What is pentecostJune 8, 2025
John 14:8-17, 25-27, Acts 2:1-21 |
Sermon Recap – Pentecost Sunday
Scripture: John 14:8-17, 25-27 and Acts 2:1-21
This Sunday, we celebrated Pentecost—the day the Holy Spirit came with power and surprise. It reminded us that God often shows up in unexpected ways to move us, equip us, and send us out.
In Acts 2, the Spirit arrived like wind and fire, and the disciples spoke in many languages so that everyone could hear the good news. This was no accident—it was God's way of saying: You are welcome. You are loved. You are enough. The Spirit used language to connect all people, crossing barriers and building community.
Pentecost was also a turning point. The disciples were no longer afraid. Filled with the Spirit, they stepped out to do God’s work, spreading the message of Jesus boldly. We’re called to do the same—to let the Spirit move in us and through us, guiding us to people who are ready to hear a new word in their lives.
As Acts 2:21 says, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Let’s live into that promise with courage, compassion, and Spirit-filled hearts.
Scripture: John 14:8-17, 25-27 and Acts 2:1-21
This Sunday, we celebrated Pentecost—the day the Holy Spirit came with power and surprise. It reminded us that God often shows up in unexpected ways to move us, equip us, and send us out.
In Acts 2, the Spirit arrived like wind and fire, and the disciples spoke in many languages so that everyone could hear the good news. This was no accident—it was God's way of saying: You are welcome. You are loved. You are enough. The Spirit used language to connect all people, crossing barriers and building community.
Pentecost was also a turning point. The disciples were no longer afraid. Filled with the Spirit, they stepped out to do God’s work, spreading the message of Jesus boldly. We’re called to do the same—to let the Spirit move in us and through us, guiding us to people who are ready to hear a new word in their lives.
As Acts 2:21 says, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Let’s live into that promise with courage, compassion, and Spirit-filled hearts.
He's in the waitingJune 1, 2025
Acts 1:4-9, 10-14 |
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Sermon Recap: He’s in the Waiting
Scripture: Acts 1:4–9, 10-14
This Sunday, we explored what it means to wait on God with faith and trust. In Acts 1:4–9, Jesus commands the disciples—for the first time—to wait. Before they could be sent out, they had to stay put. This same command is given to us today.
Waiting is difficult, but it’s part of life and faith. It’s in the waiting that we learn to trust Jesus more deeply. Over time, we develop the ability to wait well—not out of obligation, but out of confidence that Jesus is the keeper of promises.
Jesus told His disciples to wait in Jerusalem, a name that means “foundation of peace.” It is that peace—the peace Jesus gives—that makes the waiting bearable. When the future feels uncertain, we are called to lift our eyes to heaven, just as the disciples did.
As we wait, we do so with hope, knowing that our Savior will return just as He promised. Until then, we wait with peace, trust, and expectation—because He’s in the waiting.
What are you waiting on? Are you waiting with Jesus?
Sermon Recap: He’s in the Waiting
Scripture: Acts 1:4–9, 10-14
This Sunday, we explored what it means to wait on God with faith and trust. In Acts 1:4–9, Jesus commands the disciples—for the first time—to wait. Before they could be sent out, they had to stay put. This same command is given to us today.
Waiting is difficult, but it’s part of life and faith. It’s in the waiting that we learn to trust Jesus more deeply. Over time, we develop the ability to wait well—not out of obligation, but out of confidence that Jesus is the keeper of promises.
Jesus told His disciples to wait in Jerusalem, a name that means “foundation of peace.” It is that peace—the peace Jesus gives—that makes the waiting bearable. When the future feels uncertain, we are called to lift our eyes to heaven, just as the disciples did.
As we wait, we do so with hope, knowing that our Savior will return just as He promised. Until then, we wait with peace, trust, and expectation—because He’s in the waiting.
What are you waiting on? Are you waiting with Jesus?
