Willow Creek Community Church Weekend Podcast: Recent Episodes
Willow Creek Community Church
Love God, love people, and change the world. We believe the life and lessons of Jesus aren’t just good advice, but are Good News for us here and now.
As a church, we are all about following Jesus and know there’s no end to that journey—we’re more about becoming than arriving.
We are committed to becoming a multi-generational, multi-ethnic, multiplying movement of Christ followers, equipping and empowering our kids and students to not only be the church of tomorrow, but the church of today.
Life has a way of reminding us that things don’t always end the way we hoped. And yet, Scripture tells a different kind of story. The Bible doesn’t end with disappointment—it ends with renewal. In Revelation, we are given a breathtaking vision: a new heaven and a new earth, where God brings everything together and makes all things new. This is not God abandoning the world, but restoring it completely. The brokenness we feel, the endings we grieve, the longings that go unmet—all of it finds its answer here. God’s ultimate plan is not to scrap creation, but to redeem it. Richard Rohr has said, “Everything will be okay in the end. If it’s not okay, it’s not the end.” So when life feels unfinished or disappointing, we can remember: this is not the end of the story.
God will not allow evil to have the final word. This is why Christians are people of Hope. It is not a fantasy or a work of science fiction; it is the reality of Jesus' life and God’s plan. He will return, and for those who have been oppressed, overlooked, or wounded, this is a promise of vindication. For those who wonder if righteousness is worth it, Revelation answers with a resounding yes. Even when it feels like we are losing battles here and now, the final outcome is not in question. When Jesus returns, nothing will be able to stand against Him. The story is not over. Jesus is coming back. And when He does, He will make all things right.
We chase what we believe will finally make us feel whole—success, comfort, recognition, security—only to find that the satisfaction fades faster than we expected. Revelation gives this longing a name: Babylon. Babylon represents a world built on wealth, pleasure, and status. None of these things are evil on their own. But when they become more than they were intended to be, they begin to pull us away from God. Deep down, we long for something eternal—for a Person, not a possession. Remember that you were created for Jesus, and nothing short of Him will ever truly satisfy.
There are moments when following Jesus doesn’t feel inspiring. It feels costly. Sometimes that cost comes through obvious opposition, but oftentimes it comes through something more subtle: pressure. Revelation reminds us that we belong to a different kind of kingdom. The way up is down, and the way to first is to be last. Our security is not found in power or control, but in trusting the One who is already on the throne. Sometimes the greatest act of faith is not bold or dramatic. It is simply refusing to give your allegiance to anything other than Jesus.
There is a spiritual war being waged for our hearts and allegiance. And while Satan is determined to destroy God’s work, Revelation 12 gives us incredible hope: the decisive victory has already been won. Satan is defeated. He still fights—but he fights as one who has already lost. Every day, you have a choice: step into the fight equipped by God, or drift unaware and be shaped by it. To be a disciple of Jesus is to wake up to this very real spiritual battle. We are not just living an ordinary life—we are standing in the middle of a spiritual battlefield. But we are not alone, and we are not defenseless. Stand firm, don’t cower, because the battle is real, but so is the victory.
We chase what we believe will finally make us feel whole—success, comfort, recognition, security—only to find that the satisfaction fades faster than we expected. Revelation gives this longing a name: Babylon. Babylon represents a world built on wealth, pleasure, and status. None of these things are evil on their own. But when they become more than they were intended to be, they begin to pull us away from God. Deep down, we long for something eternal—for a Person, not a possession. Remember that you were created for Jesus, and nothing short of Him will ever truly satisfy.
War. Injustice. Suffering. Persecution. Headlines filled with loss and fear. And beneath it all, a question rises: Where is God in all of this? Even these forces—terrible as they are—unfold under God’s sovereign hand. This does not mean God delights in suffering or is indifferent to pain. Scripture is clear; He sees every tear. He hears every cry. But His timing is not rushed. When the world feels overwhelming, don’t look away—look deeper and continue to participate in His redemptive work. He is not finished yet.
What we worship shapes how we live. Every time we choose to worship Jesus, we are declaring that our hope is not in the powers of this world. When the world feels chaotic, our instinct is often to grasp for control or give in to fear. In these chapters of Revelation, John is given a different response: worship. This side of heaven, worship reorients us. It reminds us that the One we worship is greater than anything we face. And it forms us. Embrace the idea that worship is not escape—it is resistance. It is actively aligning our hearts with what is most true.
Following Jesus may cost us comfort, approval, or ease. But when we look at the cross, we are reminded: He has already given everything for us. There is no cost of discipleship that outweighs the price He paid. In the opening chapters of Revelation, Jesus speaks directly to seven real churches. His words are not distant or abstract; they are personal, honest, and deeply searching. We don’t endure this kind of life on our own. Jesus never asked us to. It is by His Spirit that we are strengthened, reminded, convicted, and comforted. And it is within a community of faith that we find courage; to keep showing up, to keep trusting, to keep following when it’s hard.
When the world feels like it’s unraveling, we long for answers; some kind of clarity to make sense of it all. In that search, many Christians turn to the book of Revelation like a crystal ball, hoping to decode current events and predict what comes next. But Revelation was never meant to function that way. Revelation was written to a specific people in a specific time; believers facing pressure, persecution, and uncertainty. And its message to them is the same as ours: God is in control. He always has been. Rest in knowing that the future is not ours to control because Jesus is not distant. He is near. And He is reigning—even now.
A life of faith is a life of dependence. Confidence in God’s will does not come from having every detail mapped out—it comes from knowing the One who is leading you. Confidence comes from trust, and trust grows walking daily with Jesus. Through prayer, Scripture, community, and attentiveness to the Spirit, we learn to recognize His voice in ordinary moments—how to handle a challenging coworker or find the right words to encourage someone. Don’t just seek God’s will for the big moments. Seek Him in the ordinary. Make today’s quiet time, today’s obedience, today’s surrender the training ground for tomorrow’s confidence.
When God’s will isn’t obvious, it’s an invitation into deeper trust. When clarity is lacking, ask for wisdom. Often, the Spirit guides through open and closed doors—but we still have to walk toward the door to see whether it opens. So what do you do when God’s will is not clear? Pray. Seek counsel. Dive into Scripture. And then—take the next faithful step. Even if you’re unsure about yourself, you can be completely sure about Him. This week, as we celebrate graduating students, learn about God’s hand in your future.
God’s will is not a secret code you have to crack. It is not a hidden blueprint you have to uncover—the God who created you is not playing hide-and-seek with your future.The Bible says He is both sovereign and good, which means nothing is outside His authority. And because He is good, His sovereignty is not cold control—it is loving rule. The promise isn’t that He will show us every detail in advance. The promise is that as we trust Him, He is present with us. Discover His character—His goodness, faithfulness, wisdom—and learn to trust that walking with Him is always your best next step.
After chapters of warning and judgment, the story of Amos concludes with an unexpected promise of restoration. God declares that what was once ruined will be rebuilt, and what was barren will flourish again. Even when the world today feels dark, God is always working—writing redemptive stories for His people to be a light among the nations. We are called to give, serve, and advocate for justice, fulfilling His great restoration project—the “now and not yet” kingdom of God. This week, we celebrate how lives are being changed and invite you to step into God’s mission to bring lasting hope to communities all around the world.
Have you ever watched someone you love make a decision that you know will end badly—and no matter what you say, they won’t listen? When words fail, all that’s left is to cry out to God. This is where we find Amos in chapter 5. His lament isn’t just poetic grief; it’s the sound of a heart breaking over a people who have forgotten what true worship means. We, too, are called to lament and to grieve over the broken things of our world: exploitation, poverty, violence, division. But lament is not where worship ends. True worship moves us. Amos challenges His people to move from empty performance to lives of practical righteousness—a life of worship is a life that acts. Join us in highlighting how our church and global partners live out justice and mercy in tangible ways.
When life feels overwhelming and daily responsibilities seem paralyzing, it’s easy to wonder: How could I possibly make a difference? Amos was a shepherd, not a celebrity or a political leader, yet God used him to confront injustice among his own people. Even though Israel had received God’s favor and His law, they continued to ignore His heart. Pastors Shawn Williams and Fabian Garza remind us that God’s call is clear: His people must reflect His justice and compassion. This message challenges us to open our eyes to the hurting, the marginalized, and the forgotten in our own communities and around the world. As we launch Celebration of Hope, you’re invited to step in and step up in the fight against injustice.
When Jesus met Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb, He called her by name. In that moment, her panic turned to peace, her sorrow to steadiness, and her tears to testimony. His voice brought clarity, comfort, and new life. Jesus is personal—He calls you by name in your uncertainty. His trusted voice brings hope and steadies racing hearts. This Easter at Willow, encounter the personal love of Jesus Christ calling you by name.
Jesus makes it clear—it’s not impressive works, public platforms, or spiritual performances that reveal a fruitful life. The fruit Jesus desires grows out of presence and daily connection, trust, and obedience shaped by love. Good fruit is not the product of our striving; it’s the result of remaining close to the Vine. And this fruit is not intended for the one who bears it, but rather for the flourishing of those around them. Jesus invites you to choose the narrow way, build a solid foundation, and let your life be rooted in Him.
God is not burdened by your prayers. We are encouraged to present our bold, faith-filled requests to the Father and participate in a relationship with Him. He says, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.” This isn’t about demanding our way—in the context of the Sermon on the Mount, it’s about aligning our hearts with God’s kingdom. Dr. Megan Marshman encourages us to examine our hearts. Are they aligned with God’s Kingdom? Are we praying boldly for ourselves and those around us? His response will always be good.
Judgment comes naturally to us, but it’s not always necessary. Jesus warns against allowing judgment to become condemnation, reminding us that every human is a child of God. In this message, we are invited to examine our motives and invite Jesus into our inner dialogue, where He can transform our pride and assumptions into grace and self-awareness. When we do this, we learn to love others and reflect Christ’s heart to a world that desperately needs less condemnation and more redeeming love.
Worry often disguises itself as responsibility. What we call “planning” or “being realistic” is usually our attempt to control what only God can. Jesus teaches us something better—to release the burden of tomorrow and trust that our Father is already there, working all things together for our good. Jesus teaches us that when God’s Kingdom becomes our focus, anxiety loses all power. Today, seek His Kingdom. Know that the God who provides the world also provides for each of us.
What we treasure shapes who we become. Our treasures aren’t just money; they are the things we cling to for safety, identity, or joy. Whether it's success, relationships, or something else, Jesus calls us to put our hope in Him, allowing our treasure to be transformed into a tool for Kingdom living. When we put our identity in Jesus and depend on Him, we find peace in generosity rather than panic in scarcity. Pastor Shawn Williams teaches how we can loosen our grip on earthly things and cling to what truly lasts.
Prayer was never meant to be a task to check off—but an invitation into a holy relationship. It’s not meant to feel distant, scary, or overly formal. It isn’t about perfect words; it’s about honest presence. Jesus gave us a simple yet powerful framework for achieving intimacy with Him. The Lord’s Prayer helps center our hearts on God’s glory, and when we make time to pray, we experience His presence. In this message, we are encouraged to set aside our fears, dive in, and pray.
We’ve all put on a show at some point, failing to practice what we preach. The essential practices Jesus teaches in Matthew 6—generosity, prayer, and fasting—are not intended to impress others but to transform our own hearts. When we seek to please God instead of other people, our “reward” might not come as applause, but as His presence. Pastor Shawn Williams explains that integrity isn’t about achieving perfection; it’s about purity of heart.
Senior Pastor Shawn Williams interviews former NFL All-Pro running back, philanthropist, and Chicago Bears great Matt Forté about his life, career, and purpose.
Many people think in simple opposites—fight back or back down—but Jesus’ teachings on love offer a powerful third way: loving your enemies. This radical love isn’t weakness; it’s a courageous choice to break the cycle of hate through forgiveness and honoring everyone’s dignity. As Martin Luther King Jr. said, “Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” Pastor Thomas Anderson Jr. unpacks Jesus’ call to respond with courageous love—an invitation that leads to genuine peace, lasting freedom, and deep spiritual transformation.
In the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:27–37), Jesus teaches about lust and divorce to help us understand how to honor others and keep marriage strong. He speaks against casual divorce and seeing people as objects, reminding us that marriage is about love, respect, and faithfulness. Jesus encourages us to choose healing and restoration, not just in marriage but in all relationships. Pastor Shawn Williams welcomes you to explore these important biblical teachings and discover how God’s love can transform our lives and communities.
When Jesus said He came to fulfill the Law, not abolish it, He revealed that God cares not just about outward actions but about the heart. In Matthew 5:22, Jesus teaches that anger—whether explosive or silent—can be as harmful as murder, destroying relationships, reputations, and the image of God in others. His call to reconciliation isn’t weakness; it’s a bold invitation to choose love over bitterness and peace over pride. Pastor Shawn Williams explores Jesus’ teaching on anger and how, through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can break free from resentment, pursue healing, and live a transformed life rooted in grace.
Jesus’ call to be the “salt of the earth” and the “light of the world” wasn’t just for spiritual elites—it was a radical, communal invitation to ordinary people. In a time of increasing loneliness, isolation, and individualism, this teaching from the Sermon on the Mount reminds us that faith is meant to be lived out together, not alone. Salt preserves and enhances, but only when it’s used. Light exposes and guides, but only when it shines. In this message, Dr. Megan Marshman explores how living on mission with Jesus means stepping out of comfort zones, forming Christ-centered community, and impacting the world with hope, love, and truth.
When Jesus opened the Sermon on the Mount with the words “Blessed are…,” He wasn’t just offering inspirational quotes for wall art. These powerful statements, known as the Beatitudes, were spoken to people living under Roman occupation—people whose lives looked anything but “blessed” by worldly standards. Yet, through these words, Jesus extended a bold invitation to a radically different way of life: one that honors the values of God’s Kingdom, not the world’s. In this message, Pastor Shawn Williams unpacks the meaning behind Jesus’ Beatitudes and explores how this call to countercultural, Kingdom-centered living still challenges and shapes the Church today.
What should we do when God calls us to radical obedience, especially when it disrupts our comfort, plans, or public image? In this powerful message, we explore the story of Joseph and his courageous choice to trust God despite fear, uncertainty, and cultural expectations. His example challenges us to choose faith over fear and obedience over convenience, even when the cost is high. Like Joseph, we’re invited to become part of something far greater than ourselves.
What does it mean to be chosen by grace? Dr. Megan Marshman explains Mary’s encounter with the angel Gabriel—a life-changing moment that reveals the power of God’s unearned favor. Though Mary was seemingly ordinary, she was called “highly favored” and invited to experience the impossible. This teaching highlights that grace isn’t something we achieve; it’s a divine invitation to trust God beyond our limitations. Like Mary, we’re called to surrender fully, embrace our God-given identity, and step into a greater purpose through faith.
Waiting can feel never-ending—whether you're longing for healing, a new job, a child, or the fulfillment of a dream. Pastor Shawn Williams reflects on the biblical story of Zechariah and Elizabeth, who carried unanswered prayers for decades. Just when hope seemed lost, God responded at the perfect time—showing that His silence doesn't mean He's absent, but that He's preparing something greater. If you're in a season of waiting, this message will strengthen your faith and remind you that God hears every prayer.
Many people believe forgiveness must lead to reconciliation, but those who hurt us can’t always heal us. Colossians 3:12–14 urges us to forgive as the Lord forgave us, making forgiveness a necessary path to healing—not optional. Forgiveness is an ongoing act of obedience that sets us free, while reconciliation requires both parties to rebuild trust and repair the relationship. Scripture shows this distinction: Esau forgave Jacob but did not reconcile closely, while Joseph fully restored his relationship with his brothers. Megan Marshman walks through the stages of forgiveness, how to discern when to seek reconciliation, and the difference between the two.
Forgiving small offenses like being cut off in traffic or a missed birthday can be tough, but what happens when the offense is much bigger? This weekend, we welcome Chris Baker, a tattoo artist from Oswego, Illinois, who founded INK 180, a nonprofit offering free tattoo work to former gang members and victims of human trafficking as a second chance. Chris grew up around gangs in Los Angeles and experienced deep loss, including holding his best friend as he died from a shooting. Years later, God brought Chris back to Los Angeles with an incredible opportunity to walk the path of true forgiveness. His story will show us just how powerful and supernatural forgiveness can be.
Emotional wounds are like paper cuts—easy to ignore until something triggers the pain, revealing hurt that still lingers. We often believe time or distance will heal us, but true healing comes only through forgiveness. The parable of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18:21–35 shows how withholding forgiveness traps us in bitterness, while Ephesians 4:31–32 calls us to forgive as God has forgiven us. Forgiveness isn’t about what others deserve but about living in the freedom we’ve received. In this message, we reflect on how forgiveness doesn’t erase the hurt, but it releases its hold, making space for healing, peace, and freedom.
In this message, Pastor Shawn Williams invites us to lean into Joshua’s bold declaration: “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” It’s a call to remember God’s faithfulness and make a fresh, wholehearted commitment—whether you’re just starting out in faith or have followed Jesus for decades. As a church, we’re stepping into the future with confidence, ready to raise up the next generation of leaders who will live with courage, purpose, and bold belief. Now is our moment to say together: we will serve the Lord!
