Richland Center Free Methodist Church

There are moments when someone places trust in your hands and steps back so you can carry something forward. A parent teaching a child to pray before bed. A grandmother showing patience through years of hardship. A mentor quietly living out faith in everyday choices. The baton is rarely passed with fanfare. More often, it happens in kitchens, conversations, long car rides, and ordinary acts of faithfulness that leave a lasting mark. Let's reflect on the responsibility and gift of passing faith from one generation to the next. Scripture reminds us that God’s work continues through people willing to guide, encourage, and make room for others to grow. Today we recognize the steady influence of those who nurture faith with grace, wisdom, and endurance while inviting all of us to consider what we are handing to those following us. Recorded Sunday, May 10th, 2026 Message by Adam Burns Scripture: 2 Timothy 4:1-8

When life is easy, we forget to pray. When life hurts, we wonder if God is listening. James calls believers to turn to God in every season, whether we are suffering, singing, sick, or wandering. In James 5:13-20, we see a church family that prays, confesses sin, seeks healing, and gently pursues those who drift from the truth. God invites us to face Him honestly right where we are, trusting that He forgives, restores, and raises up His people through Jesus. Come as you are, and take one step closer to Jesus with us. Recorded May 3rd, 2026 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: James 5:13-20

Anxiety can creep in quietly or crash in without warning. It can settle into the mind during sleepless nights, uncertain seasons, or moments when life feels heavier than we expected. Many carry silent burdens—concerns about family, health, finances, or the future—wondering how to find steady ground when everything feels unsettled. In this message, JoAnn Krulatz will walk through what Scripture teaches about facing anxiety with faith and trust in God’s promises. We will consider how God invites us to bring our worries to Him, how prayer reshapes our thoughts, and how His peace guards our hearts even when circumstances remain difficult. Together, we’ll see that victory over anxiety begins with surrender and grows through daily reliance on Christ. Come and lay your worries before the Lord. Step forward in faith and receive His peace. Recorded April 26th, 2026 Message by Jo Ann Krulatz Scripture: Matthew 6:25-34

There are moments when prayer feels honest, urgent, and unanswered. You ask God for help, healing, clarity, or change, and the silence can feel heavy. In those times, it is easy to wonder whether God is listening, whether you are praying the right way, or why the answer has not come. James speaks directly to the tension of asking God while facing trials, reminding us that wavering, doubt, and weariness are real struggles, but not the end of the story. He calls us toward a steady trust in God’s character, an honest confession of our needs, and a faith that remains anchored even when answers seem delayed. Keep asking, keep trusting, keep praying. Recorded April 19th, 2026 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: James 1:2-8, 5:13-16

Every part of the body matters, even the parts that are easy to overlook. When one part is weak, hurting, or hidden from view, the whole body feels it. In a world that often celebrates the most visible gifts, it is easy to forget how much strength, care, and purpose are found in each person God has placed among His people. In 1 Corinthians 12:22-31, we're reminded that the church was never meant to run on comparison, competition, or status. God has joined His people together with intention, giving different gifts for a shared purpose. Recorded April 12th, 2026 Message by Chaplain Dave Frank Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:12-31

There are moments in life when we look back on great sorrow and wonder how we would have responded if we had been there. At the cross, the noise of the crowd, the weight of rejection, and the silence of suffering all press in with one question: where would we stand? In Isaiah 53, we see the suffering servant who was despised, pierced, and crushed, yet willingly carried the sin and grief of others. This Easter, we consider what Christ has done for us; facing both the cost of sin and the depth of God’s mercy, and remembering that the story of suffering does not end in the grave. Come stand near the cross, behold the Lamb, and rejoice in the hope of the Risen Savior! Recorded April 5th, 2026 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Isaiah 53

As the crowd lined the streets with palm branches and shouts of "Hosanna," a group of Greeks approached the disciples and asked: “Sir, we would like to see Jesus.” This simple request triggers a shift from the public spectacle of the Triumphal Entry to the personal necessity of beholding Christ for who He truly is. While the Pharisees watched in frustration, noting that "the whole world has gone after him," the arrival of those seeking from outside the nation of Israel signaled the beginning of a global mission. The King of the Jews was being revealed as the Hope of the Nations. On this Palm Sunday, we move beyond the noise of the crowd to encounter the Christ who came to give His life for the world. Recorded March 29th, 2026 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: John 12:12-22

