We’re exploring generosity—not as obligation, but as something deeply woven into who God created us to be. Scripture shows a God whose generosity is so radical it sometimes offends our sense of fairness, and who invites us to live open-handed lives in response. What might change in our lives and our community if we truly trusted that there is enough grace, enough provision, and enough love to share?

What stuff are you clinging to and what do you need to let go?
Jesus reminds us that life does not consist in the abundance of possessions. We are often conflicted about the things we own. We all struggle with greed and the desire for more. Too often our “stuff” determines what we value most in life. St. Augustine put it well when he said: “God gave us people to love and things to use. Sin is a reversal of these two ideas, where we love things and use people.” 

What is at the center of your life?

Our world is one of more, but so often the more you get, the more you want. No matter what we are talking about - money, stuff, power, comfort, pleasure - we never feel like we have enough. Anything that our heart and life are built on that can be lost puts us in the position of having to protect it at all costs, leaving us anxious, stressed, discontent, greedy, and lonely, and often living for a different mission and mindset than that of a kingdom one.

What is at the center of your life?

Simplicity in different areas of our lives is great, but we need to understand the why and to simplify around something (or someone, in this case). It’s knowing what the center of your life is and allowing that to form you. As we start this new series, we will explore why we are called to live a simple life.

Jesus lived constantly connected to God; His relationship with His Heavenly Father was His priority so He made time to invest in that relationship. Prayer wasn’t just asking Father God for things, but two-way communication within a relationship. The Gospels routinely have prayer as something Jesus did all the time: before hard seasons or a difficult decision, in celebration and rejoicing, when in pain or need, with others and by Himself. His life was marked by this connection to God. It was such a central part of Jesus’ life that it is the only thing recorded in the Gospels the disciples ask Jesus to teach them how to do.

Jesus is less concerned with drawing boundaries to keep people out of the kingdom, and more inviting people to move towards the kingdom. That doesn’t mean there are no standards, but they are about movement towards a center, not a static boundary that we cannot cross. Jesus kept company with sinners, was on the side of the downtrodden and outcasts, the “lesser” of society. He routinely was harsh with the Pharisees who were constantly obsessed with following the rules and keeping everyone in line, so much so they missed the point and the Kingdom.

Jesus is always being interrupted. It might seem like Jesus does more miracles in the interruptions than planned. Mark 5 alone has a demon-possessed man approaching Jesus, Jarius approaching Him to plead for his daughter to be healed, and then, even on the way to do that, a woman who has been sick for 12 years interrupts that journey. Christ works in the interruptions, using them as opportunities for God to work. Jesus moved slowly, intentionally, and interruptible to allow room for God to do a lot of work.

Jesus had lots of teachings to large groups, public miracles and works, and interactions with the people of Israel, but He spent most of his time investing in twelve close relationships - His disciples. This was more than just the cultural practice for Rabbis and students, but an understanding that transformation requires proximity and relationship. Jesus was present in all the in-between moments for the disciples, meeting them where they are, working with them, and being patient with them when they don’t get it. He was inviting them to be involved and represent their Rabbi in the world.

We began a new series on the rhythms of Jesus, starting with the practice of stepping away to be still with God. In a world full of noise, hurry, and constant demands, Jesus regularly chose silence and solitude. What if silence isn’t empty, but a space rich with the potential to meet God and remember that God is near? Join us as we slow down and practice it together.

After the rush of Christmas fades, Rev. Dale Rose invites us into a quieter, deeper moment of the story.

Drawing from Luke 2, this post-Christmas message reflects on Simeon and Anna: two elders who spent a lifetime waiting, watching, and trusting, only to be surprised by joy when they finally held hope in their arms. Through stories of unexpected visitors, masked mummers, bucket lists, and patient faith, Rev. Rose explores how God often shows up in disguise, and why waiting can sharpen our eyes to see Him.

A thoughtful sermon for the Sunday after Christmas, reminding us that faith, joy, and purpose don’t expire with age, and that God is still at work as one year turns into the next.