Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36). This statement sets the stage for our understanding of God’s kingdom. Unlike earthly kingdoms that rely on power, wealth, and influence, God’s kingdom is spiritual and transcendent. May we live in such a way that others see and experience God’s kingdom through our words, actions, and attitudes. Let us continually seek His presence, allowing His kingdom to reign in every aspect of our lives until the day when His kingdom comes in its fullness.

A woman, after 18 years of pain a debilitation, was healed by Jesus! Whether through physical healing, spiritual renewal, or acts of compassion, the glorious works of Jesus inspire us to glorify God with sincere and joyful thanksgiving. May we, like the woman and the crowd, recognize and rejoice in the marvelous things Jesus is doing in our midst, ever grateful for His boundless grace and mercy. Living lives of praise and worship to God!

Today we find that a fig tree that doesn’t bear fruit will be cut down. It is a parable that has significance for all of us today! It appears that if we aren’t bearing fruit we will be cut down as well… Yet, there is hope! Even for the barren fig tree, there was a chance for renewal, for growth, and for fruitfulness. God offers us the same opportunity through His Son Jesus Christ. Through repentance, prayer, and a deepening of our relationship with God, we can experience spiritual renewal and begin to bear fruit that is for our good and that glorifies God.

Repentance is not just a momentary decision but a continuous journey of turning away from sin and turning towards God. Repentance is at the heart of the Gospel message, echoing the words of John the Baptist who proclaimed, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:2, NASB). It is an invitation to experience God’s grace, mercy, and transformation.

Throughout the pages of the Bible, we encounter countless examples of God’s unwavering love for His children. From the sacrificial love displayed on the cross by our Savior, Jesus Christ, to the countless instances of divine provision, protection, and guidance, we see a consistent theme: God’s love knows no bounds. It is a love that pursues us relentlessly, even in our darkest moments, offering hope, redemption, and healing.

As we delve deeper into today’s sermon, let us open our hearts to receive this profound truth: that we are deeply loved, unconditionally accepted, and irreplaceably precious in the sight of our Heavenly Father. May this understanding transform not only our perception of ourselves but also our relationship with the One who loves us beyond measure.

We will gaze into one of the most impactful and profound things Jesus did for us. Second only to the resurrection… And it’s not His death… Let’s dive right in – Luke 12:49-59

Let’s explore the profound symbolism of spiritual clothing as depicted in the Word of God. Just as we clothe ourselves physically, the Bible urges us to adorn ourselves with spiritual garments that reflect our identity as followers of Christ.

Pastor Brett gives a quick prophecy update on current events in the Middle East and a soul searching message on what we need in these times to be wise Christians.  We need to keep our lamps lit and have that ‘extra oil’ to give light to a dark world.

And that Light is the Holy Spirit Baptizing and empowering and gifting us! And He speaks to us and leads us!

Pastor Brett said, ‘God put this on my heart this morning – Silence is what allows your heart to talk to your head. In the tranquility of silence, the noise of the world fades, and the stillness becomes a sacred space where the heart finds its voice. It is in this hushed sanctuary that the heart converses with the mind, where introspection and reflection intertwine, shaping clarity amid life’s tumultuous journey. As the noise subsides, the Holy Spirit finds room to speak, guiding with gentle whispers that resonate through the soul. In the hush of silence, amidst the whispering winds, the Spirit’s presence is felt, leading with divine wisdom and grace, illuminating the path forward with divine guidance. As Romans 8:14 reveals, “For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.”‘

In the bustling tapestry of life, amidst the clamor of worldly pursuits and the ceaseless chase after material possessions, there exists a profound truth, a timeless message that echoes through the corridors of human history: the Kingdom of God.

It is a kingdom not of this world, yet its impact reverberates through every facet of our existence. In our text today, we encounter Jesus Christ imparting invaluable wisdom to His disciples and the multitude gathered around Him.

Within these verses, we find Jesus’ teaching to the rich, the nature of true wealth, the folly of earthly pursuits, and the blessing of seeking first the Kingdom of God.

We will talk a little about St. Patrick’s day, and dive into Luke 12:1-12. In this passage, Jesus speaks directly to His disciples, warning them about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and the coming persecution the church will face. And how, even with faced with death, we must not deny Jesus!