers, called out:
“I’m ready to pray—anybody want anything?”
She understood prayer connects our needs and others’ needs with God’s heart.
Key Truth:
Prayer is conversation with God that prepares us for service to others.
3. Prayer Leads to Action
After prayer, Jesus didn’t stay in solitude; He returned to teach, heal, and serve.
Peter’s mother-in-law, once healed, “got up and began to serve.”
Spiritual refreshment always leads to active service.
Illustration – The Wood-Chopping Contest:
One man worked nonstop while another took breaks — but the second man won because he sharpened his axe during rest.
Prayer and devotion sharpen our spiritual “axes,” preparing us to serve more effectively.
Key Truth:
Every time we pause to pray, we sharpen our spirit for service.
4. Simple Acts Can Transform Lives
Many feel unqualified to serve or witness — but God uses simple acts of love.
Doug Nichols’ story in an Indian sanitarium:
- Rejected at first when handing out tracts.
- Later gained respect and opened hearts by helping an elderly man to the bathroom.
- His simple act of compassion led the entire ward — patients, nurses, and doctors — to read the Gospel.
Key Truth:
A small act of love can open doors for the Gospel that words alone cannot.
5. Our Call: Pray Deeply, Serve Boldly
We gather in worship to be spiritually fed, but we are sent out to serve.
Prayer without action is incomplete; action without prayer loses power.
Like Jesus, our rhythm must be Prayer → Renewal → Service.
Summary Thought:
“Time with God gives strength for time with people.”

January 2024

01-28-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Good Religion Heals”

1. Good Religion Heals the Body
Jesus’ healings show that faith and love are deeply connected to physical well-being.
Modern science confirms the link between mind, body, and spirit — our thoughts and habits affect our health.
Faith is not a substitute for medicine; God works through doctors and science too.
“Penicillin and insulin are gifts from God.”
Trusting God brings peace that supports health; destructive habits and constant worry destroy it.
Illustration – The Nurse Who Changed the Tag:
- A wounded soldier labeled “hopeless” survived because a nurse saw his humanity and broke the rules.
- Like that nurse, the church’s role is to “change the tags” — to bring hope to the hopeless.
  Jesus befriends and heals those whom others give up on.
Key Point:
“The best medicine for the body is a trusting heart and a hopeful spirit.”
2. Good Religion Heals the Emotions
Everyone reaches emotional breaking points; good religion helps us face them with honesty and support.
Illustration – The Frayed Rope:
- A tourist fears falling in a monastery basket suspended by an old rope.
- Many live like that — barely holding on emotionally, afraid to show weakness.
Pride can prevent healing.
- Like Roland who refused to blow his horn for help, many people suffer because they won’t ask.
Modern Example – Michael Phelps:
- Despite his fame and success, he battled depression and suicidal thoughts until he sought help and found purpose in helping others.
Emotional healing requires community and connection — a church family that supports, listens, and prays.
God’s voice tells us:
“You are my child. You can make it. I am with you.”
Key Point:
“Good religion reminds us that it’s okay to need help — because God never stops believing in us.”
3. Good Religion Heals the Soul
The “soul” is the whole person — body, mind, emotions, and spirit together.
Healing the soul means rediscovering who we are under God’s love and grace.
Illustration – Betty Hutton’s Comeback:
- After years of failure and addiction, her Broadway biography read only:
  “I’m back. THANKS TO GOD.”
- Her story mirrors the man Jesus healed — restored, renewed, brought home to life again.
When Jesus delivers, forgives, and restores, people can return to their lives and families with peace and gratitude.
Key Point:
“When we surrender to God’s love, we can finally say, ‘I’m back — thanks to God.’”

