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Trinity United Methodist Church
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How do we learn to be called by the spirit to spread the love and the good news while we cannot gather together in a single space? How do we focus on being the church while not being within the church? How can finding God in our solace and isolation be more meaningful than depending on a space to worship in?
How do we learn to be called by the spirit to spread the love and the good news while we cannot gather together in a single space? How do we focus on being the church while not being within the church? How can finding God in our solace and isolation be more meaningful than depending on a space to worship in?
It's hard to know what to do with this story of Jesus's ascension into heaven. His sticking around the disciples in the Easter season, it was never meant to be permanent. When we understand that God's grace and mercy is with us, it gives us a certain clarity to deal with life without the physical presence of Jesus on Earth. Jesus's ascension gives us joy as to what is to come because we know he is in control.
It's hard to know what to do with this story of Jesus's ascension into heaven. His sticking around the disciples in the Easter season, it was never meant to be permanent. When we understand that God's grace and mercy is with us, it gives us a certain clarity to deal with life without the physical presence of Jesus on Earth. Jesus's ascension gives us joy as to what is to come because we know he is in control.
What do we do when Jesus isn't in a visible, physical state beside us? When he raises from the dead and ascends into heaven, how do we continue on with what we have seen, learned, and marveled at? How do we conduct ourselves?
In Paul's letter to the Corinthians, he speaks about all of the faults and issues he has with the way they are dealing with faith. Most importantly, he is most concerned about the way they have watered down the gospel he has preached to them. Paul wants to hand on the good news of what we have received. It's so inconceivable, that we need to be reminded of it every time we gather because it's almost too good to be true. It is an eternal hope. What you believe matters.
Why does Peter suddenly want to go fishing again? Why aren't the disciples doing Easter things? Are they stuck? Do they not know who to be on this side of Easter? Were they searching for the closest thing to "normal" that they knew? Why do we crave our return to the old, outdated, and simply bad for us "normal" in this time of quarantine?
Why is it so hard to recognize Jesus when he shows up? Why was it that the people who were so familiar to Jesus and his life couldn't recognize him on that first Easter between Emmaus and Jerusalem. When we have lost our hope, our vision of what the future may be like, how may we see clearly what is in front of us, beside us, walking out of the valley alongside each and every one of us? So with patience in mind, where have we seen him in the midst of the times we are in?
Who are we in the midst of transition? How can we remain people of great faith? What does it mean for us in the here and now, as Easter People, to face the future unafraid? Join us in this discussion with Matt Miofsky of "The Gathering" Church.
While Easter looks different for us all this year, we now know how Mary must have felt, isolated and alone. While celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ today, let us also remember to take the situation we are in and be still. Let us humble ourselves as we progress through the wilderness, giving thanks to our God for everything we still have and for all of the things that we now realize we have taken for granted. Hallelujah, He Is Risen!
During these scary times, it is hard to know where to go and what to do. Our sense of normalcy has been thrown out the window and we have been sent down a new and unknown path. We are tried and tested every day, but let us not forget that we have a pathfinder in the woods. We have a light in the darkness. Let us not fret, but follow God despite our worries about what might be down the line. He has been there for us always and he will not waiver with our trust still in him.
Disappointment is a form of grief. It's the feeling that our personal contract with the universe has been broken. Our realities aren't lined up with each other. Among this time dealing with the impacts of things like this virus, how do we deal with what has been taken away from us? How do we deal with moving forward and living with our new reality? We might not be able to control all that we want to, but will we let our disappointment get the last word? No.
Well here we are stuck in quarantine, what should we do? Can we make the most of it? Where is God in all of this?
In the midst of this chaotic pandemic season, what does God call us to do? Pastor Brian compares our current struggles to the story of Moses and the Israelites, who were stepping out into an unknown wilderness.
What is the relationship between Faith and Fear? This week, Pastor Brian tells us that the two are linked, and that sometimes it takes us almost drowning to act on our faith.
As we begin a new sermon series entitled "Step Into the Wilderness," Pastor Brian asks us what stepping out into the unknown means in our own lives. We look at the story of Moses and his reluctance to do what he is called to do, in hopes that we can learn from his story.
As Pastor Brian wraps up the sermon series "Steadfast," we look at the conclusion of the story of Ruth and Naomi. How does God work in this story, and how does this apply to us? Can God repair what is broken?
Despite all of the bad luck Ruth had to endure, she had her doubts, but remained faithful. She couldn't necessarily see what God was doing in the midst of it all, but he provided her with a son who would provide a lineage down to David of Bethlehem. How can we train ourselves to see God and keep our faith in him even during the worst times of our lives?
As much as we would love for Ruth and Boaz's story to end just like all the star-crossed lovers we see in all of the "perfect movies," that's not how it turns out. It is messy. There are a lot of questionable things that occur before everything works itself out. Despite it all, God was still there with them through. Despite all of the questionable things that might have happened in our lives, how do we put the past behind us and let God place us where we need to be?
Pastor Andrew Wolf speaks to us this week, continuing the "Steadfast" sermon series on the story of Ruth. As we consider her and her stepmothers' struggles and loss of their families, we ask: where does their hope come from? When bad stuff happens, where do we look in order to be Steadfast?
We rarely ever see it before it is presented before us. God is working behind the scenes and we don't even know it. After Ruth loses her husband and resides with 2 widows who have all lost everything, one might suggest God has forsaken them and treated them bitterly. But, where is God actually in this story?
