Television shows like The Brady Bunch, Friends, and This is Us show us the power of relationships to shape our happiness. While family relationships can be challenging, they also provide opportunities for growth as we navigate love, dependence, and autonomy. Pastor Megan Marshman explores Proverbs 21:21 and how leaning into God’s wisdom can help us nurture meaningful relationships and find true happiness.

In today’s social media-driven world, it’s easy to fall into the comparison trap, constantly measuring our lives against the highlight reels of others. But comparison steals our contentment, breeding envy that robs us of peace and joy. Over time, envy can distort our relationships and hurt our mental health. Proverbs 14:30 reminds us that “a heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones,” teaching us that gratitude is the cure for envy. By focusing on the blessings God has given us, we can embrace contentment and joy, radiating peace and encouragement to those around us.

There was a time when phrases like "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" and "It is better to give than to receive" were widely understood, regardless of faith. Both, rooted in the teachings of Jesus, emphasized generosity—a principle we’ve lost sight of in today’s pursuit of happiness. Proverbs 11:24-25 reminds us that true happiness isn’t found in holding on to what we have but in giving freely to others, with generosity enriching both the giver and the receiver. In this message, Pastor Dave Dummitt explores how embracing a generous spirit can transform relationships and communities, leading to lasting happiness.

"I want to be happy, but ___." We’ve all faced moments when life's challenges—like difficult relationships, health struggles, or career setbacks—leave us longing for happiness. But true happiness doesn’t come from our circumstances. Proverbs 3:13-14 shows us that happiness is found in wisdom, far more valuable than material wealth. Wisdom helps us navigate life’s complexities and empowers us to choose our responses to challenges. In this message, Pastor Shawn Williams explores how God’s wisdom leads to lasting happiness—through joy, purpose, and satisfaction—transforming obstacles into opportunities for growth and gratitude.

Have you ever tried talking about math with parents of elementary or middle school kids? You’ll likely hear things like, “It’s like a foreign language!” It’s funny, but also kind of frustrating. The truth is, math hasn’t really changed—one plus one is still two. Similarly, have we overcomplicated the Gospel? Pastor Shawn Williams and our creative team keep it simple and celebrate the Good News: God → Sin → Love → Grace → Life. The tomb is empty, death is defeated, and new life is available to everyone who chooses it!

We often ask God to make life easier—to take away the pain, the suffering, and the challenges we face. Even Jesus, right before enduring beatings and death on the cross, asked God for another way. Yet, in the face of it all, He surrendered with, “May your will be done” (Matthew 26:42). This Good Friday, let’s find encouragement in knowing that Jesus understood the depths of fear and still found a way forward. Join us as we reflect on His sacrifice and the hope He brings.

It’s easy to get caught up in the culture of “Me, Myself, and I,” where self-help and self-care often take center stage. But for followers of Jesus, this self-centered mindset isn’t the answer—He calls us to humility and service. When we shift our focus from ourselves to others, using our gifts to serve and bless those around us, we live out the love of Jesus and reflect God’s heart of generosity. In this message, Megan Marshman looks to 1 Peter 4:10-11 to encourage us to move from selfishness to selflessness, living a life that honors God and makes a difference in the lives of others!

Loneliness is something we all experience, but true hospitality—offering warmth and genuine presence—can help create a place of connection. When we create spaces like this, our church and community becomes a place where no one is left feeling alone, and real, meaningful relationships can flourish!

When you scroll through social media or watch the news, it's easy to be overwhelmed by the negativity and hate around you—whether it's the latest conflict, violence, or tragedy. It’s a reminder that our world is often shaped by personal feelings of powerlessness, mistreatment, or fear. But there’s hope! Pastor Dave Dummitt highlights Peter’s antidote to hate: the power of the resurrection, which calls us to love one another in radical, transformative ways. In 1 Peter 4:8, we're encouraged to love deeply, as love has the power to heal, break down barriers, and unite us, just as Jesus loves us. In John 13:34-35, Jesus said, “Love one another... By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples.” It’s through this love that we can make a true difference!

Dave Dummitt, Willow's Elders, and Shawn Williams share an update on our senior pastor transition. You can learn more at https://www.willowcreek.org/updates/