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Normandy Presbyterian Church

Normandy Presbyterian Church

By Normandy Presbyterian Church

Sunday Sermons from Normandy Presbyterian Church in small town Normandy, TN
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Changing the World One Person at a Time “Tabitha”

Normandy Presbyterian ChurchMay 08, 2022

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THE PRODIGAL GOD “Jesus Brings Us to the Feast”

THE PRODIGAL GOD “Jesus Brings Us to the Feast”

Palm-Passion Sunday
COME TO THE FEAST

During Lent, we have studied the stories Jesus told in Luke 15, looking especially at the story of THE PRODIGAL SON.

In the story, the younger brother who has wasted his inheritance, sees his mistakes and longs to return home again. In a powerful, touching scene, the lost son is welcomed home by the Father. A lavish feast is provided for him.

But what did it cost to welcome that son home? What did it cost to throw this lavish feast?

And what does it cost God, when like the wayward son (or the self-righteous elder son) we are brought home to the feast?

That's the focus for this Sunday in worship.
Join us @ 9AM, In-person or Online
Mar 24, 202417:08
Dr. Michael Bradley

Dr. Michael Bradley

This Sunday we welcome guest pastor Dr. Michael Bradley!
Mar 17, 202412:46
Called to Heal the ‘Sick’

Called to Heal the ‘Sick’

NOT THE FOLLOWERS WE EXPECT

As a child my sister, who always made friends, invited a boy in her second grade class to church with us. Now this little boy was from a poor family living in a dirty, drafty old house, and when he and his two siblings climbed in the car, they were excited, of course, but not wearing the cleanest clothes nor smelling the best.

They loved the children's program and sat quietly in church. But after their visit some complained about their smell and appearance. The children continued to attend for a while, but soon got the message.

It breaks my heart, because the people of my church were kind and loving, but when Jesus went against the norm - reaching out through the love of a child - some of these good people struggled to understand and accept.

Sometimes we struggle, too.

Jesus operates differently than we do. He came to welcome and to love people - all kinds of people - and we are called to love them, too.

Join us for worship this Sunday as we see how Jesus welcomed even “tax-collectors and sinners."

9 AM, In Person or Online
Jan 28, 202420:01
The Furnace of Transformation

The Furnace of Transformation

WHAT IT'S ALL ABOUT

Life is difficult. It really is. Just when you think you've figured it out, that you've got the tiger by the tail, then events tackle you, taking you to the ground.

This was true, even for Jesus. No sooner had he had been baptised, blessed and loved by God's Spirit, than that same Spirit chased him out into the wilderness where Jesus struggled with hardship and temptation.

Why? Why would God do that? And why does God allow us (or even chase us, as the Bible says) into trials and challenges?

This Sunday, we are looking at the story of Jesus in the Gospel of Mark 1.9-15. Join us as we discover what this puzzle is all about.

9 AM, In-Person or Online
Jan 14, 202420:05
Time to Get Ready

Time to Get Ready

WHAT GOD WANTS TO GIVE

What do you long for in 2024?

Health? Abundant finances? A better job? A better relationship? Stress-free living?

When I am honest with myself, I often long for things which could be described as my own self-centered plans: to have health to do what I want; to have money so I can have freedom; to have work that always makes me happy; to have zero problems so that I escape stress.

And sometimes I pray, asking God for just these very things.

But are these selfish plans really what we need? Is it possible that when we pray, that God desires to give us something else?

Join us this Sunday as we begin a sermon series about the life of Jesus. Find out who Jesus is, why he came to be with us, and what God most wants to give you through him.

9 AM, In-Person or Online
Jan 07, 202418:08
I Know Him, Now What is His Name?

I Know Him, Now What is His Name?

New Year’s Eve Worship Service with special guest Dr. Michael Bradley
Dec 31, 202307:23
ADVENT WITH THE APOSTLES “The Real World Where Christmas is Joy”

ADVENT WITH THE APOSTLES “The Real World Where Christmas is Joy”

THE REAL JOY OF CHRISTMAS

The other night there was a Christmas movie in which jolly carolers were belting out Christmas cheer while just to the side there were homeless people begging for food and shelter. The disparity between those two scenes revealed very different pictures of our world, and I wanted to protest that the movie maker had dared to put the two together.

