No one needs to argue the case for joy in the life of a Christian. Of all people, we have hope in Jesus, we walk in the joy of our salvation. Yet, Jesus leads off His sermon on the mount with two principles that seem quite contrary to our call to joy. He teaches that happiness, blessing in His kingdom comes from a broken spirit and a disposition of mourning. It is a great paradox of faith.

As Jesus sat on the hillside that day, He looked at His disciples and began to teach them. This would be His first in-depth teaching of those who had given up everything to follow Him. Where would He begin as He sought to describe His kingdom and the life it calls for? What truths would create the foundation for all the divine truths to come?

Worship, Word, Generosity, Community, Family and Mission are the values that drive Valley Free.

The upcoming season of ministry is full of wonderful opportunities to grow in Christ, to worship God and to enjoy the fellowship of the church family. There are lots of ways to get involved, to study, to serve and to have fun. But, if our church life, indeed our spiritual life, consists only of activities and a full calendar, we are missing the idea of coming together as Believers.

In this sermon, we are examining how to listen to God, and to be aware of His presence in our lives. This occurs when we are actively living in obedience to what He has already told us in His Word.

"Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." As Jesus walked the shores of Galilee, He came upon four fishermen preparing their nets for the day. At His invitation, Peter, Andrew, James and John left the comfort of home and profession to follow after this new teacher. They simply dropped their nets, left everything and followed Him.

It was a stormy night for the disciples, a night that terrified these seasoned professionals of the Sea of Galilee. In this amazing story, Jesus would turn the churning waters into the calm, glassy sea. The miracle would leave the disciples wondering who this Jesus really is. It would lead them to a moment of clarity and decision as they saw Him exercise authority over every aspect of life.

For the disciples, Peter, Andrew, James and John, Capernaum was their home and the center of their fishing business. Until, that is, their new friend and rabbi, Jesus, came to town. Nothing would ever be the same in the lives of these simple fishermen. On one incredible day, the healing ministry of Jesus would come into full view. Little did Peter know, the authority of Jesus to heal would come to his own home that day.

When Jesus stepped out of the boat, He was immediately met by a screaming lunatic of a man. Dragging chains and challenging Jesus, his assault would have been terrifying to anyone. What happened next gives us insight into the behavior, motives, and consequences when demons are given the opportunity to influence the direction of a life.