The original message of Jesus was so compelling that everyone who heard it wanted it to be true. Maybe the version you’ve heard isn’t as captivating. If Jesus truly offered an invitation that left no one out, would you consider it really good news? December 12, 2021

People close to Jesus were convinced they had met good personified. So they documented the story. They were convinced it wasn’t just for a nation or for a generation, but for all nations and every generation. This was good news, great joy, for all people—perhaps especially for those of us who aren’t all that good. … Continue reading "Christmas–It’s All Good, part 1: Better Than True"

We are so grateful for the opportunities God has given our church to impact our community for good! You’ve responded generously, and Rich will spend a few minutes this Sunday giving thanks. Join us for a brief service with great music, a grateful perspective looking back, and great hope looking forward. November 28, 2021

The church often mistakes Christian obedience as the first step in the Christian life. As a result, for many people the Christian faith becomes a rule-based religion. Instead, the Scriptures reveal that Jesus’ initial invitation is to follow him. He invites us to follow him until we begin believing that He is indeed who he … Continue reading "Simple, part 3: Obey"

Jesus’ initial invitation to his disciples was a simple one: Follow me. He invited them to watch and listen to his interactions with his heavenly Father and with others. In time, however, those who followed Jesus began to discover God’s character through Jesus Christ. And in that discovery they found themselves drawn to take a … Continue reading "Simple, part 2: Believe"

There is a common misconception that the church is a gathering place for saintly, perfect people. Moreover, some think that being a Christian means observing a set of rules or commandments. The reality is that the Christian life is about a relationship with Jesus Christ. And at the heart of that relationship is an invitation … Continue reading "Simple, part 1: Follow"

It can be easy to see someone else self-destruct and think to ourselves, I would never do that. But truth be told, we’re all capable of ending up where we don’t want to be. Even Solomon’s son—the heir to the throne of Israel—blatantly ignored a principle that we should all pay close attention to. October … Continue reading "How Not To Be Your Own Worst Enemy, part 3: Listen"

We can talk ourselves into anything. Our internal narratives justify our beliefs as well as our actions. But when those narratives are not true, they lead to destructive thoughts and behaviors. We can choose to carry around false but comfortable narratives—or we can look to destroy them. October 24, 2021

We all face dilemmas in which circumstances point us in one direction, but our consciences point us in a different direction. At times, we ignore the tug of our consciences and sell ourselves on a questionable decision. King David found himself in such a position, and his example can help us navigate our own dilemmas. … Continue reading "How Not To Be Your Own Worst Enemy, part 1: Pay Attention!"

We all have a picture of who we think God is. These pictures and beliefs have been shaped by things we have learned and experienced along the way. But what if you have been given an inaccurate picture of who God really is? October 10, 2021