Sometimes we celebrate Christmas as if it is all joy, hope and good will, and we ignore the troubles, injustice, and personal sadness many experience at this time of year.

But the Bible always holds both images together. The Bible is brutally honest about the suffering and pain in our world and also about God coming near to help, save, heal and repair. God sees at us in our sickness, sin and suffering and does not walk away, but chooses to be with us - even in the darkest circumstances.

Join us this Sunday as we celebrate the real JOY of Christmas!

9 AM, In-Person or Online
Dec 24, 202315:17
ADVENT WITH THE APOSTLES “Imitating Christ Jesus”

ADVENT WITH THE APOSTLES “Imitating Christ Jesus”

PREPARING FOR CHRISTMAS

How do you prepare for Christmas? No, I'm not talking about family Christmas celebrations or the Candlelight Service at church. I'm not talking about parties or presents or gatherings - all which we speak of as "Christmas."

I'm talking about the very first Christmas - the unique, one-of-a-kind moment in history when God came to be with us in the person of Jesus….The most incredible moment in history that has ever been.

How do we prepare to remember, celebrate and live into the power of a moment like that???

That's what we'll talk about this Sunday: PREPARING FOR CHRISTMAS! What we discover may change your life!

Join us@ 9AM, In-Person or Online
Dec 17, 202319:37
ADVENT WITH THE APOSTLES “The Purpose of Patience”

ADVENT WITH THE APOSTLES “The Purpose of Patience”

A LONG TIME

Biblical scholars tell us that Jesus' return at the end of time is deeply entrenched in the Bible. In fact, one scholar says there are more than 300 references to this event. It is sometimes called, “His Coming," or "The Day of the Lord," or “The Day of Judgment."

But believers have had to practice patience, waiting and waiting and waaaaaaaaiting. Sometimes we even wonder if God is anywhere around!

When there is so much wrong with this world, why would God make us wait? What's the purpose of this delay in God's plan?

Join us this second Sunday in Advent as we discover, “The Purpose of Patience."
9 AM, In-Person or Online.
Dec 10, 202322:27
ADVENT WITH THE APOSTLES - “Hope”

ADVENT WITH THE APOSTLES - “Hope”

A NOTE ABOUT ADVENT FROM PASTOR TOM

This Sunday is the first Sunday of Advent, the time when we prepare for the birth of our Savior. Normally, we preach on Scripture passages from the Gospel story of Jesus' birth or sometimes from passages in the Old Testament.

Rarely -- if ever-- do we preach about Advent passages from the Letters of Peter and Paul or the other apostles.

But this year, that is my plan. What do the writings of the Apostles have to say about the coming of the Messiah? What do they have to teach us about how to prepare for a true celebration of Christmas?

Join us this Sunday and all the Sundays in December. Help us explore: ADVENT WITH THE APOSTLES

Worship with us @ 9 AM In-person or Online
Dec 03, 202316:17
Jesus’ Burden is Light - A Service of Wholeness & Healing

Jesus’ Burden is Light - A Service of Wholeness & Healing

IN ALL THINGS, GIVE THANKS AND PRAISE

One of the most challenging commands in the Bible is the Apostle Paul's instruction to "give thanks in all circumstances." We can understand how to give thanks when things are going well, but to give thanks in every situation is quite another thing. HOW do you do it? and WHY do you do it?

Join us this Sunday @ 9 AM for worship as we discover the power of unrestricted thanks and praise. In-Person or Online
Nov 26, 202324:35
Doxology

Doxology

IN ALL THINGS, GIVE THANKS AND PRAISE

One of the most challenging commands in the Bible is the Apostle Paul's instruction to "give thanks in all circumstances." We can understand how to give thanks when things are going well, but to give thanks in every situation is quite another thing. HOW do you do it? and WHY do you do it?

Join us this Sunday @ 9 AM for worship as we discover the power of unrestricted thanks and praise. In-Person or Online
Nov 19, 202318:26
MORE: Through Prayer

MORE: Through Prayer

GOD CAN DO MORE

For the last several weeks we have talked about how God can do more in our lives and in the church than we have ever asked or imagined.

Now we discover that the power for MORE comes through prayer.

