LaGrave Live

LaGrave Live

By Reverend Peter JonkerSociety & CultureReligion & SpiritualityChristianityHistoryPersonal Journals
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LaGrave Live episodes

  • LaGrave Live, March 15, 2026
    LaGrave Live
    LIVE Evening Worship Service - Bones and Breath - 2026-03-15
    About The Service:
    Rev. Kristy Manion will lead this service
    Order of Worship:
    https://lagrave.org/wp-content/upload...
    About Us:
    We are a traditional CRC church in the middle of Downtown Grand Rapids, MI, worshipping at 8:40am, 11:00am, and 6:00pm. (10:00am and 6:00pm during the summer months)
    We'd love to hear from you:
    Connection: https://www.lagrave.org/contact
    Let us pray for you:
    Prayer: https://www.lagrave.org/prayerrequest/
    Giving:
    The March special offering is for Mel Trotter Ministries. Mel Trotter Ministries provides shelter for individuals and families with services including: meals, emergency shelter, transitional housing assistance, case management.
    Listen on the go:
    Amazon Music: https://bit.ly/LGPodAmazonMusic
    Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3tuOdwQ
    Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/LGPodGoogle
    Soundcloud: / lagravecrc
    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3yXDFaT
    Follow us!
    Facebook: / lagravecrc
    Instagram: / lagravecrc
    Website: https://www.lagrave.org
    #LaGrave #LaGraveCRC
    More about this evening worship:
    This evening worship service at La Grave Church explores the transformative power of God’s Spirit (Ruah) to bring life out of death. Centered on the vision of the Valley of Dry Bones in Ezekiel 37, the service invites the congregation to move from spiritual exile toward a living hope anchored in the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
    The service opens with a liturgical call to worship and hymns that celebrate God as the redeemer who "crowns us with love and compassion." The minister welcomes both in-person and online worshippers, noting that this specific evening service includes a longer liturgy for the celebration of Communion. This "table of grace" is presented as a source of strength and "fuel for the week" for a community seeking to draw closer to the Divine.
    The scriptural foundation for the evening is established through readings from John 5 and Ezekiel 37. In the Gospel reading, Jesus speaks of the authority granted to the Son to bring the dead to life, asserting that those who hear His voice will live. This sets the stage for the Old Testament narrative of Ezekiel, who is transported by the Spirit to a valley filled with "very dry bones"—a vivid metaphor for the physical and spiritual hopelessness of the Israelites in Babylonian exile.
    The sermon reflects on God’s "nonsense question" to Ezekiel: "Can these bones live?" The preacher notes that Ezekiel’s response—"Sovereign Lord, you alone know"—reflects a tempered hope born of suffering. The message emphasizes the Hebrew word Ruah, which encompasses wind, breath, and spirit. It is this Ruah that reassembles the bones and breathes life into the "vast army" of the dead. This divine intervention is not just a historical account but a promise for those currently experiencing "living death" or despair, offering a compass that points "true north" even in dark valleys.
    The service culminates in the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, described as a "rest stop" that fuels Christian hope. The congregation participates in the liturgy of the bread and cup, proclaiming Christ's victory over death and the grave. The prayer of thanksgiving emphasizes that through Christ, believers receive mercy instead of condemnation and freedom instead of slavery, entrusting their "unfinished tasks and unsolved problems" to God's protection.
    The service concludes with a powerful reminder that because Jesus lives, physical death and spiritual despair never have the last word. The congregation is sent out with a benediction to live as people whose "inheritance is hope," empowered by a God who sustains and fulfills His promises even in the midst of life's "jagged edges".
    1 hr 16 min
  • LaGrave Live, March 15, 2026
    LaGrave Live
    LIVE Morning Worship Service 03-15-2026
    Cross Words: Sin & Slavery
    About The concert:
    We continue our Cross Words series, focusing on the meaning and impact of Christ's cross. Pastor Jonker will preach on Romans 7:7-25. He will talk about how the cross is a defeat of the powers of evil.
    Order of Worship:
    https://lagrave.org/wp-content/uploads/2026-3-15-AM-Order-of-Worship.pdf
    About the Church:
    We are a traditional CRC church in the middle of Downtown Grand Rapids, MI, worshipping at 8:40am, 11:00am, and 6:00pm. (10:00am and 6:00pm during the summer months)
    We'd love to hear from you:
    Connection: https://www.lagrave.org/contact
    Let us pray for you:
    Prayer: https://www.lagrave.org/prayerrequest/
    Giving: https://www.elexiogiving.com/App/Giving/lagr107178
    The March special offering is for Mel Trotter Ministries. Mel Trotter Ministries provides shelter for individuals and families with services including: meals, emergency shelter, transitional housing assistance, case management.
    Listen on the go:
    Amazon Music: https://bit.ly/LGPodAmazonMusic
    Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3tuOdwQ
    Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/LGPodGoogle
    Soundcloud: / lagravecrc https://soundcloud.com/lagravecrc
    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3yXDFaT
    Follow us!
    Facebook: / lagravecrc https://www.facebook.com/lagravecrc
    Instagram: / lagravecrc https://www.instagram.com/lagravecrc
    Website: https://www.lagrave.org
    #LaGrave #LaGraveCRC
    Cross Words: Sin, Slavery, and the Liberating Power of Jesus Christ
    Cross Words: Sin and Slavery
    A Lenten exploration of Romans 7 and the cosmic liberation of the Cross.
    Lent Series 2026
    The Central Thesis
    "I have the desire to do good, but I cannot carry it out... Who will rescue me from this body subject to death?"
    — Apostle Paul, Romans 7:24
    01
    Sin as Enslavement
    Beyond individual choices, sin is an addictive power that fixates the soul and overrides the will.
    02
    The Law as Intervention
    The Law doesn't cause sin; it acts as a diagnostic tool that reveals the depth of our spiritual captivity.
    03
    Cosmic Liberation
    The Cross is the turning point of history—a decisive victory over dark powers and the liberation of all creation.
    Service Highlights
    ✔Table Fellowship: Edward & Henry's declaration.
    ✔Children's Message: Habits (Good vs. Bad).
    ✔Global Prayer: Peace in Iran & Middle East.
    The Stained Glass Symbol
    The sun and moon under Jesus' arms represent the cosmic implications of the sacrifice—victory over all created things.