In ancient Israel, cities of refuge reflected God’s heart for justice and mercy—places of safety, restoration, and a second chance. Today, the church is called to embody that same spirit, creating spaces where grace meets brokenness and hope takes root. As we step into a new season, Willow is boldly committed to being a refuge of radical compassion, offering holistic care and spiritual support that breaks cycles of hardship and restores lives across Chicagoland. This is our calling—and our moment to live it out.
Joshua’s bold “sun, stand still” prayer wasn’t rooted in perfect understanding, but in a life shaped by God’s presence and steady spiritual formation. Even in the face of fear and uncertainty, he trusted that God could do the impossible—and God did. That’s the kind of faith we’re called to today: one that grows through daily trust, deep surrender, and ongoing transformation. As we step into a new season, Willow is committed to becoming a church marked by bold faith and lives deeply rooted in God’s presence.
Pastor Shawn Williams reminds us that the fall of Jericho wasn’t won by might, but by surrender and obedience to God. The victory was already declared—God simply called His people to walk in faith and trust Him to bring it to pass. Today, we face walls of doubt, fear, and resistance, but like Jericho, they can fall when we move forward in faith. As a church, we’re stepping into God’s mission with a bold vision and surrendered hearts, ready to see lives transformed and the future shaped by His power!
As we celebrate 50 years of God’s unwavering faithfulness at Willow, Pastor Shawn Williams invites us to reflect on all God has done and boldly trust Him for what’s ahead. Just like Joshua, we step into new beginnings with our eyes fixed firmly on God’s limitless power, not our own. The same God who parted the Red Sea and the Jordan River is leading us today, filling us with confidence that His faithfulness then guarantees His faithfulness now—because the God who has done it before will do it again!
Rahab risked everything to follow God, trading fear for faith and choosing obedience over comfort. Her yes to God not only saved her family but wove her into the very lineage of Jesus—a once-outcast turned legacy-maker. Like Rahab, we don’t have to see the full picture to say yes; we simply have to trust the One who calls us. This message invites us to take that same bold step of faith, knowing God can turn our obedience into something far greater than we could ever imagine!
God’s promise to give His people the Promised Land began with Abraham in Genesis 12:7 and was echoed generations later through Joshua, who stood at the edge of that promise with courage and faith. Though the wilderness delayed its fulfillment, it was never wasted—it was a season of preparation. Now, like Joshua, we stand at the threshold of a new season, trusting the same faithful God to lead us forward. In this message, Megan Marshman invites us into that journey, reminding us that God is still writing our story—both personally and as a church.
Have you faced the painful reality of ending a friendship? In 1 Samuel 20, Jonathan honored his friendship with David by protecting him, even when it meant saying goodbye. Their story shows that true friendship sometimes means letting go with love, courage, and peace. Pastor Shawn Williams teaches that when friendships end well, they leave behind a lasting legacy of loyalty, grace, and godly honor.
Building lasting friendships takes more than connection—it requires humility, intentionality, and selfless effort. In 1 Samuel 19, Jonathan risked everything to protect David, showing that true friendship is rooted in loyalty and love over pride and rivalry. Philippians 2:3–4 calls us to value others above ourselves, reminding us that godly friendships thrive on courage, grace, and putting others first. Pastor Thomas Anderson Jr. shows how lasting relationships thrive through honesty, forgiveness, and care—rooted in Scripture and supported by psychology—reflecting God’s love.
Loneliness seriously impacts mental, emotional, and physical health, yet God offers healing through loving, faithful friendship. The friendship between David and Jonathan shows us how humility, loyalty, and sacrificial care create deep connections. Inspired by Philippians 2, Pastor Shawn Williams encourages us to lead with compassion, take the first step, and help others move from isolation into the abundant life God intends. Discover how friendship can transform loneliness into lasting community and hope!
Gene Appel, Senior Pastor of Eastside Christian Church in Anaheim, California, started his ministry as a 20-year-old intern and has since guided the church through significant growth and community impact. A graduate of Lincoln Christian University and honorary Doctor of Divinity recipient from Hope International University, Gene is also a global church leadership coach. Formerly the Lead Pastor of Willow South Barrington in the 2000s, he continues to inspire many with his deep passion for Christ and compassionate leadership.
Let’s welcome back Megan Marshman—dynamic Bible teacher, author, and Willow teaching pastor—whose heart for women’s ministry and global impact inspires many. Recently, during a trip to Uganda with her boys, Megan experienced a powerful shift in perspective—one that challenges the productivity-obsessed culture we live in and invites us to embrace a slower, more human pace. She watched her boys slow down, noticed rhythms of presence and peace, and realized how Jesus actually invites us to live. She always knew slower was better but had yet to see the impact of a slower, deeper, more human pace in herself and those she loves most. In this message, we’ll explore what it means to walk with God in time, not just in theory, but with our actual bodies, rhythms, and relationships because you weren’t made to hurry through life; we were made to abide.
Welcome back author Ashlee Eiland—a beloved part of Willow’s story who helped lead Young Adults, contributed to the high school ministry, and shaped Midweek services. In this message, we'll explore one of those questions from John's Gospel as Jesus encounters a man by a pool. How Jesus chooses to engage this man serves as a timely invitation to us: Do we, in fact, want to be well?
Lee Strobel is a former investigative journalist and bestselling author known for his compelling exploration of faith through a legal and evidential lens. Once an atheist, he became a Christian after an in-depth investigation into the claims of Christianity, which he documented in, The Case for Christ. Strobel served as a teaching pastor at Willow during the 80s and 90s, and has since written numerous books defending the faith and sharing stories of transformation. Today, he serves as a teaching pastor at Woodlands Church in The Woodlands, Texas and continues to equip believers to share their faith with confidence and clarity.
The book of Acts shows how the early church, empowered by the Holy Spirit, boldly spread the message of Jesus despite persecution and challenges. Even under house arrest, Paul continued to proclaim the Kingdom of God, proving that nothing can stop the Gospel. Just like the early church, we are called to live on mission, trusting the Spirit to empower us to share Jesus with others. The church is alive, and we’re invited to be part of this movement—will we answer the call?
Suffering is a part of life; following Jesus means embracing His call to join Him in it. Paul’s journey—filled with arrests, trials, storms, and shipwrecks—teaches us that hardship doesn’t have to silence or discourage us. Through it all, Paul kept preaching and pointing others to the hope of the Gospel, showing us that even in suffering, we can glorify God. Pastor Shawn Williams reminds us that Jesus is with us in every trial, and the Gospel remains our greatest hope.
Paul’s time in Athens was a bold step of courage. Surrounded by idols and intellectual pride, he took the Gospel straight into the marketplace, engaging with the great thinkers of the time. Even with the real risk of death, Paul stood firm, declaring that the Creator God had always been present. His courage wasn’t based on intellect, but on being deeply aware of God’s presence—reminding us that we don’t need all the answers to share our faith, just the willingness to step in when God calls. Pastor Dave Dummitt challenges us to be ready, wherever we are, to speak truth with courage!
In Acts 16, we find Paul and Silas worshipping in prison, choosing hymns of hope in the darkest of circumstances. Their unwavering faith led to a miracle, not only freeing them but also bringing salvation to the jailer and his family. Pastor Dave Dummitt teaches that worship isn’t merely about enduring hardships, it’s about transforming lives and pointing others to Jesus. Their example calls us to embrace radical worship, understanding that our praise has the power to impact those around us and lead them to faith.
Acts 12 narrates the miraculous escape of Peter from prison, underscoring the transformative power of prayer amidst persecution. In a seemingly hopeless situation, the church came together in earnest prayer, and God responded by sending an angel to deliver Peter. Pastor Shawn Williams emphasizes that faith isn't about having all the answers but trusting in God's power to move—even when the situation seems beyond hope. This passage calls the church to engage in bold, persistent prayer, trusting that God continues to perform miracles and work powerfully in the world today!
Acts 10 marks a turning point in church history, as the Gospel breaks beyond Jerusalem to reach the Gentiles. God revealed to Cornelius, a Roman centurion, and Peter, through a vision, that the Gospel is for all, challenging Jewish purity laws. Peter’s bold decision to enter Cornelius’s home, defying Jewish customs, symbolized radical inclusion. The Holy Spirit falling on the Gentiles confirmed that God’s Kingdom is open to everyone. Pastor Dave Dummitt challenges us to reconsider whom we’re called to welcome into God’s family—breaking down the divisions of our world.
Paul’s transformation is one of the most dramatic in Scripture. Once a fierce persecutor of Jesus’ followers, he was blinded on the road to Damascus, where Jesus called him by name and commissioned him to proclaim the Gospel. This moment marked not only his redemption but also his mission. Similarly, Ananias showed radical faith by welcoming Paul, proving that no one is beyond redemption. Pastor Shawn Williams teaches that, like Paul, we are all called by name, and our transformation is part of God’s mission!
The early church demonstrated radical generosity, sharing all they had to meet each other's needs, reflecting their faith in Jesus and God’s provision. Their giving came from love, not obligation, as they understood that following Jesus meant living with open hands and caring for one another. Pastor Shawn Williams challenges us to embrace this same generous heart, trusting that as Jesus gave everything for us, we, too, should hold nothing back in our giving.
In Acts 2:42-47, the early church demonstrated a profound commitment to authentic community, as believers devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, and sharing meals together. Their unity and generosity were powerful reflections of God’s Kingdom, as they gave selflessly, meeting each other's needs. This passage reveals that true community demands vulnerability, sacrificial love, and a willingness to share our lives with others, challenging the individualism that often dominates our culture. The early church’s example calls us to embrace deep, committed fellowship, reflecting God’s heart through genuine, life-on-life relationships.
Old habits die hard, and this truth is highlighted in Acts 1, where, even after spending forty days with the resurrected Jesus, the disciples still ask, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” This moment marks the birth of the church, and serves as a reminder that even today, followers of Jesus are called to embody its mission. To be His witnesses, we must first encounter Him personally—and this can only happen through the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. As Pastor Shawn Williams begins the Unleashed series, we’re invited to imagine what the church could look like in 2025 if it wholeheartedly embraced the Holy Spirit to advance the work of God’s Kingdom.
David Ashcraft, CEO of the Global Leadership Network, is a dynamic leader with a proven ability to transform lives. He grew Lives Changed By Christ (LCBC) Church from a small congregation into one of the largest in the Northeastern U.S. Now leading the Global Leadership Summit, the world’s largest leadership conference, David empowers pastors and leaders to drive lasting change in their communities. His story is one of growth, resilience, and a commitment to building leadership cultures that help churches and organizations thrive.
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!
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/
Imagine the moments leading up to the feeding of the 5,000. Why was the boy so close to Jesus with five loaves and two fish when no one else had food? In our own lives, we often face moments where we can choose to give what little we have, and watch God multiply it in miraculous ways. In this story from John 6:1-15, Pastor Shawn Williams explores the amazing story of the feeding of the 5,000 and how we, as carriers of hope, have a part to play! Just like the little boy who offered his small lunch, we see that no act is too small for God to multiply into something miraculous. Whether it’s a little or a lot, we all have a role in spreading hope and making a difference in the world!
Stories help us make sense of the world around us. But in doing so, we often make assumptions—about people, situations, or circumstances—only to realize later that we were completely misguided. Pastor Dave Dummitt explores how hope gets curious, shatters assumptions, and breaks down barriers to restore what’s broken! The story of the blind man in John 9 challenges our misconceptions and shows how curiosity leads to powerful physical and spiritual healing. As Jesus brings hope, His light spreads, transforming not just the blind man’s life, but everyone around him. And we’ll also see how this ripple effect of hope is making a real impact through our global partners, bringing healing, dignity, and restoration in ways only Jesus can!
What was it like to be the leper in Matthew 8? How long had he suffered, isolated from others? What gave him the courage to approach Jesus? We explore the powerful story of the leper from Matthew 8:1-4 and Mark 1:40-45, where Jesus shows us that He is our source of hope—expressed in tangible, personal ways. Just as Jesus reached out to heal the leper, He brings us hope through compassion and tangible acts of healing.As we kick off Celebration of Hope, we’re reminded that Jesus draws near to the broken and outcast. He continues to transform lives today, and we are called to bring that same hope to others. Let’s open our hearts, understand their stories, and partner with God in His work!
Life stages are inevitable as we age and make our way closer to eternity. We come into the world needing those around us to care for, nurture, lead, teach, and love us. As we near the end of life, we often find we need similar things: care, nurturing, guidance, and love as our minds and bodies decline. The full-circle nature of life is inevitable. Pastor Dave Dummitt teaches from Exodus 20:12, Matthew 18:1–5, and Colossians 3:18–25 to show what God says about parenthood and childhood—reminding us how we will always retain our childhood as God’s kids.
Trad wives. Toxic masculinity. Fourth-wave feminism. The “manosphere.” Egalitarianism. Complementarianism. What do all these terms have in common? They represent ways to view or interpret what it means to be a woman or man. They have helped shape our culture both within and outside of the church. Pastors Megan Marshman and Shawn Williams unpack Genesis 1:26–27, Genesis 2:15–22, and Ephesians 5 to show the beautiful harmony that can be achieved when tradition and cultural expectations are put in their proper place, and God’s vision for manhood and womanhood is elevated.
We all have multiple roles we play in life, whether that be a son or daughter, friend, parent, or spouse. From the moment we are born, expectations are placed on us that seep into the identities we take on. Sometimes, these identities fit, and other times, they feel like clothing three sizes too big—they weigh us down. We are products of our families, cultures, and environments—often, our circumstances feed more into who we see ourselves as than anything else.Pastor Dave Dummitt opens up Genesis 1:26-28 and Luke 3:22 to show the remarkable foundation of a life lived with purpose and meaning—the truth of Jesus’ identity. If the Son of God was assured of His identity before He set out to live into His purpose, how much more do we, as His followers, need the same?
There are real and major conflicts constantly going on throughout the world. When the conflict feels far, it can feel overwhelming to the point of paralysis. How could I possibly help? We might also tune it out because, after all, it doesn’t affect our day-to-day lives. In this message, we look to 2 Samuel 19:9-15, where David builds a bridge with his enemies. When we see the reality of conflicts, prayerfully seek God for guidance, and take a step forward, we can collectively make our world a better place.
You make choices that impact those around you every day. But what happens when the internal conflict you are dealing with hurts others? How do you deal with the conflict you have caused? Pastor Dave dives into 2 Samuel 12 and narrows in on a moment in King David’s life where he mismanaged things in a way that deeply and tragically impacted the lives of those around him. King David decided to take a step back from his kingly responsibilities and instead, ended up initiating an affair with a woman named Bathsheba. A marriage is destroyed, a couple of pregnancies happen, and people end up suffering. What a mess—and one we can learn from.When we have caused the conflict around us, the best course of action is to turn to God, acknowledge our responsibility, repent, and repair the conflicts we’ve caused.
The earliest conflict between people in the Bible occurs between two brothers, Cain and Abel. All the way back in the beginning of humanity, rivalry and dissension were present—everything from sibling rivalry, failed marriages, broken friendships, arguments in the workplace, conflicts in neighborhoods, wars, and much more. Pastor Dave Dummitt uses 2 Samuel 6 to bring understanding to the cause of conflict around us and to teach different strategies that help move us toward healing in those relationships.
We want to eat healthy, but we grab the donut. We want to stay focused, but we grab the phone and mindlessly scroll. We commit to prioritizing our friends and family, yet work obligations continuously win out. We experience trauma or grief, but avoid it instead of healing from it. We pictured our life one way, but we’re living another reality. Our lives are filled with internal conflicts. Megan Marshman teaches out of 1 Samuel and Psalm 13 to remind us that when we’re faced with conflict in our hearts and minds, we can find healing by surrendering to Jesus.
What is worship? We often think of singing, the worship band, or worship artists that lead us through songs praising God. That is a part of worship–but not all of it! Worship can be a much larger part of our lives than we might think. It can be extended into our prayers, our service, and even through Christian meditation. Put simply, worship is a way to remember what God has done for us, to thank Him for it, and to demonstrate to those around us what a relationship with God looks like; all while acknowledging His power and help.Pastor Thomas explores Romans 12 as he explains how worship extends into every part of our lives—from the moment we wake up until we go to sleep again—and how we can live our lives in worship.
Christmas might not always be “the most wonderful time of the year.” For some, it really is wonderful. But for others, it can be the hardest time of the year. Mourning of the life we thought we’d have or experiencing the first holiday without a loved one—Christmas can be filled with more anxiety than joy. In the midst of the challenge, Luke 1:46–55 points us to Jesus—the Prince of Peace—who is making all things right. Jesus, as the Prince of Peace, reminds us that this is only a glimpse of the goodness He ushered in at His birth and continues to unfold.
We learn through imitation well into childhood. We acquire so much from our parents—for better or worse—and often view God through the lenses of those experiences. In Matthew 19:13–14, we see Jesus rebuking His disciples as they turn away eager parents longing for Jesus to pray for their children. Pastor Dave Dummitt reminds us that no matter our earthly experience, our Everlasting Father is the unchanging Father we all long for.
When we think of the Christmas narrative, we don’t typically think of John the Apostle. Open to Chapter 1 of John’s Gospel; you won’t find any details about Mary and Joseph, shepherds, innkeepers, or a manger. Instead, John reminds us of God’s mighty power that brought the world into existence. This is a very different Christmas narrative, but it’s a powerful one! Pastor Shawn Williams dives into John 1:1–14, reflecting on the Christmas story, and focuses on Jesus as the Mighty God who walked among His creation to free us from what holds us back.
