How can we become people who truly walk in love? In a world filled with distractions, that offers us so many different ideas about what “the good life” is, how can we live in a way that makes an eternal difference? Only God can accomplish this in us. The good news is that he wants to do this for us! The hard news is that the way he does it is not always easy. In this sermon based on Hebrews 12:1-2, 7-13, Pastor Eric challenges us not to look only for changes in our circumstances, but to be open to God changing our character.
What’s The Point: First Things, Last Thing (November 11th, 2018)
Admittedly, today’s sermon starts on a grim note, right out of our reading from Hebrews 9:24-29: we will all one day die. But this isn’t a doom and gloom sermon! Today, we start a three-week series called “What’s the Point,” looking at how we can live lives that have eternal significance. We are encouraged by the “last things” (the hope of salvation beyond death), even as we are challenged to keep the “first things” (love for God and for each other) first.
Glory Bound (November 4th, 2018)
On All Saints’ Sunday, the Bible readings, especially Revelation 21:1-6, proclaim the hope that believers have in Jesus’ resurrection to eternal life. Pastor Paige invites listeners to remember with thanksgiving the saints they’ve loved—those who lived and died in the faith, and have been called home to be with Jesus. All Saints’ Day is also a day to hold fast to God’s promise that we, too, are glory bound. The confidence we have in our ultimate future powerfully shapes our lives on earth today.
Truth & Freedom (October 28th, 2018)
On Reformation Sunday and Confirmation Day for two of our congregation’s young people, Pastor Paige explores Jesus’ teaching about truth and freedom in John 8:31-36. Jesus’ promise that the truth sets his disciples free inspired Martin Luther’s courageous statement when he faced fierce opposition. Luther said, “Here I stand. I can do no other.” This sermon calls today’s believers to stake their claim and anchor their lives on the truth that is Jesus.
Building Mercy’s House: Willing to Give (October 21st, 2018)
Two cents, no fair shares, willing hearts, and burying seed in the ground. That’s what we have before us on this Commitment Sunday for our annual stewardship campaign. Jesus’ story of the generous widow (Mark 12:38-44), the Israelites’ willing generosity to build the tabernacle and mercy seat (Exodus 35:4-5a, 20-29), and the Apostle Paul’s challenge for us to sow abundantly (2 Corinthians 9:6-15) guide us through the territory of growing our generosity. The goal is not raising funds, but raising faith. Will you accept the invitation?