    Keywords
    #Romans7 #Addiction #Liberation #Lent#Victory
    Speaker: Rev. Peter Jonker | Location: LaGrave Ave CRC
    Reading Time: ~83 min audio
    Introduction
    This Lenten service at LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church explores the profound theological theme of "Sin and Slavery." Through the lens of Romans 7, the service moves from the confession of personal transgressions to a celebration of Christ’s cosmic victory over the dark powers that seek to enslave humanity.
    Detailed Summary
    1. Covenantal Milestones and Community Prayer
    The service opened with a call to worship and a time of confession, emphasizing that through Christ’s wounds, believers find healing and return to the "shepherd and overseer" of their souls. A significant highlight was the declaration of "table fellowship" for Edward Havlichek and Henry Slotsema. This milestone marks their public acceptance of Jesus Christ as Savior and their transition to participating in Holy Communion, a second step in their journey that began at baptism. Following this, the congregation engaged in intercessory prayer for community members facing health crises—including cancer treatments and bone marrow transplants—and for global peace, specifically focusing on the lack of religious freedom and the ongoing conflict in Iran.
    Spiritual Habits for Growth
    During the children's message, the distinction between "bad habits" (like nail-biting) and "good habits" was used to illustrate the Christian life.
    Weekly Worship: Consistency in gathering with the community.
    Daily Prayer: Maintaining a constant connection with God.
    Scripture Engagement: Learning the stories of Jesus to remind ourselves of His love.
    — Based on Segment [24-64]
    2. The Anatomy of Sin: Choice vs. Enslavement
    The sermon, titled "Sin and Slavery," utilized the modern analogies of hoarding and addiction to explain the "deep dynamics of sin" described by the Apostle Paul in Romans 7. It was argued that while sin begins with individual choices, it often evolves into an external, oppressive power that bypasses the human will. Paul’s struggle—doing what he hates and failing to do the good he desires—illustrates that sin is more than a list of broken rules; it is a "dark power" that takes hold of the soul. In this context, the Law of God acts as an "intervention," showing the believer the depth of their problem and their inability to self-liberate, thereby pointing toward the necessity of a Savior.
    3. Christus Victor: The Cross as Cosmic Victory
    The theological climax of the service centered on the cross as a site of liberation rather than just a transaction for debt. Referencing the stained-glass "cross window" at LaGrave—which depicts the sun, moon, and red lightning—the sermon explained that Christ’s death has cosmic implications. While the "evil one" viewed the crucifixion as a victory, it was actually the moment God defeated the powers of darkness through "suffering love." This victory ensures that believers are no longer "prisoners of the law of sin" but are brought into the "glory and freedom of the children of God". The service concluded with a call to "light candles of hope" in a world often characterized by fear and noise.
    The "Cross Words" Framework
    The Law
    An "Intervention" that exposes the depth of sin.
    ➔
    The Cross
    A "Liberation" that breaks the power of evil.
    "For through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit... has set us free."
    Key Data
    Scripture Reference: Romans 7:7-25 (The struggle with the law and sin).
    Community Health Updates: Millie Vriend and Jean DeKryger have returned home; Steve Palazzolo completed a bone marrow transplant.
    Global Focus: Prayer for the Padilla DeBorst family’s ministry at Casa Esperanza in Costa Rica.
    To-Do / Next Steps
    Community Engagement: Attend the 10:00 AM events listed in the church bulletin.
    Prayer Requests: Use the new prayer cards located in the pew racks to submit requests to the prayer team.
    Service Opportunity: Participate in or pray for the "Spa Day" event occurring this Tuesday in the multipurpose room.
    Spiritual Reflection: Meditate on the "Cross Window" symbolism (sun, moon, and lightning) as a reminder of Christ's cosmic victory.
    Conclusion
    The service serves as a powerful reminder that while sin may "crouch at the door," it cannot claim those who belong to Christ. By shifting the focus from sin as a mere moral failure to sin as an overcome power, the congregation is encouraged to walk into the world with "joyful hope," confident that the "sacrificed lamb" is indeed the "Lion of Judah" who has set them free.
    1 hr 24 min
  • LaGrave Live, March 8, 2026
    LaGrave Live
    LIVE Evening Worship Service - Healing and Forgiveness - 2026-03-08
    About The Service:
    We will hold a service of prayer and healing. Pastor Jonker will lead this service.
    Order of Worship:
    https://lagrave.org/wp-content/upload...
    About Us:
    We are a traditional CRC church in the middle of Downtown Grand Rapids, MI, worshipping at 8:40am, 11:00am, and 6:00pm. (10:00am and 6:00pm during the summer months)
    We'd love to hear from you:
    Connection: https://www.lagrave.org/contact
    Let us pray for you:
    Prayer: https://www.lagrave.org/prayerrequest/
    Giving: https://www.elexiogiving.com/App/Givi...
    The March special offering is for Mel Trotter Ministries. Mel Trotter Ministries provides shelter for individuals and families with services including: meals, emergency shelter, transitional housing assistance, case management.
    Listen on the go:
    Amazon Music: https://bit.ly/LGPodAmazonMusic
    Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3tuOdwQ
    Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/LGPodGoogle
    Soundcloud: / lagravecrc
    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3yXDFaT
    Follow us!
    Facebook: / lagravecrc
    Instagram: / lagravecrc
    Website: https://www.lagrave.org
    #LaGrave #LaGraveCRC
    This worship service at LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church marks the revival of a communal tradition focused on bringing physical, emotional, and spiritual wounds before God for restoration.
    The Revival of a Healing Tradition
    The service represents the first "Annual Service of Prayer and Healing" held at the church since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. It serves as a dedicated space for members and visitors to bring their diseases, grief, and spiritual burdens to God, facilitated by the presence of pastors and elders available for direct intercession. The liturgy emphasizes that God meets the congregation as a healer who redeems life from "the pit" and crowns the faithful with love and compassion.
    Biblical Foundation: The Multidimensional Healing of Jesus
    The theological center of the service is a meditation on Mark 2:1-12, the story of Jesus healing a paralyzed man in Capernaum. The sermon highlights that while the man sought physical restoration, Jesus addressed his spiritual state first by declaring his sins forgiven. This illustrates that Jesus views human struggle differently than the world; he sees "paralysis" not just as a physical ailment but as a potential grip of fear, worry, and spiritual bondage.
    The Role of the Intercessory Community
    A significant portion of the message focuses on the friends who carried the paralyzed man to Jesus. The sermon posits that when an individual’s faith is "paper thin" or their hope is exhausted, the community steps in to carry them into the presence of Christ. This communal faith is mirrored in the church's weekly prayer team, which systematically prays through the entire congregation directory alphabetically.