Waiting can feel long when the outcome is uncertain. A farmer plants the seed, works the soil, and then watches the sky, knowing the crop depends on rain that has not yet come. Seasons like that test our patience and reveal what we truly trust. In James 5:7–12, James points to the patience of the farmer and the endurance of the prophets as examples for believers. Instead of grumbling or giving in to frustration, we are called to steady our hearts and trust the Lord’s timing. This passage also reminds us that the Lord is full of compassion and mercy, and it calls us to live with integrity, letting our “yes” be yes and our “no” be no, as we wait on Him. We invite you to join us as we learn how to strengthen our hearts together. Whether joining the service in person or watching our online stream, we look forward to seeing you this Sunday! Recorded Sunday, March 22nd, 2026 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: James 5:7-12

Most of us spend our lives trying to stay in the driver’s seat, carefully planning our "tomorrows" and managing our own outcomes, but this Sunday we explore a different way of living. Picking up in James 4:1-17, we’re looking at what happens when we finally stop fighting for control and start leaning into God’s grace. True submission isn't about losing your identity, but rather about finding your place in a much bigger story. From the conflicts that arise when we want our own way to the pride of thinking we know exactly what next year holds, James challenges us to trade our self-reliance for a humble, "if the Lord wills" perspective. It’s a call to draw near to God with the confidence that He is already moving toward us. Join us as we explore how to live a life that is fully surrendered and find the peace that comes with it. Recorded Sunday, March 8th, 2026 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: James 4:1-12

We’ve all heard the old advice: “If you can’t say something good about somebody, don’t say anything at all”. This Sunday at Richland Center Free Methodist Church, Pastor Tim explores the heart behind that sentiment in a message titled “Overcoming a Critical Spirit”. Drawing from James 4:1-12, we look at how the root of all sin is ultimately self. When we find ourselves in fights or quarrels, James points us back to the desires that battle within us, showing that these destructive conflicts are always harmful to our community. The message dives into the danger of sitting in judgment of others, reminding us that when we slander or judge a brother or sister, we are actually speaking against the law itself. Since there is only one Lawgiver and Judge who is able to save and destroy, we must ask ourselves who we are to judge our neighbor. Instead of prideful judgment, Scripture calls us to a different path: submitting ourselves to God and resisting the devil so that he will flee from us. Join us as we walk through practical steps to overcome a critical spirit. From purifying our hearts to grieving and repenting in sincerity, the goal is to draw near to God so that He will come near to us.  Recorded Sunday, March 1st, 2026 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: James 4:1-12

"With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness." — James 3:9 This Sunday, Pastor Tim Ward explores one of the most practical and challenging passages in the New Testament: James 3:1-12. We’re looking at why such a small part of our body has such a massive impact on our lives and our relationships. Whether you’re looking to find more grace in your speech or simply want to dive deeper into the Word, we invite you to join us for worship. Recorded Sunday, February 22nd, 2026 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: James 3:1-12

Faith can feel strong in the quiet moments—during prayer, in worship, or while reading Scripture. But when life demands action, when obedience costs something, or when someone needs help right in front of us, belief is tested. Words are easy. Action requires trust.  In James 2:14–26, we are confronted with a faith that moves. James points to Abraham and Rahab as examples of trust expressed through obedience. Their lives show that genuine faith responds to God and serves others. Faith and works belong together as evidence of a living relationship with Christ.  Consider what it means for our faith to be active in daily life, shaped by obedience, compassion, and courage. Recorded Sunday, February 15th, 2026 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: James 2:14-26

Walk into almost any gathering, and it doesn’t take long to notice how quickly we size people up. Who seems important, who feels comfortable, who gets noticed, and who fades into the background. These moments may feel small and even unintentional, but they shape the way communities function and who feels like they belong. In James 2:1–13, James speaks directly to favoritism in the church, calling believers to examine how faith in Jesus shows up in everyday interactions. We're challenged to see people the way God does, to measure our actions by mercy rather than status, and to live out a faith that reflects God’s impartial love. Together, we’ll consider how obedience, compassion, and humility are woven into genuine faith. Recorded Sunday, February 8th, 2026 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: James 2:1-13  

Most of us have heard God’s Word many times. We know the verses, we recognize the language, and we’re familiar with what Scripture says. But hearing alone isn’t the goal. James reminds us that God’s Word is meant to shape how we live, not just what we know. In James 1:19–27, we’re challenged to move beyond listening and into obedience. This sermon follows James’ clear progression: hearing God’s Word, accepting it with humility, and then putting it into action. Using everyday examples like mirrors, speech, and practical care for others, James shows what genuine faith looks like when it takes root in real life. Join us as we consider what it means to let God’s Word truly sink in—and to live it out in ways that reflect Christ to the world around us. Recorded Sunday, February 1st, 2026 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: James 1:19-27