Where do you turn for advice? To your friends? Your family? Do you turn to the Internet or your therapist? There is a source greater than the sum of all the people and search engines we may turn to: Jesus, the Wonderful Counselor! Psalm 119:105 tells us how Jesus is the word and the lamp unto our feet. Megan Marshman focuses on Jesus as our Wonderful Counselor and reminds us that we have full access to His presence, His wisdom, and His wonder-filled counsel!
Have you ever experienced moments that have made you think, “Nothing will ever be the same again”? The greatest “nothing will ever be the same again” moment in history began with the most mundane of events—the cry of a newborn baby, delivered in an obscure setting to two ordinary humans. And yet, the announcement of Jesus’ arrival was anything but mundane. Pastor Dave Dummitt dives into Luke 2:8-14 and addresses how this announcement was indeed and is still good news for us as it continues to bring joy to all people!
Have you ever struggled to love someone who was different from you? What about loving someone who is in opposition with your really important beliefs and values? Luke 10:25–37 tells the story of a very unlikely stranger loving another very unlikely neighbor in need. Pastor Dave Dummit and Pastor Fabian Garza dive into the story of the Good Samaritan and remind us that God not only loves our enemies, but calls us to love our enemies, too!
We often think we have to go somewhere far to help those in need, but what about those facing challenges in our own communities? Matthew 25:31–46shows us how much God cares for the vulnerable and calls us to love them, too. This week Megan Marshman reminds us that the opportunity to love the vulnerable is closer than we think!
Does God love all people? Matthew 25:15–30 gives us a glimpse of His heart. Pastor Shawn Williams kicks off For God So Loves and shares how God’s plan for our lives includes loving those within our reach with God’s love and playing an active part in bringing tangible hope and peace to our friends, family, and neighbors in all spaces!
What would the world look like if the dominant leadership style was servant leadership? What would the country look like if the main interest of those in leadership positions—government, municipalities, schools, churches—were to out-serve one another and their constituents? Can you imagine it?
The heart of servant leadership is putting the needs of others ahead of your own while pursuing their good. From the moment we are introduced to Elisha in the Bible (1 Kings 19), we see this about him.
In our final week of this series, Pastor Dave will use the story of Elisha in the Bible to show us the meaning and beauty of servant leadership. As a concept, servant leadership came about in the 1970s. And yet, well before the business world could articulate a leadership theory, there were characters in the Bible who lived it out as a model for us to embrace and live by. How can we all embody servant leadership as our own leadership style?
What does it mean to be a peacemaker, not a peacekeeper? Which one of those do you think requires the most courage?Abigail in the Bible shows us what real peacemaking can achieve; she saves the lives of her entire family! But puts herself at great risk to do so. Most of the time, being a peacemaker is much harder than being a peacekeeper; because it means sticking your own neck out on the line and that’s hard for anyone unwilling to lead with peace to do.But we would want someone to lead from the front for us, right? Someone willing to go for peace and the greater good for everyone. And that’s what we should be praying for when we pray for our leaders, and ourselves.
When you think about the leaders in your life, be it your boss, a parent, teacher, governor, or president; do you wish for them to lead with hubris, or humility?Hubris leads a person to inflated self-importance, which in turn leads to pride and over-confidence. Humble leadership, as demonstrated by Moses in the Bible, necessitates a person putting others before themselves, and not relying entirely on their own way of thinking. In the story of Moses, he is face-to-face with God on numerous occasions, and each time Moses realizes that his leadership is weak without God. When we look at Moses’ life, we see a man of humility—even if his story isn’t always that way. This week, Pastor Dave looks at Moses’s response to his father-in-law’s instructions in Exodus 18, and various other parts of the story of Moses, to learn what leading with humility looks like.
At a time when our world is so divided and strained, it’s important for us to remember that, as Christians, we’re commanded by God to pray for our leaders; no matter who they are, or if we like them!
In the lead-up to the general election in the USA, we’re bringing you an important series about leadership, praying for leaders, and how we might incorporate some of the qualities that matter to God into our own lives and leadership.
In week 1, Pastor Megan Marshman uses the story of Deborah in the Bible, an inspiring judge and prophetess in the book of Judges. Biblical Deborah is an example of a leader who retains her integrity throughout. What does it look like in our own lives to retain our integrity in leadership? Let’s explore that.
It’s likely that at some point in your life as a Christian you have wondered how to pray. Perhaps it’s how to pray for something specific, how to pray a more powerful prayer, or simply “how can I pray to God and will He hear me?”When you have a relationship with God, just like any relationship, communication is an essential part of it. God wants you pray and speak to Him. Yes, He already knows everything that is on your mind and heart; but communicating that to Him helps your own heart and partnership with your loving Heavenly Father.This week, Pastor Thomas shares how to pray, and listen to, God. How to pray privately, regularly and genuinely. And it’s really not complicated! We look at Matthew 6:5-13.
When we think about all the religions in the world, what makes Christianity the one we want to be a part of? Perhaps you’re wondering if all religions ultimately teach about the same God - and how many gods are there? Don’t all religions basically teach about love and are equally good (or bad, depending on your POV)? There are so many questions. But that’s what we’re here to answer today: how Jesus makes the biggest difference in our lives because of the relationship with God He offers us. We seek to address the heart of this question: our desire to see everyone get into Heaven. Let's look at the book of John, chapters 14 and 15, to help us understand and answer this question.
What does the Bible say about sex? Let’s talk about it! American culture and the American church have missed the mark on what our sexuality is for and how to use it. From the falsely liberating sexual culture of the modern era to the condemning and damaging messages of purity culture, no wonder the students and young adults in our church are confused because, if we’re honest, a lot of Christian adults are too.
It might seem odd, but God really does care about who you sleep with and gives us all great guidance on how to be wise with our sexuality. Advice designed to help us live fully into our potential and purpose, caring for our entire being; mind, body and soul.
Pastor Shawn teaches this week on what the bible says about sex.
How familiar are you with the phrase “do as I say, not as I do?” Almost all of us have heard that said at least once, right?! Now how do you think you do with saying one thing but living another way? Think about how you present yourself to others and how you really live.Many people are critical of Christians, and for good reason. Christian hypocrisy is responsible for countless hurts to masses of people throughout history and even now. How can we claim to love others when so many who represent Jesus use the Bible or their faith to inflict pain? In week two of our series exploring and answering questions our kids are asking, pastor Megan Marshman addresses questions about hypocrisy in the Bible and the church. We walk through Matthew 23:1-7 and Romans 3:21-24 to see what the Bible says about the danger of hypocrisy and how we all need Jesus to help us.
Welcome to our new series, which seeks to shed light on and answer the hard questions kids and young people are asking about Christianity. We start with a question that is seen as divisive but shouldn’t be: What role do Christians play in justice, specifically in pursuing racial justice and racial equality?
Some people don’t feel this is an area Christians should be concerned about. But God created everyone and loves us all, so we should reflect Him and love everyone, too. In our love, we want everyone to enjoy equality at all levels, even if it means sacrificing something ourselves.
We are living in the post-George Floyd, post-Covid Asian racist attacks era. Racial justice concerns all of God’s children, beginning with the cultural mandate in Genesis 1 (26-28), where God commands humankind to care for the earth and all that is in it.
Pastors Dave and Thomas demonstrate God’s heart for justice, how the early church promoted and lived into this life of justice, and how we, as followers of Jesus, can engage in justice now.
Have you ever considered your spiritual gifts? Are you wondering what spiritual gifts even are?! God has given each person unique skills and talents, including you! But why has God given everyone spiritual gifts? So that you, and each person in the church, can contribute in unique and awesome ways to live out the mission–the purpose–of God’s Kingdom on earth.Pastor Dave explains why volunteering in church community, also known as serving, is so important to God’s plan for your life, and how you make a real difference in the world. Learn about how you can discover and use your own spiritual gifts to play your part in the church, your community, and the world!
This week, we’re asking: What good is knowing the Good News if we’re not sharing it? We’re often hesitant to share our faith with others because it seems too hard or too tricky to navigate, or we worry about how we will be perceived. Pastor Dave shows us how we can practically begin sharing faith with those around us through the B.L.E.S.S. model; an easy-to-follow way to live out the “great commission”, sharing the Good News, and relieving our fears around sharing faith.
New to Willow? Go here to find out more about our church and to see more great teaching: https://www.willowcreek.org/visit/Do you want to discover new joy, set aside shame and guilt, and live relaxed in the midst of stress, mistakes, and fatigue? Sounds pretty good, right?!In the final week of our Summer Book Club series, we hear from our very own teaching pastor, Megan Marshman, who shares brilliant insights from her new book, Relaxed: Walking with the One Who Is Not Worried about a Thing.
New to Willow? Go here to find out more about our church and to see more great teaching: https://www.willowcreek.org/visit/ We’re so excited to welcome best-selling author, transformational speaker and leadership coach, Ryan Leak!In our Summer Book Club series this week, Ryan teaches from his new book, How to Work with Complicated People. His book provides strategies for effectively collaborating with nearly anyone - and who couldn’t use that?! Let us know what you learn in the comments below!
It’s the first of our three-week Summer Book Club series, and we start off with author, preacher and Director of Theology and Research for Proverbs 31, Joel Muddamalle!We’re excited that Joel is with us to teach from his new book, The Hidden Peace: Finding True Security, Strength, and Confidence through Humility. We hear how Biblical humility can help you overcome insecurities and grow in self-awareness to step into all the wonderful things God has for you!
Oh boy. Here we go. It’s the book of Revelation (strap in for a wild ride)!A dragon, a white horse, a beast or two, trumpets, a woman clothed in the sun—what is going on? Read the book of Revelation and without any context or understanding, it may seem like it was torn from an epic science fiction novel. Typically this leads to two approaches: 1) those who think of it as a blueprint for the future, (yikes!) or 2) those who simply won’t read it because it seems like too much to try to understand (relatable).However, with context and an acceptance that the book of Revelation’s entirety cannot be fully explained, we can begin to see just how hopeful, necessary, and thrilling this book actually is! Pastor Megan Marshman takes us through it!
Have you ever overheard a conversation only to realize it was about something completely different? Context is key—in life and in reading the New Testament Letters! There are a lot of apparent contradictions throughout the Letters, some people point to this as a reason to disprove the Bible. But understanding the context and realizing the purpose of each letter, for the people it was written for at that moment in time helps clue us into the differences.
What are the Gospels? They are books of the Bible that provide historical narratives documenting the life and work of Jesus and the creation of the early church. It is in Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and Acts that we see God come to earth as a human, in Jesus. They also show how, as Christians, we are to live and love others as one of God’s children.
Last week we learned about the prophecy books of the Bible. This week we see how Jesus came to fulfill those prophecies!
The prophets in the Bible did some pretty strange things to grab the attention of God’s people and bring them back to Him. Understanding the prophetic books can be tricky if you don’t know the historical setting, so let’s use them as a framework for cultivating a relationship with Jesus, not simply religious adherence.
The Bible lays out fantastic principles for living, but even following them all doesn’t promise a life free from pain. We’ll explore the Wisdom literature to discover how we can seek wisdom, follow it, and find principles for life anchored in Christ.
Did you ever do something you knew you weren’t supposed to? Like, rebel against your boss, your parents, God? How did your boss or your parents respond? Probably not great.This week Pastor Megan Marshman covers the History books of the Bible: and, more closely, the book of Ruth. Ruth’s story in the Bible is set during a very dark moment in the history of Israel, where God’s people were rebelling against Him, doing what they thought was right by them. But what Ruth’s story shows us is that God’s plan will prevail. Humans can’t derail the progress of God’s grand design; as much as we might try!If you’re looking for biblical hope, the book of Ruth offers just that.
So, the Bible is a little long…and overwhelming. And hard to understand a lot of the time. Ever thought: TL;DR? Same. Same.So we’re starting a brand new series on the ENTIRE BIBLE. Yep, everything in seven weeks. If you’ve ever wondered “how to start reading the Bible” or what a good Bible study plan is, this is the series for you.Sound boring? Nah! This will be all you need to show how the Bible points us towards Jesus, even in the Old Testament. And discover how life-changing actually reading the Bible can be for you.We kick it off by looking at The Law books of the Bible. The first five books of the Bible, also known as the Torah or Pentateuch, can be read like a bunch of rules, but the Law books are so much more than that. They reveal the heart of God and His radical love for people.
What are “strongholds”? Strongholds are more than sins; they’re the patterns, addictions, behaviors, or traits that you might not even realize are holding you back from being the person God created you to be. The good news? The grace of God is available to all of us, and He will help you break free from the strongholds–the sins–that keep you from leaning into the full life He intended for you.We explore John 10:10 to discover where we’re stuck and practical ways to break free from what holds you back from life at its fullest.
If you’re the type of Christian who attends church a couple of Sundays each month and maybe reads a Bible plan on your phone app every so often, you’re not living up to your full potential.Just attending church is not enough to fully live out God’s plan. Our true purpose in life is living as the church every day. Wherever you are, that’s where God has placed you and He means for you to make a difference in the community right outside your door.How do you make a difference in your everyday life? We pray, we listen to and serve others, we get into Christian community and partner with God to love people–everyone–around us.Pastor Dave Dummitt finishes up the series in Ephesians 5:1-20, urging us to be the light of the world today.
Where does your loyalty lie? Your sports team? Your family? Your political party?What about with Jesus? Does Jesus sit at the top of your loyalty list? If not, we can become diverted from God by other things. As much as we might feel passionate about a cause we believe in, or fiercely loyal to our “people”; Jesus should always be the one you're most passionate about.And our loyalty to Jesus gets tested every day. The world puts pressure on Christians to live outside of the moral boundaries God gave us. But when God transformed your heart, you were made into a new person; loyal to Jesus and committed to following Him.And in that commitment, you heart should be expanding. Because your relationship with Jesus should be destroying any hatred or animosity for others. In this moment, what is your heart doing? Pastor Thomas Anderson, Jr. takes us into Ephesians 2 to demonstrate where our priorities and loyalty should really lie.
It’s easy for Christians to focus solely on answering the question; “how do I get into Heaven''? and getting others into Heaven with them. But when we break the real message of the Bible down to just that, we’re missing a huge part of it: God’s purpose for your life.God’s not only concerned about you getting into Heaven, He wants you to express Heaven while you’re here on earth. On earth as it is in Heaven, right? The bigger story of the Bible lifts up every human being as a valued member of the community in which they reside on earth–and it’s our calling as Christians to partner with Jesus in bringing love to our neighbors.This week, Pastor Megan Marshman shows us how Paul in the Bible reminded the church in his letter (Ephesians 1:3-14) of this truth: that God put us here on earth to change the world, and be a part of bridging Heaven and earth.
When you become a Christian you have to follow a bunch of boring rules, right? Well… sort of! It’s not so much rules as it is moral boundaries that God sets. These boundaries allow us the freedom to live fully in the beautiful life He has planned for us.Some people believe they’re being a “good Christian” by following the “Christian rules”. Perhaps they don’t smoke, or they don’t drink. They don’t swear or sleep around. They tick off the rule boxes like that’s the most important thing. But they’re missing the essential part: their heart.Many people have experienced church hurt because they have not lived up to an arbitrary set of religious rules and been painfully expelled by their community. But Jesus wouldn’t turn a woman away for wearing too short of a skirt, or ban an unmarried pregnant teen from His presence. He would treat them with the exact same love He would treat anyone. And that is what we as Christians should be doing as well. Your life of faith is less about following supposed “Christian rules” and more about pursuing what is good, so that all people can thrive. Pastor Dave Dummitt teaches from Ephesians 4.
What do Christians get wrong about Christianity? We can all be in danger of veering off in a direction that God never intended. In this new series, exploring the church in the book of Ephesians in the Bible, our hope is to remember the mission of the church as it was originally designed, and inspire you to be a part of it!When Christians think it’s all about us, we surround ourselves with those who look and think like us, and we miss the opportunity to have authentic connection with people who can stretch, challenge and support us. This week, we look at how our church, our community within the church, and being an active part of that reflects what Jesus began. How will you get into the community at your church and start making a positive difference in the wider community around you? Because it’s not just about creating Christian community for you, it’s about connecting with, and supporting, other people too.
All things are possible with God. No, really! Nehemiah’s story in the Bible shows us how, in partnering with God first, nothing is impossible. Nehemiah does what was previously impossible for 100 years–built the walls of Jerusalem–through his faith and partnership with God. What could that look like today for us?In our final week of Celebration of Hope 2024, Pastors Dave and Shawn challenge us and demonstrate, through the story of Nehemiah, how we can come together to help make big dreams come true and make a huge impact in the world!
Do you have what it takes to make a difference in the world? To change it for the better and to help others?
Yes! You do!
Nehemiah, in the Bible, felt like he had many constraints, but he was still able to use his influence as King Artaxerxes’ cupbearer and his connection to God to serve others in need. And you can too.
In week two of Celebration of Hope 2024, David Temfwe of the Jubilee Centre, one of our partners in Zambia, demonstrates how God has given us all that we need to use our influence, connections, and resources to help people around the world, and tells us how the Jubilee Centre is making a significant impact in the lives of the people they serve in Zambia.
What do you do when you’re faced with a big problem? Most of us do one of two things: either move quickly into action, or become overwhelmed and freeze. It’s fight, or flight, or freeze.When we think about how to change the world, or how to help people in difficult times, our best course of action is to go to God first. It’s a natural thing to want to help so badly that we rush in out of desperation or to feel so overwhelmed by the scale of a problem that we simply can’t find our way into action. And that’s where attuning your heart to God becomes incredibly powerful.
