Renewed: Between A Rock & A Hard Place | January 5, 2025

Pastor Bart begins the New Year by emphasizing the importance of giving God our first moments and focusing on renewal in our lives. He engages the congregation by recalling childhood fears, particularly the fear of being lost, which serves as a metaphor for feelings of confusion, loneliness, and fear that many experience in different life stages. He introduces the biblical figure Jacob, who, during a troubled time in his life, is on the run and feeling lost, alone, and afraid. Jacob's journey leads him to a place called Bethel, where he takes a rest with a rock as a pillow, reflecting the challenges he faces.Pastor Bart explores how, despite Jacob's mess of deceptions and poor choices, God meets him in his hard place. During Jacob’s dream, God reassures him of His promises, emphasizing grace and mercy. This moment becomes a pivotal milestone in Jacob’s life—a personal encounter that transforms his understanding of God from that of his grandfather and father to his own relationship with Yahweh. Pastor Bart highlights that God’s blessings and grace aren't just for us but are meant to extend to others through us. He concludes by inviting the congregation to consider their own milestone moments with God, encouraging them to reflect on how grace and renewal can be a channel of blessing in their lives and the lives of those around them.