As we begin a new sermon series entitled "Steadfast", Pastor Brian begins to walk us through the story of Ruth. This week, we look at a lesser known character from the story, her mother Naomi, who lost everything.
How do we choose the people we surround ourselves with? How do we choose to love the people that we love? Why do we keep carrying on in the midst of everything?
God has given us all unique gifts for us to use to spread his love and grow his kingdom. When we work together, we tend to enjoy it more than we do when we work alone. Despite what gifts other people are given, how do we focus on our own gifts and go about using them for the greater good? How can we contribute to where our work means something?
In this sermon series, "Equipped", we are reflecting on the spiritual gifts God has given us, and how we may use the gifts of our faith when we go out into the world. This week, Pastor Brian reminds us that even if we have been baptized and confirmed as members of the church, our spiritual work mustn't end there.
When Paul prefers to not speak in tongues despite his spiritual gift for it, what does that say about how he uses his gift for the glory of God? He saw that his speech in tongues was not growing the kingdom of God and choose to prophesy instead. Envisioning lets us see the consequences of evil and reveals the problems in our world. This might be hard to appreciate as the problem could be ourselves. How do we look to people like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and use his example to make our world a better place?
Continuing with the message series "Equipped", where we look at Gods less obvious gifts for us, Pastor Brian calls to attention our relationship with those we call "prophets". Who are the prophets in our world today, and how do we receive them?
Continuing the sermon series "Equipped", where we take a look at the blessings God has given us, Pastor Brian discusses the role of baptism in our personal lives, in the church, and in the larger body of Christ.
On this first Sunday of 2020, Pastor Erickson begins a new sermon series by reflecting on not only the gifts we receive during the Christmas season, but on some of the less obvious gifts that Christ has given us.
"But each of us was given grace according to the measure of Christ's gift." - Ephesians 4:7
We are all carefully placed puzzle pieces in God's grand plan for the world. God has given us each a gift and a purpose for our lives, we just have to accept it as our own. How do we lead a life worthy of the calling to which we've been called? How do we learn to discern the still, small voice of God and not ignore it?
We all know the story of Rudolph the Red-Nose Reindeer, but did you know this story echos the story of the shepherds? Pastor Matt shares a kid-friendly sermon about God sending nobodies to bring joy into the world.
Did the shepherds feel close to God in their isolation in the wilderness? Did they feel far from God? Having such a rigorous life of living outside in the elements and watching one's sheep at night must have taken a toll while the rest of us are living more comfortably and are plugged in with their church and community. How did they manage? How did God show them that he wash just as much for them as much as he was for the rest of creation?
On the Sunday before Christmas, we consider the specific people God led to find Jesus on the day of his birth: the shepherds watching their flocks by night. Why them of all people, and how does that reflect who God is reaching out to this Christmas season?
Where in the world is Joseph? Joseph exemplified the difficult calling of God upon our lives.
What could make sworn enemies come together for a Christmas truce during WWI? A peace which passes all understanding and strife, the peace of the Christ Child.
Ever noticed that John the Baptist isn't a part of the nativity scene? Why is he even mentioned during Christmas time? It is because without John, there wouldn't be any "opening act" to get us ready for the arrival of the headliner, Jesus Christ. "I am not a profit, I am just the voice to spread the word" John said. "The light is coming."
Instead of asking the questions of how ready for Christmas are you in your preparations, gifts, and tidings, let us rather ask how do we know we are ready for Jesus? This season is to remind us of why we need Jesus. We can't do it all on our own, so how do we refocus upon Jesus in this time of business and preparation?
Rev. Erickson preaches on Christ the King Sunday. Did you know this is the last Sunday on the Christian Calendar?
When Paul and Barnabas split over the issue of bringing John-Mark along on their journeys, they both began to grow apart after years of time together. But, they still went out and spread the word of God. How do we know when it might be time to part ways with someone? Despite the split, how was the turn out still positive and how did the two know what the next right step was?
In a world that tells you to dig your heels in the sand, Christ tells you peace is still possible.
We love our opinions, of course, but is God impressed by them? Or is God impressed by our commitment to each other first? Rev. Ericsson elucidates this very important Christian message.
What we do is of critical importance, but it is how we go abut doing it that really matters. How we treat each other in the eyes of conflict and disagreement matters. The words we say matter. How do we decide on our "essentials" compared to everyone else? How do we respect one another while doing so? How do we include EVERYONE in Christ's love?
Sometimes conflict is necessary within our lives. It moves us forward and shows us that we are different. How do we go about having conflict while still being in relationship with each other? How can we be open to differences and listen to each other more with respect at the forefront? How do we realize that God's love is for everyone and not for just God's "chosen people?"
Why are stories more compelling than facts? Why does Jesus give parables instead of philosophies? One wonders...
Why is there hope within us? Why does Paul ask "Oh Death, where is thy sting?" On this All Saints Sunday, Rev. Erickson expounds upon why Christians do not grieve with hopelessness.
There are plenty of reasons that we come to church. We want our kids to be raised with a presence of God in their lives. We come here for tragedy and in time of pain. We come here to pray and long, to make sense of the senseless ness. How can we we truly worship and have healthy eyes?
Look for the face of Jesus in every face, in every mercy, in every lost person that is found.
How do we declare God's gifts and miracles in our lives? From the biggest things to the smallest things, how do we retrace our steps to see that God is working for us?
Christ is right in front of your nose. Healing you, healing me, showing that love will win the day.