Peace for the JourneyMay 25, 2025
John 14:23-29 |
Sermon Recap: Peace for the Journey
Scripture: John 14:23-29
This past Sunday, we were reminded that we are all on a journey—a journey that brings with it both joy and struggle. Some days feel light and full of grace, and peace comes easily. But other days are marked by stress, sadness, and frustration, and peace can feel distant.
In John 14, Jesus speaks directly to our hearts:
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you."
This is not a fleeting or circumstantial peace. It is a deep, sustaining peace that holds steady even in life’s storms.
We often forget this promise when life becomes heavy. We let the noise of the world drown out the quiet strength of God's presence. But true peace is not about the absence of problems—it is about the presence of Christ within them.
When things get difficult, don’t turn away from God—turn into Him. Let His peace anchor your soul. The trials you face are not meant to break you, but to shape you, to make you more resilient, and to draw you closer to the heart of God.
So ask yourself:
How can I grow in peace with God?
Scripture: John 14:23-29
This past Sunday, we were reminded that we are all on a journey—a journey that brings with it both joy and struggle. Some days feel light and full of grace, and peace comes easily. But other days are marked by stress, sadness, and frustration, and peace can feel distant.
In John 14, Jesus speaks directly to our hearts:
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you."
This is not a fleeting or circumstantial peace. It is a deep, sustaining peace that holds steady even in life’s storms.
We often forget this promise when life becomes heavy. We let the noise of the world drown out the quiet strength of God's presence. But true peace is not about the absence of problems—it is about the presence of Christ within them.
When things get difficult, don’t turn away from God—turn into Him. Let His peace anchor your soul. The trials you face are not meant to break you, but to shape you, to make you more resilient, and to draw you closer to the heart of God.
So ask yourself:
How can I grow in peace with God?
- By trusting His Word daily.
- By seeking Him in prayer, especially in moments of chaos.
- By remembering that you are never alone on your journey.
- And by holding fast to the peace that Jesus has already given you.
With HIM, Without himMay 18, 2025
Micah 6:8, Acts 1:1-4a |
Sermon Recap: With Him, Without Him
Micah 6:8, Acts 1:1-4a
This week’s message, With Him, Without Him, took us on a powerful journey through the final days of Jesus' earthly ministry and what it means to walk with Him today.
In the days leading up to the crucifixion, the disciples experienced what it meant to be with Jesus—hearing His voice, witnessing His miracles, and feeling His presence as they walked alongside Him. But after the crucifixion, uncertainty filled their hearts. In those dark days before the resurrection, they felt the ache of being without Him—confused, afraid, and unsure of the future.
Then came the resurrection. Jesus was with them once again, not just to comfort but to prepare them. In the days before His ascension, He walked with His followers again—teaching, encouraging, and equipping them to live a life that would continue His mission. Though He would no longer be with them in the physical sense, Jesus made a promise: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)
This promise is for us, too.
When we believe in Jesus, we are never without Him. His presence guides us, His Spirit empowers us, and His love surrounds us. He calls us to live with Him—by loving one another, worshiping together, working together, and sharing the gospel with the nations.
The sermon left us with a simple but life-defining question:
Are you with Him—or without Him?
Let us choose to walk with Jesus daily, knowing that being with Him is the only way we find true life—both now and forever.
Micah 6:8, Acts 1:1-4a
This week’s message, With Him, Without Him, took us on a powerful journey through the final days of Jesus' earthly ministry and what it means to walk with Him today.
In the days leading up to the crucifixion, the disciples experienced what it meant to be with Jesus—hearing His voice, witnessing His miracles, and feeling His presence as they walked alongside Him. But after the crucifixion, uncertainty filled their hearts. In those dark days before the resurrection, they felt the ache of being without Him—confused, afraid, and unsure of the future.
Then came the resurrection. Jesus was with them once again, not just to comfort but to prepare them. In the days before His ascension, He walked with His followers again—teaching, encouraging, and equipping them to live a life that would continue His mission. Though He would no longer be with them in the physical sense, Jesus made a promise: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)
This promise is for us, too.
