Litchfield Church of the Nazarene Podcast

It started with 100-to-one odds. In 1987, the Minnesota Twins were the biggest underdogs in baseball — outscored during the regular season, dismissed by every expert, and picked by nobody to win. They won the World Series anyway. Lead Pastor Jon Stoe opens part three of Acts: To the Ends of the Earth with that story to set up something even harder to explain: how a small group of ordinary people with no Bible, no building, no army, and no institutional backing turned the entire world upside down. Jon takes us into Acts 2 to look at the origins of the early church — what they were actually devoted to, how they lived together, and why it worked. Along the way he doesn't shy away from the hard stuff. He names church hurt directly, calls out what happens when a church loses its way, and then brings it back to Jesus's one command that was supposed to prevent all of it. The local church, Jon says, is the hope of the world. There is no plan B. And whether you love the church, left it, or aren't sure what you think about it, this message is worth your time. Litchfield Church of the Nazarene is a welcoming, bilingual community of faith in Litchfield, MN, whose mission is to produce fruitful disciples of Jesus Christ. We gather every Sunday at 10:45 AM. New messages drop on the podcast each week. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite app. Learn more at litchfieldnaz.com.

George Whitefield crossed the Atlantic in 1738 with nothing but a message and a willingness to preach it in the open air. No army, no institution, no platform. An estimated 50,000 people were transformed in New England alone. In part two of Acts: To the Ends of the Earth, Lead Pastor Jon Stoe uses that story to ask a question that lands closer to home: what if God wants to write a volume three through ordinary people like us? Jon walks through the opening chapters of Acts to show that everything happening in the early church, from the choosing of the apostles to the healing at the temple gate to Peter's jaw-dropping boldness in front of the religious leaders, was divine activity working through completely ordinary people. The religious leaders themselves said it. They looked at Peter and John and saw unschooled, unremarkable men. And they were astonished. Jon argues that the same offer is on the table today, but it starts with one question: are you available? Litchfield Church of the Nazarene is a welcoming, bilingual community of faith in Litchfield, MN, whose mission is to produce fruitful disciples of Jesus Christ. We gather every Sunday at 10:45 AM. New messages drop on the podcast each week. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite app. Learn more at litchfieldnaz.com.

If your faith has ever felt shaky, or you've watched someone you care about walk away from the church, this message is worth your time. Lead Pastor Jon Stoe opens the new series Acts: To the Ends of the Earth by asking a question most Christians have never seriously sat with: if the first followers of Jesus never owned a Bible, never read one, and still turned the world upside down, what exactly was the foundation of their faith? The answer isn't what a lot of people assume. Jon traces the explosive beginning of the early church through Acts chapters 1 and 2, from Jesus' final conversation with his disciples before the ascension to the moment the Holy Spirit fell on Pentecost and 3,000 people converted in a single day. Along the way he takes on the new atheists, compares how Christianity spread against Islam and Judaism, and lands on something that's both historically defensible and personally urgent. The foundation wasn't a philosophy or a set of teachings. It was a single, verifiable claim: they saw a dead man walking. And that, Jon argues, is still the only message with enough weight to hold the next generation. Litchfield Church of the Nazarene is a welcoming, bilingual community of faith in Litchfield, MN, whose mission is to produce fruitful disciples of Jesus Christ. We gather every Sunday at 10:45 AM. New messages drop on the podcast each week. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite app. Learn more at litchfieldnaz.com.

Most Easter sermons start at the empty tomb. This one starts somewhere darker. Lead Pastor Jon Stoe takes you back to the hours right after the crucifixion, when there were no Christians, no church, no Bible, and no believers. Just a handful of brokenhearted Galileans who thought they'd been following God's chosen king, now watching Rome claim his body. Nobody was keeping the dream alive. There was no dream left. Jon builds from that moment forward through 350 years of history, through Peter and John sprinting to an empty tomb, through disciples who wrote themselves into the story as cowards and quitters, to make the case that the resurrection isn't just a Bible story. It's the explanation for everything. And more personally, it answers the question most of us quietly carry: how do I know where I actually stand with God? Litchfield Church of the Nazarene is a welcoming, bilingual community of faith in Litchfield, MN, whose mission is to produce fruitful disciples of Jesus Christ. We gather every Sunday at 10:45 AM. New messages drop on the podcast each week. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite app. Learn more at litchfieldnaz.com.