Have you ever been told to stop questioning and just believe? People say that with good intentions, but it can lead to a lack of faith. It’s perfectly normal and expected to have doubt and curiosity about Jesus and the Bible. Have you ever heard of “doubting Thomas?” In John 20, Doubting Thomas had witnessed Jesus’ miracles and heard Him teach, but he still wanted to see the resurrected Jesus for himself. Jesus’ response to “doubting Thomas” says a lot about how He welcomes, and even encourages, our own doubts and questions!
We know the Easter story—Jesus lived a perfect life, suffered and died on the cross, and then rose from the dead on Easter Sunday. But what would it have been like to be one of His disciples or friends at Easter? They changed their entire lives to follow Him; then everything they thought would happen shattered when Jesus died. Their own hope died. But then Jesus was miraculously resurrected and appeared to Mary and many others. While they didn’t fully understand the depth of who He was or what had happened, they knew for certain that He was alive! And that is what gives us hope for our own lives now.
Many of us have a fear of being alone. It’s a very human trait to suffer through feeling lonely and social isolation. But with God next to us, we are never truly alone. And God understands our feelings of loneliness and sadness; Jesus suffered terrifying depression and loneliness in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-46)and cried out to God in desperation. Jesus experienced the depths of despair so that we would never have to experience true isolation. As we remember Jesus’ sacrifice on Good Friday, we unpack the story of His life and journey to the cross to see how Jesus is God with us in all things.
We imagine Jesus as a very serene, calm and soft-spoken man. But, just like us, Jesus feels anger, and in John 2:13-25, He gets so angry Jesus flips tables!But have you ever noticed that anger comes from another feeling? The thing that lies underneath it causes an explosion that sometimes we struggle to contain; your disappointment, grief or sadness.But we don’t need ways to manage anger–it’s not about how to control your anger, either. God made that feeling; therefore, feeling angry is not a bad thing. However, we can express our anger in ways that do not harm ourselves or others. Pastor Megan Marshman helps us understand how.
Shame is a word and feeling we all want to avoid. Shame is often a barrier between us and God, too. Our regrets, all those actions and feelings we carry with us for years, weigh us down and make us feel less than worthy of God’s love. But that’s just not true at all.
In John 18, Peter denies Jesus three times, something he is deeply ashamed of. And then, in John 21, Peter is forgiven by and restored through Jesus.
You, too, can experience forgiveness and restoration; true healing and freedom from shame, guilt and regret. Pastor Shawn shows us how this is possible in our own lives.
Does God understand our grief? In the story of Lazarus and his death and resurrection, Jesus shows us that He lives grief just as deeply as we do. Even though Jesus knew Lazarus would be brought back from the dead, He still joined Mary and Martha, Lazarus’ sisters, in their grief and sadness. Jesus also demonstrates how, through Him, we can use our grief for a greater purpose; a deeper connection with God and with others around us.Pastor Thomas visits John 11 and the story of Lazarus in the Bible.
When Jesus turned water into wine at a wedding, it was not only His first miracle but also caused great joy. No, not because the guests got the best wine (but that did make them pretty joyful)! But because Mary, Jesus’ mother, saw Him step into His calling.
We can sometimes wonder how we can be happy. Or curious about where others are finding joy in this life. We can ask; what do I need to find my joy?
As we begin a new series on Big Feelings, Pastor Dave takes us to John 2:1-12 to discover how being close to God can bring out our own joy.
What is the power of our giving? Can our generosity change the world? In the earliest Christian church (in Acts 2:42-47), people gave so that others in their community were looked after. Orphans were homed, the sick were cared for, and anyone with a need was helped.
Jesus calls us to do the same in our world today! We can help in our community by giving generously–and remember, it’s not about the amount you give, but the heart behind it–we can meet the needs of others. What would the world look like if we all gave to help in our community?
What is a motivating factor in giving when you decide to give? It’s usually in response to a need; a heartstring has been pulled, and you want to help someone else. When something really hits home, we can feel like it’s worth giving sacrificially–more than we might usually, or perhaps we have to forgo something else to help meet someone else’s need..What if we gave sacrificially toward the Kingdom of God instead of out of abundance? In 2 Samuel 24, King David says “I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” How can we take a stance like that and what impact would that have on the world?
Church offerings, or the concept of “tithing,” is typically hard to talk about, hard to begin doing and often is questioned. When many doubt the church's intentions, what good comes from tithing? Tithes and offerings are all about generosity. It’s about how you give, not how much. It is an expression of worship in response to God’s goodness. And it’s not just about keeping the church lights on either. Generosity extends much further.Pastor Dave begins this series by exploring where the concept of tithes began in the Bible, in Genesis 14 and how our motivation to give means way more than the amount.
Yes, God’s will for your life is much bigger than you could imagine! God wants to use YOU to help heal, restore, and redeem the world. You can change the world in partnership with God’s work in your life. But how?We finish up the last week in our Divine Dreams series by looking at Joseph in the Bible, in Genesis 50 and Romans 8:28, and learning how he was used by God to reconcile his family and provide safety for his people.How will God use you in this world? Discover God’s will for your life and pursue your biggest dreams through Him.
Temptation is all around us, testing our character and will. Temptation also affected Joseph in the Bible. When faced with temptations such as seduction by Potiphar’s wife, a weak work ethic, and revenge on his despicable brothers, Joseph leans into his faith and resists, choosing instead to show kindness and keep his integrity.
Pastor Dave explores the story of Joseph in the Bible through Genesis –41, where Joseph takes his setbacks and temptations and allows God to use him in ways beyond his wildest dreams.
How do you hold onto your life’s dreams and persevere through tough times when others threaten to derail them or even actively hurt you?
The story of Joseph in the Bible deals with his struggles with a highly dysfunctional family and the ways in which they harm him (Genesis 37–40) when they dislike his big dreams for life.
Joseph holds onto hope through his faith, knowing he will ultimately achieve big things in partnership with God and His purpose for Joseph’s life. How will God partner with you to fuel your big dreams and achieve immeasurably more than you could on your own?
Many of us wonder: what is my life’s purpose? We have big dreams, but do they match God’s will for our lives? And what happens when obstacles get in the way of our dreams?
Remember when you were a kid, and you wanted to be an actor, a firefighter, or a marine biologist, but life got in the way, reality hit, and your big dreams fell by the wayside? Life has a way of presenting challenges that seem impossible to overcome.
As we begin our new series, Divine Dreams, we explore the story of Joseph in the Bible in Genesis 37 and how he persevered through so much, remaining faithful throughout and achieving his big dream.
It’s a new year; we’re all thinking about what we want to do and achieve in the next 12 months. Do you want to hit the gym, read those books you’ve had on your shelf for ages, or pick up a new hobby?
How about rest? Could resting well be a part of what you want to achieve this year? It’s different, sure! But God Himself takes a rest, and if He can, surely we should too!
God tells us to take a sabbath–a day of rest–because He knows just how important it is for us to do so. God wants you to be healthy in all ways: physically, spiritually, mentally, emotionally. And He knows that not resting well will affect those things. Rest is a spiritual discipline!
Pastor Dave starts us off right with a message on why we should rest well.
Once you make a decision to follow Jesus, you’re told to go out and evangelize to everyone you know; and all those you don’t know too. Ooof, that sounds scary, right?
What does evangelism really mean? We’ve all seen the guy standing on the street corner yelling at everyone to repent. But that’s not what the Bible tells us about evangelism.
Is evangelism a value we should be embracing? Yes!
Pastor Betsy uses learnings from the first century church to demonstrate what God is really calling us to do as evangelists.
The biblical Christmas story is one of peace and hope, but only if you see Jesus for who He really is.
When Jesus, the King of Kings, was born, King Herod felt intimidated and tried to eliminate the threat to his kingdom. What’s your response to Jesus? You can ignore Him, feel threatened by Him, or choose to follow and experience the wholeness He has to offer.
This Christmas, experience a relationship with the King of Kings, the one born to save the world!
If you ever felt like you didn’t fit into church or God wasn’t for you, you aren’t alone. The shepherds in the Bible were the first to hear the news of the birth of Jesus. The “lowly” shepherds, as they’re sometimes referred to, were not important, high-powered people.
Had Jesus been born in a castle or fortress, He would only be accessible to a select few. Instead, He was born in a stable, so even the outcast and powerless could approach Him. What would change if you saw that Jesus truly was available to us all? Pastors Megan Marshman and Shawn Williams take us through Luke 2 and the Christmas story of the Shepherds in the Bible.
In week 2 of our Christmas series,we look at how we can focus on the goodness of God in the busyness of the season or the chaos of our lives.
Jesus’ birth came at a most inconvenient time—or so Mary thought. Right before the birth of Jesus, His parents, Mary and Joseph, had to journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem, and by the time they arrived, there was no place for them to stay. Instead, a perfect God made His appearance in an imperfect setting.
How can we keep our focus on God when we face detours and distractions? Pastor Shawn uses Luke 2 to help demonstrate how and why keeping God at the center of our lives is so important, especially during busy seasons.
Christmas is an exciting time of year, filled with food, lights, traditions, connection, and gifts. But in the midst of the holiday season, we can forget that Jesus is God’s gift to us, and He offers us many gifts, too: peace, strength, companionship and direction. It’s easy to become fixated on the gifts, forgetting about the Giver.
What happens when we desire Jesus’ gifts more than Jesus Himself? Pastor Dave explores this question by looking at the historical setting of Jesus’ birth as we begin our Christmas series, What If It’s True.
Here comes the fruit of the spirit some of us really don’t want to talk about: ‘self-control’.
Why is self-control sometimes so hard? And what benefits can we draw from this fruit of the spirit to help our own lives and those of others? The Holy Spirit can help empower us to be masters over our own desires and destructive impulsivity. Pastor Dave concludes our series on the fruit of the spirit!
The Holy Spirit, using the fruit of the spirit called ‘faithfulness’ equips and empowers us to become trustworthy users of our thoughts, time, energy, and resources. By being faithful, we can most effectively use all of those things at our disposal to reflect the love of God in our embattled world.
Gentleness is a fruit of the spirit that we think we get, right? But how exactly can our being gentle, or using gentleness, bring us closer to living our lives like Jesus? And doesn’t that just make us weak?
Through the Holy Spirit, we’re empowered to live lives of humility, using our power, strength, and influence to benefit others. Does that sound like gentleness? Pastor Dave explains.
Which fruit of the spirit is probably the hardest to understand or define? Could it be ‘goodness’? We know what it means to be a good kid, or a generally good person, but ‘goodness’ feels a little more intangible. And it’s not just about doing a good deed, or being good natured.
As Pastor Shawn explains this week, the Holy Spirit empowers us to live lives of goodness by living lives of integrity.
Let’s look at the fruit of the spirit known as kindness. Why is kindness important as a fruit of the spirit? Because the kindness of God is an incredibly powerful force against injustice and cruelty. And when our world feels so full of injustice, we can work to restore the brokenness with our kindness.
As we continue to explore the fruit of the spirit, in this week’s teaching we learn about peace.
There are plenty of Bible verses about peace, but it's not just about having our own peace of mind; it’s about enjoying the peace of God that allows us to live fully at peace in a broken world.
This week, Pastor Megan Marshman takes a look at the happiest-sounding fruit of the spirit: joy!
Why is joy a trait of Jesus that we should be using regularly? Because the joy of God in our lives is strength against darkness. Ever hear the phrase “the joy of the Lord is my strength”? That’s what we’re talking about! Learn how to leverage God’s strength in your life everyday through the fruit of the spirit, joy.
Week 2 of our series and this week, Pastor Dave explores the fruit of the spirit “patience”.
Patience, or forbearance as it’s sometimes referred to in the Bible, is something we could all do with in our daily, incredibly busy lives. When impatience threatens to destabilize our mental and emotional health, the Holy Spirit can help guide us in healthy ways to respond, through the fruit of the spirit; using patience.
In this series about the 9 fruits of the spirit in the Bible, we will be exploring what it means to live like Jesus, with the Holy Spirit as our guide.
We’ve been given 9 traits of Jesus that, when applied to our lives through the Holy Spirit, can help us live more like Him. Why? Because that’s what we’re called to do.
The 9 “fruits of the spirit” reflect all the qualities we need to be more like Jesus in this world.
We start with the fruit of the spirit ‘love’, and Pastor Shawn kicks us off with a teaching about God’s love and how we can reflect that onto others.
Revelation 7 talks of every tribe and tongue worshiping God together in heaven. If Jesus prayed, “your Kingdom come on Earth as it is in heaven,” we better get moving on that type of unity NOW!
This week we enjoy a multi-lingual Spanish/English teaching from pastors Fabian and Dave about mode
This week Pastor Megan Marshman paints a picture of what heaven looks like both “up there” and down here, on earth. Where is heaven? Is heaven real? What is heaven like? The Bible reveals a lot about heaven; including what we can expect in heaven, and what we can do here to engage in heaven on earth.
We’re beginning an exciting new series on heaven with Pastor Megan Marshman, who takes us through passages referencing heaven in the Bible, Revelation 21 and John 4, to discover answers to a big question; What is heaven like?
What does the Bible say about heaven? Quite a bit, it turns out! It can be nerve-wracking not knowing everything about what awaits us in the afterlife, but what the Bible says about heaven is that heaven is a great place–an awe-inspiring place–and, perhaps, closer than we think.
We wrap up our series around the story of the Prodigal Son in the Bible, from Luke chapter 15. Learn how transformation, the ability to change your life, comes through the power of God.
What happens after we begin a relationship with God? It’s important to develop that relationship through regular rhythms of discipleship. Such as prayer, Bible study and worship. That leads us to real life transformation.
Does God love me? YES! He does! The most significant, life-transforming truth we can learn to receive, accept, and live in, is the truth that God loves us. He really loves us with an unending, unbreakable, unwavering love.
Pastor Shawn takes us through Luke chapter 15, verse 21, and the story of the Prodigal Son that gives us insight into how much love for us God has!
It’s week 3 in our series, Finding You Way Back To God, and we’re talking about how to satisfy our soul-wrenching desires through relationship with God, looking at the story of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15.
Just like the prodigal son’s father, God is full of compassion for you and actively wants to welcome you back into relation with Him when you’re needing help the most, no matter where you have been, or what you have done.
This week in our series on the Prodigal Son in Luke 15, we’re looking at what happens when our desires lead us to make choices we regret, or try to find our satisfaction in misleading places.
When we try to find quick fixes for our desires, they can lead us down a path of bad decisions and addictions to things that exacerbate our poor choices. How to change? How to get back to God and experience a renewed life? Let Him know you want help: “God please help me!”, and seek His wisdom.
Where do you need to find a new direction in your life?
What do you want for your life? Not just health, wealth, and love, but what do you want your purpose to be? Dive into the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15 to discover where genuine satisfaction comes from.
In our final week of the series, looking at short books of the Bible, we finish with Obadiah! Pastor Megan Marshman shows us how the book of Obadiah, in the Old Testament, provides a great lesson about shifting our focus from serving ourselves, to serving God and loving others, and how that shift can make life infinitely more rich. If you’ve ever wondered about what we can learn from the Old Testament prophets and Obadiah, this is a must-see video!
Have you ever held a grudge, been unable to let something go, or even felt at odds with yourself? God’s heart is to restore all people to Himself and restore communities, relationships, and even our internal worlds. Learn from the book of Philemon about how you can experience a new level of reconciliation and restoration.
We’re diving into a new series focussed on short books of the Bible, and we kick it off with Jude!
The Book of Jude is a one-chapter, short book of the Bible that’s really not a book at all, but a letter written by Jude, a half-brother of Jesus. But while the Book of Jude is short, it is packed with spiritual nutrition to strengthen our faith. He talks about fake teachers and leaders; to be wary of them leading people astray, and encourages Christ-followers to stand firm in their faith.
Pastor Dave takes us through the small but mighty Book of Jude and how we can apply it’s teachings to our lives now.
Sometimes it’s hard to know how to pray. Whether you’re just starting to learn, need a refresher on how prayer works, or just a boost in your prayer life, we can all turn to Jesus for guidance.
Because Jesus gave us the best prayer template: The Lord’s Prayer. Otherwise known as the “Our Father Prayer”, the Lord’s Prayer, from Matthew 6, tells us exactly how to pray, straight from Jesus’ own lips! This week, Pastor Dave leads us through the Lord’s Prayer and why our own prayers can–and should be–a simple conversation between us and God.
We’re continuing to explore the red letters in the Bible; the things Jesus actually said, with a couple of His most famous, and perhaps most misunderstood, quotes: “Love thy neighbor” and “love your enemies”. Pastor Thomas dives into Matthew 5 43-48 to discover why Jesus gave us this important task and what it means to reflect the radical love of God onto those we may find it hard to love.
So, you’ve heard of the infamous “unforgivable sin” and want to know exactly what that is and if you’ve done it. We all do! There is a lot of forgiveness in the Bible but perhaps you are wondering if there really are sins God will not forgive.
Pastor Megan Marshman fills us in on what the unforgivable sin could be and if we need to get doused in holy water immediately. We joke, of course, but there is a way to walk confidently in Christ by understanding this ‘unforgivable sin’. Looking at Matthew 12 30-32.