How does the physical reality of our world effect how we see things? When our understanding of society and certain stereotypes are broken, how does that break the mold that we reside in? How do we let the voices of others influence our sight? Whose voices do we choose to let in and influence us in such ways?
Who does Jesus see? How does the way that we see things affect our vision of the world around us? We should look deeper than what we can see with our eyes.
When Jesus and the Disciples passed a man blind from birth, Jesus stopped while the disciples passed this man by. They grouped this blind man into a box saying "who was it that sinned, the man or his parents, that made him this way?" They assumed that there was fault at hand and grouped him into a named box believing that they already knew everything about him. As we see, they were wrong. How can we look past our assumptions and statements of "that person deserved it" and see how Jesus chose to see?
This sermon invites people into the ancient practice of Sabbath as the only means of fuel for our demanding lives.
What is it to sincerely love one that is most difficult to love? When Bob chose to return to the maximum security prison to speak with the witch doctor who defiled Charlie, how did Bob's view and love change? How do we see God spanning his love to those who are, by our societies means, are the "terrible people" of this world?
As seen with Paul, the Corinthians seemed to stray the most from Paul's teachings and God's word. They were the people who needed the most hand holding, but Paul always went outside of his bubble of faithful followers to extend his love. How can we follow this example and venture to love people who might not be in our comfortable, "Christian" bubbles?
We tend to play it safe with who we love. We should run the constant risk of running into Jesus.
This sermon celebrates the grayness of life as a marker of how God operates and encourages people into a more nonrealistic approach to their relationships, seeing God in all.
Being vulnerable is an act of love. As it is heard in the word, when I am weak, I am strong. But, what does that really mean for us? Why are we the strongest when we are the most vulnerable?
It is easier to connect with people when showing your true identity. You will show more about yourself by being genuine than by boasting.
Even when you are married and/or have friends, you can still fell like no one really knows you or understands you. Through the healing of the leper, we learn that we can find God in the lonely places.
People are the worst sometimes, but the story from John 8 reminds us to own our part in our relationships with others.
Based on Bob Goff's book, how can we love each other for 30 seconds at a time? How can we lean into love even when it's hard? Every relationship matters, how can even the slightest gesture when we are busy make the biggest difference in someone else's life?
Love everybody always. One of the best measures of discipleship is in how we handle the people that we can't handle.
Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build labor in vain. Unless the Lord guards the city, the guard keeps watch in vain. It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives sleep to his beloved.
"Why do we have to go to church?" - Church can be exhausting at times and it makes sense to sleep in on Sundays sometimes. However, going to church is how God molds you into who you were created to be.
God gave us one day to do absolutely nothing but rest. Yet, we find that life is far too busy to be able to take a break from the demand of everything on our plate. How do we honor the sabbath that God gave us and not burn ourselves out by constantly eating the bread of anxious toil? How do we get a grip on all that life throws to us?
Distance makes it hard for us to love those around us, be it emotional or physical distance. When we put ourselves close to those that need our love, it makes it easier for us to be able to do what we can when we can.
The difference between those who passed by and the lone Samaritan was that he simply bothered to care. Despite how busy he might've been or what he might've been rushing to, he did not distance himself from the beaten man, but he grew closer. Why do we step over others who are sick and hurting? Why do we cross over to the other side of the street when we see someone a little dodgy entering our path of travel?
Loss is an inevitable reality that comes along with growing up, but Paul gives us a lens to overcome the hurt of loss.
If you were a Samaritan in old times, you were not considered to be the best kind of person. It was an insult to those of mixed origin. But, it was the Samaritan, out of all the people who passed by the beaten and bruised man, who showed us how to be a good neighbor. Who are we shutting out of our lives because of a predetermined precedent? who are the neighbors that we think least of that we need the most?
Our key to eternal life is to love God and our neighbor. But, we still tend to choose who we want as our neighbor despite all people being our neighbors. Then again, if we love everyone, we can't effectively love anyone well. How do we identify and eliminate excuses to truly love and know our neighbors like Christ?
Loving you church means accepting your brothers and sisters where they are, not where they are supposed to be.
Jesus said love your neighbor as yourself, but who is your neighbor? Maybe the best place to start is those nearest to you.
What do we have to do to achieve eternal life? We know the law that Jesus has instilled within our construct of society, "love God and thy neighbor as thyself." But, WHO is MY neighbor? Why do we try to pick apart God's word to see how much we can get away with while still complying?
We have already received our reward, regardless of our deeds. Love is freely given, not earned.
Saul was Davids's worst enemy. Saul had caused David the most harm, misery, and torment, but David still shows mercy to Saul when he catches him in his most vulnerable state. How does this reflect on God's call to us to show mercy and love to others in this broken world?
Is ambition bad? What can the temptation of history being written by the winner cause us to do?
We could not become like God, so God became like us. How does true loyalty listen? How does true loyalty trust? How does true loyalty remember? How do we see God's loyalty when we question his word?
How does jealousy invade our well being? Why do we let our desire to have what someone else has or be someone else ruin our happiness? How do we realize our self worth in a world of perfection on social media?
How does pride damage our relationships with those we love? How can we be forgiven for this?
How do we become more holy? Forgiveness. When you can find a way to forgive, God can find a way to forget.
When David went into battle against Goliath, he had on no armor and was not afraid while the rest of the Israelites were trembling in fear. Despite his size, Goliath wasn't as tough as everyone had made such a giant out to be as it only took a single stone for him to fall. When we have God on our side, how does that change our perspective on the giants in our lives?