Jon Stoe opens this one with a story from his 25th anniversary trip to Antigua — an all-inclusive resort where the staff anticipated every need before you even asked. It was wonderful, he says. And also a little unsettling. Because being served that well has a way of making you feel things you weren't expecting. That feeling is exactly where this sermon goes. This is the final message in The Jesus Way series, and Jon brings it home with one of the most jarring scenes in the gospels. The night before the crucifixion, Jesus already knows who's going to betray him, who's going to deny him, and who's going to run. He knows all of it. And what he does next stops the room cold. He picks up a towel and washes their feet. One by one. Starting with Judas. Jon walks through what that moment would have meant in Roman culture — who washed feet, and who absolutely did not — and why what Jesus did wasn't just humble. It was shocking. And then he asks the question that lands: when you have all the power and all the leverage, and the people who wronged you are right in front of you — what do you do? Litchfield Church of the Nazarene is a welcoming, bilingual community of faith in Litchfield, MN, whose mission is to produce fruitful disciples of Jesus Christ. We gather every Sunday at 10:45 AM. New messages drop on the podcast each week. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite app. Learn more at litchfieldnaz.com.

We're all running a race with no finish line. Comparing ourselves to people who don't even know they're in the competition, chasing something we can't quite name, and still feeling like we're falling behind. In part five of The Jesus Way series, Lead Pastor Jon Stoe opens with something unexpected: a candid quote from Madonna at the height of her career, admitting she still couldn't outrun the fear of being mediocre. Turns out that feeling doesn't care how famous you are. Jon digs into 1 Corinthians and the story of the Apostle Paul to unpack what the cross actually meant to the first people who followed Jesus. Not a symbol to wear around your neck. A way of life. One that looks foolish from the outside and goes completely against the grain of how we're wired to think about winning, proving ourselves, and keeping up. Ambition and achievement are good things, Jon says. They just make terrible masters. ---- Litchfield Church of the Nazarene is a welcoming, bilingual community of faith in Litchfield, MN, whose mission is to produce fruitful disciples of Jesus Christ. We gather every Sunday at 10:45 AM. New messages drop on the podcast each week. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite app. Learn more at litchfieldnaz.com.

Self‑righteousness is one outfit none of us look good in—and most of the time, we don’t even realize we’re wearing it. In this message, “The Jesus Way: Rebranding,” lead pastor Jon Stoe walks us into Luke 15 and shows how Jesus completely reframes what God is like and who God likes. Through the parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son, Jon explores a God who is laser‑focused on what is lost, not content to simply enjoy what’s already “found.”   Along the way, Jon presses into our own tendencies to be “right” but not righteous, especially around hot‑button areas like religion and politics. He contrasts the self‑righteous posture of the Pharisees with the surprising, pursuing love of the Father, asking us hard but hopeful questions: Do we see people far from God as problems to fix—or as someone valuable who’s been disconnected from their Owner? This episode is an invitation to let Jesus rebrand your view of God, of others, and of yourself.

In this message from lead pastor Jon Stoe, we continue our journey through “The Jesus Way” by looking at one of Jesus’ most disruptive and beautiful stories: the Good Samaritan. Pastor Jon shows how Jesus didn’t just bring a new set of rules, but a completely new kind of kingdom that is “inviting, and relational, and without borders, and it was as if it was for everybody.” Everyone is endowed with inherent worth, created in the image of God, and Jesus insists that love for God is always expressed in love for people.   Walking through Luke 10, Jon unpacks the lawyer’s question, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” and Jesus’ radical answer that “love for God is demonstrated by love for others.” He explores what neighbor love actually looks and acts like, using Jesus’ story of a beaten traveler, two religious passersby, and a surprising hero from the wrong side of the cultural divide. Along the way, you will be invited to rethink the minimums you have settled for and to see that following Jesus means crossing lines, absorbing cost, and moving toward people in need.   If you have ever wondered what God is really like, or what it practically means to follow Jesus in your everyday relationships, this episode will stretch your assumptions and stir your heart. Come discover a kingdom where everybody is invited, everybody is included, and neighbor love is the defining mark of the people of God.

In this episode of the Litchfield Church of the Nazarene podcast, lead pastor Jon Stoe continues our series, The Jesus Way, by focusing on “The Invitation.” Starting with a personal story about an unexpected date that turned into a 43–year marriage, Pastor Jon shows how “you never know what hangs in the balance of an invitation.” From there, he turns our attention to the greatest invitation of all: Jesus’ call to trust Him, follow Him, and stake our lives on who He really is.   Walking through Luke’s Gospel, Pastor Jon reminds us that the credibility of Christianity “rises and falls on the identity of this one individual” and asks us to wrestle with Jesus’ question, “Who do you say that I am?” We watch Jesus step into real history, teach with authority, heal the sick, and step into Simon Peter’s boat with a simple but life–altering challenge. When Peter finally responds, “But because you say so,” Pastor Jon shows how that one act of obedience can change the entire trajectory of a life.   If you’re wondering whether following Jesus is worth it, or you feel Him nudging you toward a next step that seems costly or unreasonable, this message will meet you right in that tension. It’s an invitation not just to believe in Jesus, but to actually follow Him in real time, in real decisions, in our real community.

