Teaching: Pastor Erica Lara

What does it mean to live near to God in a world that constantly pulls us toward speed, productivity, and distraction? This teaching invites us to rediscover prayer not as performance or pressure, but as relationship that begins with desire. Drawing from the Psalms and the Gospel of John, we are invited to examine what we truly long for and where we are directing our attention.

Through the words of David, we see that longing for God is not reserved for perfect seasons or uninterrupted lives. Desire for God is formed through honesty, dwelling, and beholding. Scripture reminds us that intimacy with God grows when we linger long enough to notice His presence and allow our hearts to be shaped by what we gaze upon.

This teaching calls us to name our desires honestly, even when longing feels weak or absent. From Jesus’ simple invitation, “Come and you will see,” we are reminded that prayer begins not with discipline alone, but with a willingness to accept the invitation to draw near. As we begin this new year together, we are invited to slow down, remain with God, and allow desire to lead us back into deeper intimacy with Him.