    Liturgy of Confession and Invitation
    The service includes a structured litany of confession based on James 5:16, linking the act of confessing sins to one another with the process of healing. Participants are invited to approach one of four prayer stations to share specific requests written on cards, symbolizing the act of "lowering a friend through the roof" to reach Jesus.
    The service concludes with the assurance that while complete physical healing may not always occur in the manner expected, every prayer offered results in a flow of strength from Jesus to the believer. The congregation is sent out with a benediction to carry the peace of God into their week, grounded in the hope that they will eventually be made entirely new.
    1 hr 15 min
  • LaGrave Live, March 8, 2026
    LaGrave Live
    LIVE Morning Worship Service 03-08-2026
    Cross Words: The Atoning Sacrifice
    About The concert:
    March 8 is the third Sunday in the season of Lent and we will continue our Cross Words sermon series. Pastor Jonker will preach on Romans 8: 1-4.
    Order of Worship:
    https://lagrave.org/wp-content/uploads/2026-3-8-AM-Order-of-Worship.pdf
    About the Church:
    We are a traditional CRC church in the middle of Downtown Grand Rapids, MI, worshipping at 8:40am, 11:00am, and 6:00pm. (10:00am and 6:00pm during the summer months)
    We'd love to hear from you:
    Connection: https://www.lagrave.org/contact
    Let us pray for you:
    Prayer: https://www.lagrave.org/prayerrequest/
    Giving: https://www.elexiogiving.com/App/Giving/lagr107178
    The March special offering is for Mel Trotter Ministries. Mel Trotter Ministries provides shelter for individuals and families with services including: meals, emergency shelter, transitional housing assistance, case management.
    Listen on the go:
    Amazon Music: https://bit.ly/LGPodAmazonMusic
    Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3tuOdwQ
    Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/LGPodGoogle
    Soundcloud: / lagravecrc https://soundcloud.com/lagravecrc
    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3yXDFaT
    Follow us!
    Facebook: / lagravecrc https://www.facebook.com/lagravecrc
    Instagram: / lagravecrc https://www.instagram.com/lagravecrc
    Website: https://www.lagrave.org
    #LaGrave #LaGraveCRC
    The Atoning Sacrifice: Understanding the "Blood Story" of the Cross
    Cross Words: The Atoning Sacrifice
    A deep dive into Romans 3 and the "strange" logic of blood, debt, and eternal grace.
    LENT SERIES
    The Central Paradox
    "Jesus died on the cross to save us from our sins. It is a phrase as simple as a nursery rhyme, yet as strange as ancient ritual."
    The Theology of Debt
    Sin accrues a debt unpayable by humans. Only God has the capacity; only a human deserves the sentence. Christ, being both, bridges the gap through Atonement.
    From Ritual to Reality
    Referencing Leviticus 16 (Yom Kippur): The high priest used blood to purify the Holy of Holies. Paul argues Christ is the final sacrifice, ending the cycle of yearly rituals.
    The "Blood Story" Logic
    01
    Tim O'Brien: A soldier breaks his own nose to "square" a debt of guilt with a friend. Blood is the currency of justification.
    02
    Kazuo Ishiguro: "The Buried Giant" explores how forgotten atrocities (blood stories) eventually rise to demand justice.
    03
    The 100 Ribbons: A story of a prisoner returning home to find a tree covered in white ribbons—a visual of lavish, total forgiveness.
    Key Takeaways
    Boasting Excluded: Faith, not works, is the leveler.
    Grievance Ended: Christ's blood absorbs our personal "blood stories."
    Transformed Living: Humility and grace become the new social rule.
    #Atonement #Romans3 #Grace
    Reading Time: 12 min • LaGrave Ministries
    This Lenten service at LaGrave explores the theological depth of "Atonement" as presented in Romans 3, reconciling ancient sacrificial rituals with the modern human experience of guilt and justice. The message challenges believers to move from external grievances to a personal realization of grace through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
    Detailed Summary
    Liturgy, Confession, and the Call to Love
    The service commenced with a series of hymns and a formal call to worship, emphasizing the "wondrous cross" and the redemptive power of Christ's blood. The congregation engaged in a corporate prayer of confession, seeking God’s mercy to blot out transgressions and wash away iniquity. This liturgical opening served to reorient the community toward the "first and greatest commandment": to love God with all heart, soul, and mind, and to love one's neighbor as oneself. The assurance of pardon, drawn from 1 Peter, reminded the faithful that Christ bore their sins in His body so they might live for righteousness.
    The Parable of Forgiveness
    During the children's message, the concept of forgiveness was illustrated through a story of a young man returning home after ten years in prison. Fearing rejection, he asked his parents to tie a white ribbon on an apple tree if they were willing to welcome him back. Upon his return, he found the tree covered in a hundred white ribbons. This narrative served as a poignant analogy for the cross: a sign of God’s overwhelming love and a "welcome home" for those burdened by the shame of their past.
    The Ritual of Atonement: Then & Now
    Old Testament (Yom Kippur)
    High Priest enters the Holy of Holies once a year with animal blood to cover Israel's sins. [Leviticus 16]
    The New Covenant (The Cross)
    Jesus, as both Priest and Sacrifice, sheds His own blood to provide eternal redemption. [Romans 3]
    The Theology of the "Blood Story"
    The sermon focused on the "crossword" of atonement, addressing the modern discomfort with the language of blood sacrifice. By referencing the Old Testament ritual of Yom Kippur, the message explained that blood was the "currency" required to pay the debt of sin. The speaker argued that even in secular society, the intuition that "the price of justice is blood" remains prevalent. Examples from literature—such as the physical penance in Tim O’Brien’s The Things They Carried and the "buried giant" of unpunished atrocities in Kazuo Ishiguro’s work—demonstrate that humans naturally recognize that sin creates a debt that cannot be ignored or simply forgotten.
    Personal Transformation and Community Grace
    The message concluded by personalizing the "blood story." Rather than using the language of grievance to condemn others, believers are invited to see their own lives "scrolled" before God, recognizing their own need for cleansing. The blood of Christ is described as both absorbing the pain caused by our sins and washing our "hands" clean. This realization excludes boasting and fosters a community defined by humility, kindness, and pervasive grace. When the story of one's own forgiveness stands between them and their grievances, the result is a transformative joy that flourishes within the church.
    The Logic of Justification
    "Where then is boasting? It is excluded."
    1. The Problem:All have sinned and fallen short of God's glory.
    2. The Price:The debt of sin is death; the currency is blood.
    3. The Provision:God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement.
    4. The Result:Justification by faith, apart from works of the law.
    Key Data
    Scripture Text: Romans 3:21-31 (Page 1,748 in the pew Bible).