In this message, Lead Pastor Jon Stoe launches a new series called “The Jesus Way” and invites you to rediscover what it really meant to follow Jesus in the first century. He begins with the constant tension between Jesus and the religious leaders and shows that they did not see Him as “Judaism 2.0” but as a threat to everything they valued. Jesus did not come as an upgrade to something old. He came to introduce something brand new that would reach every nation, tribe, and tongue.   Walking through John’s declaration, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world,” and Jesus’ conversation with His disciples at Caesarea Philippi, Pastor Jon unpacks the moment Jesus said, “I will build my church.” He explains the original word ekklesia as a gathering of called out people on the move, not a religious building or temple. The early believers were known as “the Way,” a Spirit filled movement that could not be contained by any facility and that carried the message of Jesus far beyond the borders of Israel.   This sermon also faces into our current reality. Pastor Jon contrasts the passion of believers who risk much just to gather with the growing number of “nones” and empty churches in America. He asks why the church has become so resistible when Jesus was not and calls listeners to let go of outdated ways that keep us stuck. This is an invitation to see yourself as a key player in the movement Jesus started and to embrace the Jesus Way as a living, active way of life in the world today.

In this message, Lead Pastor Jon Stoe tackles one of the hardest and most necessary topics in the Christian life: forgiveness. Starting with Peter’s question to Jesus about how many times he must forgive, Pastor Jon shows how Jesus completely reframes the conversation. Forgiveness is not about counting offenses or setting a limit. It is about a new kind of math where we stop keeping score and start losing count. Walking through Jesus’ parable of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18, Pastor Jon paints a vivid picture of the massive debt God has canceled for us and the tragic contradiction when we refuse to forgive others. He connects this to Jesus’ teaching in the Lord’s Prayer, Paul’s words in Ephesians and Romans, and even modern research that shows how unforgiveness affects our physical, emotional, and spiritual health. This sermon invites you to tear up the mental spreadsheet you keep on those who have hurt you and to surrender your right to get even into God’s hands. You will be challenged to forgive from the heart, to release people to God, and to step out of the prison of bitterness into the freedom Christ offers. Listen in and let the Holy Spirit begin the work of healing, release, and true peace in your relationships.

Join us for an uplifting episode featuring our new interim lead pastor, Jon Stoe, as he explores the profound theme of forgiveness through the lens of Jesus' teachings and actions. In this heartfelt sermon, Pastor Jon invites us to reflect on our own experiences of forgiving others—often before they even ask—and challenges us to consider if God's forgiveness operates in a similar, boundless way. Drawing from powerful stories in the Gospels, he reveals how Jesus extended grace to the undeserving, the unaware, and even His enemies, demonstrating a divine authority to forgive sins at will, without prerequisites.   Pastor Jon delves into three key narratives: the healing of the paralyzed man lowered through the roof, the sinful woman who anointed Jesus' feet at a Pharisee's banquet, and Jesus' prayer of forgiveness from the cross. These accounts illustrate that God's love announces forgiveness in advance, replacing fear with gratitude and inviting reconciliation. Whether you're grappling with past hurts, seeking renewal in your faith, or simply curious about Jesus' radical approach to grace, this message offers hope and encouragement for living a life marked by limitless forgiveness.   This sermon is a timely reminder that it's never too late to embrace or extend forgiveness, echoing Jesus' call for us to do the same. Tune in to be inspired and transformed, and discover how understanding God's preemptive mercy can change your relationships and your walk with Him.

In this week’s message, Interim Lead Pastor Jon Stoe invites us to wrestle with a life-shaping question: Who will you be five or ten years from now? More than careers, accomplishments, or accolades, Pastor Jon reminds us that it is character, the person we are becoming on the inside, that defines our legacy and relationships.   Through Scripture and real-life examples, Pastor Jon explores how true Christian character is formed: dependence on God, selfless purpose, consistency, and love. He points us to Jesus as the perfect model of uncompromising character, showing that the will to do what is right, regardless of the personal cost, is the foundation of a life that lasts.   This message is both challenging and encouraging, calling us to pre-decide to follow God’s standard of truth and to trust His plan for shaping who we are becoming. Tune in and be inspired to pursue a life of conviction, consistency, and Christlike character.

In his first message as interim pastor, Jon Stoe invites the church into a new season by addressing a challenge every believer faces; how we respond when life does not go as planned. Drawing from personal loss, pastoral wisdom, and the apostle Paul’s teaching, this sermon calls us to examine our attitudes, our surrender, and our willingness to be continually renewed by God.   This message reminds us that Jesus does not merely save us from something; He saves us for something. Through Scripture, practical illustrations, and a compelling call to daily surrender, Pastor Jon points us toward a life shaped by humility, perseverance, and a renewed mind. As we step into a new year together, this sermon offers both comfort and challenge; God is still at work, and He is not finished with us yet.

