Family Resemblances (#3): JoyText: Psalm 126, Luke 3:7-18, Philippians 4:4-13Exploring the tension between Advent Hope and our present circustances, Pastor Jon identifies the need for Joy and Contentment. Even as we know it’s acceptable to “sow in tears,” we rejoice that Christ identified with those tears, that the Light of the World came down into…
Family Resemblances (#2): “Peace”Text: Matthew 5:38-48; 2 Corinthians 5:18-20During this second week of Advent, Pastor Jon explores what it means to reflect the life of the Prince of Peace. Jesus not only came to bring a message of peace on earth, but came in a manner consistent with that message. What does it mean for…
Family Resemblances (#1): HopeText: Zechariah 9:9-12This Advent, Pastor Jon looks at some of the “Family Resemblances” that ought to be found in the family of Christ-followers. We begin our series with a look at what it means to be a “prisoner of hope.” Christ-followers ought not be characterized by hand-wringing and head-shaking, but with a…
“Christ the King: Consider the Cost”Text: Luke 14:25-35Christ the King Sunday is an annual reminder that Christ is to be lord of our lives throughout the year. Pastor Jon looks at some of the hard teachings of Jesus as he journeys toward Jerusalem and the cross. Have you considered the cost of discipleship? The invitation…
All for What?Text: Mark 13:1-8In the second of this two-part message on Mark 12:38 – 13:8, Pastor Jon further explores what it must have meant for the widow to tragically give her two last coins for a failed system that was condemned for destruction. We are reminded to make sure that we give of ourselves…
Giving All Mark 12:38-44Placing this passage in its broader context helps us to understand that the primary message wasn’t about the widow’s sacrificial giving, but about the exploitation by the Pharisees. Pastor Jon takes a closer look at this passage, suggesting that churches and religious institutions have used these verses in precisely the ways that…
E100 #21: “Where They Need No Sun”Text: Revelation 21-22At the conclusion of our five-month journey through E100, Pastor Jon considers the themes of light and darkness. Sometimes we need to turn to the end of the Story to be reminded of its grand and glorious conclusion! And in the in-between-time, we are reminded that we…
The New Jerusalem – Revelation 21:1-22:21 Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. Scripture ends on this note of certain longing – the hope of the return of Jesus. It’s a certain hope which has driven the Church for nearly 2000 years. We look forward to the time when Christ will return and set things right again. Our…
Hallelujah! – Revelation 19:1-20:15 Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear. Revelation is full of imagery and cryptic language. Sometimes we are told clearly what the symbols stand for, and sometimes we have to read between the lines! This is one place where are pretty confident that the bride stands for the…
The Throne of Heaven – Revelation 4:1-7:17 Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain. Revelation is primarily a book of worship. While it may be many things, one of the first things we recognize is that is is a book about worshiping God in the midst of trial and tribulation, of praising Him in the…