How do we go about viewing others and how does our outside view of them influence our decision making? Why do we judge people by their cover and not their pure character?
Forgiveness is more than a transaction. Forgiveness must be both freely given and freely received.
Sometimes it's hard to be with your family, or extended family.... But what if we thought about it a little differently? What if we were to understand that God chooses family, both ours and our worldwide family; Christian, and human?
Forgiveness is a choice, not a feeling. How do we go about viewing God's way of forgiveness as our own? How do we forgive others without involving outside parties?
We are all wrestling with something in our lives. How do we find the strength to keep hanging on during the match? How and why do we choose to "wrestle with God?"
The lengths that mother's go to for their children is that of utter ridiculousness. Their love and will for their kin is impossible to realize. As we see with Rebecca, she even deceives her own husband to fulfill God's will for her child. But, at what cost does this deceit come with?
This Mother's Day we look at what a matriarchal symbol of faith in the Old Testament, and what difficult decisions may have to come from a mother's faith.
Esau and Jacob, as twins, were constantly in brotherly competition much to Rebecca's dismay. Despite Esau's "birthright" as the first born, his parents did not want him to have it. When an expectation does not turn out the way we want it to, it causes a breach of trust in between families, sometimes for years. We will all experience such disparity at some point in our lives, so how do we go about mending our broken familial relationships?
We refuse to believe inJesus because we have not seen him. But, when his brokenness is revealed to us, we choose to love Jesus and rejoice in his name. The cure for doubt is not certainty, but commitment. So, how do we go about not doubting God with "blind" faith?
Hear the good news! Jesus, the Lord our God has defeated death! The grave has been robbed! Rejoice!
Is Palm Sunday all about shouts of Hosanna and high fives? Why is Jesus riding on a donkey? Would I have been a member of the crowd?
We did not get to where we are alone. We must remember the Lord our God. With that in mind, how do we cultivate humility in our lives? How can confession reminds us that only God is God?
What are we thankful for? Are we thankful for the right things? Is it our pride that is actually behind our 'thankfulness'?
How does a place at the end of the line rather than placing ourselves where we think we ought to be portray humility? How do we not manipulate that place of humility as humble bragging? It is said "All who exalt themselves will be humbled and those who humble themselves will be exalted."
Those of us who are actively working as "doers" in the church can tend to compare our actions to the inactions of others. This can lead to comparison and a loss of humility within our being such as the story of Martha and Mary. How can we be more like Jesus and keep our comparisons and bitter thoughts of "I'm better than..." from entering our souls?
Through the story of Martha and Mary Brian discusses the importance of hospitality, and what we can do to be more like Mary.
As humans, we all trip up and make mistakes and from those mistakes comes guilt and shame. Guilt is the feeling we receive from making mistakes, but shame is calling ourselves the mistake. Know this: our mistakes do not define who we are. How does responding to each other with empathy and understanding allow for our shame and guilt to dissipate? How do we show the humility of Jesus?
Pride is the chief problem of humanity, because we try to elevate ourselves to God's level subconsciously. When Jesus was tempted by pride, what happened?
How do we continue to lean on God and stay humble in our Earthly feelings and endeavors?
Mutual submission - freely offered - is love. But what if I don't trust you? How is it possible to mutually submit to each other when we don't know the best way forward and someone has to have the last word?
Christians are called to love one another and the world. Period. We are a big tent church and that has great advantages, we are the better for it and we hope that it embodies the plurality of Christ's Kingdom on earth. In this time of division we have great opportunity to live the Gospel of love the way Christ intended.
Jesus inaugurates the Kingdom of God by saying change is coming now. Great right? It turns out that real change might actually cost us something. Good news though is that it is definitely worth it.
Sometimes we become angry with one another and we try to justify that anger. In the wake of that anger there is a backlash of hurt and destruction. Do not hold grudges against one another, resolve your personal conflict and do not let it fester within. As your anger is brought to one another, also bring it to God and he will resolve your troubles and give you peace.
Forgiveness is less of a feeling and more of a process. What might that process be like?
The way that we treat each other and interact with one another in speech is one that is more impactful than one might seem. Words hurt and one day we will be judged and condemned by each one of the words that we chose to speak to others. Let us not speak words that tear down, let us rather speak words of healing, truth, and grace.
Yes, it's okay to be angry. Believe it or not, the apostle Paul calls us to be angry. Yet, he admonishes us immediately to not let our anger cause sin. Interestingly, this jibes with modern psychology. The dance between acknowledging anger and living with grace can be very difficult, but its worth a life's pursuit.
What is it like to be with someone correctly? What does that even mean? Is there a correct human way of being with everyone?
Not everything about all of us is always appealing, but loving others regardless of everything that might be a hindrance or unappealing is loving God himself.
As much as we want to be present with everyone, we can't give everyone the attention they desire from us. Even Jesus himself couldn't succeed in doing this. We Have to choose where we invest our time and energy. How can we do this best?
Life seems to be filled with imperfect moments, what do we do with them? How does Jesus handle them? Maybe we should pay attention...
Even in broken places of imperfection, heartache, and despair, God continuously shows up with love, compassion, and grace. Why do we lean toward staying away from broken places when God calls us to do as he has done? How can we not idly stand by?
You can pretend to care, but you can't pretend to be there. Rev. Erickson preaches a basic Gospel message that Jesus hung out with all of the wrong people, and went to where the hurting was.
Like most things, being present is easier in theory than in practice. How can bells of mindfulness and choosing to take time for silence block out the white noise and help us hear God?