In the final episode of Discerning Authority, Pastor Michael Lowenberg walks through a relentless day in the life of Jesus; a synagogue leader pleads for his daughter; a woman reaches for the fringe of His garment; two blind men cry out for mercy; a silenced man is set free. Each encounter reveals the same truth in a different key; Jesus carries real authority over death, disease, darkness, and doubt. This message invites us out of passive admiration and into active faith; not spectating but seeking. Come with expectancy; bring your desperation honestly; trust the One who notices, touches, and restores. Scripture: Matthew 9:18–34.

In this message, Pastor Sarah Lowenberg explores Jesus’ teaching on fasting, garments, and wineskins, revealing that He has the authority to bring something completely new. The disciples of John ask why Jesus’ followers don’t fast like others, and Jesus responds with vivid images: a joyful wedding feast, an unshrunk patch on an old garment, and new wine poured into new wineskins. Through these illustrations, Pastor Sarah reminds us that Jesus didn’t come to patch up old habits or make life a little more bearable. He came to transform us from the inside out. The presence of Jesus brings joy, His Spirit cannot be contained by rigid old patterns, and His authority means He makes us new—clothed in His grace, filled with His Spirit, and rebuilt on a solid foundation. If you’ve been asking Jesus to “patch up” parts of your life, this sermon invites you to release the old and receive the new, trusting Him to do far more than repair—He will transform. Scripture: Matthew 9:14–17

Welcome to Discerning Authority; a new three-part journey through the way Jesus invites and redirects our lives. In Episode 1, Pastor Sarah Lowenberg walks us into Matthew’s tax booth; a place of compromise and exclusion; and shows how a single invitation changes everything: “Follow me.” Jesus sits at Matthew’s table with “tax collectors and sinners”; He quotes Hosea; and He reframes what God wants from His people: mercy over sacrifice; healing over image; obedience over delay. This message is for anyone who thinks they need to clean up first. The Great Physician comes for the sick; not the polished. If Matthew can stand up and leave the booth, so can we; say yes to Jesus today and make room at your table for the people He loves.

In the fifth and final episode of Kingdom Authority, Pastor Sarah Lowenberg invites us into the crowded house at Capernaum; four friends lower a paralyzed man before Jesus; everyone expects a miracle for his legs. Jesus goes deeper first: “Take heart; your sins are forgiven.” This moment reframes the whole scene; the greatest need beneath every need is the authority of Jesus to forgive and make us whole. When the scribes question in their hearts, Jesus reveals what cannot be seen by doing what cannot be denied; the man rises, rolls up his mat, and walks home. Some leave forgiven and amazed; others stand unchanged. Pastor Sarah calls us to the response that submits in faith; bring your whole self to the One who still speaks life and sends us walking into a new way of living.

What happens when the authority of Jesus confronts both the storm outside and the storm within? In this episode of Kingdom Authority, Pastor Michael Lowenberg opens up Matthew 8:23–34, where Jesus stills a violent storm and drives out a legion of demons. These aren’t gentle, heartwarming stories—they are unsettling accounts that force us to wrestle with the sheer scope of Christ’s power. The winds, the waves, and even the spiritual forces of darkness submit to Him. The question is, will we? The disciples respond with awe, drawing closer to Jesus in wonder. But the townspeople—faced with the same authority—push Him away. In this message, Pastor Michael challenges us to consider how we respond when Jesus’ authority reaches into places we’d rather keep under our control. Do we pull Him closer, or do we plead with Him to leave?

What does it really mean to follow Jesus—not just admire Him, but actually go where He leads? In this episode of Kingdom Authority, Pastor Michael Lowenberg opens up Matthew 8:14–22 with a message that’s both healing and unsettling. We begin with a moment of mercy as Jesus restores Peter’s mother-in-law with a simple touch. But what follows is a shift in tone—a challenge to comfort, convenience, and half-hearted discipleship. Jesus doesn’t just heal bodies; He calls hearts. And that call comes with cost. This message invites us to move beyond admiration into surrender. The authority of Jesus isn’t just about what He can do for us—it’s about what He calls us to. If you've ever wrestled with what it means to truly follow Jesus, especially when it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Kingdom Authority, Pastor Sarah Lowenberg invites us into one of the most astonishing interactions in the Gospels—where faith, humility, and authority intersect in a way that even amazes Jesus. Teaching from Matthew 8:5–13, Pastor Sarah walks us through the story of the Roman centurion who approaches Jesus not with entitlement, but with reverent confidence. He doesn’t ask Jesus to come in person or perform a sign; he simply says, “Just say the word.” This isn’t faith in theory—it’s trust in action. And it challenges us to consider: do we believe that the authority of Jesus is enough? Do we trust His word before we see the outcome? Whether you’re walking through uncertainty, waiting for healing, or wondering how strong your faith really is, this message offers both comfort and conviction. Jesus still honors bold trust—and still has the authority to speak healing into being.