Not every struggle comes from pressure outside of us. Sometimes the danger is quieter and closer—desires that take shape in the heart long before they show up in our actions. What begins as a passing thought can slowly gain influence, shaping choices we never planned to make. In James 1:13–18, James shifts the focus from enduring hardship to examining where temptation truly comes from. He makes a clear distinction between trials that test our faith and temptations that grow from misplaced desire. This message traces that progression honestly and carefully, while also lifting our eyes to the steady goodness of God, who does not deceive, manipulate, or change. By understanding both the source of temptation and the character of God, we learn how clarity replaces confusion in moments of moral pressure. Scripture References James 1:13–18 Philippians 4:8 Matthew 6:13 1 Peter 5:8 Hebrews 12:1 Romans 6:23 John 14:6 Job (general reference) Key Points / Exposition 1. A Fisherman Never Wastes Bait on the Cooler In a boat, the cooler holds fish already caught; no need to cast there. Parallel: God’s people already “in His cooler”—in covenant relationship—are not tempted by God. • God is holy, cannot be tempted, and never tempts (James 1:13). • Misunderstanding of sovereignty corrected: God may permit trials but does not engineer evil. Satan targets believers, not unbelievers already under his sway. 2. There’s a Lure for Every Fish “Each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire” (James 1:14). • Temptation is personalized; the devil studies our particular weaknesses much like an angler selects specific bait. Categories of bait illustrated: • Soft, flesh-like lures – sensuality (David & Bathsheba). • Shiny spinnerbaits – pride, fame, materialism (Rockefeller’s “more”). • Stink bait – gossip, critical spirit, unforgiveness. Repeated maxim: “The root of all sin is self.” Free will emphasized; Satan can entice but never force. 3. Swallowing Hook, Line, and Sinker Fishing image: patient nibble vs. sudden lunge; either way, deep swallow means death. James 1:15 progression: Desire → Sin → Death. Mental chain: Thoughts → Feelings → Actions → Consequences. • Sin begins in unchecked thoughts; lingering desire “conceives.” • Once full-grown, sin separates from God—spiritual death (Romans 6:23). Warning against “playing on the weed-bed edge” or “window-shopping” with sin; Jesus equates heart-level lust with action. 4. Three Safeguards Against Temptation Remain in God’s Presence God is the source of “every good and perfect gift” (James 1:17). Daily worship, conversation, delight, and satisfaction in Him keep us off Satan’s radar. Feed on God’s Word Jesus countered Satan in the wilderness solely with Scripture. Practice daily reading, meditation, and memorization; let the Spirit interpret and apply. Stay in Christian Community Technology enables fellowship even on frigid Sundays. “Many strands woven together” form an unbreakable rope; mutual encouragement fortifies against isolation and defeat. Major Lessons & Revelations God’s unchanging goodness contrasts sharply with Satan’s calculated malice. Temptation is not an external accident but an internal agreement with selfish desire. Spiritual death is the inevitable payout of unrepented sin; eternal life is God’s free gift through Christ. Victory is possible and normal for believers who dwell in Christ, digest Scripture, and walk with the church. Practical Application Cultivate constant awareness of God’s presence—pray, sing, laugh, rest in Him throughout the day. Schedule a non-negotiable daily Bible-feeding time; journal insights, memorize verses that address personal weak points. Identify “favorite lures”: write them down, pray specifically, and set practical boundaries (filters, accountability, budget, etc.). Practice generous, cheerful tithing to break greed’s grip. Engage weekly with other believers—small group, phone check-ins, video prayer meetings. When temptation strikes, immediately flee (Philippians 4:8; Hebrews 12:1) and counter with spoken Scripture. Conclusion Like impatient fish, we often snap at bait and risk eternal loss. Yet Christ offers the “cooler” of grace. Invitation: accept or renew faith in Jesus—the only way to the Father (John 14:6)—and commit to staying in His presence, Word, and community for ongoing victory.   Recorded Sunday, January 25th, 2026 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: James 1:13–18

Few things test our faith like seasons we didn’t choose. Trials have a way of showing up unannounced—through loss, pressure, uncertainty, or waiting longer than we expected. In those moments, joy often feels out of reach, and endurance can feel thin. In James 1:2–12, we’re invited to see trials differently—not as interruptions to faith, but as places where God is actively at work. How is perseverance is formed, why does wisdom matter in hardship, and how does God shape mature faith through real-life testing. Consider how believers can remain grounded, hopeful, and steady when circumstances are anything but easy. Come discover how God uses trials to strengthen faith—and learn how to endure with faith when life presses hard. Recorded Sunday, January 18th, 2026 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: James 1:2-12