Join us this Sunday for this last in a series of sermons from the prophet Isaiah.
9 AM, In-person or Online
Nov 12, 202321:56
Living Well; Dying Well

Living Well; Dying Well

Living Well; Dying Well

What if you discovered that you had only one month to live? Where would you go? With whom would you connect? Just what would you do?

Most of us would try to live well....and to love well. But how do we do it?

This All Saints' Sunday, we will look at the lives of some faithful people who have lived before us, and we will learn with God's help and by their examples how we can live faithful lives, too.

Join us @ 9 Am this Sunday.
In-person or Online
Nov 05, 202320:17
MORE: For Us and For Others

MORE: For Us and For Others

EMPTY SPIRITUALITY

To be spiritual is a good thing. But spirituality - even sincere and deep spirituality - is worthless unless it is making a difference to others and to the world in which we live.

Christians are called to meet the needs of our neighbors and to work to make society better.

Join us for worship this week as we continue to discover MORE of what God has planned for our lives.

9 AM, In-person or Online.
Oct 29, 202317:35
MORE: Seeking God

MORE: Seeking God

RELUCTANCE

When I was a child, I was excited at the prospect of learning to swim, but held back because it was not going to be easy. I would have to take swimming lessons in cold, early morning water. I would have to learn new movements. And the biggest worry of all: I was scared of deep water!

So I hesitated.
I held back from the exciting adventure my parents wanted to give me.

Fortunately, they knew better and insisted that I learn in spite of my reluctance. As a result, the ability to swim has enriched my life for years.

Sometimes we hesitate to follow God's path for our lives because the way seems difficult, we have to learn new behaviors, or we are afraid. Yet, God's promise for those who follow his way is life in all abundance.

What's holding you back?

Join us this Sunday as we continue our sermon series: MORE
9 am, In-person or Online
Oct 22, 202321:38
“Extraordinarily Ordinary”

“Extraordinarily Ordinary”

Featuring special guest Rev. Sara C.R. Hill
Oct 15, 202315:29
MORE: Growth

MORE: Growth

THE CHURCH IS MEANT FOR MORE

In years past, the Church was the center not only of spiritual life, but of community life, too. Everyone who was anyone belonged to a local congregation.

But it is not that way now. Researchers tell us that the Church in America is in decline; it's a trend that has accelerated since the pandemic.

But when we read the Bible, we realize it doesn't have to be that way. People everywhere are searching for help, strength, hope and life. . . and the Church is to be God's instrument for them to find it.

The Church is meant to reach outward; the Church is meant to grow!

Join us for worship this Sunday for part 2 of the sermon series: MORE!
9 AM, In-Person or Online.
Oct 08, 202324:07
MORE

MORE

MORE

Have you ever noticed how easy it is to get focused on the negative -- challenges, problems, fears, difficulties -- in our relationships, families, work, church and life? When we do, we lose hope, a sense of purpose, joyful living.

But God says: "I have more for you than you have ever imagined or asked. . . I have a greater purpose than you have ever considered. If you will be open to what I offer, it will change your life."

Join us this Sunday as we begin a new series of sermons from the book of Isaiah entitled simply: "MORE."

Find out the secret of all God has planned for you,
your church and your life.
9AM, In-Person or Online
Oct 01, 202318:31
Humility and Grace

Humility and Grace

HUMILITY AND GRACE

“Somehow, we think we can only fully enjoy our being loved by God if others are loved less than we are.” - Henri Nouwen

It's easy to be resentful of others' good fortune, isn't it, especially if we think they don't deserve it. "They haven't worked hard like we have; they haven't done what is right; they haven't come to church. Why should they receive that good gift? Why should they be loved?

These are honest and fair questions. This Sunday, we will explore one of Jesus' stories, Matthew 20.1-16, which helps us consider this.

Join us at 9AM, In-Person or Online.
Sep 24, 202318:26
The Need for Forgiveness

The Need for Forgiveness

FORGIVENESS
Most Needed, Most Difficult

"We cannot have friends without forgiveness, we cannot have family without forgiveness, we cannot have lasting marriages without forgiveness. But it is very, very difficult [to do]. -- Christian Author, Fred Craddock

When we have been hurt. . .
Why is it so hard to turn loose of the pain. . .
Why is it so difficult to forgive one another?