Welcome to a new series at Litchfield Church of the Nazarene: Kingdom Authority. In this first episode, Pastor Michael Lowenberg leads us from the heights of the Sermon on the Mount into the living, breathing authority of Jesus in action. Teaching from Matthew 8:1–4, Pastor Michael invites us to slow down and truly see what happens when Jesus meets a man with leprosy—a man considered untouchable, unworthy, and unclean. But Jesus doesn’t recoil; He reaches out and touches him. This isn’t just a story of physical healing; it’s a window into the heart of the Kingdom Jesus brings—a Kingdom where purity flows outward, healing comes through compassion, and brokenness is never the end of the story. As we reflect on this miracle, we’re challenged to consider: What have we settled for? And are we willing to bring our whole selves before the One who is willing to make us whole?

In the final episode of The Sermon series, Pastor Sarah Lowenberg brings us to the end of Jesus’ message on the mount with a clear and compelling call: don’t just admire the blueprint—start building. Drawing from Matthew 7:24–29, Pastor Sarah explores Jesus’ final parable of two builders: one wise, one foolish; one built on rock, the other on sand. This isn’t a lesson in construction—it's a call to obedience. Knowing the right answers isn’t enough. Listening isn’t enough. Agreement isn’t enough. Jesus says the solid foundation is found in putting His words into practice. Whether you’ve followed this series from the beginning or are jumping in now, this message invites you to ask: what’s under your life? And more importantly, what are you building that will actually last?

In Episode 17 of The Sermon, Pastor Michael Lowenberg walks us through Jesus’ striking conclusion in Matthew 7:13–23, where we’re invited to examine the path we’re walking, the voices we’re listening to, and whether our faith is rooted in performance or in obedience to the will of God. Is your faith a wide, easy road of good intentions and casual belief—or a narrow path of intentional trust and discipleship? With stories, scripture, and personal reflection, Pastor Michael challenges us to stop settling for being "good enough" and start seeking God's will in the day-to-day decisions of life. This episode is both a warning and an invitation—a reminder that Jesus isn’t calling us to be good performers, but faithful followers. So ask yourself: Which road are you on?

In Episode 16 of The Sermon, Pastor Sarah Lowenberg takes us deep into Matthew 7:7–12 and the vulnerable reality of prayer that feels unanswered. What do we do when we ask and there’s silence, when we seek and find only shadows, when we knock and the door stays closed? With authenticity and grace, Pastor Sarah shares personal stories of faith in the waiting—through childhood cancer, infertility, adoption, and the quiet struggles of ministry. This message is an invitation to persistent faith and a reminder that silence isn’t absence; it's often the space where hope is formed and God draws near. If you’re weary or wondering, this one is for you. Don’t give up—keep knocking.

Welcome to Episode 15 of The Sermon, a teaching series from the Sermon on the Mount. In this message, Pastor Michael Lowenberg leads us into one of Jesus’ most pointed and often misunderstood teachings in Matthew 7:1–6. “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” With humor, honesty, and spiritual depth, Pastor Michael unpacks the heart behind this command—not as a call to abandon discernment, but as a challenge to confront our own brokenness before we critique others. Through illustrations about baseball rivalries, unsolicited advice, and even pearls and pigs, we’re invited to see judgmentalism for what it really is: a way to elevate ourselves at someone else’s expense. Instead of judgment, Jesus calls us to a radical love that costs us something; to adopt His mindset—a mindset shaped by humility, service, and grace. If you’ve ever struggled with the impulse to fix others before dealing with your own “plank,” this episode will hit home.

Welcome to Episode 14 of The Sermon—a message for every overthinker, late-night worrier, and to-do list maker. In this week’s teaching from Matthew 6:25–34, Pastor Sarah Lowenberg shares Lessons from the Wildflowers, a beautifully honest and encouraging look at Jesus’ call to stop worrying and start trusting. Through humor, vulnerability, and relatable stories (yes, even a mental grocery list mid-prayer), Pastor Sarah reminds us that our worry competes with trust; it drains our energy, distorts our priorities, and dulls our witness.   Instead of a list of stress-reducing tips, Jesus points us to the birds and the wildflowers—living sermons of simplicity and trust. In this message, you’re invited to slow down, breathe deep, and rediscover the peace that comes from knowing your heavenly Father sees you, knows your needs, and invites you to let go. If your heart has been carrying a heavy load, this one’s for you.