Worry has a way of creeping into everyday life. It shows up in unanswered questions, uncertain futures, and the quiet pressure to hold everything together. Even moments meant for joy can feel crowded out by anxiety and restlessness. In Philippians 4:4–9, Paul writes from prison yet calls believers to rejoice, pray, and guard their hearts and minds in Christ. Joy is not rooted in circumstances; prayer reshapes our anxieties, and disciplined thinking helps us live with a peace that reflects trust in God’s nearness. Recorded Sunday, January 11th, 2026 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Philippians 4:4-9

We spend a lot of time chasing what we think we need—security, comfort, success, approval—only to discover that even when we get it, something still feels missing. The question beneath our striving is often simpler than we expect. Drawing from Philippians 4, Pastor Tim reflects on Paul’s surprising contentment in both need and abundance and explores how Paul’s perspective challenges our assumptions about fulfillment, strength, and provision. \Consider what it means to learn contentment, how reliance on Christ reshapes our desires, and how God’s promise to supply our needs reframes the way we evaluate success and lack. Recorded Sunday, January 4th, 2026 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Philippians 4:11-13, 19

As a new year begins, many people pause to think about what they want to change, improve, or commit to doing differently. Resolutions are made with good intentions, yet so often they fade as routines return and distractions creep back in. Still, the desire behind them reflects something deeper—a longing for purpose, direction, and faithfulness. In this message from Matthew 28:18–20, Pastor Tim invites us to look beyond short-lived promises and consider a resolution that Jesus Himself gives to His followers. The Great Commission calls believers to live with confidence in Christ’s authority, obedience to His commands, and a willingness to participate in His ongoing work in the world. Together, we’ll reflect on what it means to follow Jesus not just at the start of a new year, but every day that follows. Start the year by embracing a resolution that doesn’t expire—step into the life Jesus calls you to live. Recorded Sunday, December 28th, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Matthew 28:18-20

Christmas Eve gathers us in a sacred moment; candles lit, familiar carols sung, hearts warmed by a story we know by heart. Yet even in the first Christmas, the glow of wonder was quickly followed by danger, disruption, and hard decisions. The Magi returned home by another way. Mary and Joseph fled into the night. Christmas did not pause life, it sent them back into it, changed.   Drawing from Matthew’s account of the Magi, the flight into Egypt, and the quiet years that followed, this message explores what it means to carry Christmas beyond the moment. Pastor Tim reflects on how the birth of Christ reshaped homes, work, and everyday faith, and how encountering Jesus still calls us to live differently once the decorations come down. Christmas was never meant to be an escape from life, but a transformation within it. Don’t leave Christmas behind; carry Christ into life. Recorded December 24th, 2025 — Christmas Eve Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Luke 2:1-23

The season is filled with lights, wrapping paper, and carefully chosen gifts. Attention is drawn to what is under the tree and how much effort goes into giving the right thing to the right person. Yet beneath all the activity, it’s easy to miss the deeper question of what truly matters at Christmas. In Matthew 2:1–11, the Magi travel far, bearing costly gifts for the child they recognize as King. Their journey reminds us that Christmas has always been about more than material offerings. This message explores the difference between giving gifts and offering ourselves, examining what it means to seek Jesus, bow before Him, and respond with lives shaped by worship, obedience, and devotion. This Christmas, pause the pursuit of presents and come fully into His presence. Recorded December 21st, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Luke 2:1-11

The weeks leading up to Christmas are often filled with noise; schedules packed tight, expectations running high, and traditions that sometimes feel more demanding than meaningful. In the midst of all the familiar songs and decorations, it’s easy for joy to fade into routine or get buried under stress and distraction.   Through Mary’s song of praise and the angelic announcement to the shepherds, this message traces where true Christmas joy is found and how it first entered the world. These moments reveal a joy rooted in God’s faithfulness, humility, and saving grace. Together, they invite us to rediscover a joy that grows from trust, gratitude, and wonder. Recorded December 14th, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Luke 1:39-55 & Luke 2:8-14

As the season of Advent begins, life often pulls people in a dozen directions at once. Families juggle expectations, work presses in, and even good traditions can crowd the heart. Yet in the middle of that pressure, Matthew tells a quiet story about a man named Joseph — a man suddenly facing shame, confusion, and a future he never planned. Instead of reacting out of fear or frustration, Joseph chose faithfulness. He listened. He trusted. He obeyed. He took Mary as his wife and embraced the child she carried. Through Joseph’s example, we’ll consider how Advent invites us to slow down, notice the people God has placed around us, and treat each relationship as something entrusted rather than assumed. Valuing relationships often begins with quiet, steady obedience. Join us this Advent season as we learn to guard what God has given, and choose relationships that reflect the heart of Christ. 🗓️ Sunday, December 7th, 2025 🕥 10:30 AM CST