We all worry, but sometimes it can take over our lives. Does God want us to live this way? If not, why?
Pastor Jack preaches the first sermon of 2019 on the whole idea of "New year, new you."
Who were the wise men, or the Magi? Why did they come to see Jesus? What can we learn from them and the time they took to be present to Christ?
As we enter the New Year, we embark on many new paths. Whatever you will choose for your resolutions, remember this. You are a beloved, precious chid of God who is beautiful to behold.
As the New Year brings with it new resolutions and ambitions, what do we decide to do with this new season and how?
Did you miss a good Christmas Eve service this year? Take a listen to the sermon Pastor Jack gave at Trinity West Homewood!
Pastor Jack teaches on Mary's grace and how we can be more like her this holiday season.
Gabriel's message to Mary was probably terrifying seeing as how she was to have a child, but was a virgin. God saw this ordinary girl and valued her as a favored one just as he dos with all of us. The lord is with us.
Mary must have been totally terrified by Gabriel's message, a scared young girl. Still, she accepted God's call and magnified the Lord.
We have a God that sits on high and he chooses to see each and every one of us. How available are we to God in this Christmas season?
Some of us are ready for Christmas, but some of us aren't quite there yet. But why? Is it because we are not yet open to being amazed by God walking among us?
Should we have expectations about others? About our faith? We often leave others satisfied, but we are let broken and bruised, seemingly all alone. God speaks through these silent times of adversity, trials, and tribulations to restore our dignity.
Mary's soul was pierced when Jesus was pierced on the cross and our souls will also be pierced in this life too.
During this time of the year we are often reminded of things that trouble us. Despite this sense of despair, have hope! Jesus is the hope of the world and while we might suffer great loss and pain, like Mary when Jesus was crucified, we will one day rise again with our living God!
The holiday season can be hard for us. Whether it be the loss of someone dear to us, or other things that trouble our hearts, God wants to bring Heaven into our Hell. If we focus in and look closely into the eyes of Mary, we can see a glimpse of Jesus.
In this Holiday season, how do we practice stillness when all that is around us is maxed out with business? How do our everyday choices transform us?
It is impossible to be successful, triumphant, or at peace without the power of God. How does God prune and purify us when we remain in him?
We often let our baggage crush us when we choose not to have mercy, forgiving those who have sinned against us and left us with debts. Keeping grudges only adds to the baggage and destruction that we inflict on others. If we choose to not forgive others of their debts, God will not forgive us of our own debts.
How do we delay gratification to learn? To heal? How do we become comfortable as the only one in the waiting room? Maybe waiting isn't a punishment, but a refinement of ourselves in God's image.
Forgiving the trespasses of others is one of the hardest things to do, but without it we are stuck in a debtors prison. We become so crushed with baggage that we cast our frustration and pain out upon those around us. How do we let go of it all and forgive as God forgives us of our trespasses we have committed on him?
The enemy's number one goal is undoing God's purpose for us. We binge things creating habits that train our minds to be functional while broken. We get so obsessed with what we are consuming that what we end up loving ends up killing us. How do we change that? How do we know when to quit?
Our struggle with total independence is a holy one. Can we learn to be satisfied with our daily bread?
God wants to give us everything that he can, but as humans we sometimes have a hard time appreciating everything he provides. How can we put our trust and appreciation into the bread God gives us on a daily basis rather than everything we accumulate?
Pastor jack breaks down the first part of the Lord's Prayer and talks about the importance of names.
Christians are called to bring the Kingdom of God "on Earth as it is in Heaven." What does that mean?
The Kingdom of God is with you. It is with each and every one of us "on Earth as it is in Heaven." But, how can that be?
Do endless, never ceasing good, even when the darkness of the world seems too much to bear.
It is said in Thessalonians to always do good unto others, no matter what we have. No matter how big or how small, regardless of the amount of our talents compared to the talents of others, God calls us to build upon what he has given to each one of us.
Do endless, never ceasing good, even when the darkness of the world seems too much to bear.
On Celebration Sunday Pastor Jack reminds us that there's room for all of us around God's table.
The thorns of past mistakes, failures, grievances, thoughts of "if I did this or that better," and so on haunt us. They take a place with the devil, who's hoping that we become the walking dead, never to reach our potential. But here is a secret. God likes weak people. God likes flawed people, hurting people, ripped up and mistake prone people. God covers all of your mess ups, heartaches, and weights that hold you back and all you have to do is give them all to him. His grace alone is sufficient. So, what are you going to do about your thorn today? Are you going to get you mind right?
We came into this world with nothing and all blessings come from God. How will we choose to see that?
God not only asks us to be grateful for everything that he has given us, but to pay his gratitude he has shown to us forward. No matter how big, how small, or the means in which we do it, the seeds that we sow from his gratitude brings new wine into this world.
If we live faithfully and truthfully in God, there is no weapon that shall prosper against us. The devil's words and trickery will be of no threat. The fire that King Nebuchadnezzar threw the bound Radshack, Meshach, and Abednego into did not hurt the brothers as they were untied and protected by the living God. Despite being thrown into the fires of all of our fears, whether that be failure, divorce, or standing up to a person of power, God is still the living God and he is good.
We came into this world with nothing and all blessings come from God. How will we choose to see that?
We all know that one person who is always joyful and happy from the moment they wake up to the moment that they go to sleep. But, life isn't always happy and joyful and awesome, so how do they do it? What if the phrase in the bible "Always Joy" isn't one of a commanding nature from God, but a gift? What if this Joy is God's great hope for you?