In Episode 13 of The Sermon, Pastor Michael Lowenberg invites us to take a closer look at two things we might not often connect: treasures and eyeballs. Based on Matthew 6:19–24, this message explores what we treasure, what we chase, and what that reveals about the condition of our hearts. Are we storing up the kind of rewards that fade with time—or the kind that shape our soul for eternity? With clarity, humor, and real-life reflection, Pastor Michael unpacks Jesus’ metaphors and shows how what we focus on impacts how we live. When our vision is scattered, our hearts follow suit; but when our focus is fixed on God, our lives become full of light. This message challenges us to embrace simplicity; to examine where our treasure truly lies; and to choose a life of undivided devotion to the One who never fades or fails.

In Episode 12 of The Sermon, Pastor Sarah Lowenberg walks us through one of the most overlooked and misunderstood spiritual practices—fasting. Based on Matthew 6:16–18, this message unpacks Jesus’ words, “When you fast,” and explores the difference between man-centered, God-centered, and Christ-centered fasting. With humor, honesty (including a Baconator confession), and biblical depth, Pastor Sarah challenges us to look beyond religious performance and embrace fasting as a way to deepen our devotion to and dependence on God. Fasting isn’t about impressing others or earning favor; it’s about realigning our hearts with the One who already knows and loves us. In a world full of noise and indulgence, choosing to fast becomes a quiet yet powerful act of faith. Whether you’ve never fasted before or have tried and failed, this episode offers practical encouragement to make space for God—and find Him more than able to satisfy.

In Episode 11 of The Sermon, Pastor Sarah Lowenberg takes us to the heart of prayer through Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:5–15. With warmth, clarity, and practical insight, she unpacks what it really means to talk with God, not perform for others. Whether you're a lifelong believer or just beginning your journey, this message invites you to rediscover prayer not as a religious duty, but as a lifeline of honest connection with a loving Father.   Pastor Sarah walks us through the Lord’s Prayer, breaking down its simple yet powerful truths: pray with authenticity, use your mind, remember who you're talking to, trust God for daily needs, and be honest about your struggles. This isn’t about getting the words “right”, it’s about getting real with God. If you’ve ever wondered, Am I doing this prayer thing right?—this episode is for you.

In Episode 10 of The Sermon, Pastor Michael Lowenberg reflects on Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:1–4, where we’re invited to consider not just what we give, but why we give. Is our generosity rooted in a desire to honor God—or are we hoping someone takes notice? Through honest storytelling (including a fiery “Wing-a-thon” tale) and grounded teaching, Pastor Michael explores how giving becomes meaningful when it's done quietly, sincerely, and with a heart fully surrendered to God. This message isn’t about guilt or pressure, it’s about freedom. When we give with integrity, without expectation of recognition, we align ourselves with the heart of our generous God. Whether giving has been a lifelong habit or a new challenge, this episode will encourage you to see generosity as a spiritual practice that shapes us and blesses others in ways that often go unseen, but never unnoticed by God.

In Episode 9 of The Sermon, Pastor Michael Lowenberg tackles Jesus’ most counter-intuitive command yet: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matt. 5:43–48). Drawing us past the comfortable limits of “love your neighbor,” Michael shows how Jesus calls us to see every person—even those who’ve hurt us—as made in God’s image and worthy of our prayers and compassion. He unpacks the cultural backdrop of “hate your enemies,” explores the radical Good Samaritan story, and helps us understand what “be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect” really means: a heart of complete, boundless love.   Through authentic stories and practical steps, Michael invites us to identify the grudges and fears that hold us captive, to turn those hurts over to God in prayer, and to embrace the freedom that comes when God’s perfect love empowers us to love without limits. Whether you’ve been struggling with an old wound or simply want to follow Jesus more faithfully, this message will challenge and encourage you to live out the Sermon on the Mount in the hardest relationships of your life.

In this special Easter Sunday message, Pastor Michael Lowenberg turns to Paul’s powerful words in 1 Corinthians 15:1–8, 12–20 to remind us why the resurrection isn’t just another holiday story, it’s the event that rewrote history and offers us new life today. With warmth and a touch of humor (and yes, even special “resurrection socks”), Michael unpacks three timeless truths: the gospel’s unshakable facts, the necessity of Christ’s victory over sin and death, and the life-changing power we receive when we trust in a risen Savior. Whether you’ve celebrated Easter your whole life or are just hearing the story for the first time, this episode invites you to stand firm in hope and discover the freedom of living “in Christ” every day.