Pressure has a way of stirring strange thoughts in us. When home, work, or school becomes too heavy, escape can look strangely appealing. Jonah knew that feeling. God said, “Go to Nineveh,” and Jonah headed the other way, boarding a ship for Tarshish and trying to sleep his way through a storm he himself had caused. This Sunday looks a little different. With our service canceled due to weather, we’re sharing a message preached in this very church on December 5th, 1982, by Pastor David Clardie. Though delivered more than forty years ago, the truth woven through "Jonah the Reluctant Prophet" is as timely as ever. We follow Jonah through four scenes—Jonah in the storm, Jonah in the fish, Jonah in the city, and Jonah with the Lord—and discover how God pursues both the runaway believer and the violent city. Pastor David helps us see the difference between the “sleep of escape” and the rest that comes from trusting God, and reminds us that storms, interruptions, and unexpected detours often become the places where God speaks most clearly. God asks you the same question He asked Jonah: "Where are you going, and will you go where I send you?" Listen in, and let “Jonah the Reluctant Prophet” call you from running away to running with God. Recorded December 5th, 1982 Message by Pastor David Clardie

There are moments when people reach the end of their own strength; times when routines continue, but the heart quietly wonders where help will come from. In those situations, even a simple cry for mercy can become the first step toward hope. In this week’s message, Pastor Boris Pena turns our attention to the ten men who cried out to Jesus from a distance. Their story reveals how mercy meets us in our need, how trust often requires us to walk before anything changes, and how gratitude reshapes the heart. As we follow the one man who turned back to give thanks, we’re asked to consider what faithful obedience and returning to Jesus look like in our own lives. Be the one who returns to the Lord with a thankful heart. Recorded November 23rd, 2025 Message by Pastor Boris Pena Scripture: Luke 17:11-19

There are seasons when joy feels distant and peace seems hard to hold. Habakkuk knew that feeling well—facing loss, uncertainty, and grim forecasts for his people. Yet in the middle of that reality, he made a deliberate choice: “yet I will rejoice in the Lord.” His circumstances didn’t improve first; his trust in God did. Paul offers the same kind of steady invitation in his letters. Writing to the Philippians and the Thessalonians, he calls believers to rejoice always, to pray continually, and to bring every concern to God with thanksgiving; not quick fixes or surface-level attitudes, but habits that form a life anchored in God’s presence. Pastor Tim explores how these practices—joy, prayer, and gratitude—shape a heart that is receptive to the peace God promises to those who trust Him. Recorded November 16th, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Philippians 4:4-7, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

When a church cared for Paul in his time of need it was partnership in the gospel. Their giving was an act of worship that reached heaven itself. Behind every gift was a heart moved by gratitude, trust, and obedience. True Christian giving is driven by joy in God’s provision, rather than guilt or pressure. Philippians 4 reminds us that contentment and generosity grow together, revealing a life fully anchored in Christ. Recorded November 9th, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Philippians 4:10-20

When life unravels, even the smallest things can feel impossible. The news weighs heavy, relationships strain, and our plans fall through, leaving us searching for something steady to hold on to.  From a prison cell, Paul wrote about joy and peace as daily realities, finding contentment in every situation when everything else is falling apart. This same peace is still available today to those who place their confidence in Christ rather than in the shifting conditions of life.  Come discover the kind of peace that doesn’t depend on what’s happening around you, but on Who is with you through it all. Recorded November 2nd, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Philippians 4:4-13

A gold medal represents the highest achievement — the reward for discipline, perseverance, and commitment to a goal. Yet for the believer, the true prize isn’t made of metal but of faith that endures and a life shaped by Christ. In Philippians 3:10—4:1, Paul points us toward that eternal reward — knowing Christ fully and living faithfully in His calling. Knowing Christ deeply, letting go of the past, and pressing on toward God’s calling are the building blocks of a faith that endures. Just like an athlete trains for the finish line, we are called to run with purpose and stay faithful to the goal set before us. Join us as we discover how to live a life worthy of the prize! Recorded October 26th, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Philippians 3:10-4:1

A dark tunnel, a stolen kiss, and a stinging slap—one quick moment, two bold moves, and a grinning soldier who “seized the day.” It’s a funny story, but it hits close to home: life moves fast, and opportunities can pass in a blink. Between bills, deadlines, and distractions, it’s easy to forget what it means to truly live life to the fullest. In Philippians 3:7–16, the Apostle Paul shares how a full life isn’t about success or possessions—it’s about knowing Christ and becoming more like Him. Pastor Tim unpacks Paul’s call to press forward by showing three keys to a meaningful life: find your purpose (“to know Christ”), forget the past (both our failures and our trophies), and face the present with faith that Jesus is not just the God of the past or the future, but the God who walks with us now. Don’t wait for “someday.” In Christ, today is the day. Press on. Seize the moment. Live life to the fullest. Recorded October 19th, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Philippians 3:7-16