Join us for worship this Sunday as we study Jesus' teachings about forgiveness. 9 am, In-person or Online
Sep 17, 202317:18
Darkness Shall Not Overcome

Darkness Shall Not Overcome

with special guest Rev. Gary Kelly
Sep 10, 202319:40
Love That Keeps on Burning

Love That Keeps on Burning

with special guest, Dr. Michael Bradley
Sep 03, 202313:29
Jesus, You’ve Got to be Kidding

Jesus, You’ve Got to be Kidding

JESUS, YOU'VE GOT TO BE KIDDING!

When Jesus called his disciples he called them to build a new community - the gathering we call CHURCH. But sometimes we wonder why. The church has caused so much hurt, so much heartache. How could anything good ever come from it?

Yet, Jesus insists that the church is both his idea and his gift to us. And "the gates of Hades will never overcome it." ( Matthew 16.13-20)

Join us for worship this Sunday as we consider the gift of the CHURCH. 9 AM, In-Person or Online
Aug 27, 202320:29
A Strange, Yet Exciting Adventure

A Strange, Yet Exciting Adventure

Lessons on Faith

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." - Hebrews 11.1

In Matthew's Gospel, there are five stories in which Jesus commends persons for their "great faith," holding them up as models for living. Surprisingly, none of the five are stories about faithful disciples of Jesus. They are all desperate outsiders.

What is Jesus telling us about faith? Where are you feeling desperate in your circumstances? How do we trust God in our day-to-day lives?

Join us this Sunday as we explore the story of the Canaanite woman in Matthew 15:21-28.
9 AM, In-person or Online
Aug 20, 202323:53
Theology for Every Day “Stewardship of Life”

Theology for Every Day “Stewardship of Life”

Stewardship - the Dirty Word

When most of us think of the word “Stewardship," we think it's a fancy word for asking people to give money. Our fears go up and we want nothing to do with it.

But when the Bible talks about stewardship it means an attitude toward all of life. God alone is the creator. We are stewards and servants invited to manage, care for and use wisely all that God has put into our hands. It's a blessing and privilege which each person is given.

How can we become stewards of all of life?

Join us for worship this Sunday. 9AM, In Person or Online
Aug 13, 202326:00
Theology for Every Day “Obedience in Every Sphere of Life”

Theology for Every Day “Obedience in Every Sphere of Life”

ALL THINGS NEW

It's one thing to be a follower of Jesus at home or with your family; it's another to be a follower in the push and pull of daily living. Yet, God is concerned not just about people spiritually, but about every area of daily life: money, school, sexuality, business -- even politics. When Jesus says he is making all things new he means ALL THINGS, every aspect of life.

What does this mean for us as Jesus' followers?
How can we follow Jesus in making things new?

Join us this Sunday for worship @ 9 AM
In-Person or Online
Aug 06, 202322:24
Theology for Every Day “The Chief Sin is Idolatry”

Theology for Every Day “The Chief Sin is Idolatry”

WHAT'S THE PROBLEM???

If I asked you to name the greatest sin, what would you say?

Pride? Selfishness? Unbelief? Atheism?

Surprisingly, we Presbyterians, following the lead of the Bible, would say, "Idolatry."

Presbyterians are certainly concerned about pride and selfishness, but not so much about unbelief or atheism. Why? Because the Bible teaches that all human beings believe in something, all human beings worship something. The problem is that we believe in and worship the wrong things. We trust in technology, finances, family, career, group identity... or any number of other things. But fail to trust in God. That's idolatry.

Join us this Sunday as we confront the idols in our lives.

9 AM, In-Person or Online
Jul 30, 202322:30
“Born Again”

“Born Again”

with special guest Rev. Gary Kelley
Jul 23, 202319:36
Theology for Every Day “Covenant”

Theology for Every Day “Covenant”

RELATIONSHIP PROBLEMS

Most all problems in our relationships boil down to a misunderstanding of God: who God is, how God relates to us, and how we relate to God and to others.

The way God relates to human beings is by means of a covenant. But what is God's Covenant with us? How can we live up to our part of it? What difference will it make in our daily lives?