Step into the heart of Palm Sunday with Pastor Michael Lowenberg as he unpacks the powerful prophecy of Zechariah 9:9-13 in "The Promised King of Palm Sunday." In this message, Pastor Michael masterfully connects ancient promises to the vibrant reality of Jesus' humble entrance into Jerusalem. Discover how the imagery of torn palm branches, a lowly donkey, and prophetic words of peace and restoration all point to the Messiah—not as we might expect, but as the King who brings hope, healing, and a radically different kind of victory. His message invites us to see beyond our limited expectations and to embrace the fullness of God’s promises.   With warmth, authenticity, and a touch of playful insight, Pastor Michael explains that while Palm Sunday traditions might seem curious at first glance, they're deeply rooted in the promise of a Savior who comes not to dominate, but to liberate and transform. Get ready to celebrate the surprising, gentle power of our Messiah—a King who redefines leadership and invites us into a future of unwavering hope. And don't worry, we'll be back in two weeks to continue our journey with "The Sermon" series. Tune in and experience a fresh, inspiring perspective on what it means to welcome our Promised King!

Ever feel that little thrill at the thought of getting even when life hands you a slap—literally or figuratively? In Episode 8 of The Sermon, Pastor Sarah Lowenberg invites us to rethink our instinct for payback with a fresh, transformational twist straight from Matthew 5:38-42. Instead of an eye for an eye, she explains how Jesus challenges us to turn the other cheek, go the extra mile, and respond to life’s wrongs with unexpected generosity and grace.   With authenticity, relatable humor, and practical insights, Pastor Sarah shows that embracing non-retaliation doesn't mean being a doormat—it means stepping into a more compassionate and empowered way of living. Tune in to discover how choosing kindness and trusting in God’s justice can transform everyday conflicts into opportunities for growth and blessing.   www.litchfieldnaz.com

In Episode 7 of The Sermon, Pastor Michael Lowenberg challenges us to examine the integrity of our speech and commitments in light of Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:33-37. He unpacks the deeper meaning behind oaths and vows—urging us that our "yes" should mean yes, our "no" mean no, and that even admitting "I don't know" can be a sign of true honesty. Through personal anecdotes and practical examples, Pastor Michael reminds us that every promise we make carries the weight of God's witness and should honor His name. Join him as he encourages a life of unwavering truth and authenticity, where our words build trust and bring glory to God.

In Episode 6 of The Sermon series, Pastor Sarah Lowenberg tackles one of the most challenging and personal teachings from the Sermon on the Mount. Focusing on Matthew 5:27-32, she explores Jesus’ words on adultery, lust, and divorce. With honesty and compassion, Pastor Sarah addresses the emotional weight of these topics and the call to radical faithfulness. This message reminds us that while we live in a broken world, God’s grace offers redemption, healing, and the strength to live faithfully. Tune in for a message of both conviction and hope.

In this episode of The Sermon, Pastor Sarah Lowenberg unpacks the challenging words of Jesus from Matthew 5:21-26. Diving into the heart of anger, reconciliation, and how our words reflect our inner condition, she challenges us to go beyond surface-level obedience. How do we navigate conflict with a spirit of humility and seek true reconciliation? Join us as we explore the transformative call to make peace, not just with our actions, but with our hearts.

In Episode 4 of "The Sermon" series, Pastor Sarah Lowenberg unpacks Matthew 5:17-20, where Jesus declares that He came not to abolish the law, but to fulfill it. With relatable stories and heartfelt insights, Pastor Sarah challenges us to move beyond external rule-following and embrace the transformative righteousness that Jesus calls us to. How can we live lives that reflect the heart of God? And what does it mean for our faith when we wrestle with difficult questions about the Old Testament and the teachings of Jesus? Tune in for an honest and encouraging message that invites us to seek a deeper relationship with Christ.

In this compelling episode of The Sermon, Pastor Michael Lowenberg dives into Matthew 5:11-16, uncovering the surprising blessing hidden within persecution and the transformative calling to be salt and light. Drawing from a heart-wrenching story of Christians martyred in the Democratic Republic of Congo, he reveals how following Jesus comes with a cost—insults, slander, and even suffering—yet equips us to season and illuminate a broken world. Discover how this unsettling blessing empowers us to live boldly, reflecting Christ’s hope and bringing glory to God, no matter the circumstances. Join us as Pastor Michael bridges the Beatitudes with our everyday lives, challenging us to embrace the character of salt and light—not to conform to the world’s darkness, but to shine brightly for God’s kingdom. This episode will inspire you to rethink what it means to be blessed and encourage you to stand firm in faith, even when the cost feels high.