When Paul wrote that nothing could separate us from the love of Christ, his next words were filled with grief for those who had rejected that same love. From celebration to sorrow, his heart broke for the lost — and in that sorrow, he revealed the very heart of Christ. Guest speaker **Pastor Boris Pena**, Youth Leader at the Platteville Free Methodist Church, shares from Romans 9:1–3 about what it means to carry that same burden for those far from God. True compassion isn’t passive; it moves us to pray, to reach out, and to act. Drawing from Paul’s example and Christ’s own pursuit of the lost, Pastor Boris challenges us to rediscover our first love for Jesus, and to let that love ignite a renewed urgency for the Gospel. Pray for one name. Reach out in love. Let your heart beat with the compassion of Christ. Let’s live out the truth of the Gospel and share it with urgency and love. Recorded October 12th, 2025 Message by Pastor Boris Pena Scripture: Romans 9:1-3

Paul had everything—status, education, influence—but he came to see it all as loss compared to knowing Christ. His deepest desire wasn’t comfort or achievement, but a relationship so real that even suffering became a means of sharing in Christ’s life. In Philippians 3:7–14, Paul describes a faith that presses forward—forgetting what lies behind and straining toward what is ahead. Pastor Tim unpacks what it means to truly know Christ: not just to know about Him, but to walk with Him in power, purpose, and perseverance. Recorded October 5th, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Philippians 3:7-14

When faced with opposition, how do we respond—with fear or with faith? In this message, Thomas Ramundo shares the story of a young college freshman who dared to stand for prayer against ridicule—and witnessed a miracle that silenced unbelief. Drawing from **Acts 4** and the story of Bartimaeus in Mark 10, Pastor Ramundo reminds us that the same Holy Spirit who filled Peter and John with boldness still empowers believers today. Discover the “biblical boldness builders” that transform ordinary Christians into bold witnesses—those who pray with confidence, live with cheerful courage, and trust God to work wonders. Step forward in faith. Pray boldly. Live courageously. Be a bold believer. Recorded September 28th, 2025 Message by Thomas Ramundo

When people ask, “Do you care?”, they are looking for actions that prove love is real. In a world full of self-interest and distraction, genuine care can be hard to find. In Philippians 2:19–30, Paul lifts up Timothy and Epaphroditus as examples of what it looks like to truly care for others. They were men whose lives reflected Christ’s selfless love—concerned not with their own well-being, but with the needs of the church and the mission of the Gospel.  What does it mean to care in ways that mirror Christ’s heart? Join us as we explore what real, Christ-centered care looks like, and how your love, your time, and your service can be an answer to the question, “Do you care?” Recorded September 21st, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Philippians 2:19-30

Life often feels overwhelming when we think about changing the world. How could one person ever make a real difference? Yet God’s plan has always been to work through individuals—ordinary people who allow Him to shape their hearts and guide their steps. In Philippians 2:12–16, Paul reminds believers to “work out” their salvation, not by their own strength, but with God working within them. God transforms lives one heart at a time, and your faithful obedience can ripple outward to affect families, communities, and beyond. Join us and be reminded: one changed heart can light the way for many others. Come ready to be encouraged and challenged—your heart may be the next one God wants to use! Recorded September 14th, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Philippians 2:12-16

In Philippians 2:5–11, Paul reminds us that Jesus, though fully God, humbled Himself as a servant, even to death on a cross. Because of this, God has exalted Him and given Him the name above every name. This week, Pastor Tim Ward shares how the name of Jesus is saving, precious, comforting, conquering, and exalted. From stories of transformed lives to the hope we hold in sorrow and death, we are called to honor the name of Jesus and follow His example of humility and obedience. Join us as we lift high the name that is above every name—Jesus Christ our Lord. Recorded September 7th, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Philippians 2:5-11