    Historical Context: The ritual of Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) from Leviticus 16.
    Congregational Milestone: Steve Palazzolo was cleared for a bone marrow transplant scheduled for Wednesday in Ann Arbor.
    To-Do / Next Steps
    Check the bulletin for 10:00 hour opportunities immediately following the service.
    Attend the coffee fellowship located down the hall and to the right in the multipurpose room.
    Pray for Steve Palazzolo and his wife Lisa as he undergoes his transplant this Wednesday.
    Offer prayers of peace for those grieving family members, specifically the Colbors, Gruesings, and Buskers.
    Support those in rehab or facing cancer, including Jean de Kryger, Millie Friend, and Andrea Heckman.
    Reflect on personal "blood stories" and ensure the story of Christ’s forgiveness stands between you and your grievances.
    Conclusion
    The cross is not merely a primitive symbol of sacrifice but a profound answer to the universal human experience of guilt and the need for justice. By accepting Christ as the ultimate sacrifice of atonement, believers are freed from the weight of their own "blood stories" and invited into a life of humility, joy, and radical grace.
    1 hr 22 min
  • LaGrave Live, March 1, 2026
    LaGrave Live
    LIVE Evening Worship Service - Don’t Run On Ahead - 2026-03-01
    About The Service:
    We will meditate on Exodus 2: 11-22 with the message: “Don’t Run On Ahead.” Chad Boorsma will preach.
    Order of Worship:
    https://lagrave.org/wp-content/upload...
    About Us:
    We are a traditional CRC church in the middle of Downtown Grand Rapids, MI, worshipping at 8:40am, 11:00am, and 6:00pm. (10:00am and 6:00pm during the summer months)
    We'd love to hear from you:
    Connection: https://www.lagrave.org/contact
    Let us pray for you:
    Prayer: https://www.lagrave.org/prayerrequest/
    Giving: https://www.elexiogiving.com/App/Givi...
    The March special offering is for Mel Trotter Ministries. Mel Trotter Ministries provides shelter for individuals and families with services including: meals, emergency shelter, transitional housing assistance, case management.
    Listen on the go:
    Amazon Music: https://bit.ly/LGPodAmazonMusic
    Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3tuOdwQ
    Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/LGPodGoogle
    Soundcloud: / lagravecrc
    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3yXDFaT
    Follow us!
    Facebook: / lagravecrc
    Instagram: / lagravecrc
    Website: https://www.lagrave.org
    #LaGrave #LaGraveCRC
    This worship service at LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church explores the intersection of God's eternal providence and the human struggle to follow His timing. Through the lens of Psalm 90 and the early life of Moses, the message challenges believers to move from self-driven ambition to a life of surrendered servanthood.
    Foundations of Providence and Human Fragility
    The service opened with a prayer based on the Belgic Confession, Article 13, acknowledging that God governs all things according to His holy will and that nothing happens by chance. This theme of divine sovereignty was further explored through a responsive reading of Psalm 90, often considered the oldest psalm in the Psalter. The congregation reflected on God's eternal nature—existing before the mountains were born—contrasted with the brevity of human life, which is described as grass that withers by evening. These reflections served as a call to recognize human limitations and the necessity of finding a "dwelling place" in God throughout all generations.
    The Contrast of the "Cinematic" vs. Biblical Moses
    The sermon addressed the popular cultural depictions of Moses, such as those in The Ten Commandments or The Prince of Egypt, which often portray him as a consistently confident, "debonair" hero. However, the biblical narrative reveals a much harsher reality. Moses was born into a period of intense persecution and infanticide under a threatened Pharaoh. His survival was not a matter of cinematic luck but the result of his mother Jochebed’s clever planning and the direct providence of God, who placed him in the heart of the Egyptian palace to be nurtured in the wisdom of the empire.
    The Danger of Running Ahead of God
    A pivotal moment in Moses' life occurred when he attempted to take justice into his own hands by killing an Egyptian taskmaster. While his intentions to help his people were sincere, he acted "deliberately and according to a plan he concocted" without consulting God. This "self-driven life" led to a sinking heart and forced exile. The sermon illustrated this through a modern example of a pastor who attempted to force a neighborhood evangelism program too quickly, resulting in an empty event because he had not earned the congregation's trust or waited for God's timing.
    The School of Servanthood in Midian
    Moses' 40-year exile in Midian is portrayed as a period of divine reorientation. At a well in a barren land, God began to mold Moses' character through small, seemingly insignificant tasks, such as protecting seven women from shepherds. This stage of life taught Moses that a servant's duty is simply to do the "next task" available. This principle was echoed in the story of a modern-day church member who served as a helper to her husband with MS for 46 years, illustrating that true servanthood is found in daily faithfulness rather than personal glory.
    The Ultimate Example: Christ’s Surrender
    The sermon concluded by pointing to Jesus Christ as the "far greater example" of servanthood. Unlike Moses' early impulsive actions, Jesus demonstrated complete surrender in the Garden of Gethsemane, praying, "Yet not my will, but yours be done." While Moses served faithfully in God’s house, Jesus is the faithful Son whose journey to the cross provides the ultimate model for believers to follow God's ways and timing through the power of the Holy Spirit.
    The life of Moses serves as a profound reminder that God’s servants are not born in palaces but molded in the wilderness. By surrendering personal agendas and waiting on divine timing, believers can move from the "disrepair and turmoil" of self-driven lives into the "holy rest" of God's eternal purposes.
    1 hr 1 min
  • LaGrave Live, March 1, 2026
    LaGrave Live
    LIVE Morning Worship Service 03-01-2026
    Cross Words: Contrition
    About The concert:
    March 2 is the second Sunday in the season of Lent and we will continue our Cross Words sermon series, a series which focuses on different aspects of the cross. Pastor Jonker will preach on Psalm 51
    Order of Worship:
    https://lagrave.org/wp-content/uploads/2026-3-1-AM-Order-of-Worship.pdf
    About the Church:
    We are a traditional CRC church in the middle of Downtown Grand Rapids, MI, worshipping at 8:40am, 11:00am, and 6:00pm. (10:00am and 6:00pm during the summer months)
    We'd love to hear from you:
    Connection: https://www.lagrave.org/contact
    Let us pray for you:
    Prayer: https://www.lagrave.org/prayerrequest/
    Giving: https://www.elexiogiving.com/App/Giving/lagr107178
    The March special offering is for Mel Trotter Ministries. Mel Trotter Ministries provides shelter for individuals and families with services including: meals, emergency shelter, transitional housing assistance, case management.