When we believe in Jesus, we are never without Him. His presence guides us, His Spirit empowers us, and His love surrounds us. He calls us to live with Him—by loving one another, worshiping together, working together, and sharing the gospel with the nations.
The sermon left us with a simple but life-defining question:
Are you with Him—or without Him?
Let us choose to walk with Jesus daily, knowing that being with Him is the only way we find true life—both now and forever.
He Knows the PlanMay 11, 2025
Jeremiah 1:4-5, 29:11 |
Sermon Recap: He Knows the Plan
Jeremiah 1:4–5, 29:11
This week’s message, He Knows the Plan, reminded us of the beautiful truth that God’s wisdom often runs counter to the ways of the world. Through the powerful words of Jeremiah, we were encouraged to rest in the assurance that God knows our purpose—even before we are born.
Each of us is uniquely designed with a specific plan in mind, crafted by the Creator Himself. God doesn't give us the same journey or the same dream because His vision for each life is personal and intentional. The plan He has for us is filled with hope and purpose, igniting a fire within our souls. It’s the Holy Spirit who faithfully guides us on this lifelong journey of discovery and obedience.
A central truth from the sermon was this: we are not called to compare. We are called to be. Comparison distracts us from our calling, but living in God's dream for our lives brings fulfillment and clarity. We were also challenged to be encouragers—cheering on others in their unique callings, just as we hope others will support us in ours.
Reflection:
So, we ask you: Are you living the dream? Not just any dream—but God’s dream? God’s plan for you?
It’s never too late to step into what He has planned. After all, He knows the plan.
Jeremiah 1:4–5, 29:11
This week’s message, He Knows the Plan, reminded us of the beautiful truth that God’s wisdom often runs counter to the ways of the world. Through the powerful words of Jeremiah, we were encouraged to rest in the assurance that God knows our purpose—even before we are born.
Each of us is uniquely designed with a specific plan in mind, crafted by the Creator Himself. God doesn't give us the same journey or the same dream because His vision for each life is personal and intentional. The plan He has for us is filled with hope and purpose, igniting a fire within our souls. It’s the Holy Spirit who faithfully guides us on this lifelong journey of discovery and obedience.
A central truth from the sermon was this: we are not called to compare. We are called to be. Comparison distracts us from our calling, but living in God's dream for our lives brings fulfillment and clarity. We were also challenged to be encouragers—cheering on others in their unique callings, just as we hope others will support us in ours.
Reflection:
So, we ask you: Are you living the dream? Not just any dream—but God’s dream? God’s plan for you?
It’s never too late to step into what He has planned. After all, He knows the plan.
The Will of the FatherMay 4, 2025
John 6:35-40 |
Sermon Recap: The Will of the Father
John 6:35–40
In this week’s message, we reflected on Jesus’ powerful words: “I am the bread of life.” He offers more than temporary relief—He is the lasting source of satisfaction and eternal life. When we come to Him, we will never hunger or thirst again.
Jesus came not to do His own will, but “the will of Him who sent me.” And God’s will is clear: that none who believe in the Son would be lost, and all would be raised up on the last day. The resurrection is not just an event—it’s the very force that sustains our lives today.
Every time we come to the communion table, we are responding to that invitation. We come forward to Jesus, the Bread of Life, to be nourished in soul and spirit. Communion is a reminder that we are part of God’s eternal will—a people loved, redeemed, and promised life everlasting.
Reflection:
Have you come to Jesus with a heart ready to be filled?
We did have technical difficulties at the end of last week's sermon, so the end of the sermon is missing. We apologize for the inconvenience.
John 6:35–40
In this week’s message, we reflected on Jesus’ powerful words: “I am the bread of life.” He offers more than temporary relief—He is the lasting source of satisfaction and eternal life. When we come to Him, we will never hunger or thirst again.
