Love in the Midst of Hate – December 4, 2020

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Scripture: Isaiah 11: 1-10; Romans 15: 4-13

The Hebrew word translated in the First Testament as “fear” is probably closer to our word “Awesome!” Those who are open to the awe of God will be delighted at the love they witness blooming where once was (literal) fear and hatred. Isaiah’s prophecy of unlikely combinations (wolves and lambs, calves and lions, cows and bears) can inspire us to stories of where we have seen seemingly “odd” partnerships that create more love and understanding in the world.

Peace in the Midst of Conflict – November 27, 2022

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Scripture: Isaiah 2: 1-5; Romans 13: 11-14

To keep awake is to open our eyes in awe at the works of the Holy in our midst and to the promises of God to continually make all things new. We introduce the theme of “Awed & Odd” for this season of anticipation and expectation. This first Sunday of Advent we focus on the practices of peace to which we are called, making us “odd” in the eye of a world that lets fear drive our actions toward one another.

The Image of the Invisible God – November 20, 2022

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Scripture: Colossians 1: 11-20

Our ability to bless others with the light of Christ, to be gathered together in community, to be able to witness to our community, to enjoy contemporary culture through film and the arts, to travel toward God, to be wise stewards of God’s abundance…this year we have learned what it takes to follow Christ Jesus and to make him known to the world. On this Christ the King Sunday, we celebrate the very foundation of our faith.

The Labor Is Not in Vain – November 13, 2022

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Scripture: Isaiah 65: 17-25

Have you ever had a “renovation” project that felt like it would never end? This week’s text shows that even God wonders what to do when the foundation and structure is compromised. Will Israel love “God’s house” as much as God does, or will Israel continue to enjoy living in the shelter of God’s house without maintaining it properly? We know what happened with Israel. How about us?

The Pillar of Trust – November 6, 2022

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Scripture: Haggai 1: 15b-2:9

God’s people are confronted by the need to rebuild the temple…a new place that will become the dwelling of God for a new time and a new place. But without the pillar of trust in our blueprints, the house won’t hold together.

The Pillar of Patience–Perseverance – October 30, 2022

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Scripture: Habakkuk 1: 1-4; 2: 1-4

How often do we lose hope in God simply because we have lost patience with God and/or God’s people? In order for a joyful birth to take place, there must be conception, waiting, and intense labor. In order for the house of God to be built, there must be patience so we build in the right way.

The Ground Floor: Laying the Foundation–Vision – October 23, 2022

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Scripture: Joel 2: 23-32

We start from the ground up! Joel reminds the Israelites, and us, about the faithfulness of God’s presence with them always and the power of vision to lay a strong and enduring foundation.  This is the foundation for God’s house that not only provides a home for God, but for God’s community that blesses the world.

You Can Always Rebuild – October 16, 2022

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Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5

A great reminder that you’re always able to bounce back. No matter what you’ve been through, you still have a fighting chance. You can work your way up again. You can find happiness again. You can start from scratch and create something beautiful, so don’t assume that one setback is the end of the world.

You Shouldn’t Compare Yourself to Anyone Else – October 9, 2022

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Scripture: 2 Timothy 2: 8-15

Mirabel sings about how she can’t move mountains or heal what’s broken. She wants a miracle to show her the direction her path should take and give her life meaning. However, she’s already special. She already has so many beautiful qualities, but she has trouble seeing them because she keeps comparing herself to others. The grass is always going to look greener on the other side. That’s why you have to ignore everyone else and focus on you.

You Shouldn’t Let Yourself be Defined by One Thing – October 2, 2022

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Scripture: 2 Timothy 1: 1-14

Your career doesn’t define you. Your relationship doesn’t define you. Your talent doesn’t define you. This movie is a reminder that human beings are complex. They can’t be boiled down to one trait or talent. Even though you might feel like your intelligence or beauty or sense of humor is the only thing special about you, you’re wrong. There are so many interesting things about you. Keep shining!