Do you fear things that are foreign? Things that are different? Do you find xenophobia within yourself? We are living in a horror film filled with fear despite a God that goes ahead of us to clear a path for our successes as his people. To be strong and courageous is to go against such fear, so will you choose to reject the devil's implanting of fear on your soul?
Does prayer actually work? Is God hearing us? How is he answering? Pastor Brian gives us his thoughts on the Book of James and the power of prayer.
How do we realize what God has us here for? How do we begin to focus in on our plans - on our priorities? How do we say no when we want to say yes? Pastor Christian shares his thoughts on God's priorities in our lives.
The power of healing housed within touch and prayer has immeasurable power to impact our lives. But how does prayer work? What kind of touch is Godly? Do we really hold such a power within us? What if we are the living oil that God is seeking today?
Does prayer actually work? Is God hearing us? How is he answering? Pastor Brian gives us his thoughts on the Book of James and the power of prayer.
What is your purpose? Why are you here? Who ARE you? It is up to us to decide who is driving the car. Will it be our fears, our anxiety, our depression, or will it be our mindset? We all have a purpose here, but it is up to you to see the bigger picture and follow what God has called you for, what God has planned for you.
The phrase "sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me" is absolutely false. The words that we speak hold extreme amounts of weight to others. It can cause positivity and uplifting qualities or it can cause massive destruction in the lives of others. One day we will have to answer for each wrong word said to the living God himself. Will you use your words as a blessing or a curse?
The phrase "sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me" is absolutely false. The words that we speak hold extreme amounts of weight to others. It can cause positivity and uplifting qualities or it can cause massive destruction in the lives of others. One day we will have to answer for each wrong word said to the living God himself. Will you use your words as a blessing or a curse?
The phrase "sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me" is absolutely false. The words that we speak hold extreme amounts of weight to others. It can cause positivity and uplifting qualities or it can cause massive destruction in the lives of others. One day we will have to answer for each wrong word said to the living God himself. Will you use your words as a blessing or a curse?
Our faith isn't meant to just change us. It's the way God is working to redeem the whole world. Act out faith until you have it. And then because you have it, act upon your faith.
We all seem to be so caught up in trying to fix others when in reality, we should be fixing ourselves. Pulling the log from your own eye before pulling the speck out of another's is essential for seeing clearly through the eyes of God. Perhaps suspending our judgement is the answer to our own clarity.
Our faith isn't meant to just change us. It's the way God is working to redeem the whole world. Act out faith until you have it. And then because you have it, act upon your faith.
Our faith isn't meant to just change us. It's the way God is working to redeem the whole world. Act out faith until you have it. And then because you have it, act upon your faith.
We send our condolences to those who have encountered severe pain using the phrase "Thoughts and Prayers to..." But, this saying has lost its good natured value because of the lack of action that has been taken to remediate the situation. As Christians, our faith means absolutely nothing if we do not act upon it. Will we continue to send only our thoughts and prayers, or will we act upon our word?
We send our condolences to those who have encountered severe pain using the phrase "Thoughts and Prayers to..." But, this saying has lost its good natured value because of the lack of action that has been taken to remediate the situation. As Christians, our faith means absolutely nothing if we do not act upon it. Will we continue to send only our thoughts and prayers, or will we act upon our word?
Just as the Israelites in their entrance to the promised land, we are about to enter a new change in our community and lives. As we move onward from Wesley Hall, we do as God told the Israelites by building a stone formation reminiscent upon special times, spiritual shifts, and God's faithfulness. Let us use this marker as our guidance forward, from the old school to the new school, for the Kingdom of God.
As Christians, we have a responsibility to defend those who are vulnerable and hurting from the cruelness of this world. The work of Christ is shown to be living out of peace with all. We must not hesitate to stand up as one to rid evil of its circulation in the world around us.
Jeremiah's famous quote of scripture doesn't mean what we think it does...We have to endure pain and frustration through times of change to grow in God's plan for us. We might think that these times of change aren't the best, but we should still build, plant, and grow as the seasons will unquestionably change again.
When things change as we grow, we are forced to ask ourselves the big questions. New transitions are scary and frustrating, sometimes causing us to dwell on our "glory days" or better times. As we enter the start of the season of being thrown into the fire, God reminds us to call unto him during the changing of the seasons and we will find him and his peace among all of the chaos.
Feeling welcome in a brand new environment is tough. Welcoming something new into a comfortable environment is even tougher. God shows love and grace to welcome all of us into his presence. How can we do the same?
Guest preacher Rev. Julie Holley encourages us that we all have something to offer in the Kingdom of God.
Have you ever wondered into a room and wondered where you were going to sit, and who with? God's forgiveness expands his table, making a place for each and every one of us despite our debts, faults, and shortcomings. Who are we restricting from having a seat at ours?
How many times have we missed God standing right in front of us? How often has God stretched his arms out to you and you weren't paying attention? When we go without God for too long, our soul becomes thirsty. How do we seek God to quench our thirsty soul?
God loves everybody? Yes. Even Hitler?? Yes, even Hitler. God's grace is as wide as the ocean and bigger than we can possibly imagine.
Baptism is a sacrament that we often misunderstand or forget about. Is it important to have a memory of it? Does it really "work"? Does it have a redeeming quality for the future? Rev. Robert answers these questions and more...
Rev. Cheryl Hinnen encourages with a teaching on ho our baptisms are for more than just us.