    Listen on the go:
    Amazon Music: https://bit.ly/LGPodAmazonMusic
    Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3tuOdwQ
    Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/LGPodGoogle
    Soundcloud: / lagravecrc https://soundcloud.com/lagravecrc
    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3yXDFaT
    Follow us!
    Facebook: / lagravecrc https://www.facebook.com/lagravecrc
    Instagram: / lagravecrc https://www.instagram.com/lagravecrc
    Website: https://www.lagrave.org
    #LaGrave #LaGraveCRC
    The Path of Contrition: A Lenten Service of Reflection and Renewal
    This document summarizes the Lenten worship service held at LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church, focusing on the spiritual discipline of contrition. The service explores the transition from the weight of human sinfulness to the transformative joy found through Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.
    Detailed Points of Reflection
    The Symbolism of the Cross in Worship
    The service emphasizes the cross as the central motif of the Lenten season, both theologically and physically. During the children's message, it was noted that the sanctuary contains over 360 crosses—found in the architecture, windows, and light fixtures—serving as a daily reminder for the entire year that Jesus cares for the "hard things" in life. This visual abundance reinforces the message that the atonement is a "full and free" gift for those in affliction.
    The Presence of the Cross
    In the LaGrave sanctuary, the cross is integrated into the very fabric of the environment, symbolizing constant support:
    Reredos & Windows: Visual depictions of the crucifixion.
    Light Fixtures: 288 crosses embedded in the main lights.
    Wall Sconces: Additional crosses bringing the total to over 360.
    "One cross for every day of the year."
    The Theology of Contrition
    The sermon defines "contrition" as a "godly sorrow for sin," distinguishing it from mere guilt. Drawing from Psalm 51 and the writings of Robert Roberts, the message argues that contrition is a vital spiritual emotion—akin to joy or peace—that every Christian should cultivate. Unlike secular remedies for unworthiness, such as denial or self-harm, contrition serves as a "remedy" and a "gift" that addresses the deep moral failures of the human heart.
    The Three Stages of a Contrite Heart
    Using King David’s confession after his transgressions with Bathsheba as a framework, the service outlines a three-part progression of contrition. First, one must recognize the depth of sin, acknowledging that it is not a momentary lapse but a condition that goes "all the way down". Second, the individual must accept their total helplessness to change themselves, shifting the "verbs of change" entirely to God. Finally, the process culminates in turning to the Redeemer, where the realization of helplessness meets the "unfailing love" and victory of Jesus Christ.
    The Three Stages of Contrition
    1. Depth: Realizing sin is a deep-seated nature, not just a mistake.
    2. Helplessness: Admitting that personal willpower cannot fix the heart.
    3. Redemption: Hurling oneself upon the mercy and compassion of Christ.
    Community Intercession and Global Concerns
    The congregation engaged in extensive prayer for local and global needs. This included petitions for the healing of hospitalized members, guidance for church leaders in the nomination process, and support for city partners addressing homelessness. The prayer also extended to world leaders and the pursuit of lasting peace in the Middle East, resting in the "good news" that God remains in control.
    Key Data
    Sanctuary Symbolism: There are estimated to be more than 360 crosses within the church sanctuary.
    Mental Health Context: Approximately 1 in 5 young people in society engage in some form of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) to cope with feelings of unworthiness.
    Liturgical Calendar: The service marked the Second Sunday in Lent.
    To-Do / Next Steps
    Participate in the Generation Spark Survey: Attendees are asked to fill out index cards on the puzzle tables in the multipurpose room to help develop intergenerational relationships.
    Attend Visitor Coffee Time: Visitors and new members (joined within the last two years) are invited to the parlor after the service for a meet-and-greet.
    Review Elder and Deacon Nominations: Members nominated for leadership roles should discern their acceptance of these positions.
    Practice Daily Contrition: Individuals are encouraged to bring specific "broken" areas of their lives to God in nightly prayer for cleansing.
    Conclusion
    The service concludes with the affirmation that contrition is not a "morbid" focus on failure, but a "joyful" gateway to a second chance. By standing before the cross and offering a "broken and contrite heart," the believer finds that Jesus descends into the deepest parts of human misery to bring them home.
    1 hr 21 min
  • LaGrave Live, February 22, 2026
    LaGrave Live
    LIVE Evening Worship Service - Forgiven and Blessed - 2026-02-22
    About The Service:
    Rev. Kristy Manion will lead us in worship and will preach on Psalm 32.
    Order of Worship:
    https://lagrave.org/wp-content/upload...
    About Us:
    We are a traditional CRC church in the middle of Downtown Grand Rapids, MI, worshipping at 8:40am, 11:00am, and 6:00pm. (10:00am and 6:00pm during the summer months)
    We'd love to hear from you:
    Connection: https://www.lagrave.org/contact
    Let us pray for you:
    Prayer: https://www.lagrave.org/prayerrequest/
    Giving: https://www.elexiogiving.com/App/Givi...
    The February special offering is for The Bridge. The Bridge is part of Arbor Circle, which offers emergency shelter for youths, and additional counseling for youths and their families.
    Listen on the go:
    Amazon Music: https://bit.ly/LGPodAmazonMusic
    Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3tuOdwQ
    Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/LGPodGoogle
    Soundcloud: / lagravecrc
    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3yXDFaT
    Follow us!
    Facebook: / lagravecrc
    Instagram: / lagravecrc
    Website: https://www.lagrave.org
    #LaGrave #LaGraveCRC
    This worship service at La Grave Church marks the first Sunday in the season of Lent, a period dedicated to contemplating human limits, sin, and the joyful necessity of a Savior. Through liturgy, missionary testimony, and an exploration of Psalm 32, the congregation is invited to move from the "wasting away" of unconfessed sin into the restorative grace of divine forgiveness.
    The Call to Worship and the Lenten Journey
    The service opens with a call to recognize Jesus, even when the world fails to do so, asking for faith to see His glory and wisdom. As the first Sunday of Lent, the liturgy emphasizes that while this season involves reflecting on sin and the need for saving, it is ultimately grounded in the "joyful truth" of having a Savior. This is reinforced by a reading from Acts, where the Apostle Paul proclaims that through Jesus, the forgiveness of sins and a justification unattainable under the Law of Moses are now available to all who believe.