Who am I? How do I find my worth? How can I feel valued?—Do you ever ask yourself these questions? We can find our identity in work, or our value in money, but how sustainable are these?
This week in our series exploring the things that Jesus actually said, the red letters in the Bible; Pastor Shawn looks at Matthew 16, verses 24-25, and shows how we can know our true value and worth in something that will never go away.
Continuing our series about red letters and the things Jesus actually said, we look at Matthew 23. Did you know the phrase “practice what you preach” comes from the Bible and from something Jesus Himself said? We explore the passage from which this phrase began, learn the proper phrase and Jesus’ intention in saying it. HINT: Jesus doesn’t want or need you to perfect to be loved by Him.
We kick off a new series all about the red letters: the things Jesus said that are typically highlighted in Bibles using red ink. Red letters in the Bible tell us the words Jesus spoke Himself—and all too often Jesus is misquoted. So let’s look at those red letters and how they help us today. You’ve probably heard the phrase “judge not lest ye be judged”, but what did Jesus mean? Pastor Dave takes us into Matthew 7 and what exactly Jesus was saying.
When was the last time you did something just because it was fun? We wear badges of exhaustion, efficiency, and productivity, having lost the wonder and benefit of simply playing. In Luke 18:16, Jesus says the Kingdom of God belongs to children, so what does it look like to live with childlike faith and wonder? Rediscover the goodness of play with a message centered around laughter.
How do we invite God into our work life? Whether you are a student, a server, doctor, lawyer, teacher, caretaker, or at home with kids. Whatever your daily work looks like, God has a greater purpose for the everyday moments. This week Pastor Dave looks at what happens when we invite God’s kingdom into the places we spend so much time. When we realize that any place we engage with other people can become sacred space, God energizes our work.
Often, when we think of ‘family’ we think of the traditional nuclear family. Early followers of Jesus had a much broader definition, opening their doors to strangers, orphans, and widows. We will dive into Deuteronomy 6 to learn more about how to intentionally invite Jesus to be the center of our inner circles and to infuse more joy into these families.
We go to church, but how often do you experience God in your church? How do you worship when you’re disappointed with God—when that prayer doesn’t get answered or you find yourself waiting? Just like the Israelites in the wilderness, we are all fundamentally longing for God, but who and what are we actually reaching for and serving? Pastor Albert Tate looks at the book of Exodus and shares content from his new book, Disobedient God, to help you reframe your view of God so that you can experience His presence in every moment, even the ones when He feels most distant.
God is able to do more than we think or imagine according to His power at work within us—and He makes His full power and presence available to us. But how? Pastor Megan Marshman concludes Celebration of Hope and unpacks Ephesians 3:14–21 to show how when we grow in accepting and being strengthened by God’s love, we see Him use us to do immeasurably more to change the world.
What happens to our minds, hearts, and even our bodies when we begin to grasp the love of God for us? How does being rooted in the knowledge of God’s love, power, and community transform us? What is the effect of being filled to the measure of all the fullness of God?
Pastor Oscar Muriu from Nairobi Chapel kicks off Celebration of Hope and unpacks Ephesians 3:14–21 to show how it leads to a movement of people fighting poverty and injustice so that lives are transformed and Jesus is known.
The story did not end with Jesus rising from the dead. Shortly after, in Luke 24, the resurrected Jesus met up with some travelers on their way home from Jerusalem. The conversation proved to be life-changing, not only for them but also for others around them. Join us as we experience the story of transformation.
Each Easter we celebrate the truth that Jesus defeated death—but it begins with Him facing betrayal, beatings, and the brutality of the cross. The three days before He rose were filled with questions and doubts, but then new life broke forth, ushering in a Kingdom of hope for the here and now. Dave Dummitt and Shawn Williams dive into the final days of Jesus’ life on earth to learn what the truth of His resurrection means for you today!
We’ve all experienced it: The pain of someone breaking a promise, not following through, or worse, abandoning or betraying you. And yet, Jesus tells us to not only love those who love us, but to love our enemy and pray for those who persecute us. Easier said than done! Albert Tate and Dave Dummitt break down the betrayal of Jesus that led to His death in Matthew 26 and unpack what the reality of His response means for you today.
We are conditioned to desire approval—from gold stars and minor-league trophies, to good grades and performance-based raises. But what happens when the pressure of approval becomes your main pursuit? Dave Dummitt and Shawn Williams explore Matthew 21 to see how Jesus remained anchored in who God said He was as he approached Jerusalem. Discover how reorienting our perspective to see how God views us frees us from seeking approval from others.
Loss of any kind can leave you feeling hopeless, sitting in grief. When the person or thing you relied on is gone, how do you move forward? This weekend, Megan Marshman will share her story of loss and grief. Together, we’ll learn how to honor loss, discover hope for a new reality, and honestly and helpfully walk alongside others in their grief journey.
Depression comes in all forms and fashions, ranging from feeling sad or not feeling anything at all, to life-threatening despair. Depression is real and often hidden, which is why it’s so important to talk about it and create space for others to, as well. We’ll learn about the clinical side of depression from Steve Cuss, then see how Scripture is filled with people who were utterly hopeless.
If you’re experiencing severe depression or suicidal thoughts, please know your life is valuable beyond measure. Contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988 for immediate help.
Have you ever felt anxious? Whether your worry comes from setting healthy boundaries or having a panic attack, we believe true self care is possible. This week, Pastor & Anxiety Management Expert Steve Cuss unpacks anxiety, then Pastor Dave Dummit explores 2 Chronicles 20, Philippians 4, and Matthew 6 to discover how God can meet us in the midst.
What does generosity mean to you? Albert Tate joins us in our last week of the Life Hacks series, to talk about the Proverbs and what Scripture says about helping others. God is very clear that He wants us to live generously to help each other, and to meet the needs of others. Generosity is not just a nice thing to do, generosity is the heart of God for us!
Money is one of the top sources of anxiety and relational strain, but it doesn’t have to be that way! Proverbs is full of practical wisdom that leads to financial freedom and good stewardship. Regardless of your financial state, learn how you can untangle from the stress and pressure our culture places on money.
Living a life with no regrets - is that possible?
It might seem impossible, and it’s certainly hard, but God has a plan and has always used all your experiences for good, even the ones we might regret now.
So how do we move on, turning those regrets into positive changes that benefit us in the here and now?
Pastor Dave takes us through Proverbs 7, Psalm 143 and why it is beneficial to “enter through the narrow gate”, as Matthew 7:13-14 tells us.
What is a strong work ethic and why does God think it’s important, no matter what you do for work?
Whether you are in your dream career or whether you are working just to pay the bills, every day when you go to work your job provides you a platform; a place to do ministry.
This week we look at Proverbs 14 and Colossians 3, and discuss how to work well.
How to make friends as an adult and the wisdom God has given us in the Proverbs to help us meet new friends and be a good friend back.
Yes, God is concerned with your relationships and wants to give you His best advice on how to make friends, and, specifically, good friends. God Himself declared, “It is not good for man to be alone”.
Pastor Dave looks at Proverbs 6 and how this verse is packed with great advice for finding, and being, a good friend.
We’re kicking off our Life Hacks series; a dive into the Book of Proverbs and all the wisdom it contains, with Megan Marshman. Who wrote the Proverbs? And why? This week we get basic, but fascinating, as we explore the author and their intentions for Proverbs in the Bible, and what we can learn from them today. We look at Proverbs 1, 2, and 3.
In the second part of our two-part series, Future Focus, Pastor Dave talks about how we can serve the world by becoming a volunteer at church.
The church is representative of the body of Jesus, and we can all represent Him through our own work at church. We all have unique spiritual gifts we can use to help revolutionize our own local community, throughout our state, and even the world!
Every person matters, and everyone has a place on a team within our local church.
We believe God has put you in your neighborhood, workplace, and family for a reason: to shine as light and share the hope of Jesus with those around you. At times, sharing faith with others can feel overwhelming. Learn how you can influence others and develop a rhythm of asking God which one person He is putting in your life to BLESS so they can experience God’s love in practical ways–no strings attached.
We all love the meaning held in one of the most popular Christmas movies of all time, How The Grinch Stole Christmas. The population of the Whoville doesn’t allow the Grinch (2000) to steal their joy because it comes from inside of them, not from external sources. So how can we stop a grinch and keep our joy in the season? The holidays can be marked by stresses that threaten to take our hearts and eyes off the true meaning of Christmas. Pastor Megan Marshman explores Matthew 2 to help us keep our eyes locked on the real key to Christmas joy (hint: it’s not the perfect photo, ham or lights!)
There are some obvious references to God and the Bible in the classic Christmas movie–It's a Wonderful Life. George Bailey encounters an angel who shows him exactly the impact his life has had on the town of Bedford Falls. This parallels the story of Jesus and how He came down to the world in a very dark time to impact everyone on earth's lives positively. Pastor Dave uses Romans 15 and Luke 2 to demonstrate how real joy can be found in the Lord, even in the darkest moments of our lives.
We’re kicking off Christmas At The Movies with one of the greatest Christmas movies of all time–Elf! You’re probably wondering–how does Elf, from 2003, have anything to do with the Christmas story in the Bible? Pastor Dave will use Matthew 1 to relate Buddy the Elf’s family reunion story to how Joseph dealt with the news of Mary's pregnancy and the stress that it brought. Stay tuned each week as we exploremore classic Christmas movies and how they relate to the Bible and our lives.
As we head towards Christmas, post-Thanksgiving, we want to take a position of gratitude as we give our time and resources to others. Do you have a family tradition of volunteering at Christmas? Are there people you give more time, effort, and help too? Christmas is a time when we remember to give to our loved ones and to give to others in celebration of the birth of Jesus. It is important to do so out of our personal gratitude to God. Meghan Marshman teaches from 1 Thessalonians 5, "give thanks in all circumstances."
This week we look at a man in the Bible called Naaman of Aram, from 2 Kings, who struggled with finding gratitude over his owngreatness. Sometimes we can get in the way of our gratitude, just like Naaman, by not being a good listener. Naaman's story also remindsus that it's the simple things we need to do to show our gratitude to God. How much can you relate to Naaman of Aram, and what can youdo to listen well to what God is calling you to?
Have you ever given a gift to someone and they didn’t say thank you? Not a great feeling! Luke 17 tells the story of Jesus healing ten men with leprosy, and only one returned to express gratitude. Let’s learn how we can recognize God’s goodness in our lives and respond with thankfulness.
This week our Online Associate Pastor, Faith Schiller, teaches us what it would look like to "grow younger" in the church. In Acts 1:8 and Matthew 4, Jesus demonstrates His commitment to bridging intergenerational divides by giving leadership positions to teenagers. Consider how we might reach the people who will carry the church beyond ourselves and how we could learn from their perspectives, bringing everyone together and celebrating diversity.
We welcome special guest pastor Andy Stanley! Jesus modeled how it is possible to disagree politically and still love unconditionally. Pastor Andy Stanley shows us how, instead of being "in it to win it," Jesus came to lose intentionally. On purpose, but with a purpose. How can we become more Christlike by seeking to understand and love across the divide?
We will never be able to fully love like Jesus if we don’t choose to walk humbly with God. Jesus Himself, who was fully God, humbled himself to become man and face death on a cross. What would it look like if you set aside your position or pride and chose humility instead?
It can be easy to see the way others are “sinning” or falling short, but when faced with the opportunity to shame a woman caught in adultery, Jesus instead challenged the onlookers by saying, “He who is without sin can cast the first stone.” Showing mercy is central to the Gospel—discover ways you can better love like Jesus by choosing a posture of mercy.
Justice is at the heart of God; it’s central to loving like Jesus. Learn from Micah 6:8 and the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10) to discover what it means to seek justice in a world plagued with injustice.
We’ve talked a lot about taking next steps with Jesus, growing in maturity as Christ-followers. I John 4 uses the word “abide” six different times in just a few verses, echoing Jesus’ own words in John 15. This week we continue to explore that salvation is restoration of divine attachment, that growth is not a manufactured series of checklists and steps but a constant “abiding,” or making our home with God.
I am The Way, The Truth, And The Life: God is Love
Yo soy el Camino, la Verdad y la Vida: Dios es Amor
Co-teach with Pastors Dave Dummitt & Fabian Garza
We know about God's love for us, but did you know that God is love itself? And to believe in God is to love others too?
Sabemos del amor de Dios por nosotros, pero ¿sabías que Dios es el amor mismo? ¿Y creer en Dios es amar también a los demás?
All Christians have a responsibility to love others as ourselves. What does that look like in actuality? It means showing God's love in practical
ways to others, with no strings attached.
Todos los cristianos tenemos la responsabilidad de amar a los demás como a nosotros mismos. ¿Cómo se ve eso en realidad? Significa mostrar
el amor de Dios de manera práctica a los demás, sin ataduras.
John Eldredge writes that salvation is not just a one-time decision—a “get out of Hell free” card, but instead it is a restoration of divine attachment. This week will drive towards the heart of Jesus as expressed through the book of I John: God loves us, desires for us to believe Him, and have confidence and assurance that when we have placed our faith in Jesus, we are completely secure in His love. He delights in relationship with us and calls us to abide—remain, stay, and make our home—with Him. We can have
confidence, security, and rest in the promise of salvation found in Jesus. Megan will mention Rooted as an experience to begin to practice the spiritual rhythms that help us abide in Jesus. Campus Pastors will
hold the next step push at the end of the message with their own personal endorsements as well as sharing stories from their campus of those who have gone through Rooted already.
Vince Lombardi famously said to professional football players, “This is a football,” knowing that time and
time again, the foundational principles are critical to the mastery of a lifestyle. We want to teach our people to keep going back to the basic spiritual disciplines of our faith whether this weekend is their first Sunday ever inside of a church building or whether they have been following Jesus for decades. Our faith isn’t just a one-and-done decision; we take next steps, we stumble, we get back up and get back to the basics. Spiritual practice is the antidote to loving the world. We will emphasize Rooted as a communal discipleship experience for all of us to learn and begin to practice key discipleship rhythms that we come
back to time and time again as we grow as followers of Jesus: daily devotion, prayer, breaking strongholds,
sacrificial generosity, serving our communities, BLESS practices, and worship.
In the very beginning when God created the world and everything in it, He declared every single thing good except for one moment when He created man and He said, “It is not good for man to be alone.” We have been hardwired to belong with and among one another. But most all of us have felt isolated, alone, cast out, or misfit. This week we talk about the distinction between sameness and belonging. Every person has a place in the Kingdom of God to belong and contribute to the community. As the body of Christ we are to care for the parts that are hurting. We are to offer belonging to one another even if all some of our parts can do is be present.
Often life doesn’t turn out the way we planned – dreams are dashed, circumstances change, tragedy strikes,
and sometimes that can cause us to doubt our significance or impact. But you know what, I would say one of
the enemy’s most damaging tactics is to get us to believe the lie: Maybe, “I don’t really matter.” This week
we tackle lies with the truth: You have a purpose. You are a masterpiece and God has an assignment for
you. Every part of your life - including the hardest parts - are something God can use to comfort others, to
make an impact.
God designed our minds and bodies to function in a rhythm
that demands rest. We are not created to be able to function at max-capacity without rest and refueling. The
last few years have caused overwhelming stress, uncertainty, and the demand for most people to be nearconstantly
“on” in life, resulting in increasing levels of discouragement, fatigue, languishing, and burnout.
When life demands more of us than we have to give we start to redline, burnout, crash. This week we take a
look at knowing when it’s time to slow down and refresh so that we don’t crash and burn.
What does "Love the Lord your God... with all your mind" mean? Mark 12:30 gives us the greatest of all commandments, but 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ But we tend to neglect the mind part. Pastor Shawn talks with a mental health professional about how God wants us to be of a healthy mind, body, and soul and how caring for our mental health honors God.
How to speak to God or how to pray can be mysterious, even confusing. Pastor Dave uses James Chapter 5 to teach us how our prayer life can offer a great first defense line or help us step out into unknown and daring places knowing God has got us. And, it is easy! How to pray and speak to God are covered here, plus why prayer matters.
God created the world by speaking. And when God created us in His image, He gave us the gift of language marked by incredible power. But that power can either build up or devastate and destroy. This week we take a look at the power of our words and how to steward them well.
Pastor Albert Tate is back with us this week, talking about 'How We Love Matters' and how to get past any judgments
we may hold in order to serve God and love all people well.
Sharing faith can be tough; there's no doubt. Did you run out and tell everyone when you first became a Christian? Probably not. It can feel awkward, especially when it comes to sharing our faith with non-Christian friends and family. But, as soon as we decide to follow Jesus, sharing our faith and spreading the gospel is exactly what Jesus wants us to do!
How can we do that, practically, without sounding a little bit out there? Our Campus Pastors look at James 1:19 and how we can both talk about and show God's love.
Why does God allow suffering? How could a 'good' God want to see us in our pain and suffering? The truth is, He doesn't. But He does want us to come to Him with our troubles. God wants to help us in our suffering and gives us a framework to redeem our suffering and use it for good.
Pastor Megan Marshman leads us through James chapter 1 and the framework God has given us.
Unsung |Unsung Service | June 26 | Dave Dummitt We’re celebrating acts of service with our amazing volunteers! Jesus asks us to give of ourselves, our time, and energy in service to the ‘body of Christ’. But what does that look like? This week we’re bringing you stories of volunteering and how people have changed lives, even their own lives, being the hands and feet of Jesus in service to others. What are opportunities to volunteer near you? How can you experience the joy of volunteering? Get inspired by these heartwarming stories.