01-21-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Let’s Go Fishing”

1. Jesus Calls Ordinary People
Jesus chose common fishermen — Simon, Andrew, James, and John — not scholars or priests.
God still works through ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things.
“God must love the common people; He made so many of them.” — Lincoln
The disciples were called while at work — Jesus meets us in the middle of everyday life.
His call is simple but life-changing:
“Follow me… and I will make you fishers of people.”
Key Point:
Discipleship isn’t about being religious; it’s about following Jesus in real life.
2. The Call Is to Follow — and Fish
Jesus didn’t say, “Worship me,” but “Follow me.”
Discipleship involves action — reaching others with God’s love.
The early church grew through laypeople sharing their faith, not just preachers.
“These people who have turned the world upside down have come here also.” (Acts 17:6)
The church’s mission today remains the same: cast the nets, share the story, and bring people in.
Key Point:
The Kingdom grows when everyday believers share Jesus in everyday life.
3. Fishing Lessons for Followers of Jesus
🐟 Lesson 1 – Know There Are Fish Out There
Some say, “I don’t know anyone unchurched,” but half the people we know rarely attend church.
There are plenty of “fish” — people searching for hope and meaning.
🕓 Lesson 2 – Know When They’re Biting
Be alert to transitions in people’s lives — new job, loss, crisis, birth — times when hearts are open.
Sensitivity and timing matter; the best fishermen watch the currents.
🪱 Lesson 3 – Use the Right Bait
Don’t just say, “Come to church sometime.”
- Instead, offer a specific, personal invitation: “Join me for Good Friday service” or “for our church picnic.”
Even if your “bait” isn’t perfect, God can use imperfect people to reach others.
- Story: The unpolished church member’s letter (with spelling errors) still brought someone back to faith.
🕰️ Lesson 4 – Be Patient
Fishing — and evangelism — require perseverance and trust.
Keep casting, keep inviting, keep loving.
- The Holy Spirit is the one who makes the catch.
Key Point:
God doesn’t need perfect fishermen — just willing ones who keep casting their nets.
4. Jesus Has No Other Plan
Legend of Gabriel: When Gabriel asked Jesus what His backup plan was if the disciples failed to share the gospel, Jesus replied,
“I have no other plan.”
We are that plan — the continuation of Christ’s mission in the world.
The responsibility and privilege of sharing the Good News now rest with us.
Key Point:
We are Christ’s plan to reach the world — there is no “Plan B.”

01-14-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“Can Anything Good Come Out of Nazareth?”

1. The Power of an Invitation
Nathanael’s skeptical question — “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” — reflects human prejudice and doubt.
Philip doesn’t argue or criticize; he simply says, “Come and see.”
Faith often begins not with argument but with an invitation from a friend.
Like Philip, most of us meet Jesus through a person who cared enough to invite us — a parent, teacher, pastor, or friend.
Key Point:
Friendship is the bridge over which faith often travels.
2. Real Friendship Begins with Caring
Jesus’ command: “Love one another as I have loved you.”
Real love is not sentimental; it’s self-giving and consistent concern for another’s well-being.
True friendship involves sacrifice — showing up when needed, even when inconvenient.
- Story: The youth retreat “2 a.m. and a shovel” — real friends come when called, no questions asked.
Real friendship takes time, effort, and emotional investment.
Key Point:
“Some people make enemies instead of friends because it’s less trouble — but they don’t know what they’re missing.”
3. Friendship Requires Honest Communication
Real friends talk and listen — they share their hearts.
Jesus called his followers not servants but friends — those who know his heart.
- In ancient courts, “friends of the king” had personal access and deep communication.
True communication means honesty and vulnerability.
- Story: The little boy who said he could only pray to God “because God won’t get mad at me.”
- Insight: Friends allow each other to be imperfect — to “be the idiots we really are.”
Key Point:
A friend is someone who knows everything about you — and loves you anyway.
4. Friendship Grows Through Cooperation
Jesus said, “You are my friends if you do what I command you — love one another.”
Real friendship means working toward shared goals and not being at cross-purposes.
Prayer and discipleship work the same way — our requests and actions align with God’s loving purpose.
- Story: The pastor’s daughter’s prayer — “Dear God, please kill the people cutting down the rainforest!” — shows that immature love must grow into cooperative love with God’s will.
Key Point:
Friends “pull together” — they share purpose, not just affection.
5. Friendship Is Rooted in Love
Jesus begins and ends his teaching with the same command: “Love one another.”
Love is the beginning, middle, and end of genuine friendship — with God and with each other.
True friendship is mutual care:
“Two are better than one… if they fall, one will lift up the other.” — Ecclesiastes 4:9–10
Key Point:
None of us is an island — we are created for relationship.
6. The Friendship of Jesus
Jesus calls us friends, not servants.
Earthly friends may fail, but Jesus’ friendship is eternal.
His presence lifts people, reveals their potential, and awakens hope.
We find that friendship most clearly in the fellowship of believers — the church.
- Story: The little girl helping her classmate with one hand form “the church” — “Here, we can be the church together.”
- This is what the friendship of Jesus looks like — love that includes, heals, and restores.
Key Point:
The church is where the friendship of Jesus becomes visible and real.
7. Our Calling: Be a Philip
Philip found Jesus — and immediately went to find Nathanael.
He didn’t debate; he simply said, “Come and see.”
That simple invitation changed Nathanael’s life — and can change others’ lives through us.
Key Point:
True friends bring friends to Jesus.