    Ministry Spotlight: Resonate Global Mission in Hungary
    Jeff and Julie Baumann, missionaries serving in Budapest, shared the story of Pamela Shammas to illustrate God’s "surprises" in mission work. Pamela, a Syrian Christian from Aleppo, fled the war to study psychology in Hungary on a scholarship. After connecting with the Baumanns' church and university fellowship, she eventually joined the "Cohort Europe Program." She is now serving as a missionary herself, working with refugees in Berlin. The Baumanns highlighted how their ministry has evolved from direct refugee aid to supporting "people on the move" who fall between traditional legal categories.
    Pastoral Prayer and Community Concerns
    The pastoral prayer focuses on the "dustiness" of humanity and the intercession of the Holy Spirit. It includes specific petitions for justice where the strong exploit the weak and for the repair of broken trust. The congregation also remembers several members facing significant life events, including milestone birthdays and serious health challenges ranging from cancer diagnoses to pediatric internal bleeding.
    Sermon: The Anatomy of Confession
    The sermon explores the "complicated" emotional landscape of Psalm 32, which blends suffering, regret, and relief. The speaker notes that the Hebrew syntax places "Blessed" at the very beginning, emphasizing that the state of being forgiven precedes the description of sin. A central theme is the danger of "keeping silent" about sin, which the psalmist describes as a physical wasting of the bones. The message concludes with Martin Luther’s famous advice to "sin boldly"—not as an excuse to transgress, but as a directive to rely even more boldly on the "true and not fictitious grace" of Christ, who is victorious over the world.
    The service concludes with a reminder that while all are sinners, all have a Savior. The congregation is sent out with a benediction of peace, encouraged to live as "grace-receiving people" who keep their eyes fixed on Jesus' grace rather than the "ditch" of their past transgressions.
    1 hr 15 min
  • LaGrave Live, February 22, 2026
    LaGrave Live
    LIVE Morning Worship Service 02-22-2026
    Cross Words: Foreshadowings
    About The concert:
    We will start a new sermon series called Cross Words. These sermons will go through the Bible and look at what the Bible teaches us about the cross. We will begin by looking at how the Old Testament points towards the cross. Pastor Jonker will preach on Genesis 3: 21-24.
    Order of Worship:
    https://lagrave.org/wp-content/uploads/2026-2-22-AM-Order-of-Worship.pdf
    About the Church:
    We are a traditional CRC church in the middle of Downtown Grand Rapids, MI, worshipping at 8:40am, 11:00am, and 6:00pm. (10:00am and 6:00pm during the summer months)
    We'd love to hear from you:
    Connection: https://www.lagrave.org/contact
    Let us pray for you:
    Prayer: https://www.lagrave.org/prayerrequest/
    Giving: https://www.elexiogiving.com/App/Giving/lagr107178
    The February special offering is for The Bridge. The Bridge is part of Arbor Circle, which offers emergency shelter for youths, and additional counseling for youths and their families.
    Listen on the go:
    Amazon Music: https://bit.ly/LGPodAmazonMusic
    Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3tuOdwQ
    Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/LGPodGoogle
    Soundcloud: / lagravecrc https://soundcloud.com/lagravecrc
    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3yXDFaT
    Follow us!
    Facebook: / lagravecrc https://www.facebook.com/lagravecrc
    Instagram: / lagravecrc https://www.instagram.com/lagravecrc
    Website: https://www.lagrave.org
    #LaGrave #LaGraveCRC
    Cross Words: The Foreshadowing of Grace
    Cross Words: Foreshadowings
    First Sunday of Lent | LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church
    SERMON ABSTRACT
    Feb 22, 2026 • 82 min read
    Core Theological Argument
    "God does not have the heart of an accountant; He has the heart of a Father. He has a cross-shaped heart."
    The Moral Accounting
    Standard justice demands the offender pays the debt. Common sense suggests "demolition and a new build" for a broken creation.
    The Divine Absorption
    God breaks the rules of accounting by seeking the offender, absorbing the misery, and paying the cost Himself.
    🚗The Cadillac Illustration
    A daughter crashes her father's prized 1955 Cadillac into the garage. Instead of anger, the father gives her money for her youth event—absorbing the cost and misery to preserve the relationship. This mirrors the Gospel.
    Biblical Roadmap
    •Genesis 3:21-24: The first "garments of skin"—God's first act of covering human shame.
    •The Wilderness: Israel "crashes the car" with the golden calf; God continues to provide manna.
    •The Cross: The ultimate absorption where Jesus weaves "clothes of righteousness."
    Liturgical Highlights
    #LentBeginnings#Communion#Genesis3#Grace#Atonement
    Community Note: Welcomed the Karsten family. Prayers offered for Caleb Vandenberg (surgery) and the family of Yvonne Pileman.
    Speaker: Rev. Peter Jonker (Speaker_4)
    "Go in peace, clothed in His grace."
    This worship service at LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church marks the beginning of the Lenten season and a new sermon series titled "Cross Words." The service explores the profound theme of God’s "cross-shaped heart," tracing how the Old Testament anticipates the sacrifice of Jesus through God’s consistent choice to absorb the cost of human sin. The gathering culminates in the celebration of the Lord’s Supper, emphasizing grace for the imperfect.
    Detailed Summary
    Community Milestones and Lenten Observance
    The service opens with a warm welcome to both long-time members and first-time guests, specifically introducing the Karsten family—Neal, Natalie, and Lydia—as new members of the congregation. This week is particularly significant as the church celebrates its 139th anniversary of ministry. As the first Sunday of Lent, the congregation is reminded of the upcoming noontime Wednesday Lenten services and encouraged to participate in anniversary activities detailed in the bulletin. The community also joins in prayer for those grieving, particularly the family of Yvonne Pileman, and for those facing health challenges, including Caleb Vandenberg following his recent surgery.
    The Divine Decision: Redemption over Demolition
    Centering on Genesis 3, the sermon challenges the "moral accounting" of human logic through a metaphor of "Common Sense Consulting." From a purely business or structural perspective, a corrupted creation and a "unreliable workforce" (humanity) would warrant demolition and a fresh start. However, the narrative of the Fall reveals a God who does not follow the rules of maximum profit and minimum pain. Instead of abandoning Adam and Eve, God seeks them out, providing "garments of skin" to cover their shame. This act establishes a recurring Old Testament pattern where God repeatedly absorbs the misery and pays the debt of His people's failures, from the golden calf in the wilderness to the era of the kings.
    The "Consultant" vs. The Father
    Human Logic
    Maximum profit, minimum pain. Recommend "demolition" due to significant corruption and poor ROI.
    Divine Grace
    The "Cross-Shaped Heart." Choosing to rebuild and absorb the cost of the "wreckage" personally.
    The Cadillac Parable and the Heart of Grace
    To illustrate the practical manifestation of a cross-shaped heart, the pastor shares the story of Tom DeGroat and his daughter, Sherry. After Sherry accidentally caused significant damage to her father’s prized 1955 Cadillac and the family garage, Tom responded not with anger, but by giving her money to continue her day at a youth event. By absorbing the financial and emotional cost of the accident, Tom mirrored the character of the Heavenly Father. This "gracious intuition" is what ultimately leads to the cross, where Jesus absorbs all human pain and pays the ultimate cost to clothe humanity in righteousness.
    Sacrament of the Lord's Supper
    The service concludes with the celebration of Communion, described as a "place of grace" for those who feel they have "crashed the car" of their lives. The liturgy emphasizes that even the disciples who betrayed, denied, or doubted Jesus were invited to His table. The bread and wine serve as tangible reminders that Christ’s body was broken and His blood shed for the complete forgiveness of sins. The congregation is sent forth with a prayer that God’s cross-shaped heart would take root in them, transforming them into joyful and giving people.
    The Moral Accounting of the Cross
    📉 The Debit: Damaged relationships and the "wreckage" of sin.
    ⚖️ The Human Way: The offender must pay the debt and initiate the apology.
    ✨ The Way of the Cross: The offended party (God) seeks the offender and pays the total cost.
    Key Data
    Church Anniversary: 139 years of ministry.
    Significant Birthdays: Annette Haverkamp (90), Clarence Van Dyken (95), and Paul Byden (91).
    Memorial: Yvonne Pileman passed away at age 95.
    To-Do / Next Steps
    Attend the noontime Wednesday Lenten services beginning this week.
    Check the church bulletin for activities related to the 139th anniversary.
    Submit prayer requests using the cards found in the pew racks to be dropped in the wood box by the chapel.
    Participate in the 10:00 AM hour activities following the main service.
    Conclusion
    The service serves as a powerful reminder that the cross was not an afterthought but was present in the heart of God from the beginning of time. By moving from the "moral accounting" of the law to the radical "grace" of the Father, the congregation is invited to live out of a sense of being fully forgiven and clothed in Christ’s righteousness.
    1 hr 22 min
  • LaGrave Live, February 15, 2026
    LaGrave Live
    LIVE Evening Worship - For You Died... - 2026-02-15
    About The Service:
    Pastor Jonker will preach on Colossians 3:1-4.
    Order of Worship:
    https://lagrave.org/wp-content/upload...
    About Us:
    We are a traditional CRC church in the middle of Downtown Grand Rapids, MI, worshipping at 8:40am, 11:00am, and 6:00pm. (10:00am and 6:00pm during the summer months)
    We'd love to hear from you:
    Connection: https://www.lagrave.org/contact
    Let us pray for you:
    Prayer: https://www.lagrave.org/prayerrequest/
    Giving: https://www.elexiogiving.com/App/Givi...
    The February special offering is for The Bridge. The Bridge is part of Arbor Circle, which offers emergency shelter for youths, and additional counseling for youths and their families.
    Listen on the go:
    Amazon Music: https://bit.ly/LGPodAmazonMusic
    Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3tuOdwQ
    Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/LGPodGoogle
    Soundcloud: / lagravecrc
    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3yXDFaT
    Follow us!
    Facebook: / lagravecrc
    Instagram: / lagravecrc
    Website: https://www.lagrave.org
    This Vesper service at La Grave Avenue Christian Reformed Church explores the profound theological paradox found in Colossians: the declaration that believers have already died. Through scripture, the imagery of C.S. Lewis, and real-world reflections, the service examines the tension between our "ghostly" old selves and the "substantial" new life found in baptism.
    The Theology of Rootedness and Righteousness
    The service opens with a call to worship from Psalm 84, emphasizing the blessing of those whose strength is in God as they pass through the "Valley of Baca" or suffering. Drawing from Jeremiah 17 and 2 Corinthians 5, the message contrasts two ways of living: the "tumbleweed" life of one rooted in self versus the "tree by the water" rooted in the Lord. This rootedness is further defined by the Heidelberg Catechism, which clarifies that righteousness before God comes not through the worthiness of one's faith, but through the "perfect satisfaction, righteousness, and holiness of Christ" credited to the believer by grace alone.
    The Paradox of the "Dead" Self
    A central challenge of the sermon is Paul’s assertion in Colossians 3:3: "For you died." While this refers to the "death" of the old self in baptism, the reality of daily life often suggests otherwise. The speaker acknowledges the "strange gap" between the theological declaration of death to sin and the persistent experience of temptation, guilt, and hypocrisy. This gap is illustrated through the tragic history of baptized individuals participating in the Holocaust, highlighting that baptism does not magically end the struggle against the old self, which remains "alive and kicking".
    Ghostly Wraiths vs. Substantial Souls
    Using C.S. Lewis’s The Great Divorce as a framework, the sermon describes the "great interior drama" of life as a choice between becoming a "ghostly" wraith or a "substantial" soul. Sin—such as deceit, rage, or the violence depicted in a seven-year-old’s drawing—makes a person "insubstantial" and "smudgy," like a stain in the air. Conversely, acts of compassion, kindness, and the joy of the Holy Spirit make a person "weighty" and "fully alive." The "true self" is not something believers must manufacture; it is already resurrected and "hidden with Christ in God," waiting to be lived out through the power of the Spirit.
    The service concludes with a call to live out the "shining reality" of baptism. While the struggle between the old and new selves defines the human experience, the congregation is encouraged by the fact that their true, resurrected life is already secure in Christ. By the breathing of the Holy Spirit, believers are empowered to turn away from the "ghostly" and embrace the substantial life of grace
    1 hr 2 min
  • LaGrave Live, February 15, 2026
    LaGrave Live
    LIVE Morning Worship Service 02-15-2026
    The Word in the Windows: The Transfiguration
    About The concert:
    We conclude our sermon series on the windows. Pastor Jonker will preach on the story of the Transfiguration as found in Matthew 17:1-13. Can you find that story in the windows?
    Order of Worship:
    https://lagrave.org/wp-content/uploads/2026-2-15-AM-Order-of-Worship.pdf
    About the Church:
    We are a traditional CRC church in the middle of Downtown Grand Rapids, MI, worshipping at 8:40am, 11:00am, and 6:00pm. (10:00am and 6:00pm during the summer months)
    We'd love to hear from you:
    Connection: https://www.lagrave.org/contact
    Let us pray for you:
    Prayer: https://www.lagrave.org/prayerrequest/
    Giving: https://www.elexiogiving.com/App/Giving/lagr107178
    The February special offering is for The Bridge. The Bridge is part of Arbor Circle, which offers emergency shelter for youths, and additional counseling for youths and their families.
    Listen on the go:
    Amazon Music: https://bit.ly/LGPodAmazonMusic
    Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3tuOdwQ
    Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/LGPodGoogle
    Soundcloud: / lagravecrc https://soundcloud.com/lagravecrc
    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3yXDFaT
    Follow us!
    Facebook: / lagravecrc https://www.facebook.com/lagravecrc
    Instagram: / lagravecrc https://www.instagram.com/lagravecrc
    Website: https://www.lagrave.org
    #LaGrave #LaGraveCRC
    The Word in the Windows: The Transfiguration
    The Word in the Windows: The Transfiguration
    LaGrave Live Service Summary • Feb 15, 2026 • Finding strength between the mountain and the valley.
    Editorial Mode
    Theological Core
    The Dual Revelation of Christ
    The Transfiguration provides two distinct forms of sustenance for the "exhausted disciple" facing the uncertainties of faith and life:
    1. Divine Glory (The Blue Halo)Jesus as the fulfillment of Law (Moses) and Prophets (Elijah). He is the authoritative "Word made flesh" who sustains us through his absolute sovereignty.
    2. The Human Touch (The Gentle Hand)The transition from blinding light to a simple touch on the shoulder. "Get up. Don't be afraid." The power of God accompanies us back into the "valley" of daily struggle.
    "The church is not an escape; it is salvation. We lift our faces to the mountain to find courage for the valley full of broken glass."
    Symbolism & Context
    Stained Glass Analysis
    Blue Halo: Represents divinity and eternal glory (vs. Red for sacrifice).
    Moses' Horns: A historical art tradition (lightning bolts) signifying the radiance of God.
    The Scroll & Tablets: The convergence of all scripture into the person of Jesus.
    Children's Message
    The boy who grew too big to fit through doors (Pride) vs. finding joy in passing the ball (Humility).
    Key Keywords
    #Matthew17 #Transfiguration #Epiphany #MountSinai #Humility
    Reading Time: ~12 min read • Focus: Spiritual Growth & Theology
    LaGrave Avenue CRC
    This document summarizes the worship service held at LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church, focusing on the biblical narrative of the Transfiguration. The service explores the dual nature of Christ’s divinity and his personal care, providing spiritual sustenance for those exhausted by life's journeys.
    Community Worship and Liturgical Practice
    The service opened with a warm welcome to both physical and online attendees, emphasizing the inclusive nature of the congregation. The liturgy moved through a formal Call to Confession based on Matthew 7, warning against "false prophets" and emphasizing the need for "good fruit" in the life of a believer. This was followed by a communal prayer of confession and a declaration of forgiveness rooted in Hebrews 1, affirming Christ as the radiance of God's glory and the sustainer of all things.
    Lessons on Humility and Pride
    During the children's message, a narrative was shared regarding the dangers of vanity and the virtue of humility. Through the story of a boy who physically grew larger with every boast—eventually becoming too big to fit into his school or car—the speaker illustrated how bragging isolates individuals. The lesson concluded that by serving others, celebrating their successes, and practicing kindness, one finds true happiness and community belonging.
    The Dual Revelation of the Transfiguration
    Divine Glory (The Blue Halo)
    Reveals Jesus as the Eternal Word and fulfillment of the Law (Moses) and Prophets (Elijah).
    Human Touch (The Gentle Hand)
    The personal comfort of Jesus saying "Get up, don't be afraid," accompanying believers into the valley.
    Sermon: The Glory and the Touch
    The sermon focused on Matthew 17:1-8 and the specific depiction of the Transfiguration in the church's stained-glass windows. The preacher noted that while most halos in the church are red (signifying servanthood and sacrifice), the Transfiguration halo is blue, symbolizing Christ's divine glory. The event is described as a "magnifying glass" where the weight of the Old Testament—represented by Moses (the Law) and Elijah (the Prophets)—is condensed into the person of Jesus.
    The message highlighted two specific gifts Jesus gave his exhausted disciples on the mountain:
    A Vision of Glory: A reminder of his divine authority that sustained the disciples, such as Peter and John, throughout their later ministries.
    A Gentle Touch: After the terrifying display of power, Jesus touched his disciples and told them not to be afraid, demonstrating that his immense power is coupled with intimate care.
    Congregational Intercessions
    The church engaged in extensive prayer for global and local concerns. Petitions were made for peace in conflict zones including Ukraine, Israel, Gaza, Sudan, and Myanmar. Locally, the congregation remembered members facing significant health challenges, those in hospice care, and families grieving recent losses. The prayer also highlighted the church's mission work, specifically mentioning support for pastoral training in Kyrgyzstan.
    Symbolism in the "Word in the Windows"
    🎨 Red Halo: Represents Jesus' blood, sacrifice, and his role as a servant.
    💎 Blue Halo: Represents Jesus' divinity, majesty, and heavenly glory.
    📜 Moses & Elijah: Represent the Law and the Prophets meeting their fulfillment in Christ.
    ⚡ Horns on Moses: A traditional artistic depiction of the "rays of light" from Mount Sinai.
    Key Data
    Scripture Text: Matthew 17:1-8 (The Transfiguration).
    Ash Wednesday Schedule: Dinner at 5:15 PM in the multipurpose room; Service at 6:15 PM in the sanctuary.
    Artistic Reference: Michelangelo’s Moses (1515) mentioned regarding the tradition of depicting Moses with horns.
    To-Do / Next Steps
    Join the congregation for coffee and conversation in the multipurpose room immediately following the service.
    Review the weekly bulletin for various "10:00 hour" educational and fellowship opportunities.
    Clear schedules to attend the Ash Wednesday Koinonia meal and service this coming Wednesday.
    Use the back of sermon note cards to submit confidential prayer requests to the prayer team.
    Conclusion
    The service concludes with the reminder that worship serves as a "mini-transfiguration," lifting believers into God's presence to find the strength necessary to return to the "valleys" of everyday life. By holding together the vision of Christ’s majesty and the reality of his comforting touch, the faithful are equipped to face suffering with renewed hope.
    1 hr 14 min

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If you’re looking for a warm church that commits to an intensely pertinent Gospel in the Reformed tradition of the Christian faith, we invite you to worship with us. Our 1,800 members come from across…