What is a Christian, really? When Jesus said, “Come, follow me,” what was He actually inviting people into? This weekend at Stonehill, we’re launching our new series Sacred Practices by exploring how Jesus’ invitation was about learning a way of life—practicing what He practiced and being transformed from the inside out as we become more like Him. We’ll begin with the first and foundational practice: community. Join us as we rediscover a faith that’s meant to be lived, practiced, and formed together.

The Pharisees used tactics to try and convince the Levite guards of their authority. These same tactics we see the enemy using even to this day. We must strengthen our knowing of God and confidence in who He is so as to not be led astray by some of these tactics.

Have you ever noticed that you can have more than ever and still feel empty? Why are so many of us busy, connected, and still tired, anxious, and unsatisfied? This Sunday at Mountain View, we’re opening John 7:37–44 where Jesus makes a bold promise to thirsty people. If you’ve ever felt like something is missing, we’d love for you to join us at 9:30 or 11 and discover what actually satisfies.

Which Chair Are You In?

Faithful Then, Faithful Now

The Promises of Christmas - The Promise of Light

The Promises of Christmas - The Promise of God’s Presence

In the midst of darkness, we are called to arise and shine. Isaiah 60 speaks directly into seasons of despair, difficulty, and thick darkness, whether that's personal struggle, cultural chaos, or the weight of circumstances beyond our control. The prophet Isaiah wasn't offering empty optimism to a nation in exile; he was proclaiming a promise that would echo through centuries. The Magi who traveled from distant lands bearing gold, frankincense, and myrrh weren't religious insiders. They were outsiders, foreigners, even former enemies of God's people. Yet they saw the star and came. This reveals something profound: God shapes us on the path, not on the sidelines. We don't wait for perfect conditions to obey; we rise and reflect His light even when our situation hasn't changed. The radiance Isaiah promises isn't about our own strength or positivity. It's about reflecting the glory of God that has already been placed upon us. When we shine in the darkness, when we remain faithful when it's hardest, that's when people see something different and are drawn to the light. God's reach is never out of reach. There's no one in our lives too far gone, no coworker too cynical, no family member too hardened. As long as there's breath, there's hope for transformation.

Promise of the King

What are the odds that one person could fulfill hundreds of ancient prophecies? Mathematically speaking, it's impossible, yet that's exactly what happened when Jesus arrived in Bethlehem. Ezekiel's prophecy reveals a stunning promise: God himself would become the shepherd of his people. For 580 years, Israel waited in silence, suffering under foreign rule, longing for the good shepherd who would finally care for them. The beauty of this Christmas story isn't just about a baby in a manger—it's about God keeping an impossible promise. When angels appeared to lowly shepherds (not religious elites or political leaders), they announced that both promises were being fulfilled simultaneously: God had come, and the descendant of David had arrived. Jesus later declared boldly, 'I am the good shepherd,' claiming to be the fulfillment everyone had been waiting for. What makes this relevant to us today? We still wander like sheep. 

We still experience pain from failed leaders and broken relationships. We still need a shepherd who searches for us, heals our wounds, and lays down his life for us. The cross proves that this shepherd is willing to sacrifice everything, and the resurrection confirms that God's 'yes' is complete in Christ. As we enter this Christmas season, we're reminded that the same faithful shepherd who fulfilled ancient prophecies is still seeking us, still healing us, and still keeping his promises today.