God loves everybody? Yes. Even Hitler?? Yes, even Hitler. God's grace is as wide as the ocean and bigger than we can possibly imagine.
How can we stay faithful and positive even when it seems like God's plan or promise has been delayed? How do we continue on even when we hit a speed bump in the road that God has laid out for us?
In repenting and remembering our baptisms, we turn towards God, allowing God to work within us to reach the world that God seeks to save. How is God working through you to build his kingdom?
Water can often be seen as an uncontrollable thing. When God parted the Red Sea, this uncontrollable entity split and became tame as those who were of God had safe passage to the other side. But, when they reached the other side, they complained and forgot about what God did for them. We often forget who God is, what wonders he has done for us, and how he strives to show us just how loved we are. How do we go about remembering what God did for us through our baptism?
We often run from things that are frightening or uncomfortable. The plan that we have laid out in our mind for ourselves might not align with what God's has in store for us. What is God calling you to do in your life?
Why are deep waters so frightening to us? Was it the flood that we saw Noah endure? Is it the unknown that lies beneath? How can water be so beneficial to so many aspects of our lives while also being so destructive in its nature? Peter calls for us to cling to our faith while suffering because God shows us redemptive power within that suffering. Will you be able to float in these deep waters?
When was the last time you were thirsty? I mean REALLY thirsty. How thirsty do you have to be to see God?
Sometimes the effect we have on others is more profound than we realize. Is it God moving within us? Could this be how the Lord works?
In repenting and remembering our baptisms, we turn towards God, allowing God to work within us to reach the world that God seeks to save. How is God working through you to build his kingdom?
Water can often be seen as an uncontrollable thing. When God parted the Red Sea, this uncontrollable entity split and became tame as those who were of God had safe passage to the other side. But, when they reached the other side, they complained and forgot about what God did for them. We often forget who God is, what wonders he has done for us, and how he strives to show us just how loved we are. How do we go about remembering what God did for us through our baptism?
We often run from things that are frightening or uncomfortable. The plan that we have laid out in our mind for ourselves might not align with what God's has in store for us. What is God calling you to do in your life?
How many times have we missed God standing right in front of us? How often has God stretched his arms out to you and you weren't paying attention? When we go without God for too long, our soul becomes thirsty. How do we seek God to quench our thirsty soul?
Why are deep waters so frightening to us? Was it the flood that we saw Noah endure? Is it the unknown that lies beneath? How can water be so beneficial to so many aspects of our lives while also being so destructive in its nature? Peter calls for us to cling to our faith while suffering because God shows us redemptive power within that suffering. Will you be able to float in these deep waters?
When was the last time you were thirsty? I mean REALLY thirsty. How thirsty do you have to be to see God?
Baptism is a sacrament that we often misunderstand or forget about. Is it important to have a memory of it? Does it really "work"? Does it have a redeeming quality for the future? Rev. Robert answers these questions and more...
Sometimes the effect we have on others is more profound than we realize. Is it God moving within us? Could this be how the Lord works?
Being the hands and feet of Christ is messy work. Messy, because it requires us to reach into sticky situations we don’t particularly want to touch. Where do we need the courage to reach out and touch that which separates us from God and one another?
Did you know the resurrected Christ ate food? (You know, like real food not spiritual-this-is-a-metaphor type food?)
Our sense of smell can bring us back to a certain place and a certain time instantly. Sometimes that's welcome, and sometimes it's not.
Have you ever been around so much you started smelling like them? Rev. Amy makes the startling yet biblical point that we should be so immersed in God that we should "smell" like him.
What's the deal with all the sheep references in the New Testament? Why are Christians and Christ always being compared to sheep? Isn't that a bad thing?
It's April Fools Day, but is the modern world too "reasonable" to believe in a bodily resurrection? Are we Christians fools for Christ, or are we merely fools?
Can we remember the the goodness of God? Too often we forget all the blessings and love God has lavished on us. It is easy and sometimes fun to forget, but we must remember.
Pastor Jack encourages the congregation in the 4th week of this sermon series, then shares some big news!
Pastor Jack encourages us that whatever we can bring is enough for Jesus to work a miracle with.
Even though the Disciples can sometimes be the "Duh"-sciples... Jesus still wants them to be around! Have you ever noticed how God is always calling people to do his work? Why do you think he does that, and not just take care of everything himself? He is a creator and redeemer, and a team player!
Pastor Jack encourages us with a teaching on how Jesus uses "ordinary people" do to extraordinary things.
Hold on to your seats, Brian lays out the need for church growth, both for Trinity and the Kingdom of God on Earth. Nationwide church numbers are down over the last few decades, but Trinity refuses to give in to the forces of darkness which threaten to overtake the Missio Dei (Mission of God). We pray (yes, really!) that you join us in our work to build facilities which will advance the Kingdom of God on Earth, as it is written in the scriptures for us to do!
Rev. DeWitte lays out the bold vision for advancing God's Kingdom in an increasingly secular age. It involves discipleship creation. A true disciple of Christ is a person who goes from receiving God's good news and provision to someone who GIVES God's Gospel and gifts! Come join us as we make disciples in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit!
This week pastor jack helps us to dream of the ways that God can multiply our compassion at TWH.
We can rejoice because Jesus saying "Yes" to us gives us the freedom to say "Yes" to others.
Why pray for help? Doesn't God already know what you need? Join Rev. Reid Crotty as he helps us understand the nature of prayer. Oh, we also sing some Janis Joplin for good measure.
