It’s a holiday: the fourth of July. Celebrating the birth of our nation may look a little different this year. No parades, no festivals, no large cookouts or picnics, no fireworks. And maybe, some reflection on what is actually celebrated. In 1776, not all people were considered equal or for that matter even people. This…

Happy 4th of July (tomorrow), God’s Grace! It’s a holiday and a day off, so let’s take time and live in the moment.  What does living in the moment mean to you?  Is it more simple, relaxed, loud, energetic, thoughtful, appreciative?  Is it a moment for God and prayer?  Jason Mraz has a song, Living In the Moment, and…

This year, more so than previous years, we have spent a lot of time gardening. This is likely due to the fact that many other activities were unavailable (little chance to go out to dine for several months, many parks closed or take more forethought to make reservations, no vacationing and little chance for many…

Dear Players, As the eleventh chapter of Matthew’s gospel begins, John the Baptist, Jesus’ trusted cousin and friend is in prison. Frustrating conversations transpire between Jesus and the crowds which convey that they don’t understand his mission. To put it simply – things are not going well. With the stress rising, Jesus essentially says, ”You…

Hallelujah!You who serve God, praise God!    Just to speak his name is praise!Just to remember God is a blessing—    now and tomorrow and always.From east to west, from dawn to dusk,    keep lifting all your praises to God! God is higher than anything and anyone,    outshining everything you can see in the skies.Who can compare with God, our God,    so majestically enthroned,Surveying his magnificent    heavens and earth?He picks…

Through the mystery of the Spirit, we were gathered as one as we worshipped via the stream yesterday. Pastor Dave taught from Matthew 10:38-42 and Jesus’ words that we can do small things to give and receive hospitality. If you missed being with us, you can watch it here. Check out photos from worship and…

“Following Jesus will mean surrendering the power that masquerades as security in order to love the neighbor and welcome the stranger. It will mean avoiding the safe path in order to pursue the good.”  – Scott Bader-Saye We’ve been studying some of Jesus’ challenging teaching in Matthew 10. Last week (Matthew 10:24-37) Jesus said he…

“God knew what he was doing from the very beginning.  He decided from the outset to shape the lives of those who love him along the same lines as the life of his Son…  We see the original and intended shape of our lives there in him.”  Romans 8:29 (Msg) “We look at this Son and see God’s…

Have you ever noticed how God places people and things in front of you when you need to embrace them the most?  Over the last few months, thru Women’s Bible Study, Wednesday nights at The Well, general conversations with family and friends or even notes from the past, God has placed the word Light on and…

Dear Brothers and Sisters, In verse 40 of Matthew’s 10th chapter,  Jesus cites a well-known rabbinic principle of the first century—“Whoever welcomes you welcomes me.” This teaching dictated that the representative of a person is like herself. By adding, “and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me ,” Jesus’ promise to the disciples…