Jesus came not to do His own will, but “the will of Him who sent me.” And God’s will is clear: that none who believe in the Son would be lost, and all would be raised up on the last day. The resurrection is not just an event—it’s the very force that sustains our lives today.
Every time we come to the communion table, we are responding to that invitation. We come forward to Jesus, the Bread of Life, to be nourished in soul and spirit. Communion is a reminder that we are part of God’s eternal will—a people loved, redeemed, and promised life everlasting.
Reflection:
Have you come to Jesus with a heart ready to be filled?
We did have technical difficulties at the end of last week's sermon, so the end of the sermon is missing. We apologize for the inconvenience.
What Now?April 27, 2025
Revelation 1:4-8 |
Sunday Sermon Recap: What Now?
Scripture Focus: Revelation 1:4-8
Easter Sunday may be over, but the celebration continues! On this second Sunday of Easter, often called Bright Sunday, we reflect on the lasting impact of Jesus' death and resurrection—and ask ourselves, “What now?”
The answer is clear: go and tell.
Jesus—who was, is, and always will be—has freed us from our sins through His blood. That truth is the foundation of our salvation, our hope, and our mission. By God's grace, we’ve been given the gift of eternal life, and that alone is reason to give glory to God.
God’s plan has always been perfect—from the birth of Christ to His death and resurrection—and now we are part of that plan. Our calling is simple but powerful: share the Good News. When we speak the name of Jesus into someone’s life, God does the rest.
As Psalm 93 reminds us, God reigns with majesty and strength. He is worthy of our praise—and our obedience.
So, what now?
Go out and tell everyone you meet about Jesus.
Easter Sunday Sermon Recap: "This Is Sunday"
"The manger of Christmas brought God to us, but the cross of Easter brought us to God."
This Easter Sunday, we celebrated the fulfillment of the promise that began on Christmas night. What started in the stillness of a manger was completed in the power of an empty tomb. This is Sunday—the day everything changed.
In this powerful sermon, we were reminded of the significance of threes throughout Scripture: the Trinity, Peter’s three denials, the three crosses, and the three days from the agony of Good Friday to the triumph of Easter Sunday. Even Jesus took His final breath at 3:00 PM, marking the beginning of the most important countdown in human history.
Good Friday may seem anything but good—but we call it good because we know Sunday is coming. And now, this is Sunday—the day Jesus conquered sin and death once and for all.
"The manger of Christmas brought God to us, but the cross of Easter brought us to God."
This Easter Sunday, we celebrated the fulfillment of the promise that began on Christmas night. What started in the stillness of a manger was completed in the power of an empty tomb. This is Sunday—the day everything changed.
In this powerful sermon, we were reminded of the significance of threes throughout Scripture: the Trinity, Peter’s three denials, the three crosses, and the three days from the agony of Good Friday to the triumph of Easter Sunday. Even Jesus took His final breath at 3:00 PM, marking the beginning of the most important countdown in human history.
Good Friday may seem anything but good—but we call it good because we know Sunday is coming. And now, this is Sunday—the day Jesus conquered sin and death once and for all.
tHIS! tHIS IS WHY!April 13, 2025
John 3:16 |
On Palm Sunday, Pastor Julie invited us into the heart of Holy Week — a time filled with beauty, sorrow, and deep mystery. Her message, This Is Why, helped us confront some of the hardest questions we face as believers:
Because His love endures forever.
Why would a Father give His only Son?
Because the Father’s love endures forever.
Why would the Son walk willingly to the cross?
Because the Son’s love endures forever — and because His Father asked Him to.
At some point, we all must lay down our questions and rest in this truth:
Love is the reason.
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son,
that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
— John 3:16
As we journey through Holy Week, may we do so with open hearts — not needing all the answers, but holding tightly to the truth:
Love is why.
- Why did Jesus have to suffer?
- Why did He have to die?
Because His love endures forever.
Why would a Father give His only Son?
Because the Father’s love endures forever.
Why would the Son walk willingly to the cross?