Join us for worship this Sunday! We continue our summer series, “Theology for Every Day," as we look at the power of God's Covenant.
9am, In-person or Online
Jul 16, 202325:08
Theology for Every Day “Predestination”

Theology for Every Day “Predestination”

A Presbyterian Surprise Predestination. Ewww! Heaven and Hell!! Predestination!!!!!!&##?? The idea that God has decided before you were born whether you are bound for heaven or hell is troubling thinking. But is that what the Biblical idea of Predestination is all about? Join us this Sunday for worship as we continue our series, "THEOLOGY FOR EVERY DAY." We'll dig into the Bible and discover (to our surprise perhaps) that there is good news in Predestination which we may have missed. Worship with us Sunday @ 9AM. In-Person or Online
Jul 09, 202324:04
Theology for Every Day “The Sovereignty of God”

Theology for Every Day “The Sovereignty of God”

SO GOD'S IN CHARGE......REALLY???

We Presbyterian Christians have been distinguished by our belief that God is sovereign…in control, over all things: creation, history, and our personal lives. We believe this because this is what we see in the Bible.

But this belief is not without its difficulties. Just look at the world: devastating storms, injustice, genocide -- the evils go on and on.

Join us for worship this Independence Day weekend as we grapple with the Biblical teaching of "The Sovereignty of God."
9 AM, In-Person or Online
Jul 02, 202317:53
Theology for Every Day “Final Authority: Scripture”

Theology for Every Day “Final Authority: Scripture”

ALL TIME BEST SELLER

Did you know that the Bible was the best selling book last year? And the year before that? And the year before that?

Did you know that the Bible is the best selling book of all time?

Why?

And why do followers of Jesus seem to give it so much authority?

Join us this Sunday as we continue our sermon series on beliefs: THEOLOGY FOR EVERY DAY.

We'll explore Christian convictions about the Bible.

9 AM, In-Person or Online
Jun 25, 202324:11
Theology for Every Day “Saved by Grace through Faith”

Theology for Every Day “Saved by Grace through Faith”

AM I GOOD ENOUGH?

Have you ever wondered who you might become if you had a deep confidence that you were worthy, "good enough," loved…really, truly loved?

It would change everything, wouldn't it? Most of us spend our whole lives attempting to be worthy of love and feeling that we fail miserably at it.

But listen, we don't have to make ourselves worthy. We don't have to try and try to be good enough. We don't have to wonder if we are acceptable and loveable.

Join us this Sunday as we find freedom and life through God's Good News!
9 AM, In-Person or Online
Jun 18, 202322:34
Theology for Every Day “Incarnation”

Theology for Every Day “Incarnation”

JESUS
GREAT TEACHER? RELIGIOUS LEADER? MORAL REFORMER?
OR SOMETHING MORE???

A Christian worker serving in some far away place returned to the United States. She spoke to several churches and people were amazed at her life and sacrifice. One parishioner twittered, "Oh, it is wonderful what you have done! You must love the people and this place very much."

But the worker responded, “It's the dirtiest, most awful place I have ever been and the day I go back will be a day too soon. But I will...(and she paused)…if Jesus wants me to."

Why do you think this woman had such commitment? What was it about Jesus that made her want to serve in this place where there was so much difficulty? If Jesus were only a great religious teacher or leader, would you make this kind of sacrifice?

Join us for worship this Sunday @ 9 am as we talk about the second belief in our sermon series, THEOLOGY FOR EVERY DAY: “The Incarnation." Join us in-person or online.
Jun 11, 202321:07
Theology for Every Day “Trinity”

Theology for Every Day “Trinity”

THEOLOGY FOR EVERY DAY

Beliefs matter…especially our beliefs about life and God.

This Sunday we begin a new series of sermons talking about basic Christian beliefs. If you have ever wondered about things like (for example):

Trinity
Salvation by Grace
Predestination
The Bible

this summer series is for you. Join us this Sunday as we tackle the EVERYDAY purpose of the TRINITY. 9am, In-Person or Online.
Jun 04, 202320:45
Longing for Something More

Longing for Something More

Thirsty?