This week we celebrate all the men, fathers, and father figures in our lives! Guest speaker Jodi Hickerson, a Teaching Pastor at Mission
Church, joins us to celebrate her father, former Willow Teaching Pastor Mike Breaux.
Some of the greatest heroes are the people who call out the broken parts of us and walk us through the process of restoration and healing. This week we take a look at what it means to “restore a brother or sister gently,” and share stories of how lives have been changed and saved because someone courageously stood in the gap and walked the hard journey of healing with someone else.
Unsung | The Woman With The Alabaster Jar | May 29 | Miguel De La Mora Her name is not shared in the Bible, but she sure makes a significant impact! The woman with the alabaster jar, seen in the book of Luke, who anoints Jesus’ feet with her expensive perfume, shows us that no matter who you are, Jesus loves you. This woman sacrifices worldly possessions for forgiveness and eternal life with God.
This week in our Unsung Heroes series, Pastor Dave teaches about a lesser-known character from the book of 2 Samuel who demonstrates how God equips us to be courageous; Benaiah. Throughout Benaiah’s life, he shows up to all the challenges he faces and gets through them with the kind of courage that only God can give. Because of this, he became a valued leader under King David.
What battles are you facing that require Benaiah-level courage?
The story of Esther is one of a woman full of courage and faith, willing to step into a dangerous situation to save an entire nation. But this week, Shawn will take a look at the unsung hero behind Esther: her cousin, Mordecai. Through unseen, unseen, and overlooked spaces Mordecai coached, equipped, prayed for, and encouraged Esther along her journey.
Happy Mother’s Day to all moms, mother figures, and amazing women in our lives! Today we learn about an incredible mother in the Bible: Hannah.
Hannah did what any mother would do: feed, protect, guide, and pray for her son Samuel. And when she gave her son to God, God saw to it that Samuel would go on to lead and protect a whole nation. It’s this sacrificial love that moms display that can go on to change the world.
Thanks for spending Mother’s Day 2022 with us!
You've heard the phrase, "it is better to give than to receive," but is it? Teaching Pastor Shawn Williams explores through 2 Corinthians 8,
that's not what God is saying in the Bible. The Bible tells us that we should give what we can to meet others needs and receive in our own needs.
We don't give generously to help others as an act of charity; it's an act of reciprocity. We receive even greater gifts when we understand that we have much to learn from our partnerships
Where is God in the pandemic? What has God been doing during the global pandemic? Does it feel like
God has disappeared? Ron Bueno, Executive Director of the non-profit organization ENLACE, shares
stories of God's incredible work through churches in hard-hit communities worldwide and how God is
equipping the church to help rebuild these communities.
Join Willow as we celebrate Easter, 2022. Hear the story of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection from a new point of view, seeing that
hope isn’t something we need to search for actively; it’s already here.
When our world is shaky, we reach for hope. At times, it can feel far away—nearly impossible to grasp.
This Easter, hear the story of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection from a new vantage point, seeing that hope isn’t something we need to
search out, it’s already here. Come experience a hope that came near.
Many of us have heard of Jesus' miracle, feeding 5,000 with just five loaves of bread and two fish. This story in Luke 9 tells us about Jesus' power and His immense compassion for people. Megan Marshman shows us exactly how much Jesus cares for us all in this week's teaching.
Continuing our series in the book of Luke, we look at Luke 8, where Jesus is sleeping in a boat, then calms the storm on the lake, displaying His supernatural power. Who commands even the waves and the water? Learn more about the power of Jesus.
Read All About It: Seek and You Will Find: The Wisdom of Jesus | March 27 | Shawn Williams
The gospel of Luke tells us a lot about the wisdom of Jesus, who sometimes uses parables, or stories, to illustrate a point. This week, Pastor Shawn takes us through Luke 11, in which Jesus famously advises, "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find." But what did He mean? Let's find out!
As we explore and learn about the humanity of Jesus through the book of Luke, we look at Luke 4 and how the devil tempted Jesus. When temptation is keeping us from focusing on God, what can we learn from Jesus’ response?
What is Baptism? Baptism is a public declaration of your new life as a Christ-follower. But how do you know if you're ready for baptism? What happens through baptism, and why is it an important part of your faith journey? Learn about Jesus' baptism and why He did it.
What is Communion?If you've ever heard the word 'communion' and wondered what it was, why Christians practice it, or how to take communion
yourself, this teaching will help. Willow Creek pastors take us through the importance of the practice of communion, what each element means,
and how to enter into communion on a personal level. Communion is an important tenant for Christians to remember Jesus' sacrifice on the
cross. If you're ready to try communion, grab some crackers or bread and juice and practice along with us.
Abraham was a man who completely surrendered to God even when it wasn’t clear—and even when it didn’t make sense. The story of Abraham tells us what full surrender and trust could look like in our lives and in the way we steward the resources God has given us. Join Pastor Dave Dummitt as we conclude More than Money with a challenge to be generous in all aspects of our lives.
What comes first in your life? This week we're exploring the Principle of First: first things first. But, what should come first? Learn from
Robert Morris on how to prioritize and make sure we're living fully for God.
Did you know that God gave us a blueprint for money management? How can we use that to get ourselves out of debt so that we can save and
live generously? This week in our More Than Money series, Pastor Dave Dummitt explores what the Bible says about money, which Scriptures
talk about money, and how to apply that in very practical ways to our own lives.
Jesus said that we cannot have two masters. The way we use our money points to what we value most. What does it look like for the way we use money to be an act of worship?
Jesus said that we cannot have two masters.
The way we use our money points to what we value most.
What does it look like for the way we use money to be an act of worship?
How do you hold your wallet? Defensively? Protectively? Like a security blanket?
This week we will take a look at the different postures people take towards money and what Jesus has
to say about the role of money in our lives.
Our world has experienced crisis after crisis, and at times, the needs around us can be overwhelming. What if we became obsessed with seeing those needs change, one act of kindness, love, and generosity at a time? Kids would have homes, marriages would be restored, families would have food, loneliness and depression would lower, debt would be erased, justice would be found, and lives would be transformed in the name and power of Jesus.
It’s easy to love people who encourage, are friendly, and agree with us, but God longs for us to love all people across all boundaries, pursuing the type of community where no need is left unmet. Let’s seek to be an Acts 2 church, committed to loving how He first loved us.
At times, we can be selective about when and how we love God, but He desires for us to love Him wholeheartedly all of the time. We can display our love for Him in every area of our lives, from how we pray and worship to how we interact with strangers and live generously.
The Bible begins with light, and Jesus ultimately becomes the supreme Light of the world. Wherever there’s darkness, there’s an absence of God. But when we receive Jesus, we embrace Him as our light and are able to share His love, presence, and grace with others—He can shine through us!
On January 1, 2022 you woke up in the same life you had on December 31. Only something feels different. This year can be different.
But it won’t come because of wishful thinking, it will come with a new view of right priorities, and taking next steps one step at a time.
This week we take a look at the story of a man named Nehemiah who had a vision for what God wanted, and started getting to work.
God has good things for us, but it won’t come without us changing perspectives, adjusting direction, and courageously stepping forward
Gabriel encounters the shepherds and says, “Fear not. I bring you good news.” He announces that the fear breaker, Jesus, is here.
Good news that will cause great joy; good news that causes doesn’t mean life gets easier. Why did they say it’s good news?
Christmas means that all fear is conquered because Christ has come.
After 400 years of silence, God speaks through the angel Gabriel twice in six weeks. This time Gabriel encounters Mary, and her reaction to the angel’s news was very different from Zechariah and Elizabeth’s. A poor teen girl shows us that however small you may feel. God can use your life. If you are willing to live in faith.
Gabriel encounters Zechariah informing him that his prayers have been heard and his wife Elizabeth would give birth to a boy named John who would prepare the way for the Messiah. Through this encounter, we learn that what God does in you and through you while you wait is just as important as what you are waiting for.
For some at-risk youth in our communities, prison becomes a probability. Jon Kelly, lead pastor of Chicago West Bible Church, teaches out of Mark 5 and shares some of his own incredible story of imprisonment and redemption.
Greed holds onto resources believing that through wealth and resources we will have everything we need to stand up against life’s storms and struggles. But when we live with our fists clenched, holding tightly to the constant need for more wealth, more for ourselves, we cannot have open hands to receive what God has to offer us which is far better and more secure.
- Pride says I’m number 1 and everyone else is not. Humility says God is number 1 and I am not. Pride makes everyone a potential competitor. Humility makes everyone a potential partner. Pride always seeks assurance that you are number 1. Humility needs no proof as it recognizes that God and others are first. This is baptism weekend, so this will drive towards humbling ourselves before God, acknowledging our need, and giving our lives to Him.
When God’s provision isn’t enough. In Numbers 11 we God’s people have left Egypt but have not yet obtained the promised land. God provides everything they want, but they still grumble and complain. This week we see that envy is getting bitter when others have it better. But we combat envy with celebration and looking for the good right where we are.
Wrath starts as rejection that builds as resentment that boils up to retaliation. We harbor bitterness and resentment at the wounds we have carried and so we allow hate, malice, and wrath to build to boiling points that ultimately poison and destroy relationships and our very own souls. But God calls us to the freedom of forgiveness and release.
Overindulging an insatiable appetite. Binging. Gluttony is often a food issue but it isn’t limited to food. Binging entertainment. Binging in spending. Overindulging appetites of all kinds that never seem to be satisfied is a way that we try to fill the voids and cope with pain. But Jesus offers us true and lasting satisfaction and sets us free to receive good things like food and entertainment without looking to them for our ultimate satiation.
Lust is when we satisfy our own desires, rather than loving how God loves. God wants us to move from lust to love and fully embrace His plan for purity. There’s evil in this world, but more often than not, what’s most dangerous are the monsters within. These monsters lead us to become the darkest versions of ourselves, and too many times we feel isolated to fight these battles on our own. But we’re not alone. Even though evil tries to rob us, Jesus has already overcome it. Instead of falling victim to sloth, lust, gluttony, wrath, envy, pride, and greed, let’s call on the name of Jesus and clothe ourselves with diligence, purity, self-control, reconciliation, fulfillment, humility, and generosity. When we allow Jesus in, the monsters have nowhere to hide.
We often think of sloth as being lazy. But the reality is that sloth may actually look very very busy doing lots of the wrong things. Sloth is settling for what is easy instead of fighting for what is good. Sloth takes a look at what God may be asking me to do and then chooses not to step into it because it looks too hard or the cost appears too high. But faith calls us to courage and calls us to lay sloth aside to step into what matters most.
God uses our strengths, but God also shows off in spite of and even through our weaknesses. When we feel insufficient, ill-equipped, incompetent, or outnumbered God is positioned to work mightily in and through us to do great things. Gideon was hiding when God called him a mighty warrior. God looks beyond what appears to be, and calls out something more.
Against all odds, God is still moving in real people’s lives. Sam and Emmanuel Acho share personal stories of the importance of
cheering on one another, telling each other difficult truths, and above all, encouraging a deep relationship with God.
When a young shepherd boy came up against an incredible giant, he ran to meet the challenge because of his confidence in his great God. God had been preparing David all of his life to face that giant and to prepare him for what many might describe as an “unlikely victory.”
The New Testament Church was a group of unlikely, ragtag leaders who went on to change the world. Because Jesus was their cornerstone, this group of leaders was able to cross all kinds of societal and cultural lines to create a life-changing, world-shaking community.
God has been working in and through Willow for 46 years—bringing people into eternity-altering relationships with Jesus, mending
marriages, healing families, impacting entire communities, and sharing His Good News across the globe.
As we step into the future together, Senior Pastor Dave Dummitt and the team are excited to share about the hopes and dreams that God
has been stirring in our midst. Be part of praying, worshipping, and hearing what’s next for Willow at our Worship & Vision Night
- : How can we deploy people to be the church where we live, work, and play? Hosanna will teach from her new book “How Not To Save the World” which tackles lies we believe that hold us back from sharing the Good News of Jesus with those around us, with a specific focus on believing the lie that our prayers don’t matter.
Other lies people believe: There is no way for my loved ones to know God, no way for that person to come to church, I’m not smart enough, skilled enough…I attend but I’m not a part of building this church.
Hosanna will aim to challenge Willow to hold fast to the belief that our greatest witness will be our with-ness--our being with people.
What compels someone to risk everything for something they believe in? This weekend we look at the life of a man named Nicodemus and how he journeyed from hidden faith to public conviction.
How can we deploy people to be the church where we live, work, and play? Hosanna will teach from her new book
“How Not To Save the World” which tackles lies we believe that hold us back from sharing the Good News of Jesus with those around
us, with a specific focus on believing the lie that our prayers don’t matter.
Other lies people believe: There is no way for my loved ones to know God, no way for that person to come to church, I’m not smart
enough, skilled enough…I attend but I’m not a part of building this church.
As Jesus was leaving his disciples to go to the cross, he told them that he would send the counselor, the Holy Spirit, who would instruct them in all things and remind them of Jesus’ teachings. But how do we hear the Holy Spirit? How do we discern the voice of God in our lives?
Many people believe they need to have a pastor or clergy member pray for them; that God doesn’t hear the prayers of anyone else. But because of Jesus, we have been given access to the Father and we can talk to Him freely. He INVITES us to talk to him, to pray, and Jesus shows us how.
Too often we compartmentalize worship. We think of worship as this thing we do between 10:30-11:30 on Sunday morning. Worship is meant to absorb and soak into every hour and every place in your life.
Many of us are in a rhythm that is taking us down a certain path and leaves us feeling
frustrated & confused. We're off beat. However, there is a rhythm for your life that God wants you to live,
because He knows what’s best for you. And when the Word of God comes into our life and instructs us how
to live, it interrupts those other rhythms. To experience all that God wants for us, we need to learn to move
to the beat of His heart and not our own.
We cannot avoid conflict, but we can control our response to it. Will we seek refuge through our earthly desires, or will we trust God and run to Him, allowing Him to be our refuge, strength, and fortress?
We live our lives at a breakneck pace aiming to be as independent as possible, pursuing whatever we think will satisfy us but in the end leaves us hungrier and more tired than ever. But when we submit to Jesus as the Good Shepherd, we find rest, stillness, and the ability to follow the God who works for our good and our care.
Many people think of God as temperamental, just waiting to blast us for messing up, like God has a short fuse, ready to blow at any time. But the Bible says exactly the opposite. God has a long fuse. He doesn’t fly off the handle, he doesn’t over react. God is patient with us and we cannot outsin his love and the redemption available to us through Jesus.
Big problems are catalysts for big prayers. God moves through the prayers of His people, especially when those prayers are anchored in His promises. Using Joshua 10, we will look at how we can approach the problems of our lives as opportunities to see God show up in big ways. Sun standing still - never before had God moved that way - it moved the heart of God. Prayer + God can more than what we ask, think or imagine.
The tongue has the power of life and death. ... Gen 1 = words bring life; Gen 3 = words bring death. John 1 = Jesus the Word uses words to bring light and life. Then an application section on life giving words of 1. Affirmation 2.. Speaking the truth in love. 3. Affection
Big problems require big prayers. God moves through the prayers of His people, especially when those prayers are anchored in
His promises. When we pray, God can do more than we could ever ask, think, or imagine!
God had promised his people the promised land, but they would need to work hard and fight for it. God called Joshua to lead the people, and told Joshua he would need courage for the calling. Joshua was able to lead people to take the hill because of a clear call from God. In the same way in our own lives, we grow in courage when we gain a clearer picture of what God is calling us to do and when we are anchored in His word.
God’s people had to maneuver through the wilderness to get to the promise. A wilderness is any season of our lives between where we used to be and where we want to be, and moving forward from the desolate spaces requires tenacity and courage. This week, we will look at Joshua 3 and discuss what we should do if we want to see God do amazing things that move us forward.
God had promised his people the promised land, but they would need to work hard and fight for it. God called Joshua to lead the people, and told Joshua he would need courage for the calling. Joshua was able to lead people to take the hill because of a clear call from God. In the same way in our own lives, we grow in courage when we gain a clearer picture of what God is calling us to do and when we are anchored in His word.
Taking a look at a parent/child relationship. These days things seem to be falling apart for so many people, especially for
Parents & Children. Anger, bitterness, and resentment creeps in and relationships are torn. When this happens, a Parent/Child
defaults to sitting in either the Self chair, the Spiritual chair, or the Shame chair. But there is one other chair we can
choose...the Surrendered Chair. We are all in one of these chairs. What chair are you sitting in?
Our brothers and sisters can be our greatest friends or our biggest enemies. Looking at the story of Joseph and his brothers, we see heartache, but also redemption. When it comes to our siblings, are we able to forgive those closest to us?
Motherhood consists of moms from all across the board: working moms, stay-at-home-moms, single moms, adoptive moms, empty-nesters, and moms of children with special needs just to name a few. These moms gather and share what being a mom means to them, each coming from their own unique perspective.
From the beginning, family was God’s idea: a source of help, comfort, and friendship, but our families often fall short of those expectations. Even though our families may be broken, baptism is a way of celebrating those who’ve become part of God’s eternal, perfect family.