Because the Son’s love endures forever — and because His Father asked Him to.
At some point, we all must lay down our questions and rest in this truth:
Love is the reason.
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son,
that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
— John 3:16
As we journey through Holy Week, may we do so with open hearts — not needing all the answers, but holding tightly to the truth:
Love is why.
this is the wayApril 6, 2025
Acts 9:1-9 |
In Acts 9:1-9, we read about Saul's dramatic encounter with the resurrected Jesus on the road to Damascus. This life-altering moment left Saul blinded for three days. But when his sight was restored, Saul saw the world in a new light, completely transformed. He became one with the Lord, experiencing a profound change in heart and purpose.
Jesus' words in John 14:6 resonate deeply with this transformation: "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Jesus is The Way.
For Christians, the cross represents the ultimate victory over sin. It stands as a reminder of Jesus’ sacrifice and the transformation available to all believers. Walking The Way with Jesus means embracing a journey of becoming the person God created us to be.
Just as Saul's encounter with Jesus changed him from a persecutor of Christians to the apostle Paul, we too are invited to walk the path of transformation, fully dedicated to following Jesus and His teachings.
The question remains: Are you walking The Way with Him?
Jesus' words in John 14:6 resonate deeply with this transformation: "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Jesus is The Way.
For Christians, the cross represents the ultimate victory over sin. It stands as a reminder of Jesus’ sacrifice and the transformation available to all believers. Walking The Way with Jesus means embracing a journey of becoming the person God created us to be.
Just as Saul's encounter with Jesus changed him from a persecutor of Christians to the apostle Paul, we too are invited to walk the path of transformation, fully dedicated to following Jesus and His teachings.
The question remains: Are you walking The Way with Him?
This is seeingMarch 30, 2025
Luke 24:13-35 |
In Sunday's message, we explored Luke 24:13-35, where two disciples, grieving Jesus' death, walk to Emmaus and fail to recognize the risen Lord who joins them. Rather than changing their circumstances, Jesus transforms their hearts. Through scripture and the breaking of bread, He opens their eyes, revealing Himself in a life-changing way.
Like the disciples, we can sometimes be so overwhelmed by our emotions that we miss what God is doing right in front of us. But when we open our hearts to Him, He helps us see more clearly.
God’s grace moves in ways that transform our hearts and help us experience His presence more deeply. Let’s pray for the clarity to recognize Jesus in our daily lives and the courage to let Him in, trusting His grace will lead us to a deeper connection with Him.
Like the disciples, we can sometimes be so overwhelmed by our emotions that we miss what God is doing right in front of us. But when we open our hearts to Him, He helps us see more clearly.
God’s grace moves in ways that transform our hearts and help us experience His presence more deeply. Let’s pray for the clarity to recognize Jesus in our daily lives and the courage to let Him in, trusting His grace will lead us to a deeper connection with Him.
this is peaceMarch 23, 2025
John 20:19-31 |
In today’s world, peace can often feel elusive, especially when we’re faced with doubt and uncertainty. But where can we truly find peace? This Sunday, Pastor Julie focused on John 20, where the apostle Thomas wrestles with doubt about the risen Lord. Thomas struggled to believe based on the accounts of others and felt the need to see the miracle for himself.
In John 14:11, Jesus had already addressed this very struggle, saying, “Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the works themselves.”
Pastor Julie explained that Thomas’s journey is a powerful reminder that doubt isn’t the end of our story—it’s often the catalyst that brings us closer to faith. Even in the most difficult times, faith in Jesus can lead us to the peace that only He can provide. The message was clear: it’s okay to doubt. Doubt doesn’t separate us from Jesus—it can bring us nearer to Him. And through Him, we find true peace.
In John 14:11, Jesus had already addressed this very struggle, saying, “Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the works themselves.”