On this Labor Day weekend, our community gathered under the tent at Krouskop Park for the annual Community Worship Service. Churches from across Richland County came together in unity to lift up the name of Jesus in worship, prayer, and fellowship. This year’s guest speaker was Dave Gerry, a longtime Madison-area businessman, founder of The Princeton Club, and co-founder of SaltCo. While his career has seen great success, Dave shared not about building earthly kingdoms but about living with God at the center of every pursuit. Drawing from his own experiences, he encouraged us to put Christ first in our lives, to trust Him even when the path seems uncertain, and to believe that God is preparing to bless our community when His people walk together in unity. Dave’s heartfelt message wove together personal stories of faith in the marketplace, testimonies of answered prayer, and a powerful call for believers to “step over the line” and boldly live out their faith beyond the walls of the church. His challenge was clear: when we put God first, He directs our steps and multiplies our efforts in ways only He can. May this message encourage you to trust God more deeply, value the unity of His people, and live with the confidence that He desires to work in and through you for His glory. Recorded August 31st, 2025 Message by Dave Gerry

When music, lights, and activity fade away, what’s left at the center of worship? For the church in Philippi, Paul pointed them to the example of Christ Himself — humility, obedience, and self-giving love. Worship is not measured by performance or atmosphere but by a heart aligned with Jesus. This Sunday, Pastor Tim will remind us that true worship flows from surrender — laying aside pride, lifting up Christ, and uniting as one body in His name. Come ready to listen, reflect, and respond. Let this be the day we return to the heart of worship — because it’s all about Him. Recorded Sunday, August 24th, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Philippians 2:1-11 Special music: “The Heart of Worship” by Matt Redman, performed by Liz Niemeyer. © 1999 Thankyou Music (Admin. by Capitol CMG Publishing). Used with permission. CCLI Streaming License #CSPL059304.

Grace and peace. These two words, often paired together in Paul’s letters, hold deep meaning for how the church is called to live and grow together. In Philippians 1:2-6, Paul reminds the believers that what God begins in them, He is faithful to complete. Grace and peace go hand in hand, just as faith and good works, encouragement and perseverance, prayer and action. When God brings His people together, He weaves their lives into a greater purpose—working all things together for His glory. Join us this Sunday as Pastor Tim shares how the things that belong together in the Christian life also work together to form a living testimony of God’s ongoing work. Recorded Sunday, August 17th, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Philippians 1:2-6

We know God the Father and God the Son—but for many, God the Spirit feels mysterious, even hard to understand. Yet it is through the Holy Spirit that we hear from God, receive His guidance, and experience His power. In Scripture, we see that the Spirit never forces His way in; He comes where He is welcomed. Dave Ewing takes us from the sending of the disciples, to Jesus’ deliverance of the man possessed by Legion in Mark 5, to the outpouring of the Spirit at Pentecost. In each account, the Spirit brings life-changing power—but only to those ready to receive Him. We’ll consider what it means to “host the presence” of God, how rejecting the Spirit grieves Him, and why preparation and obedience are essential if we want to see His work in our lives and community. Come ready to open the door. The Spirit is speaking—will you receive Him? Recorded August 10th, 2025 Message by Dave Ewing Scripture: Mark 5:1-20

Something sacred happens at the Lord’s Table—but what exactly? Is it just a symbol, a reminder, a ritual… or is there more going on than meets the eye? In 1 Corinthians 11, Paul passes along what he received directly from the Lord: that communion is more than bread and cup—it’s participation. It’s remembrance, yes, but also proclamation. It’s a moment of self-examination, shared unity, and tangible grace. This week, we’ll reflect on what happens when we gather at the Table, what it means to partake “in a worthy manner,” and how communion shapes our lives both individually and as a church body. Join us as we come to the Table—ready to remember, ready to receive, and ready to respond. Recorded August 3rd, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11:23-28

For some, the word tithe conjures up guilt, confusion, or even skepticism. Maybe it’s been used like a spiritual tax, or perhaps it’s been tangled up with flashy promises of blessing. Somewhere along the way, tithing got a reputation it was never meant to have. In Leviticus 27:30–32, God calls Israel to set apart a tenth as an act of recognition and trust. It’s a reminder that everything belongs to God, and He invites His people to return a portion as holy — set apart to Him. Pastor Tim walks us through what tithing meant for Israel, how it’s been misunderstood today, and how a rightly ordered view of giving reveals where our hearts truly are. “Tithe Gets a Bad Rap”— maybe it’s time we listened to God’s version instead. Recorded July 27th, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Leviticus 27:30-32

When we think about holiness, we often picture something distant—set apart, sacred, almost unreachable. But what if holiness was meant to be practiced in the everyday? What if it looked less like ritual perfection and more like walking faithfully with God, step by step? In Leviticus 26, God outlines the blessings that come from obedience and the consequences of turning away. Yet embedded in this covenant is a relational call: to live with God, to walk in His ways, and to be His people. God is still calling His people to walk with Him. Will we respond with obedience that reflects a life set apart? Join us as we explore practical holiness. Recorded July 20th, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Leviticus 26:1-13, 40-45

