In Isaiah 55 1-3, there is an invitation to a feast that brings restoration with no price. This invitation is open for anyone who is thirsty or in need. This week, we are reminded that if you lack anything, God will provide not just survival but the ability to thrive. We must turn away from worldly bread and eat the bread of life that Jesus has prepared for us all.

In John 16:16-33 Jesus tells the disciples that soon, something will happen to him causing them to weep and despair. But immediately he adds that this same event will be the source of their joy. This week, we look at how the cross was a reason for joy for the disciples and how it is still a reason to rejoice today. The death of Jesus was a sorrowful moment but an eternal victory in which we can all rejoice.

In John 15:18-16:4, Jesus tells his disciples plainly that following him will bring opposition from the world. As we trace his words back to Genesis 3, we see that this hostility is part of a bigger story running through the Bible, and that Jesus is the promised offspring who came to defeat the serpent. This week, we’re reminded that we shouldn’t be surprised when following Jesus comes at a cost. Jesus warns us so that we won’t fall away, but can keep trusting him and living as those who belong to him.

In John 15:1-17, Jesus describes himself as the true vine and calls his disciples to remain in him. We can easily believe that fruitfulness comes from doing more or trying harder, but Jesus shows us a different way. This week, we are reminded that lasting fruit grows out of a life spent close to Jesus, and that even his pruning is an act of grace. Are we striving to be fruitful in our own strength, or learning to abide in Jesus and let him shape our lives?

In John 14:15-31, Jesus promises his disciples that although he is leaving them, they will not be left alone. Instead, he will send the Holy Spirit - another helper like him - who will live within them and remain with them. This week we look at who the Holy Spirit is, and the incredible gift of having God’s presence with us. As we come to know the Spirit, we are challenged not to settle for simply dipping our toes in, but to go deeper into the relationship with God that we were created for.

In John 13:1-17, Jesus enters into the upper room with his disciples, and proceeds to wash their feet. In putting himself in such a lowly position, Jesus demonstrates his humility, and his willingness to serve us, despite being Lord. This week Jem encourages us to learn from Jesus' example. As we look to our humble God, we are encouraged both to serve one another, and to humbly receive the service of others.

This week our guest speaker Colin Baron brings us a once-off message in Luke 18:35-19:10. In this passage, Jesus steps into the lives of two very different people, a blind beggar and a tax collector. Despite the contrast between poverty and wealth, we see that both of these individuals were isolated from society, and in need of Jesus. As Jesus chooses to meet these individuals where they are, we are reminded that his desire is to seek out and save those who are lost. 

In Habakkuk 3:17–19, Habakkuk concludes his conversation with God by rejoicing in him, even though his prayers have not been answered in the way he expected. His joy is not rooted in being in control, but in surrendering to the Lord. This week, Goke reminds us that true joy is not found in our circumstances, but in God alone. As we draw near to him, we find the joy of our salvation and the strength to rejoice, whatever our situation may be.