"Come, everyone who is thirsty - here is water!…Why spend money on what does not satisfy?...Listen now, my people, and come to me; come to me and you will have life!" - The Prophet Isaiah

In every single human being there is a thirst…a deep desire…a longing for life. But not just material life - having the necessities for survival - but for life that is abundance. For meaning and purpose. For connection with others. For power to make a difference. For loving and being loved. For freedom and forgiveness.

This is the gift that God gives us in Jesus through the Holy Spirit. LIFE. LIFE IN ALL ABUNDANCE!

Join us this Pentecost Sunday as we discover the power of God's Spirit to bring LIFE! 9am In-Person or Online.
May 28, 202320:17
At God’s Right Hand…Until

At God’s Right Hand…Until

JESUS IS LORD...................REALLY?????

Without a doubt, the belief that Jesus is Lord (that he is the one in charge, the one in control) is surely one of the most puzzling beliefs Christians hold. “Just look around!” we might say. “How can anyone believe that Jesus is in control, when things in this world are so bad?"

Good question. Join us this week, Ascension Sunday, as we explore this issue. Discover what the Bible and Christian experience teach about our struggles in life and what the Risen Jesus is up to in the midst of them.

Sunday @ 9 AM
In-person or Online
May 21, 202317:46
The Hope for the Church

The Hope for the Church

ONE HUNDRED YEARS FROM NOW.....

Do you ever wonder if it makes any difference - really - to serve and love and give as a follower of Jesus? I mean, "So what?" if I arrange some flowers and take it to a sick neighbor. “So what?" if I attend the City Council meeting and try to make a difference. “So what?" if our church provides food to a few needy people. "So what?" if I listen to a co-worker and pray with him about his marriage.

One hundred years from now, will any of this have mattered -- really?

This Sunday, we are completing our study of Jesus' resurrection and its implication for our lives. Join us this Mother's Day as we talk about resurrection, purpose and mission.

You know your mother would want you to come....

9 AM, In-Person or Online.
May 14, 202320:22
The Hope of the Second Coming

The Hope of the Second Coming

The Second Coming. The Last Judgment.
Daniel. Revelation. Armageddon.

When many of us think of Jesus' Second Coming we feel some confusion, and since the middle ages people have generally looked at these events with fear.

But is that really what the Bible teaches? Is that really what these end time events are all about?

Join us this Sunday as we explore the hope which the Second Coming gives.

9AM, In-Person or Online
Apr 30, 202319:45
Walking, Talking, and Listening

Walking, Talking, and Listening

with guest Pastor Dr. Michael Bradley
Apr 23, 202311:35
The Hope of Jesus’ Resurrection

The Hope of Jesus’ Resurrection

JESUS ROSE FROM THE GRAVE…SO WHAT????

The message of Jesus' resurrection is the central affirmation of the Christian Church. But do you ever wonder, "So what???" What is the significance? What's the purpose? What difference does it make for us, this world, for you, for me?

The truth is that Jesus' resurrection means more than just the idea that one day we, too, will rise from the grave and go to be with God in heaven. Rather, Jesus' resurrection is a cosmic explosion of God's power breaking into our world. And through his resurrection, a whole new creation begins!

Find out more this Sunday @ 9 AM
Join us for worship, In-person or Online
Apr 16, 202323:59
Easter Sunday “Absolutely Unexpected”

Easter Sunday “Absolutely Unexpected”

EASTER AT NORMANDY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH ✝️ Sunday, April 9, 2023

Join us this RESURRECTION SUNDAY morning for three very special opportunities for worship and fellowship:

•6:30AM - Sunrise Worship at the Normandy Baptist Church

•7:30AM - Pancake Breakfast at NPC Fellowship Hall

•9:00AM - Easter Celebration Worship at Normandy Presbyterian, “The Strange Story of Easter"
Apr 09, 202321:42
THE PASSION: Living Instructions for Us “The Last Supper”

THE PASSION: Living Instructions for Us “The Last Supper”

THE LAST SUPPER

When it comes to the Communion Service in worship, we often focus on the elements -- the bread and the cup -- and what they mean, when they should be shared and with whom. But when you look how Communion began, in the sharing of the Last Supper, it seems we ought instead to focus on the people who were there and how Jesus related to them. When we do that, this special meal becomes even more powerful.