In this compelling episode of The Sermon, Pastor Sarah Lowenberg unpacks the Beatitudes from Matthew 5:1-10, offering a fresh perspective on Jesus’ timeless words. Far from a simple list of virtues, she reveals how these "Blessed are..." statements serve as a powerful tool for self-examination, a practical guide for progressing in faith, and a window into worshiping God more deeply. With vivid illustrations—like bird watching to spot a true Christian and monkey rings to show spiritual momentum—Pastor Sarah invites you to see the Beatitudes as a dynamic pathway to a blessed life. Whether you’re feeling stuck in your faith or eager to grow closer to Christ, this sermon will inspire you with actionable wisdom and a renewed sense of purpose. Tune in to discover how the Beatitudes can transform your spiritual journey, starting with the humble admission, “God, I can’t do this on my own.” Pastor Sarah’s engaging insights will challenge you to examine your life, reignite your momentum, and worship the One who lived these blessings perfectly—Jesus Himself.

Welcome to The Sermon, a deep dive into Jesus’ most famous teaching—the Sermon on the Mount. In this first episode, Pastor Micael Lowenberg explores Matthew 5:1-3, where Jesus declares, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”   What does it truly mean to be “poor in spirit”? In a world that values self-sufficiency, Jesus turns everything upside down, revealing that real blessing is found not in having it all together, but in recognizing our need for God. Through personal stories, biblical insights, and real-life application, this message challenges us to let go of our independence and embrace the life-giving dependence that leads to the Kingdom of Heaven.   Join us as we begin this journey through The Sermon, discovering the radical, life-changing teachings of Jesus that still challenge and transform us today.

Imagine Jesus standing before you, inviting you with the simple words, 'Follow me.' What would that mean for your life today? In this episode, Pastor Sarah Lowenberg dives into Matthew 4:18-25, exploring the implications of Jesus's call to the first disciples, and how it applies to us now. Discover what it truly means to follow Jesus, be transformed by Him, and engage in His mission of 'fishing for people.' Whether you're a long-time follower or just curious about faith, this sermon challenges us to rethink our commitment and live out our faith in everyday life. Tune in to explore how following Jesus isn’t just about Sunday services, but a life-altering journey of forming and fishing.

Ever wonder how the grandest transformations start from the tiniest steps? Join Pastor Michael Lowenberg as he unpacks the profound lessons from Matthew 4:12-17 in this episode. Fresh from a vacation filled with unique experiences—like camel riding while whale watching—Mike brings us back to Jesus' seemingly mundane move to Capernaum, highlighting how small, often overlooked actions can set the stage for monumental change. Explore how Jesus' simple message, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near," echoes through time, teaching us that in faith, as in life, big impacts often begin with the smallest of steps. Tune in for a sermon that challenges us to find significance in the insignificant and to take those small, daily steps towards spiritual growth.

Join us for an insightful sermon by Pastor Sarah Lowenberg titled "Be Like Jesus." In this episode, Pastor Sarah delves into the familiar story from Matthew 4:1-11, where Jesus is tempted in the wilderness.   She begins by drawing a nostalgic parallel with the '90s "Be Like Mike" campaign, reflecting on how we often feel the pressure to emulate figures beyond our reach, like Michael Jordan or, more crucially, Jesus Christ. Pastor Sarah explores the nuances of temptation through Jesus's encounter with the devil, highlighting the spiritual and physical trials Jesus faced after his baptism.   The sermon delves into each of the three temptations Jesus endured, linking them to broader themes of trust, obedience, and the deceptive use of scripture. Pastor Sarah emphasizes that Jesus's victory over temptation is not just an example to follow but a testament to His role as our Savior, who understands our struggles and empowers us through His Holy Spirit.   This episode also addresses practical advice for resisting temptation, encapsulated in five key words: Remember, Preach, Cry Out, Link Up, and Lean In. Pastor Sarah explains how these actions can help believers stand firm when faced with their own wilderness moments.   Whether you're wrestling with temptation or seeking deeper spiritual growth, this sermon invites you to consider not just the impossibility of being "like Jesus" on our own but the profound possibility through His power and grace. Tune in for a message of hope, encouragement, and a call to live out our identity as beloved children of God, destined for holiness through Christ.   Join us for this journey through faith, temptation, and the transformative power of Jesus' example and salvation.

Pastor Michael Lowenberg delves into the baptism of Jesus in Matthew 3:13-17, exploring how God claims Jesus as His son and its relevance to us. This episode connects scripture with our faith.

Join Pastor Sarah Lowenberg for the first installment in our new series, 'Preparing the Way for the Lord.' In this episode, we explore John the Baptist's pivotal role in calling people to repentance as a means to ready themselves for Christ's arrival. Drawing from Matthew 3:1-12, Pastor Sarah delves into how this ancient message resonates with our lives today. Tune in for a thought-provoking message on the power of repentance.