As Christians, we’re told to be a light, not hide our light. By being the light of Jesus in service to others, we show what can happen when a church works together to make a lasting legacy--worldwide. Jesus calls us to be a light to the rest of the world, so let’s be a church that is continually growing, moving, and giving. Let’s offer hands of help to our neighbors, near and far, and share the love of Jesus with them. We’re told to be a city on a hill that cannot be hidden: it’s time to let our lights shine as we serve, share, and give, being the hands and feet of Jesus wherever we go.
We want to be the kind of church that our communities would miss if we were gone. We want to be a church known for generosity and open-handedness where we live, work, and play. To do that, we ought to have a prayerful, listening posture (BLESS) with eyes towards meeting the real needs of people around us.
Everyone has the ability to change the world right where they are; be willing to learn, value others, and collaborate to make gospel-centered change.
Jesus calls us to be a light to the rest of the world, so let’s be a church that is continually growing, moving, and giving. Let’s offer hands of help to our neighbors, near and far, and share the love of Jesus with them. We’re told to be a city on a hill that cannot be hidden: it’s time to let our lights shine as we serve, share, and give, being the hands
The Easter story starts all the way in the beginning. God created a beautiful world. But while there beauty in the world, there is also pain, destruction, and devastation—so much so that we not only feel far from beauty, but far from the God who created it. And just when it feels like we are left condemned with the broken pieces of life in our hands, Jesus masterfully recreates and brings dead things to life.
- As we listen to the stories and the needs of people, how are we intentionally serving them to meet their needs? And as we build relationships, get to know stories, and serve people, we begin to gain the credibility to share the hope we have in Jesus.
Jesus modeled this by changing the world from the bottom, up. Jesus said, “I’m not going to change the world on a power trip. I’m not going to take over the government and change lives from the top down. That’s how the world operates. That’s what the world thinks greatness is. I’m going to change the world from the bottom up.”
Jesus communicated a LOT by the seemingly mundane act of eating at Matthew’s house with him and his socially outcast friends. Something powerful happens when we come across tables from one another and share nourishment. The first thing Jesus did after Matthew said “yes” to “follow Me” was share a meal with him. He didn’t have him take a class on how to be a disciple. He didn’t get Matthew started studying the bible and memorizing Scripture. He went to Matthews house to eat.
Jesus is the one we follow. His whole life was a blessing to the world. Every place that he went, every person he encountered experienced a “God moment” in his presence. Jesus lived out the BLESS practices in his daily life on earth, and he did that by beginning with prayer. If we are going to help people take next steps with God, we have to begin with prayer.
But we have to also listen. Get to know people. Listen to their stories, genuinely get to know people: their struggles, their pains, in the places God sent you.Jesus models this by showing us that He didn’t assume He knew what people needed. So He asked questions. He listened.
The best way to accomplish the Jesus mission of reaching and restoring is to be a “blesser,” not a “converter.”
At the heart of the Gospel is reconciliation. Jesus’ prayer was that His church would be one. During this message, Dave Dummitt will preach about the ethos of reconciliation, Jesus’ vision for His church, and how that starts at the individual level. Are we pursuing peace and reconciliation in the relationships around us? Dave will address reconciliation at Willow; sharing about ways the Elder Board and senior leadership team have been pursuing reconciliation with those hurt and broken from Willow’s recent history. Dave will teach towards ways we can link arms with the “Big C” church and go farther together. Dave will also teach towards racial, political, socioeconomic, and other needs for reconciliation.
Jesus understood exponential growth. By taking 12 ragtag, misfit men and training them, discipling them...the world turned upside down. We can live lives of exponential impact by following the ways of Jesus to be and make disciples. We also believe that the church is the hope of the world. New churches baptize many more people than older churches or churches that are not involved in church multiplication. Willow wants to be actively engaged in multiplying at every level---disciples, groups, teams, campuses of Willow Creek, and launching independent church plants domestically and globally.
As a church, we’ve spoken heavily about getting connected into small groups, but we are going to double-down. Part of our NEXT vision is becoming a church OF small groups, not just a church WITH small groups. We want to make “big church...small” with everyone in a group and every group on mission.
As Christ-followers, we have a unique opportunity to break down barriers and go where the people are, offering real and lasting hope.
Church can be fun and meaningful at the same time. Albert Tate and Megan Marshman bring their A-game to The Big Game as we wrap our series, “Game On.”
2020 took a hit on many people’s finances. Jobs were lost, businesses closed, and many people racked up even more debt. How to we get back in the game with our finances? Dave Dummitt teaches this week using Bible-based principles found in the book of Proverbs, Colossians, and I Timothy to help people, regardless of where they are financially, take next steps towards financial freedom.
What happens when we fail or make regrettable decisions? Does God condemn us and consider us done for? This week we’ll take a look at the most regrettable moment of a man named Peter and how God redeemed that moment to strengthen his faith and give him a do over so he could get back in the game.
Happy are the merciful. In the story of the Good Samaritan we see a man show tremendous compassion on someone others had labeled an enemy. When we remove human labels and instead look for common humanity we can experience power and goodness. Treat everyone like Jesus died for them, because He did.
Our physical health impacts our entire well being. But in order to have victory in living as the healthiest versions of ourselves, we have to start with right motivation. Our decisions about personal health impact ourselves, impact those around us, and impact our relationship with God.
A group of friends wrecked a roof to get their friend to Jesus; they were committed to relentlessly doing whatever it took for their friend to experience the transformation that only Jesus offers. What does it mean for us to live on mission, committed to doing whatever it takes to reach people with the hope of the Gospel?
What's in a name? When a new baby is born, parents give a name for lots of different reasons, but in ancient Hebrew culture a name set the course of a child's life. This week we take a look at the naming of Jesus out of Isaiah 9:6: 6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
It’s amazing how important a kick can be. This week we will take a look at one of the most significant kicks in history as we pursue understanding one thing: There is a direct correlation between proximity with God and Joy.
Matthew 1 digs into the genealogy of Jesus. We all come in here with scandalous schizophrenic family trees not just in our past but in some degree scandalous and schizophrenic ourselves. But that should never trump the fact that when you give your life to Jesus all of a sudden. You have a greater pedigree. You have a greater spiritual DNA. You have a greater genealogy that you can refer to when life doesn’t go the way you think.
Recorded for Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, IL.
Discover: https://www.willowcreek.org/
Watch: https://www.willowcreek.tv/
Divine interruptions have a huge impact on our spiritual lives because if we don’t recognize them and respond to them, we miss out on some of the most important things God wants to do in our lives.
Even during seasons when hope is running low, God’s hand of care is not removed. This week Shawn Williams teaches us that having eyes to see God’s goodness—gratitude—is a key ingredient to living a joyful life.
This is such a powerful moment. Do you see what Jesus is doing? He is revealing his purpose in this world as one sent by God to bring about restoration to that which has been broken. It’s the fully restored relationship with God that gives us the promise or guarantee that one day everything will be made new. And it is often our greatest seasons of challenge and difficulty in this life that bring us to the one who can (and desires to) restore us eternally for the next.
2020 has been an incredibly challenging year for the entire world. This weekend we will be meeting people in the wake of a major presidential election. Some people will be celebrating and hopeful, others will be frustrated or even fearful. In the middle of tough and uncertain circumstances we have a decision to make: do we trust God or not?
Using the story of Daniel in the lions den we are going to take a look at a decision each one of us. And in the lion’s den that we face we often come to that moment when we say “I don’t want to be in here, I don’t want to face this, I don’t know where to go so God I’m coming to you. Please let this pass by”
God is able. But what will you do even if he does not? This week we will look at Shadrack, Meshach, and Abednego and their confidence in God in the middle of dire circumstances. While they were hoping to get delivered from the furnace, God chose to deliver them in the furnace.
Ever felt powerless? What’s the secret to having peace and calm when you can’t control much of anything? This week Albert Tate takes us through week 2 of our Journey through Daniel to take a look that even in powerless circumstances we have access to an all-powerful God.
Have you ever felt like an outsider--like a foreigner in a strange land? Meet Daniel--the central character in our Journey series. This week we ask one primary question: How do you follow God in a culture that doesn’t?
This is such a powerful moment. Do you see what Jesus is doing? He is revealing his purpose in this world as one sent by God to bring about restoration to that which has been broken. It’s the fully restored relationship with God that gives us the promise or guarantee that one day everything will be made new. And it is often our greatest seasons of challenge and difficulty in this life that bring us to the one who can (and desires to) restore us eternally for the next.
People have been asking what is the next vision for Willow Creek in this new season of ministry. But the real question is: what is God’s vision for His church. This week, Senior Pastor, Dave Dummitt shares more about where we are going as a church.
God so loved the world that He gave His only son. He gave. He is the greatest giver, and wants us to experience more joy, more purpose, more freedom than we can imagine when we choose to emulate his generosity with our own lives. Open-handed living opens hands to receive real fullness.
Jesus crossed cultural lines to change the paradigm of people’s thinking regarding the greatest commandment, “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Jesus chose the disqualified and disenfranchised, the outcasts and the overlooked, to be his students who would in turn change the world. Jesus has also promised to teach us.
The power of life existed in flesh in Jesus. And yet in all of his power and authority, Jesus modeled the life of a servant showing us that the way up is down. Pastor Albert Tate teaches.
We seek doctors when we are sick, but Jesus does even greater work: he resurrects what is beyond remedy. If Jesus raises the dead to life, no situation we face is beyond hope or healing.
Many of us keep striving for faulty prizes: the house, car, family, & finances are our grown-up trophies. Turns out the roof will wear out, the car’s getting rusty, family isn’t what Instagram says it is, and that trophy broke years ago. This week we are going to see what faith in Christ looks like and how that can change the prize we strive for in life.
We live in a culture that says things like "Take pride in your work" and "Be proud of who you are.” But is it possible for pride to go too far? Could the limiting factor of joy in your life be due to pride? Join us this week as we look at the posture of pride and unpack a better way to lasting joy.
Life is hard. Circumstances can knock us down and threaten to rob us of joy and peace. But what if the story is bigger than what we see? What if it’s really true that God will finish what He started and that the end of the story for all of God’s children is good? What if we can really have lasting joy in spite of circumstances?
We strive to become great. We climb the ladders, aim for the trophies, and strive for the titles. Jesus has a thing or two to teach us about what lasting greatness really means. He flips the scripts to teach us that to climb up we must get low, and the best leaders are servants.
We strive to become great. We climb the ladders, aim for the trophies, and strive for the titles. Jesus has a thing or two to teach us about what lasting greatness really means. He flips the scripts to teach us that to climb up we must get low, and the best leaders are servants.
Sometimes Jesus calms the storms. But sometimes Jesus walks on the choppy waters with us. The question is: are we asking for big enough things? Are we asking for things that move us closer to Jesus?
Love being waterside in the summer? Jesus did too. This week we’re continuing “Summer at the Lake.” Megan Marshman takes us through a time when twelve men who had left everything to follow Jesus find themselves in peril on the water. Meanwhile, Jesus is...taking a nap? What do you do when life happens and it seems like God is off-the-clock.
Summer means fun in the sun and lots of water play. Jesus had a thing for water too. Throughout this series we’re diving into some of Jesus’ most profound moments in and near water. Albert Tate takes a look at Jesus’ most famous sermon to challenge us that what we perceive as ordinary will actually change the world.
Covid is not the only pandemic. In a culture that lives at a breakneck pace during healthy seasons, tens of millions of people suffer from anxiety, depression, and more. Suicide rates are on the rise. During a global health crisis, more and more people feel a sense of fear, hopelessness, and wondering if there’s a way out of the prisons of their own minds. This series endeavors to address the all-too-real mental health issues that so many people face by using the story of Elijah to highlight real and lasting hope that God offers in spite of circumstances.
Covid is not the only pandemic. In a culture that lives at a breakneck pace during healthy seasons, tens of millions of people suffer from anxiety, depression, and more. Suicide rates are on the rise. During a global health crisis, more and more people feel a sense of fear, hopelessness, and wondering if there’s a way out of the prisons of their own minds. This series endeavors to address the all-too-real mental health issues that so many people face by using the story of Elijah to highlight real and lasting hope that God offers in spite of circumstances.
What defines your worth? We spend a lot of our lives trying to do enough to feel like we measure up, meanwhile many of us struggle to wonder if we will ever feel worthy of love, affection, or respect. This week we're going to take a look at what God has to say about our worth. Pastor Albert Tate teaches.
I Kings 19:3, “Elijah was afraid and fled for his life. He went to Beersheba, a town in Judah, and he left his servant there. Then he went on alone into the wilderness, traveling all day. He sat down under a solitary broom tree.” Vs. 15, “Go back the same way you came and travel to the wilderness. When you arrive there, anoint Heazael to be king of Aram.” We think that there is no way out of the situation so we run from reality. We try to get as far away from reality as possible. Elijah’s reality is so distorted at this point. emphasize in this message how God meets his physical needs and then actually tells him to go back the way he came. The way back is the way out. There is a way, but it’s not easy, and a lot of the time it’s hard work. Part of the lie that is connected to this is that it will always be this way. I can’t change. My situation will not get better. I will always be depressed. I will always be sad. I will always have anxiety.
In a world experiencing crisis and rapid change, everyone is navigating new waters. Here at Willow, we are welcoming our new Senior Pastor, Dave Dummitt, and everyone is asking, "So, what's next?" This week Dave opens up in Matthew 3 and 4 to take a look at how Jesus began his public ministry and how that ought to shape the way we navigate through significant change.
It’s easy for any of us to forget what’s brought us through hard times and what will carry us into brighter ones. In Deuteronomy 8, as God’s people prepared to step into the Promised Land, Moses reminded them to look to who God had been. The one who freed them, defended them, fed them, mended them, and led them, is the one who would continue to be with them. Will we remember that our God is faithful in the wilderness and beyond?
Social distancing has quickly entered the common vernacular. But how quickly does social distancing devolve into social isolation? Some of us are further than we’ve ever been, and others of us are closer than ever. But are any of us together? How can we can lean on and learn from one another, each helping the other to stand strong?
We all left normal behind months ago, and as we look toward finding a new normal—one full of new challenges and real hope—we can feel weary with the weight of all that we’ve endured. Even when we know the power of the resurrection.... Even when we know the truth… it can be a hardship to live in the in-between, that place between where we were and where we will be. As we look at John 21, we’ll ask: How do we find what it takes to persevere?
We often wonder where strength comes from in times like these, and it can be easy to turn toward external options. But the strongest among us—and especially some of the moms we know—seem to possess a deep-down kind of strength. God longs to strengthen us in our “inner being,” gracing us with an unshakeable faith. But what is faith, exactly? Is it a wish? A belief? This Mother’s day, let’s explore a deeper understanding of what it means to have faith..
Most of the things in which we trusted are crumbling at the foundations. Perhaps the cracks had already begun to show, but this crisis has fully (and quickly) revealed just how fragile they were all along. Is there something greater in which we can trust? As the headlines shout facts that threaten to overwhelm us, is there a Truth that can stand even stronger?
When it feels like the whole world is changing, God suggests that one of the ways in which we might cope is by making some changes of our own. God invites us to have our minds changed, renewed, and transformed, reshaping our worry and anxiety into worship and gratitude.
April 18 & 19 | Ray Johnston
Throughout the pages of the Bible, calamities strike, desperation is on display, and empires rise and fall. But God has not changed, an unshakeable presence even when all of history has been in tumult. Even in troubled times we can let God love us, change us, and use us.
The invitation to follow Jesus is not filled with comfortable or predictable answers. In fact, even Jesus' disciples were struck with how sobering the reality of following Him was. In what ways have we made following Jesus about ourselves and our comforts? Where do we need to sacrifice? In what areas of our lives can we begin walking in courage and faith instead of timidity and fear as we follow Him? Pastor Albert Tate teaches from the book of Mark.
Jesus made himself comfortable with the ones who made most people very uncomfortable. Jesus saw that all of us are like the sick and dying, and like a doctor with the cure, he rushed into the middle of the pandemic. Who doesn’t measure up to our standards? Who have we deemed beyond help? Who would we prefer to cordon off from our lives?
Most of us believe in the idea of second chances... in theory. But when it comes to giving second chances to others or receiving them ourselves so many things can get in the way. Pride, fear, failure, and unforgiveness can hold us back. What can we learn from Jesus about offering second chances? And what can we learn from those who were willing to take him up on the offer?
To go, we have to leave. To take something up, we have to lay something down. If we follow, we can’t lead. The call of Jesus is courageous and uncompromising: to be a part of the world reshaping work of Jesus, we will need to leave our old world behind. Pastors Steve Gillen and Ray Johnston teach on the book of Mark.
What’s next? If we’re to have hope for tomorrow, we have to look to the past. Who has God been? What has God done? Psalm 68 is a love letter, extolling the triumphs, the character, and the heart of the one who made the universe.
PSALM 139: ALL THE LOVE February 22/23 - Megan Marshman
What if you really knew me? We get used to living life like we’re on a perpetual first date, hiding our quirks, our baggage, our past, and our innermost thoughts and feelings. After all, how could anyone love all of that, right? Psalm 139 is a close-up examination of our intimate God, the one who sees it all, knows it all, loves us all, and has all along.
PSALM 42: ALL THE HEARTACHE February 8/9 - Matt Wright
Is it okay to not be okay? Many of us feel the need to always put on a brave face, hoping to keep the world, our loved ones, and even God from knowing what’s really going on. But inside we’re hurting, heartbroken, or depressed. Psalm 42 gives voice to these feelings and offers them as an honest prayer, and a cry for help and hope.
