If Jesus were to visit our church today, would he praise us for what we have accomplished, tell us what we should have done, or maybe, he would ask us, "what's next?"

Reflecting on a story of Solomon, Pastor Cara challenges us to explore the ways, places and activities through which we experience God. Knowing God's will for our lives requires both discernment and active listening.

In the second sermon in a series on stewardship, Pastor Cara discusses our mission as followers of Jesus Christ in light of many of the anxieties of today's world. She reminds us both of Jeremiah's hope in God's faithfulness and of Abraham's call to bless the world.

In this first sermon on stewardship, Pastor Cara discusses the apprehension that both pastor and congregation feel as the topic of stewardship is raised in the faith community. Discussing money at times feels impolite but there is a spiritual component worth considering as our giving reflects our covenant with God and with each other.

The Bible is filled with examples of our call, as a pilgrim people, to remember and offer hospitality to the stranger. We have been the outsider and should work to recognize and treat all as Christ, even when it is socially or politically unpopular.

How do we get from a place where progress seems hard or maybe even impossible to a place where the impossible becomes possible? How do we, individually and corporately, take those first steps from the boat without taking our eyes off of our goal?

Reflecting on the book of Lamentations, Pastor Cara reminds us of God's promise that the darkness will always give way, in time, to the light.

Life often throws obstacles and disappointment in our path. In the midst of these challenges, it is good to remember that God has a final word of hope to offer us.

It is natural to want to fit in but sometimes we allow that instinct to overcome and dominate our proper sense of worth and direction.

Using the metaphor of a backback, Pastor Cara encourages us in this message to be intentional in choosing and packing items in our backpacks. We never know when life will throw a challenge our direction and it's best to be when equipped.