Join us this Passion/Palm Sunday as we look at the last event in Jesus' life before his suffering and death on the cross. Worship with us as we uncover the deeper meaning of the Last Supper.

Sunday, 9 AM, In person or Online
Apr 02, 202316:19
THE PASSION: Living Instructions for Us “Gethsemane”

THE PASSION: Living Instructions for Us “Gethsemane”

DECISIONS AND PRAYER

One of the most vivid mental images we have of Jesus in the last week of his life, is the gospel scene of him praying in Gethsemane. In his anguish, Scripture says, Jesus prayed so earnestly that his "sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground" (Luke 22.44).

Obviously, Jesus didn't not want to do what God had planned for him; he didn't want to suffer; he didn't want to die. Who would have?

But as he prayed, something changed.....in Jesus, himself. He found the will, the courage to follow God.

We all face our own Gethsemane decisions....some even daily. Could prayer help us, too?

WORSHIP WITH US THIS SUNDAY
9 AM, In-person or on Facebook Live
Mar 26, 202316:19
THE PASSION: Living Instructions for Us “Jesus’ Anointing”

THE PASSION: Living Instructions for Us “Jesus’ Anointing”

GIVING YOUR BEST

The prices on the protein bars were outrageous! Fifty dollars for 24 bars? Forty-two for 30? I wanted to get something that would be nutritious to hand to homeless folks whom I often encountered on the streets, but I also didn't want to break the bank to do it. Our grocery budget had been tighter due to inflation, and I wanted to make sure there were enough funds to get some string cheese and chips for my snacks.

So I found myself in that common struggle we often feel: do I give the best to others or do I give the best to myself?

This Sunday we'll look at a time an unnamed woman gave an extravagant gift to Jesus. (Matthew 26.1-13). She gave her best. What would it take for us to do the same?
Mar 19, 202316:27
THE PASSION: Living Instructions for Us “Jesus Cleanses the Temple”

THE PASSION: Living Instructions for Us “Jesus Cleanses the Temple”

DO YOU KNOW WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT?

Christianity is not so much about a philosophy as it is about a Person and people in general. It's not so much about rituals or rules as it is about relationships, loving God and loving others.

Nowhere do we see that more clearly than in the story of Jesus clearing the Temple, Matthew 21.13-17. Jesus overturned the tables of the money-changers and the sellers. He welcomed those who had been judged and excluded. He offered a refocus on the things that are most important.

Join us for worship this Sunday. Refocus your life! 9 am, In-person or Online
Mar 05, 202320:54
THE PASSION: Living Instructions for Us “The Triumphant Entry”

THE PASSION: Living Instructions for Us “The Triumphant Entry”

JESUS' LAST WEEK

As much as the story of Jesus' last days shows us his sacrificial suffering, for those who know about Jesus' resurrection -- it is even more a story of how we may practice faith in our daily lives.

Over the next six weeks, we will look at six key events of Jesus' last week to see what they can teach: Triumphant Entry, Cleansing the Temple, Teaching in the Temple, Anointing Jesus' Feet, Gethsemane and the Last Supper.

Not only will we learn about Jesus' sacrifice, but also how we may live more effective, faith-filled lives.

Join us for worship this Sunday, 9 am, in-person or online.
Feb 26, 202318:00
Extreme Makeover: The Total Person

Extreme Makeover: The Total Person

EXTREME MAKEOVER: The Total Person

It's not enough to measure our lives by how well we keep the religious rules -- by how often we attend church, give money, obey the Commandments, or such.

God is looking for more: a personal integration where external behavior and internal commitments work together. God wants our daily love and obedience to come from the heart.

Join us for worship this week as we continue to study Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 5-7. Sunday @ 9 AM, In-person or Online
Feb 12, 202318:00
Living into Your Promise

Living into Your Promise

DO YOU KNOW YOUR LIFE'S PURPOSE?

Do you know you have a purpose in life? That there is a deeper meaning possible? That there is a task God has for you to do?

A lot of us don't know that purpose...or when we do, we struggle to live into it. The result is that we miss satisfaction and joy.

Jesus said, "I have come that you might have life and life in all fulness." John 10.10. Join us for worship this Sunday as we talk about God's purpose for you.

9AM, In-person or Online
Feb 05, 202321:31