What would happen if Jesus came to your house? Would He find evidence of a faithful life, or signs of something growing that shouldn’t be there? In Leviticus 14, God gives Israel instructions on how to deal with mildew found in their homes—guidelines that may seem obscure but carry deeper meaning. Consider what it means to examine our lives and homes through a spiritual lens. Whether it’s mildew on the walls or something unseen in our hearts, God has always been interested in making things clean and whole again. What needs to be cleansed? What needs to be surrendered? Come and consider what true restoration looks like when Jesus is the one doing the inspection. Recorded July 13th, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Leviticus 14:33-53

In a garden full of beauty, provision, and fellowship with God, one voice whispered a lie that changed everything: “You will be like God.” It was a promise of independence—freedom from authority, freedom from limits, freedom to decide good and evil for ourselves. But that promise was empty. Genesis 3 shows us the moment humanity tried to walk away from God, seeking autonomy over obedience. Instead of gaining freedom, Adam and Eve found shame, fear, and separation. What does this say about our modern attempts to “go it alone”? Can we really thrive without the One who made us? Come hear Jo Ann Krulatz share how Genesis reveals the deeper truth: we were never made to be independent—we were made to walk with God. Recorded July 6th, 2025 Message by Jo Ann Krulatz Scripture: Genesis 3:1-11

Everyone wants clean living—whether it’s our relationships, our habits, or our motivations. But there’s something deeper that shapes everything from the inside out: the heart.  In Leviticus, we read many rules and statutes that the Israelites kept to remain set apart to God, but do external regulations lead to an internal purity? We’ll see how choices, attitudes, and small compromises can defile us—and how God’s grace offers cleansing where it matters most. Come discover how God wants to shape your heart—so your whole life reflects his holiness, not just your actions. Recorded June 29th, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Leviticus 11:43-47

In Proverbs 4, a father offers his children the kind of wisdom that shaped his own life. These are words meant to be remembered—calls to seek understanding, hold onto instruction, and walk with integrity. This passage reflects a tradition of teaching that is both personal and deeply rooted in God’s truth. As we mark Father’s Day, we’re reminded that instruction doesn’t always come through grand speeches. Often it’s passed along in quiet consistency, in decisions made over time, and in the values we choose to uphold. This message encourages us to reflect on what we’ve received, and what we’re passing on. Recorded June 15th, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Proverbs 4: 1-9

Long before the cross, God painted a picture of redemption in blood, wilderness, and mercy. On the Day of Atonement, the high priest would enter the Most Holy Place—alone, trembling, and covered in sacred linen—to make intercession for the sins of the people. Every movement was weighted with purpose, every detail a shadow of something greater still to come. Leviticus 16 offers ritual AND revelation: a portrait of Christ as our Mediator, our Redeemer, and our great Possibility. The priest, the sacrifice, and the scapegoat all point forward to Jesus—the one who entered the true sanctuary, bore our sin, and opened the way for us to be made clean. And now, that atonement is not only available—it invites a response. In Christ, we are not only forgiven; we are called to reflect Him. This week, come see what God revealed in three powerful images—and ask: What reflection does your life offer to the world? Recorded June 8th, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Leviticus 16 

In the center of Israel’s worship stood the altar—and on that altar, the blood of sacrifices served as a vivid reminder: sin brings death, and life must be given to restore what was broken. Leviticus 17:11 declares, “For the life of a creature is in the blood,” establishing a sacred truth that flows all the way to the foot of the cross. As we continue our journey through Leviticus, we pause at the Lord’s table to see how every offering, every drop shed, pointed forward to a greater sacrifice. This week, Pastor Tim invites us to consider Communion not as ritual, but as a portrait—one painted in the language of covenant, sacrifice, and redemption. Just as the blood once made atonement in the tabernacle, the blood of Christ now brings life to all who believe. The table calls us to remember, to proclaim, and to receive again the grace that was bought with blood. Come, there’s life in the blood—and there’s room at the table. Recorded June 1st, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Leviticus 17:11 

When a moment changes everything, we mark it—etched in stone, remembered in silence, carried in story. From the blood-stained doorposts in Egypt to the folded flags on Memorial Day, some events shape not only our history but our identity. Exodus 12 tells the story of God’s people preparing to walk into freedom—but only after they remembered, obeyed, and trusted His command. The Passover became a lasting sign of who they were and whose they were. In the same way, we pause to remember sacrifice—what it costs, what it means, and how it calls us to live differently. This Memorial Day weekend, we remember those who gave everything—and the God who gave Himself. Join us as we remember, reflect, and give thanks. Recorded May 25th, 2025 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: Exodus 12:1-14