Landmark UPCI

“All My Life You Have Been Faithful” – Sister Janice’s Healing Journey

Big Idea: Sister Janice shared how a breast cancer diagnosis became a journey of discovering God’s faithfulness, wisdom, and goodness. Instead of letting fear define her future, she sought the Lord’s direction, trusting Him to lead her one step at a time.

Overview

The service opened with a warm welcome before Sister Janice was invited to share her testimony. She began by celebrating an upcoming milestone—this October she and her husband, John, will celebrate 50 years since their baptism. While grateful for the anniversary, she said the greater blessing is that they have “never lost our enthusiasm for the Lord.”

She then recounted her 2023 breast cancer diagnosis, describing how the news “shakes you up all the way down to your toes.” After surgery, doctors recommended radiation treatments and an aromatase inhibitor because a portion of the tumor near her rib cage could not be completely removed.

Although thankful for medical care, she felt strongly led to pursue natural healing and asked her oncologist for time before beginning treatment. Instead of the few months she expected, she was granted six months. She viewed that answer as God opening a door.

Rather than receiving an instant miracle, God led her step by step. Through prayer, new friendships, books, and research, she felt the Lord continually guiding her. “I met somebody new, or I found a book, or I found a website.”

Her study deepened her appreciation for Psalm 139:14—that our bodies are “fearfully and wonderfully made.” She shared what she learned about the body’s natural defenses and believed God designed the body with remarkable healing abilities when properly nourished.

She also spoke about God’s provision through creation, expressing appreciation for fruits, vegetables, seeds, and nuts as gifts from God that strengthen the body. Studying Leviticus gave her a fresh perspective on the dietary laws, seeing them not as burdens but as evidence of God’s love and protection for His people. She repeatedly remarked, “Look how the Lord was protecting everybody.”

Fasting also took on new meaning. Beyond drawing believers closer to God spiritually, she shared that fasting allows the body time to repair itself, giving her a greater appreciation for this biblical practice.

Key Themes

* God often leads one faithful step at a time rather than revealing everything at once.

* Caring for our bodies is part of honoring God, whose temple we are.

* God’s commands flow from His love and are meant for our protection.

* Even painful seasons can become opportunities to discover God’s goodness.

Scripture References

* Psalm 139:14

* Leviticus (Dietary Laws)

* Romans 8:28

Prayer Points

* Thank God for His faithfulness through every season.

* Pray for complete healing and continued strength for Sister Janice.

* Pray for wisdom for those facing difficult medical diagnoses.

* Ask God to help believers faithfully steward the bodies He has entrusted to them.

Closing

Sister Janice concluded by saying that “The Goodness of God” has become the theme of her life. As she reflected on the words, “All my life You have been faithful,” she became emotional, testifying that through every season—including one of the hardest of her life—God has remained faithful. The pastor thanked her for sharing such a faith-filled testimony, and the congregation left encouraged by the reminder that God is always good and always faithful.

A Sure Path – Part 2: Calling

Big Idea: Every believer is already called by God. Our responsibility is to respond with humble faithfulness so He can accomplish His purpose through us.

Scripture References

Primary Text

* Psalm 119:105

* Ephesians 2:1–10

* Matthew 22

* 1 Peter 5:5–10

Additional References

* 1 Corinthians 1

* Hebrews 13

* Mark 10:45

* Romans 8:28

Episode Overview

Continuing the A Sure Path series, this message shifts from God’s vision to His calling. While vision reveals God’s preferred future, calling is His personal invitation to participate in that purpose. Though salvation is by grace alone, God has created every believer for good works that impact others and bring Him glory.

The message explores what Jesus meant when He said, “Many are called, but few are chosen,” emphasizing that those who respond with humility, faithfulness, and endurance become vessels God can use. Seasons of weakness, submission, and even suffering are not setbacks—they are God’s process of preparing His people so His strength is displayed through them. Practical questions encourage listeners to discern where God is leading them to serve today.

Main Points

* You are called to something greater than yourself. God has brought us from spiritual death to life and created us for good works that advance His kingdom.

* Being chosen is determined by your response. God’s invitation is extended to many, but faithful obedience is what keeps us walking in His purpose.