01-07-2024 Sermon – CLICK on date to view sermon

“The Meaning of Baptism”

1. Baptism Tells Us Who We Are
Baptism gives us a new identity — we are children of God, marked and claimed as His own.
Story: The little boy caught misbehaving who proudly said, “You can’t touch me, I’m baptized!” — he knew the truth of faith: baptism defines him.
Virginia Cary Hudson’s essay: “When you are little and ugly, somebody carries you in church on a pillow, and you come out a child of God.”
Baptism is God’s declaration: “You belong to Me.”
Key Point:
Baptism anchors our worth — we are God’s beloved sons and daughters, and nothing can change that.
2. Jesus’ Baptism Reveals Our Connection to Him
Jesus didn’t need baptism for forgiveness; he was baptized to stand with us in our humanity and sin.
By sharing our baptism, Jesus opens the way for us to share in his death and resurrection.
The voice from heaven — “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased” — is also spoken over us.
Image: The heavens are “torn open” — the same word used for the temple curtain at Jesus’ death — showing that God’s presence and grace are now fully open to us.
Key Point:
Through Jesus’ baptism and death, heaven is opened — we have direct access to God.
3. Baptism Purifies and Transforms Us
Baptism cleanses us, not from dirt, but from sin — it is the washing of rebirth.
Story: Sam Houston joked after his baptism that people downstream should be sorry for having to drink the water — but his words highlight baptism’s cleansing power.
Story: Picasso drew a design on a boy’s chest and said, “I wonder if they’ll ever wash him again.”
- Likewise, baptism leaves an indelible mark — a spiritual signature of God that can never be washed away.
Key Point:
In baptism, we are made new — God’s masterpiece, marked forever by the Spirit.
4. The Spirit and the Water — Symbols of Life and New Creation
The Spirit descending like a dove recalls creation in Genesis — God bringing order, life, and blessing out of chaos.
Baptism represents re-creation — God restoring His image in us through Christ.
Leonard Sweet’s “Aqua Church” stats: Water is essential to physical life; baptismal water symbolizes its necessity for spiritual life as well.
- Without the living water of the Spirit, the soul withers.
Key Point:
Baptism is God’s way of saying, “I am making all things new — starting with you.”
5. The Power and Cost of Baptism
Story: The Civil War baptism at the Rapidan River — soldiers on both sides risked their lives and, for one holy moment, sang together across enemy lines.
- “Both armies were at peace as they witnessed the death of the old man into the resurrection of the new.”
Baptism unites us beyond division — it calls us to peace and reconciliation under one Lord.
Key Point:
In baptism, enemies become brothers and sisters — God’s grace bridges every divide.
6. Living Out Our Baptism Daily
Baptism is only the beginning of the Christian life; it’s a starting line, not the finish line.
When people ask to be “re-baptized,” the problem isn’t with their baptism — it’s with their living.
- We must live out what our baptism began — through repentance, faith, and growth.
Martin Luther’s practice: When tempted or discouraged, he would say aloud, “I am baptized!”
- It was his reminder of identity, grace, and calling.
Every day we write the commentary on our baptism through the choices we make and the life we live.
Key Point:
Baptism is a lifelong journey — we spend our days discovering what it truly means.
7. The Challenge
Ask yourself:
What difference does my baptism make today?
Have I done anything today I wouldn’t have done if I weren’t baptized?
Am I living as God’s beloved child, washed and sent?
Key Point:
Baptism means belonging, cleansing, and calling — but it must be lived out daily in gratitude and faith.