Sometimes self-sufficiency is just another word for "pride." As much as it hurts sometimes, we are fallen creatures who need God's help. We cannot save ourselves, or the world, alone.
Sometimes guilt can be healthy. Not too much, not too little; God uses it in our lives to remind us of the need of repentance. This is a healing process which can be hard, but anything worth attaining is always hard!
Pastor Jack teaches us that we can increase our bandwidth with God by simply saying "Thanks."
Rev. Amy DeWitte spells out why Christians give thanks and throws in some practical advise for free!
Psalm 46 says "Be still and know that I am God!" but sometimes in this modern life, being still is the last thing we want to do.
"When we are still in God’s presence we can grow closer to Him, and know Jesus better."
It's so hard sometimes to just sit in silence and be still! But this is often the best way to find God.
We gather on the shortest day of the year to remember that in spite of recent losses the light has come into the world and the darkness cannot overcome it.
Ever notice how Alabama grown ups turn into little kids on a real snow day? What can we learn from that?
Impatience is a restlessness with existing conditions... sounds like God is up to something with his creation. What does that say about birth of Jesus into the world?
May we be naive enough to believe that hope, joy, peace, and love can have a place in our world.
Pastor Jack encourages us to find ways to rekindle our childlike sense of wonder this holiday season.
Paul says rejoice, even in the midst of fear and trembling. That doesn't mean faking it, it means having a fullness of gratitude in the Lord.
We worship of God of power and might who chooses to be concerned with each and every one of us, whose desire it is that everyone rejoice in God’s abundant love.
"As we try to focus on the reason for this season, may our hearts say 'Jesus is Lord' and may it bring us peace and joy."
How are we united by giving? What is it about giving that unites us?Generosity toward a common purpose reminds us what we can all get behind, what we can rally around. The way we choose to contribute speaks volumes about the value we place of our shared life of faith.
What happens when we realize we are blessed by God's Grace? What does that even mean? It means unmerited love from God, the source of the universe, and it also means generosity in communion with the triune God which is self-giving. Got that :) ?
Prayer changes things, cliche but true! What would happen if you carved out 30 minutes a day to be in God's presence? I bet it would change your life.
Witnessing to those around us and those we know best can sometimes be the hardest witness to make, but it can also be the easiest and most fruitful!
Pastor Jack teaches us about how we are the best witness to our friends and neighbors when we are being our true selves.
Pastor Jack gives us three practical ways that we can be witnesses to those living in our homes.
Jesus calls us to witness to our neighbor, the ends of the Earth, and everywhere in between. It is the Great Commission and you are called to witness as well! Yes, you!
Holy Boundaries: Sometimes you may have to disappoint others in order to do the right thing.
Do you ever wonder when you should stop giving people second chances? Pastor Jack teaches about how Jesus set boundaries and so should we.
Ever feel like people are beyond redemption? Recent event might make it seem that way... guess what? With God's help they're not.
Everyone hated Zacchaeus and expected the worst from him. But Jesus gave him a second chance, and he took it!
Pastor Jack continues in the third week of this series teaching on how we, like Zacchaeus, can make the most of our second chances.
Pastor Jack reminds us tat second chances are for God, and that there are plenty to go around!
The story of Hagar is a hard lesson for the faithful of God. It reminds us that even our heroes are sinful. Abraham's cowardice, however, is a teaching lesson for us all as God once again cleans up our messes.
In this sermon we learn how one person's opportunity does not take away from another, because scarcity is simply not the economy of God's love!
Moses had an interesting past, you might even say it was a perfect preparation for the great task set before him by God.
Rev. Amy Dewitte teaches on the things that we need to "recover" from and how Jesus offers a better solution. A solution of grace, mercy and love.
Rev. Robert Sturdivant teaches on the beatitudes and what Jesus meant when he said "Blessed are the meek..."
Jesus offers mercy and peacemaking as an alternative way of life: a life oriented toward reconciliation within ourselves, with others, and with God.
Rev. Cheairs gives us insight as to what Jesus may have meant when he says, "Blessed are those who are persecuted..."
What does is mean to be persecuted? What about to persecute? The answer might surprise you!
Power over and Power under. Are you exercising control over your life, or handing it over to God.
Rev. David Thompson teaches on things we all need recovery from, and how to make it happen.
What does is mean to hunger and thirst for righteousness? Reverend Erickson reminds us what true spiritual food consists of.
Being more Christlike is great and all, but why do we slip back into old hurts, habits, and hang-ups? This sermon is about how and why it can be so tough to improve ourselves. What can we reserve to avoid relapse?
We all need recovery. For some it's from addiction, for others it's from abuse. Rev. Thompson reminds us that the root of our problems is trying to hide them from God, and trying to play God.
The Lord asks us to be a light unto the world. There is probably someone in your life, waiting to hear of the Grace of Jesus Christ, and you must deliver the message.
Pastor Jack gives us insight on living well. Not just for ourselves but for our creator.
Ever eat with a new person? Did it open up new idea and ways of looking at the world and God?
What is Jesus talking about when he speaks about judgment and the afterlife? Rev. Nathan preaches on what we think we know and what we really know.
Pastor Jack encourages us to live in such a way that not one of God's children could end up in Hell.
It's not the comment section on AL.com, not stubbing your toe at 2am, and not middle school english classes, but it is "Hell on Earth". Pastor Jack teaches about Hell on Earth, God's love in the face of it, and how to get from here to eternity.