PSALM 13: ALL THE DOUBTS
February 1/2 - Matt Wright
What if I have doubts? Sometimes the only thing of which it seems we’re certain is that everything seems uncertain. God feels a million miles away, and we feel abandoned. We wonder if he’s listening or if he’s even out there at all. Psalm 13 begins with a brazen question, “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever?” The Psalmist wants to know when God will reveal himself, when will he come through?
Is it okay to be seeking and wondering? Psalm 14 offers two encouragements for the person who is still searching for the truth about God. The first is that seeking is a great place to be; the real fool is the person who’s made up his or her mind without ever beginning the hunt. The second is that as each of us searches for God, he’s searching for us too.
PSALM 7: ALL THE JUSTICE January 18/19 - Eugene Cho
What about the world? Our broken world is filled with stories of transgressions and oppression. And whether we are among the “woke,” the weary, or somewhere in between, the Bible leaves little room for apathy and little doubt about God’s commitment to justice. Psalm 7 and Amos 5 are scathing rebukes of injustice, but they’re also mirrors we must hold up to our own lives, begging the questions: What have I done, and what can I do?
PSALM 51: ALL THE GUILT
January 11/12 - Megan Marshman
What about this thing in my past? None of us can escape the stain of sin, and most of us are helpless to avoid the spiral of shame. That shame makes us hide from each other and from God. But Psalm 51 shows us that the way out of the cycle of sin and shame is to go through. To come out of hiding we need to go through confession and repentance.
PSALM 23: ALL THE FEARS January 4/5 - Albert Tate What about when I’m afraid? Psalm 23 is among the most comforting and beloved of the psalms. But it’s written for real life. It’s written to remind the weary and the wary that no matter the path ahead, the darkness around, or the enemy nearby, even in our worst fears, God is near.
ALL THE THINGS
December 28/29 - Eugene Cho
The Psalms have it all. They reflect the full gamut of human experience and emotion, harboring no-holds-barred doubts, fears, and frustrations alongside sincere worship and praise. The Psalms also hint at the fullness of God, his character, his power, and his willingness to welcome all we are to all he is. Let’s begin a journey into sacred space.
PRISON PACK Weekend December 7 - 8 | Albert Tate
The Christmas story resounds with the message: You are not alone! Extend that message of God’s hope and compassion to some of the most lonely and isolated people this Christmas, the incarcerated. During services, we will assemble gifts for every inmate in the state of Illinois.
Throughout the sweep of the Old Testament, a consistent theme rings out. Whether through temple or tabernacle, in the best and the worst, God longs to be with his people. For generations, God promised to be with them, but the world had to wait for the full fruition of that promise. Finally, in the surprise and miracle of Matthew chapter 1, we see the great lengths to which God went to make the waiting worth it.
On His way to Jerusalem, Jesus passes through a village and comes upon ten people with a terrible thing in common: they all suffer from leprosy. He sends them off to the priest, miraculously healed, but only one returns to thank Jesus. What does this one man’s act of gratitude have to teach us about our own hearts?
Content in All Circumstances (Philippians 4:10-14)
November 16 & 17 - Albert Tate
Despite the overwhelming blessings most of us enjoy living in Chicagoland (when compared with the rest of the world), it's quite common for us to feel discontent, especially when we compare our situations with others. What Paul teaches, and also models, is that joy and contentment are possible even in the most difficult circumstances.
November 9 & 10 - Megan Marshman
Anxiety is something we all face, and Paul was not immune to it (Philippians 2:28). What Paul teaches us, however, is that peace is possible when we face trying times. It begins with recognizing God as the source of peace, turning to Him with our requests, and not forgetting to thank Him for what He has already done.
Paul had quite a number of personal attributes in which he could place his confidence. But what he
discovered after he became a Christian was that everything he previously clung to was like human waste
compared to the value of knowing Christ. Nothing compares to having a relationship with Him, so Paul
pressed on every day to get to know Him better.
Of all people, Paul should not be joyful. He’s been called to hard ministry. He’s imprisoned. He’s potentially looking at a death sentence. And yet a sense of joy permeates the book. How can we live with the mind of Christ and practice joy in all circumstances?
SHARE: Who We’re Becoming // Steve Gillen, October 12/13
As we wrap up, each of us have decisions to make about the kind of people we will become. We will only become the church we hope for when each of us chooses to become the person God calls us to be.
SHARE: The E Word // Eugene Cho, October 5/6
Evangelism has become something of a dirty word, funny considering that the root of the word means “good news.” What are the fears and excuses that hold us back from sharing the best kind of news?
9 SHARE: Wide & Deep // Steve Gillen, September 28/29
Jesus called each of us to go into all the world. But do we know people who need Jesus? Do we see their desperation for this good news? And do we go to them, meeting them in that place?
When You Pray // Megan Marshman, September 21/22
The disciples noticed something unique, something radically different in the way Jesus conversed with God. That fascination prompted them, in Luke 11, to say, “Teach us how to pray.”
PRAY: Learning To Speak // Matt Wright, September 14/15
What can often impede our prayers are our misconceptions of who we are and who God is. Our most real prayers are made possible when the real us learns to speak with the real God.
6 PRAY: More // Albert Tate, September 7/8
When Paul writes to the Ephesians, he doesn’t just tell them, “I’ll pray for you.” He prays for them! And his prayer pushes past their circumstances to the very heart of life in Christ.
5 WORSHIP: Growing in Worship // Eugene Cho, August 31/September 1
What role does the Holy Spirit play in worship? And in what ways can our experience of worship as a body (and with our bodies) spill into our everyday lives as children of God?
4 WORSHIP: Worship Begins Here // Megan Marshman, August 25/26
When we roll into church on Sunday it’s easy to think it’s just another service, forgetting that we’re together to worship a holy God. But what is worship? And why do we gather and sing together?
3 SERVE: Made For This // Matt Wright, August 17/18
Ephesians 2 tells us that we are created by God to do work he’s called us to do, so when we serve, we are more of what God has made us to be than at any other time.
2 SERVE: Just Like This // Steve Gillen, August 10/11
In John 13 Jesus wraps a towel around his waist, gets down on his knees, and does the job no one else deigned to do. And then he says, “Do like I do.” How do we join Jesus in his humility?
Week 1: Welcome To The Party // Eugene Cho, August 3/4
What if the Church were where the hungry came to be filled and where you received the best meal you’d ever eaten? What if the Church were like a potluck where everyone brought his or her best dish to the table?
Let Them Come
Steve Gillen | July 13 & 14
Pushed the fringes, kept out of sight, sent to the back of the line. That’s how Jesus’ followers treated the children when they
came to see Jesus. After all, Jesus was too busy, too important, too distracted to make time for the little ones. But Jesus said,
“Let them come.” He welcomed them, he listened to them, he looked them in the eyes, and there he saw the glimmer of the
kingdom he’d come to bring.
A Great Gardener
Megan Marshman | June 29 & 30
As the summer heats up, the fruit begins to grow; that’s what plants are made to do, right? But compare apples to apples and
you’ll often find a big difference. Great fruit is the product of a great garden. A great garden is most often made by a great
gardener. John 15 reminds us that the same is true for the fruit we hope to produce in our own lives.
Four Little Words
Steve Gillen | June 22 & 22
Four words... four little words with profound meaning tell the story of who God is, who we are, and what is possible. Those
words are: love, sin, justice, and rescue. Love is who God is. Sin is the mess we’ve made. Justice is what’s necessary. And
rescue is what God offers. But beyond those four words, God has given us two ways—communion and baptism—that help us
remember and celebrate the sacrifice and promise of what God has done.
FATHER’S DAY: LESSONS FROM THE GARAGE
June 15 & 16 | Steve Gillen
Whether intentionally or accidentally, whether we’re trying or not, fathers and parents of all kinds are always handing down lessons to our children. By watching the things we do, what we say, and the things that are important to us, our kids are learning. What would happen if chose to be intentional about the lessons we’re passing down? How can we think through the big things, the little things, and the fun things we want our children to learn?
SOMEWHERE TO BE
June 8 & 9 | Eugene ChoAn appointment, a commitment, a recital, a practice, a lunch, and on and on and on. So much of our time is spent herding our tribes and our lives from one thing to the next, desperate to keep the schedule on track. Is there a way to find relief from the constant hurry? What if we could stop being busy long enough to just be. And what if we asked ourselves the dangerous question of... why?
WHEN I WAS YOUR AGEJune 1 & 2 | Mike Breaux
Our world is constantly shifting and changing, and each generation faces new challenges and opportunities. But what are the lessons that can stand the test of time? What can the experiences and practices of different generations teach one another about how to handle family, parenting, and all the other relationships in which we live?
LET’S TALK
May 25 & 26 | Matt Wright/PanelSometimes it can feel like our relationships are conducted through tin-can conversations, muffled words reverberating along a too-taut string. We’re not entirely sure we’re being heard and not too confident we’re listening well either. Maybe it’s time to set aside our tin cans for some new tools while we explore how our ability to see one another affects our ability to hear one another.
SAY YOU’RE SORRY
May 18 & 19 | Eugene ChoFew things can damage relationships more deeply than unresolved conflict, creating distance, ambivalence, and bitterness that can usually metastasize over time. And the effects of unforgiveness are known to pull at the fabric of all our other relationships as well. How can we learn to give forgiveness generously and also to receive it graciously?
MOTHER’S DAY: HAND-ME-DOWNS
May 11 & 12 | Megan Marshman | Genesis 1-3How do we hand down faith and the lessons of life to our children? How do we make a lasting impact on the people around us? Well, the first step may be recognizing the things that are our job and the things that aren’t. Our job is not to change people but to introduce them to the life-changing power of the Holy Spirit. How do we as parents and as people create environments where our children, friends, and everyone around us can encounter God?
SPITTING IMAGEMay 4 & 5 | Matt WrightFor better or worse, we each bear the telltale marks of the families that made us; we hold the hurts and hopes that were fostered in us from our earliest memories. But how do we sort the good from the bad, holding on to the best parts and releasing the rest? And how do we learn to embrace our place in a different kind of family, as the children of a loving God?
Have you ever lost anything?
Something really precious?
Something of such worth that you’d do anything to get it back?
Jesus had a lot of things to say about lost things. Two of his stories
have captured the minds and hearts of people for centuries.
One story tells about a child who lost his way and wondered whether
he’d ever be welcome home again. That child finally went looking for a
way to come home.
Another story tells about a sheep who wandered off and the shepherd
left the whole flock to find the one. That shepherd went on a rescue
mission for that sheep.
These stories are Easter stories because they help us begin to grasp
the unfathomable truths of what Jesus did, the cataclysmic lengths he
went to to welcome us and bring us home. No matter how far we’ve
wandered, we’re always welcome. And no matter the cost, God is
relentlessly pursuing.
Easter is a celebration of when Jesus made a way for us all to find our
way home.
GIVE
April 13 & 14 • Steve Gillen
His time. His love. His creation. His resources. His affirmation. His purpose. His plan. His mercy. His
restoration. His glory. His Son. Our God gives and gives and gives and gives. And gives some more. He
is giving hope and a future to people around the world, and one of the ways we can partner with him is
by giving too. This isn’t a one-time kind of giving but an emptying out. God asks us to GIVE of our time,
our hearts, our abilities, and our resources to join what he has in store for the restoration of everything.
Each year we’ve heard stories of the work God is doing through our partners around the world. These stories have consistently helped to GROW our understanding of the deep needs of those around the world and GROW our faith in a God who is big enough to supply the very deepest of those needs.
This year, we’ll be hearing from many of our partners in person as they share the places where they’ve seen God at work, where they’re still waiting, and what God may be calling them to next.
GO
March 30 & 31 • Eugene Cho
Jesus called us to live lives that are characterized by going. But the command to GO is about more than simply signing on to a project. GO is about going out of our comfort zones. It’s about going where we have proximity to a need we may never have seen up close. It’s about going beyond what is comfortable, what is familiar, what we’ve done before. When we GO in these kinds of ways, God can use our disorientation to change us and change his world.
HEALTHY, WEALTHY, AND FOOLISH
MARK 10:17-23 | MARCH 23-24 | ALBERT TATE
He has everything, youth, money, and a world of opportunity. When the rich, young ruler comes to Jesus, it appears as
though every door is open to him, but Jesus can see that he’s living in a prison of his own choosing, his heart held fast by
his fortune. How do we keep from letting money make a fool out of us?
THE ADVENTURE OF SURRENDER
2 CORINTHIANS 8:1-5 | MARCH 16-17 | STEVE GILLEN
We often approach financial advice in the same way a child approaches his or her chores. We do it “because so-and-so said
so.” What if, instead of following God’s teaching on money “because he told me to,” we followed because we get to?
What if we began to see that God’s guidance on money is an open invitation to an exciting and surprising adventure?
MONEY THAT MATTERS
LUKE 12: 13-21 | MARCH 9-10 | EUGENE CHO
Money is the second-most talked about topic in the pages of scripture, referencing the subject well over 2,000 times.
Taken together, these passages paint a picture of finances that is personal, practical, and eternal. God wants to free us,
help us, and make us part of something much bigger, an eternal future that is truly worth our investment.
JOHN 20:1-31, 11:25, ROM 6:4 | MAR 2-3 | STEVE GILLEN
The tomb is empty. His followers are stunned. Then Mary
Magdalene sees him, followed by most of the disciples,
and finally, Thomas. The crestfallen, the terrified, and the
incredulous have all become convinced: Jesus has risen!
John makes his intentions clear. He’s shared this story so
“that you may believe... and by believing you may have
life.” For all of those who, like Mary, cry out “I have seen
the Lord!” baptism is a symbol of the resurrection that has
occurred in our own lives.
JOHN 17:20-23 | FEB 23-24 | ALBERT TATE
Three years of teaching, ministering, provoking, healing,
and friendship are drawing to a close. Jesus and his
closest friends are gathered for a final meal, a fact only
Jesus fully understands. At the end of the meal, he looks
heavenward and starts to pray: Father, make them one. He
knows that the coming hours will challenge them. He
knows that the coming centuries will be a challenge for all
of us, one that continually threatens to rip the church apart.
But the church can be one, united in Spirit and purpose!
Do As I Do
JOHN 13:1-17 | FEB 16-17 | DANIELLE STRICKLAND
Garbage. Sewage. Filth. The streets Jesus and his friends
walk aren’t pretty. Neither are their feet. And yet Jesus,
disregarding every cultural norm, gets down on his knees
and washes the feet of his followers. Jesus’ whole mission
on earth was one long act of service, one that shouldn’t
ever end because it continues to this day... in us. We’re
called to serve the poor, the hurting, the disenfranchised,
and our brothers and sisters in the faith. Will we accept the
challenge to do as he has done?
JOHN 11:11-15, 25, 33-43 | FEB 9-10 | STEVE GILLEN
Jesus’ friend, Lazarus, has died. When Jesus arrives, he’s
already been in the tomb four days. Lazarus’ sister, Martha,
tells Jesus, “You’re too late.” But Jesus knows he’s come
at the perfect time. As with all of the miracles John
mentions in his book, this one points to a deeper truth,
unveils some part of who Jesus is. Jesus holds the power
over all things, including death. In his words, in his tears,
and in his miracle we get a glimpse of Jesus’ whole
purpose. He offers life to all of us!
A massive crowd is following Jesus, and they’re hungry. As
is often the case, Jesus is the first to perceive their need.
He turns to his disciples, “What do you think we should
do?” They scramble. Then they come up with a hopeless
plan. But Jesus has a plan too, he’s had it the whole time, a
way to use their meager efforts to make something much
bigger. Jesus can provide in ways we cannot foresee,
cannot even imagine. Where do we need him in our lives?
And might he have even more to offer than we realize?
JOHN 1:35-39 | JAN 26-27 | MIKE BREAUX
John’s book begins like a movie. A dramatic and poetic
prologue sets the scene. A supporting player summons us
to anticipate the arrival of a promised hero. And then, as
that hero steps into the light, we wonder who he might be,
awaiting his very first line. Those first words come in the
form of a question: What do you want? That question is
closely followed by an invitation: Come and see. Over the
next six weeks, let’s try to answer Jesus’ question and
even accept his invitation to come and see who he really is.
Before this was the calling of
Martin Luther King, Jr., it was the
message of Jesus.
Jesus brought a message of
justice and crossed lines of
prejudice. When we take a look
at the stories, he told we find that
many of the main characters, the
heroes aren’t who we’d expect.
They’re the down-and-out and
the disenfranchised, the hated
and the hurting.
But Jesus didn’t just tell stories
of those kinds of people, he
entered into their stories with
them.
In fact, he went out of his way to
do so.
In John chapter 4 we read the
account of when Jesus took the
path no one expected him to
take so that he could enter into
the story of a lonely woman at a
well. Throughout their encounter,
Jesus knocks down stereotypes,
prejudices, and expectations,
and through this scene, we begin
to see answers to some of our
biggest questions.
We are a body of many parts, but diversity alone does not guarantee that all those parts will work together. True community requires diversity, humility, empathy, and... most of all... love. Love is the rebar in the concrete of community, the undergirding for all of it. And without love, well, we’re nothing but clanging and chaos. Will we let love come alive among us?
Life tells us the lie that we are better off alone, that in isolation we show our real strength. The writer of Ecclesiastes tells a very different tale. - “Two are better than one.”
- “Three strands are not quickly broken.”
The message is clear... we need one another. Life will inevitably bring calamity, but who will be there with you when it comes?