* God prepares His servants through humility and weakness. Like Moses, Jeremiah, and Paul, God equips those who depend on Him rather than themselves.

* Your calling always serves others and reflects Christ. Jesus came to serve, and our lives should point people to Him through faithful ministry and love.

* Discern your calling by faithfully serving where God has already placed you. Stay focused on today’s assignment instead of comparing your path to someone else’s.

Application

* Believe that God has already called you and is working every season—including hardship—for your good and His glory.

* Humble yourself before God, trusting His strength instead of your own abilities.

* Commit to one practical area of service this week.

* Seek prayer and accountability from trusted spiritual leadership.

* Pray Psalm 119:105 daily, asking God to illuminate your next step rather than your entire journey.

Reflection Questions

1. ​ What burden or passion has God consistently placed on your heart?
2. ​ How have difficult seasons prepared you for greater usefulness in God’s kingdom?
3. ​ Where is God calling you to practice greater humility and submission?
4. ​ What opportunity to serve is in front of you today?
5. ​ How can you ensure your life points others to Christ instead of yourself?

Closing Prayer

Father, thank You for calling us out of darkness into Your marvelous light. Help us lay aside fear, excuses, and self-reliance. Shape us through Your Word, strengthen us in our weakness, and direct every step of our path. May our lives reflect Christ and overflow with good works that bring glory to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

When the Veil Comes Off

Pastor Nathan Peterson

Sunday, June 28, 2026

— SCRIPTURE REFERENCES —

— PRIMARY TEXT —

• 2 Corinthians 3:2, 13, 16

— ADDITIONAL REFERENCES —

• Exodus 34:29

• Ezekiel 36:26

• Mark 7

• John 3

• Acts 2, 8, 10, 19

— EPISODE SUMMARY —

A person can faithfully attend church yet still have a heart veiled from God’s transforming presence. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 3, this message explains that the veil is removed only when we truly turn to Jesus. God doesn’t simply give us information—He changes us from the inside out, replacing hardened hearts with hearts that respond to His Spirit. Through repentance, baptism in Jesus’ name, and the infilling of the Holy Ghost, He performs the greatest heart surgery imaginable.

— MAIN POINTS —

• Every testimony is the result of God working through a test.

• Under the new covenant, God writes His truth on hearts instead of stone tablets.

• Religion and routine cannot remove the veil—only turning to Jesus can.

• Repentance is spiritual heart surgery that removes pride, bitterness, unforgiveness, and sin.

• The biblical pattern remains the same: repent, be baptized in Jesus’ name, and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

— KEY TAKEAWAYS —

• A hardened heart, not God’s absence, keeps us from experiencing His glory.

• True transformation comes through surrender, not merely knowledge.

• Every believer is a living letter that reflects Christ to the world.

• God is still removing veils and changing lives today.

Whether you’ve served God for years or are just beginning your journey, today is the day to turn fully to Him. When we turn to the Lord, the veil comes off, freedom begins, and God writes a fresh work on our hearts.

Why Church Camp Matters

(Youth Camp Send-Off Sunday)

— Pastor Nathan Peterson —

Sunday, June 28, 2026

10:30 AM Session

— SCRIPTURE REFERENCES —

PRIMARY TEXT

• ​ Jeremiah 1:5

SUPPORTING THEME

• ​ Jesus frequently withdrew to mountains and solitary places to pray.
• ​ Moses encountered God on the mountain, receiving His presence and direction.

OVERVIEW

Youth Camp Send-Off Sunday celebrated the life-changing impact of church camp and challenged the congregation to invest in the next generation through prayer, generosity, and encouragement. Camp provides an intentional place away from life’s distractions where young people can hear God’s voice, discover their identity, receive the Holy Ghost, experience healing, and form lifelong godly friendships. Through heartfelt testimonies, it became clear that encounters with God at camp often continue shaping lives long after the week has ended—even through seasons of wandering. The church was reminded that every prayer, fundraiser, and word of encouragement helps create opportunities for students to experience God in unforgettable ways.

MAIN POINTS

— WHY CHURCH CAMP MATTERS —

• ​ Camp creates space for God to speak without the distractions of everyday life.
• ​ Throughout Scripture, God often revealed Himself in secluded places.
• ​ Camp is a place where God calls, equips, and transforms lives.

— GOD KNOWS EVERY YOUNG PERSON —

• ​ “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee…” (Jeremiah 1:5)
• ​ God has a purpose and calling for every camper.
• ​ Camp helps young people discover who they are in Christ.

— TESTIMONIES OF LASTING IMPACTS —

• ​ Camp services build spiritual foundations that last a lifetime.
• ​ Even after seasons away from God, camp memories continue calling people back.
• ​ Camp provides a safe place where young people can belong and grow.

— THE CHURCH’S ROLE —

• ​ Pray daily for every camper and leader.
• ​ Support camp through giving, encouragement, and faithful participation.
• ​ Believe God for salvation, healings, Holy Ghost infillings, renewed callings, and lifelong friendships.

— PRAYER FOCUS —

• ​ Protection and spiritual breakthrough for every camper.
• ​ Strength, wisdom, and anointing for camp staff and ministers.
• ​ Lasting revival that continues long after camp ends.
• ​ Thankfulness for parents, volunteers, and generous supporters.

— CLOSING THOUGHT —

Church camp is far more than a week away from home—it is an investment in eternity. God often does His greatest work when hearts are separated from distractions and fully available to Him. May this generation experience life-changing encounters with God that shape their future and strengthen His church for years to come.

A Sure Path

by Pastor Nathan Peterson

Wednesday, June 24, 2026

Scripture References

Primary Text

* Psalm 119:105

* Habakkuk 2:1–2

* Nehemiah 2:1

Other References

* Proverbs 29:18

* Acts 10

Overview

God never leaves His people wandering in the dark. His Word shines on today’s step and gives enough light to keep us moving toward tomorrow. Tonight’s teaching challenged us to surrender every competing desire, seek fresh vision, write down what God reveals, and walk it out in obedience—trusting that whatever He originates, He will resource and complete.

⸻

Main Points

1. ​The Word Lights the Way

Psalm 119:105

* God’s Word is:

* A lamp to our feet—light for today.

* A light to our path—confidence for tomorrow.

* Jesus provides daily bread.

* Spiritual dissatisfaction often reveals unsurrendered flesh rather than God’s neglect.

* Victory rises or falls on our willingness to crucify the flesh and follow God’s Word.

⸻

1. ​Why Vision Matters

Proverbs 29:18

* Without God-given vision, people drift and perish.

* Obedience sustains joy even when the future isn’t fully clear.

* Biblical vision is seeing God’s preferred future—not pursuing personal ambition.

⸻

1. ​How God Forms Vision

Habakkuk 2:1–2

Vision begins with:

* Prayer

* Fasting

* God’s Word

* Godly counsel

Habakkuk’s pattern:

1. ​Watch.
2. ​Listen.
3. ​Write the vision plainly.

Pastoral Application

* Record what God speaks during altar moments.

* Written reminders keep the enemy from dismissing them as “just your thoughts.”

⸻

1. ​From Vision to Action: Nehemiah’s Example

Nehemiah 2

Nehemiah carried a holy burden into his workplace. The king noticed, asked why he was troubled, and supplied the resources for God’s work.

“Let us rise up and build.”

“They strengthened their hands for this good work.”

Lessons

* God often funds what He births.

* Opposition does not cancel God’s assignment.

* Shared vision creates momentum.

⸻

1. ​Living Questions for the Next Six Months

Ask the Lord:

* What do You want from my spiritual life?

* My family?

* My character?

* My ministry?

* My work?

* My relationships?

* My health?

Vision – Where God is leading.

Calling – Why He created you.

Gifting – The abilities He gave to fulfill His vision.

Writing your vision turns dreams into practical steps.

⸻

Illustrations

The pastor shared how surrendering his fear of lifelong singleness brought peace: “If this never changes, I accept Your will.”

He also pointed to Mark, whose passionate worship reflects battles most people never see—showing that unseen struggles often produce visible breakthrough.

⸻

Key Truths

* God gives enough light for the next step.

* Obedience today opens vision for tomorrow.

* Surrendered hearts receive daily bread.

* Vision that isn’t written is easily forgotten.

* If a dream doesn’t serve Christ’s mission, it probably isn’t His vision.

* God resources what He authors.

⸻

Response

* Lay every competing desire on the altar.

* Pray, “Not my will, but Yours.”

* Set aside prayer and fasting to seek God’s direction.

* Write every Scripture, impression, and confirmation God gives.

* Align your life with God’s vision.

* Take the first step in obedience.

* Encourage someone else’s vision.

⸻

Closing

The pastor called the church beyond inspiration into clarity and obedience. Breakthrough often waits on the other side of complete surrender.

“Lord, make my life a living sacrifice. Write Your vision in me, and I will say yes.”

⸻

Prayer

The congregation thanked God for His faithfulness, asked Him to renew spiritual vision, surrendered personal plans, and invited the Holy Spirit to guide every step.

Between Two Worlds

Pastor Nathan Peterson

Sunday, 06/21/26

Strength and Tenderness: A Father After God’s Heart

Scripture References

Primary Text

* Proverbs 20:5

Other References

* Matthew 21:12

* Mark 10:13

* Mark 10:42

Overview

On Father’s Day, Pastor Peterson challenged men to pursue biblical manhood—strong enough to lead and protect, yet tender enough to repent, weep, and serve. Proverbs 20:5 set the tone: godly counsel lies deep within us, and a man of understanding draws it out. Contrasting cultural expectations with Scripture, he showed that true fathers reflect Jesus, whose authority and compassion coexist. The challenge was clear: center every home on the heavenly Father and rely on His Spirit for wisdom, stability, and love.

Context

* The service included worship, recognition of fathers, and reminders that all fatherhood flows from God.

* Youth events, church podcasts, and a Father’s Day root-beer-float treat were announced.

Main Points

1. ​ Shifting Cultural Expectations

* Past generations emphasized provision and toughness; modern fathers are also expected to be emotionally present and engaged.

* Children thrive when fathers are actively involved.

* The real question is not culture’s standard but Scripture’s.

1. ​ What Scripture Reveals About a Godly Man

* David, Jeremiah, Paul, and Jesus expressed emotion.

* Godly men submit their feelings to God rather than being ruled by them.

* Biblical masculinity leads with humility under Christ’s authority.

1. ​ Strength and Compassion Together

* Jesus cleansed the temple (Matthew 21:12) and then healed the hurting.

* He welcomed children (Mark 10:13), served others, and restored Peter.

* Sons need examples of courage and integrity; daughters need examples of honor, protection, and love.

1. ​ Headship Re-Framed

* Submission works when husbands first submit to Christ and love sacrificially.

* Christlike leadership creates an environment where trust can flourish.

1. ​ Servant Leadership (Mark 10:42)

* Greatness in God’s kingdom is measured by service.

* Men provide spiritual structure, but Christ remains the foundation.

* Like unseen framing in a house, fathers often carry weight quietly so families can thrive.

1. ​ Legacy and Mission

* The goal is not yesterday’s model or today’s pressure, but God’s design.

* Integrity in private and public life shapes future generations.

* May children remember not only what their fathers carried, but that they taught them to know Jesus.

Key Truths

* Real manhood combines strength and tenderness.

* A father’s greatest responsibility is keeping Christ at the center of the home.

* Submission flourishes where sacrificial love is practiced.

* Families are strengthened when fathers are surrendered to God.

* Love is demonstrated through daily service and integrity.

Response

* Surrender your strengths, weaknesses, and emotions to God.

* Lead your family in prayer, Scripture, and worship.

* Repent quickly and restore relationships with tenderness.

* Serve your family, church, and community.

* Speak blessing and faith over the next generation.

Closing

Pastor Peterson invited men to recommit themselves to Christ and put Jesus first. He reminded the church that even when we feel inadequate, the Father’s love remains constant and transformative.

“I will not be trapped between two worlds—I’m choosing to serve You, Lord.”

Prayer

The church gathered at the altar, asking God to strengthen fathers, heal weaknesses, and empower homes through His Spirit, affirming that He is the good Father who never fails.

Celebration of Life for Tammy L. Cadena

Honoring Her Faith, Love, and Enduring Impact

In this special Celebration of Life service, family, friends, co-workers, and church family gather to honor the life and legacy of Tammy Lynette Parcel Cadena. Through heartfelt memories, worship, Scripture, and a message of hope, this service celebrates a woman whose joyful spirit, unwavering faith, and love for others left a lasting impact on everyone she met.

In this service:

* Tammy’s life story and obituary

* Personal tributes from family, friends, pastors, and co-workers

* Worship and congregational hymns

* Pastor Nathan Peterson’s message from 2 Timothy 4:7–8

* A symbolic flower ceremony celebrating Tammy’s legacy

* Closing prayer and encouragement for those who are grieving

Tammy was known for her contagious smile, hospitality, love for photography, passion for evangelism, and her simple but powerful reminder: “Have you prayed yet?” She faithfully served her church, cared for others through her work, and continued touching lives through organ donation.

This service reminds us that a life lived for Christ continues to shine long after it ends, encouraging us to remain faithful, love others well, and keep pointing people to Jesus.

Scripture: 2 Timothy 4:7–8

If this service encourages you, please consider following the podcast and sharing this episode with someone who may find hope through Tammy’s testimony.

Navigating Grief: Journey of Healing

Sis Shauna Peterson

Wednesday, 06/15/2026 - 7 PM

Worthy of the Saddle

Pastor Nathan Peterson

June 14, 2026

Summary

Scripture References

• ​Revelation 5:12
• ​Ephesians 4:15

Overview

Pastor built today’s message around one ringing conviction: we are already “worthy of the saddle”. Worthiness in the Bible is not something we earned, but a fitting God designed from the foundation of the world. Using Revelation 5’s picture of the Lamb who alone could open the scroll, he showed that Jesus’ completed work now equips every believer to step into a specific, God shaped assignment. Our task is to trust that fitting, push past fear, and act.

Main Points

Worthy Means Fitted, Not Deserving

• ​In common speech, “worthy” sounds like “deserving,” but Scripture ties worthiness to design and purpose.
• ​From eternity God planned that the Lamb would be slain “to receive power, riches, wisdom, strength, honor, glory, and blessing.”
• ​Because that plan is finished, believers share in Jesus’ worthiness; we serve out of His merit, not our résumé.
• ​“You’re worthy, not because it’s in your merit, but because He fit you for it.”

Illustration: The Custom Saddle

• ​A saddle has value only when it is perfectly fitted to the horse and to the rider.
• ​Professional fitters heat, shape, and sometimes recut a saddle so rider, horse, and task work in harmony.
• ​Likewise, God keeps shaping us—through prayer, correction, and growth—so the calling rests on us without chafing or injury.

Story: Dropping the Backyard Tree

• ​Pastor delayed cutting a dying tree behind his garage because of fear it might fall on the house.
• ​A co-worker’s confidence (“We can do this!”) pushed him to act. After prayer they dropped each section exactly where it needed to land.
• ​Lesson: competence was already there; only courage and a partner’s encouragement were missing.

We Are “Fitly Joined” Together (Ephesians 4)

• ​The whole body “is equipped” and grows “when each part is working properly.”
• ​No believer is an ornamental extra; every joint supplies something essential.
• ​Growth is almost automatic once we cooperate with Christ’s design.

Christ Alone Opened the Scroll

• ​John wept until an elder pointed to “the Lion of Judah” who had conquered.
• ​No angel, prophet, or apostle could do what Jesus did; therefore trust remains in Him, not in our performance.

Acting on Our Worthy Calling

• ​Hesitation often surfaces as fear, doubt, or condemnation—spiritual battles, not just nerves.
• ​Philippians 4:13 was cited to remind us the strength is His.
• ​Growth often comes through uncomfortable refinements (illustrated by soaking new boots so they finally fit).
• ​Real faith moves from belief to obedient action: “show me your faith, I’ll show you my works.”

Key Truths

• ​Biblical worthiness is about divine fitting rather than human earning.
• ​Jesus’ victory secured every resource believers need—power, wisdom, honor, blessing.
• ​God continually reshapes us so calling, gifting, and circumstance match.
• ​The church flourishes when every member supplies what God already placed within them.
• ​Fear is defeated when we act on the confidence that Christ lives and works through us.

Response

• ​Receive your God-given fitting; stop disqualifying yourself.
• ​Step into the assignment tugging at your heart this week—even if you feel rusty.
• ​Ask a mature believer to stand with you the way the coworker stood at the tree.
• ​When fear rises, declare Philippians 4:13 and move forward anyway.
• ​Serve the body: identify one practical way your “joint” can supply strength to the church.

Closing

Pastor ended urging everyone to walk out the door convinced that heaven already equipped them for their present moment. The only question is whether we will mount the saddle God tailored for us.

“You’re worthy, not because it’s in your merit, but because He fit you for it.”

Prayer

The final prayer thanked God for fitting each believer into His purpose, asked for fresh courage to act, and declared trust that “we are on the winning side” through Jesus’ power and wisdom.

Navigating Grief: Journey of Healing (Lesson 2 of 3)

Healing the Hidden Wounds of Grief

Sis. Shauna Peterson

Wednesday, June 10, 2026 | 7 PM

Scripture References

Primary Text

* Psalm 139

Overview

This second lesson in the church’s grief series focused on the hidden wounds left behind by loss. Sister Peterson explained how trauma reshapes the mind, influences our relationships, and affects our response to life’s challenges. Through biblical teaching and personal testimony, she emphasized that healing begins when we stop hiding our pain and allow God to expose and restore the places we’ve kept buried. The message concluded with a heartfelt invitation to surrender concealed wounds to Christ, who alone can heal the brokenhearted.

Trauma Changes Us

* Trauma from loss, rejection, family conflict, abuse, or failure can reshape the way we think, trust, and respond to others.

* Sister Peterson shared how childhood and teenage trauma remained hidden for years because she believed ignoring it would make it disappear.

* Unhealed wounds often produce suspicion, fear, and emotional distance in relationships.

* The enemy attempts to redefine wounded people as permanently “broken,” “weak,” or “crazy.”

* God’s truth declares that wounds can heal, and our identity is found in Him—not in our pain.

What Rules Your Mind Rules Your Life

* Romans 12 reminds believers to be transformed through the renewing of the mind.

* Fear, shame, bitterness, regret, and disappointment become controlling influences when left unchecked.

* Constant exposure to negative media and endless scrolling often magnifies anxiety and discouragement.

* Our inward thought life eventually becomes visible through our attitudes, words, and actions.

* The enemy seeks to dominate our thinking with lies, but God’s truth renews the mind and changes the direction of our lives.

Healing Requires Honesty

* James teaches that confession and prayer are connected to healing.

* Hidden pain does not disappear—it often grows beneath the surface.

* Like a splinter left untreated, emotional wounds become infected when ignored.

* Healing often begins through honest conversations with trusted believers, biblical counseling, prayer, fasting, and deeper study of God’s Word.

* God can only heal what we are willing to bring into His light.

God Can Rewire What Trauma Rewired

* Trauma may alter the brain’s patterns, but God is able to renew both the heart and the mind.

* Romans 8:28 reminds believers that God works through every circumstance—including joy, hardship, disappointment, and grief—for His purposes.

* The anointing is meant to flow outward through ministry and service, not remain unused.

* As God heals our wounds, our testimony becomes a source of hope and encouragement for others.

Key Truths

* Trauma is real, but it is not permanent.

* The greatest battlefield in grief is often the mind.

* Hidden pain continues to grow; confessed pain begins to heal.

* God is present and working through every season of life.

* The Holy Spirit restores hope, renews the mind, and rebuilds what trauma has damaged.

Response

* Ask God to search your heart and reveal hidden wounds.

* Replace fear-filled influences with Scripture, prayer, and worship.

* Share your struggles with a trusted believer, pastor, or counselor.

* Allow God’s healing to become a testimony that strengthens others.

* Continue building a deeper relationship with God throughout the healing journey.

Closing

Sister Peterson concluded by inviting the congregation to the altar, reminding everyone that admitting pain is not weakness—it is the first step toward healing. As worship filled the sanctuary, many surrendered hidden grief, anxiety, shame, and disappointment to the Lord, believing that Jesus still binds up the brokenhearted and restores wounded lives. The evening closed with a challenge to keep pursuing healing through daily relationship with God and authentic fellowship with His people.