Pastor Julie explained that Thomas’s journey is a powerful reminder that doubt isn’t the end of our story—it’s often the catalyst that brings us closer to faith. Even in the most difficult times, faith in Jesus can lead us to the peace that only He can provide. The message was clear: it’s okay to doubt. Doubt doesn’t separate us from Jesus—it can bring us nearer to Him. And through Him, we find true peace.
Amazing Grace
March 16, 2025
John 21 |
This Sunday, Pastor Julie shared a powerful message from John 21, where we witness one of the most profound moments of grace in the Bible. In this passage, Jesus extends grace to Simon Peter, even after Peter’s devastating failure. Despite boldly declaring he would never abandon Jesus, Peter found himself in the darkness of denying Jesus three times.
However, what Jesus did in this moment speaks volumes about His heart. Instead of condemnation, Jesus offered restoration. After His resurrection, Jesus met Peter on the shore and asked him three times, “Do you love me?” Peter, broken and repentant, was reminded that, despite his failures, Jesus still had a purpose for him. Jesus didn’t cast Peter aside. He forgave him with love and grace, giving him a fresh start.
Pastor Julie highlighted how this powerful interaction is a beautiful example of God’s grace. No matter our mistakes or failures, Jesus offers forgiveness and restoration. Just as Simon Peter struggled to forgive himself, he was able to move forward because of the grace Jesus extended to him. And today, that same grace is available to us. When we stumble and fall, we can always turn back to Jesus, knowing His love remains constant and His grace is enough.
Remember, no matter where you are in your faith journey, Jesus is always ready to restore and forgive. Don’t let past mistakes define you. Let His grace lift you up, just as it did for Simon Peter.
If you missed this inspiring sermon or would like to hear it again, you can watch the full message here:
However, what Jesus did in this moment speaks volumes about His heart. Instead of condemnation, Jesus offered restoration. After His resurrection, Jesus met Peter on the shore and asked him three times, “Do you love me?” Peter, broken and repentant, was reminded that, despite his failures, Jesus still had a purpose for him. Jesus didn’t cast Peter aside. He forgave him with love and grace, giving him a fresh start.
Pastor Julie highlighted how this powerful interaction is a beautiful example of God’s grace. No matter our mistakes or failures, Jesus offers forgiveness and restoration. Just as Simon Peter struggled to forgive himself, he was able to move forward because of the grace Jesus extended to him. And today, that same grace is available to us. When we stumble and fall, we can always turn back to Jesus, knowing His love remains constant and His grace is enough.
Remember, no matter where you are in your faith journey, Jesus is always ready to restore and forgive. Don’t let past mistakes define you. Let His grace lift you up, just as it did for Simon Peter.
If you missed this inspiring sermon or would like to hear it again, you can watch the full message here:
this is...hopeMarch 9, 2025
John 20:10-18 |
In this week's powerful sermon, Pastor Julie explored a profound moment in the Gospel of John, specifically John 20:17-18. Here, Jesus speaks to Mary Magdalene after His resurrection, sharing a message of hope and trust:
"Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’”
Mary, filled with joy and hope, eagerly shares the incredible news with others: “I have seen the Lord!”
Pastor Julie emphasized the deep love and trust Jesus placed in Mary Magdalene, sending her to spread the message of hope that would change the world. Mary’s unwavering hope in Jesus serves as a powerful reminder of the hope and trust we are called to have in our Savior.
Do you have hope for the future God has planned for you? Do you trust that Jesus will deliver your eternal life?
If you missed the sermon or want to revisit the message, you can watch the full sermon here:
"Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’”
Mary, filled with joy and hope, eagerly shares the incredible news with others: “I have seen the Lord!”
Pastor Julie emphasized the deep love and trust Jesus placed in Mary Magdalene, sending her to spread the message of hope that would change the world. Mary’s unwavering hope in Jesus serves as a powerful reminder of the hope and trust we are called to have in our Savior.
Do you have hope for the future God has planned for you? Do you trust that Jesus will deliver your eternal life?
If you missed the sermon or want to revisit the message, you can watch the full sermon here: