Travelers Rest United Methodist Podcast

Fourth Sunday after Easter Sermon: Knowing That Voice Scripture: John 10:1-10Sometimes it’s not that life is unclear… it’s that there’s just so much noise.So many voices. So many opinions. So many things pulling for our attention. And somewhere in the middle of it all, we’re just trying to figure out what to listen to.Maybe you’ve felt that too.So we pause and ask: How do I know which voice to trust? What am I really listening for in the middle of my everyday life? This Sunday, we’ll reflect on what it means to recognize the Shepherd’s voice— and how that voice leads us toward something deeper, fuller, and more life-giving.Worship Schedule8:45am: Contemporary Service10am: Sunday School11am: Traditional Service

Third Sunday after Easter Sermon: Eyes Wide Open  Scripture: Luke 24:13-35Sometimes we’re moving through life… but not really seeing clearly.Carrying questions. Disappointment. Uncertainty. Trying to make sense of things as we go.Maybe you’ve felt that way too.So we pause and wonder: Where am I struggling to see clearly right now? What might I be missing in the middle of my everyday life? Could God be closer than I realize? This Sunday, we’ll reflect on what it means to have our eyes opened— and to discover we’re not walking alone.Worship Schedule8:45am: Contemporary Service10am: Sunday School11am: Traditional Service

Second Sunday after Easter Sermon: Let Me See Your Hands Scripture: John 20:19-23Sometimes life doesn’t look the way we expected it would.Even after good news… even after hope… we can still feel unsure, guarded, or just trying to get through the day.The disciples knew something had changed—but they were still behind closed doors.Maybe we’re not so different.We carry things. Stress. Worry. Old wounds. The parts of life we’d rather keep hidden.And yet, when Jesus shows up, He doesn’t ignore any of that— He meets them in it. He even shows them His hands.So maybe we pause and ask:Where am I feeling closed off right now? What am I holding onto that I don’t need to carry alone? What would it look like to be honest about where I am—even the hard parts?Because even in the middle of ordinary days, grace has a way of showing up.Not asking us to have it all together— but meeting us right where we are… and reminding us we don’t have to stay there.Worship Schedule8:45am: Contemporary Service10am: Sunday School11am: Traditional Service

Easter Sunday Sermon: Easter Eyes Scripture: John 20:1-18Easter has a way of meeting us in unexpected places—in quiet mornings, in moments of grief, in places where hope feels lost.Mary went to the tomb expecting death. What she found was something she didn’t recognize at first. Maybe we’re not so different.We can stand right in the middle of resurrection and still miss it— caught in our assumptions, our sorrow, or simply not expecting new life to be possible.So we might ask ourselves: Where might I be overlooking signs of new life? What am I expecting that could be keeping me from seeing clearly? What would it look like to see with “Easter eyes”? Because the truth of Easter is this: Jesus is alive—and still meeting us, calling us by name, opening our eyes to something new.Even when we don’t recognize Him at first…He is there.Worship Schedule 7:00am: Sunrise Service8:45am: Contemporary Service10am: Sunday School11am: Traditional Service

Palm Sunday Sermon: Losing Focus Scripture: Luke 19:29-42Palm Sunday has a way of grabbing our attention—crowds gathering, palms waving, expectations rising. It’s a moment full of energy and excitement.But it’s also a moment where it’s easy to lose focus. Maybe we’re not so different.We can get caught up in the noise, the expectations, the pace of life—and before we know it, we’ve lost sight of what really matters.So we might ask ourselves: Where am I losing focus right now? What expectations or distractions are keeping me from seeing Jesus clearly What might it look like to truly recognize Him at work in my life? Even in the noise, even in the crowd—Jesus is still present. Still moving. Still inviting us to see, to understand, and to follow.Palm Sunday ProcessionAll children, youth, and anyone who would like to participate are invited to gather in the narthex/lobby before worship to be part of our Palm Sunday procession. Together, we’ll enter the sanctuary waving palms as we remember and celebrate Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem.Worship Schedule 8:45am: Contemporary Service10am: Sunday School11am: Traditional Service

Fifth Sunday of Lent Sermon Series: 40 Days of Growth  Sermon: He Sows. Scripture: Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23Lent has a way of slowing us down—inviting us to pay attention to what’s beneath the surface of our lives. Not just what we’re doing, but what’s taking root within us.Jesus tells a story about a sower scattering seed—some falls on the path, some on rocky ground, some among thorns, and some on good soil. The same seed, but very different outcomes.So we might ask ourselves: What is taking root in my life right now? What distractions or worries are crowding out what God is trying to grow? How can I be more open to receiving what God is planting? God is always at work—scattering seeds of grace, truth, and new life in ways we may not always notice. Because in every season, God is still sowing—and something new can grow in us.Worship Schedule 8:45am: Contemporary Service10am: Sunday School11am: Traditional Service

Fourth Sunday of Lent Sermon Series: 40 Days of Growth  Sermon: Means of GraceScripture: 2 Peter 3:18; Romans 12:2Lent continues—not just in the wilderness around us, but in the quieter work God is doing within us.Grow into the people God calls us to be. But real growth rarely happens all at once. More often, it happens slowly—in the small, steady rhythms of everyday life.So we might ask ourselves: Where do I actually make space for God in my week? What habits are shaping my heart right now? Am I being formed more by the noise of the world… or by the grace of God? In this week’s message from our 40 Days of Growth series, “Means of Grace,” we’ll reflect on the simple practices that help shape our faith—prayer, worship, scripture, and community—and how God meets us there, again and again.Because sometimes growth doesn’t come from one big moment. Sometimes it comes from the quiet ways we keep showing up.Worship Schedule 8:45am: Contemporary Service10am: Sunday School11am: Traditional Service

Third Sunday of Lent Sermon Series: 40 Days of Growth  Sermon: Cleaning HouseScripture: John 2:13-22Lent continues—not just in the wilderness around us, but in the deeper rooms of our own hearts. This week, in Gospel of John 2:13–22, we encounter a different image of Jesus. Not quiet. Not withdrawn. But turning over tables in the temple courts.And if we’re honest, that feels familiar.We live in a world that fills every corner of our lives. Calendars overflow. Notifications ping. Opinions shout. Expectations pile up. Before we know it, the sacred spaces within us—our attention, our priorities, our worship—are cluttered with things that don’t truly give life. And into that cluttered space, Jesus still walks.He looks at our carefully arranged tables—the habits we’ve justified, the priorities we’ve misplaced, the distractions we’ve normalized—and asks hard but loving questions: What doesn’t belong here? What has taken up space that was meant for prayer? What needs to be cleared out so something deeper can grow? In this week’s message from our 40 Days of Growth series, “Cleaning House,” we’ll explore what it means to let Christ reorder our hearts—overturning what distracts us so that what is holy can take center stage again.Sometimes growth doesn’t begin with adding something new. Sometimes it begins with making room.Worship Schedule 8:45am: Contemporary Service10am: Sunday School11am: Traditional Service

Second Sunday of Lent Sermon Series: 40 Days of Growth  Sermon: DenyScripture: Mark 8:31-38Lent continues—not just in the wilderness around us, but in the deeper wilderness within us. In Mark 8:31–38, Jesus speaks hard words to his disciples: deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow me.In a world that tells us to protect ourselves, promote ourselves, and put ourselves first, Jesus invites us into a different way. “Deny” isn’t about self-rejection—it’s about re-centering. It’s about loosening our grip on control, ego, and comfort so we can truly follow him.In this week’s message from our 40 Days of Growth series, we’ll explore what it means to let go in order to grow. Because sometimes the path to real life begins with surrender.Join us as we continue the Lenten journey together.Worship Schedule 8:45am: Contemporary Service10am: Sunday School11am: Traditional Service

First Sunday of Lent Sermon Series: 40 Days of Growth  Sermon: TemptationScripture: Luke 4:1-13Lent begins not in comfort, but in the wilderness. Before Jesus teaches, heals, or calls disciples, he is led into a place of testing. Hungry. Alone. Tempted. In Luke 4:1–13, we see that temptation isn’t just about dramatic choices—it’s about subtle compromises, shortcuts, and the quiet pull to trust ourselves instead of God.In this Sunday’s sermon, “Temptation,” we begin our new series 40 Days of Growth by exploring what it means to face the wilderness honestly. Jesus shows us that temptation often meets us at our weakest points—when we’re tired, anxious, or wanting quick relief. Yet he also shows us how to stand firm, grounded in God’s Word and God’s promises.Join us as we begin the Lenten journey together, learning how even seasons of testing can become seasons of growth.Worship Schedule 8:45am: Contemporary Service10am: Sunday School11am: Traditional Service

We begin the season of Lent with our Ash Wednesday Worship Service. This meaningful service invites us into a time of reflection, repentance, and renewal as we remember our need for God’s grace and mercy.

Transfiguration Sunday Sermon: Open Mouth, Insert FootScripture: Matthew 17:1-9Life doesn’t just overwhelm us with busy schedules—it also trips us up in what we say and how quickly we react. We speak before we think, rush to explain, and try to manage holy moments with our own words. In Matthew 17:1–9, Peter does exactly that on the mountaintop, blurting out a response in the middle of God’s glory. And honestly? We’ve all been there.In this Sunday’s sermon, “Open Mouth, Insert Foot,” we’ll explore this powerful moment of the Transfiguration and what it teaches us about listening, humility, and letting God be God. When the disciples want to do something, God invites them simply to listen to Jesus. Join us as we reflect on how often our words get ahead of our faith—and how Christ gently calls us to quiet our voices, open our hearts, and pay attention to what truly matters.Worship Schedule 8:45am: Contemporary Service10am: Sunday School11am: Traditional Service

5th Sunday after the EpiphanySermon Series: Finding Balance for our Chaotic Lives  Sermon: Balance by Lightening your LoadScripture: Matthew 11:25-30Life often feels like a balancing act — work, family, commitments, expectations, and the constant hum of “what’s next?” Jesus speaks directly into that struggle in Matthew 11:25-30, inviting us to bring the weight of our weary hearts to Him. In a world that prizes doing more and carrying our burdens alone, Jesus offers something radically different: rest, ease for our souls, and a way of life that lightens our load.This Sunday we’ll explore what it looks like to find true balance — not by juggling better, but by leaning into the gentle and humble heart of Christ. Join us as we discover how Jesus calls us to exchange our heavy yokes for His softness and strength, and learn what it means to walk in freedom, rest, and renewed balance.Worship Schedule 8:45am: Contemporary Service10am: Sunday School11am: Traditional Service

2nd Sunday after the EpiphanySermon Series: Finding Balance for our Chaotic Lives  Sermon: Balance, Not StressScripture: Psalm 56:2-13As we move deeper into the season of Epiphany, this Sunday invites us to reflect on how God meets us in the midst of everyday life—especially when life feels pressured, crowded, and stressful. In a world that rarely slows down, faith calls us to a different way of living, one rooted in trust rather than fear.In the sermon “Balance, Not Stress,” we will turn to Psalm 56, a prayer spoken from a place of anxiety and uncertainty. The psalmist does not deny fear but brings it honestly before God, discovering that balance is found not in the absence of trouble, but in placing our lives in God’s steady hands. “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.”As we continue the series Finding Balance for Our Chaotic Lives, this Sunday reminds us that balance does not come from managing everything perfectly. It comes from choosing trust over panic, prayer over pressure, and remembering that God walks with us—even in the moments when stress feels overwhelming.Worship Schedule 8:45am: Contemporary Service10am: Sunday School11am: Traditional Service

Baptism of the Lord SundaySermon Series: Finding Balance for our Chaotic Lives  Sermon: Balance from Water Scripture: Mark 1:4-13As we move from the celebration of Christmas into the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry, Baptism of the Lord Sunday invites us to the waters of renewal and identity. In a world that often feels overwhelming and unsteady, baptism reminds us where our truest balance begins—not in what we do, but in who we are.In the sermon “Balance from Water,” we will reflect on Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan and the powerful moment when heaven opens, the Spirit descends, and Jesus is named God’s beloved Son. Before Jesus teaches, heals, or serves, he is grounded in love and called good. That same promise meets us in the waters of baptism.As we begin the series Finding Balance for Our Chaotic Lives, this Sunday invites us to remember that balance is not about perfection or control, but about returning—again and again—to the grace that claims us, names us, and sends us forward.Worship Schedule 8:45am: Contemporary Service10am: Sunday School11am: Traditional Service

Epiphany Sunday January 4, 2026Sermon: Star Light, Star Bright Scripture: Matthew 2:1–12As the glow of Christmas gives way to the brilliance of Epiphany, we gather this Sunday to reflect on the guiding star that led the Magi to Christ. In “Star Light, Star Bright,” we explore Matthew 2:1–12 and the faithful journey of the Three Kings—travelers who followed the light, trusted God’s leading, and discovered hope revealed to the world.Epiphany reminds us that Christ’s light is not meant to be admired from afar, but followed with courage and joy. As we conclude this season, we are invited to consider where God’s light is leading us now and how we might carry that light into the year ahead.Join us for worship as we celebrate Christ revealed to all nations and recommit ourselves to walking in His light. We are also returning to our normal worship schedule this Sunday and look forward to worshiping together.WORSHIP SERVICES: 8:45 AM – Contemporary Worship9:45–10:30 AM - Sunday School 11:00 AM – Traditional Worship

Communion & Candlelight Christmas Eve Service December 24, 2025, 3pm, 5pmSermon: What Gift Will You Give Jesus? Scripture: Luke 2: 1-20, Matthew 2:1-12After weeks of watching and waiting for the light, Christmas Eve invites us to step fully into its glow. On December 24, we gather for our Communion & Candlelight Christmas Eve Service as we celebrate the birth of Christ—the Light who has come into the world.In the sermon, “What Gift Will You Give Jesus?”, we will reflect on the familiar yet holy story from Luke 2:1–20 and Matthew 2:1–12, listening again for how God meets ordinary people—shepherds and wise ones alike—and invites each of us to respond. Their gifts were acts of worship, trust, and devotion, reminding us that the truest gifts we bring are our hearts, our lives, and our willingness to follow.As candles are lit and communion is shared, we will remember that Christ’s light is not only something we receive, but something we carry into the world.Join us on Christmas Eve as we worship, wonder, and ask anew: What gift will you give Jesus? 

A Longest Night service, often referred to as a Blue Christmas service, typically occurs onDecember 21, the longest night of the year (the winter solstice). It is traditionally acontemplative worship service designed to honor grief and provide comfort during theholiday season. Whether the worshipper has experienced loss of a loved one, loss of a way oflife, or is there to support others, the service recognizes the grief experienced and celebratesthe hope and light of Christ.

4th Sunday of Advent December 21, 2025Sermon Series: The Lights of the SeasonSermon: Flashes of Light  Scripture: John 1:1-14What does it look like to notice God’s light when it comes in brief, brilliant flashes—moments that interrupt the darkness and remind us of hope? This Sunday, we continue The Lights of the Season with Flashes of Light, drawn from John 1:1–14.John’s words remind us that Christ is the true Light—present from the very beginning—shining in the darkness, even when the darkness does not understand it. Sometimes that light arrives quietly, sometimes suddenly, but always with power to reveal, restore, and renew.Like a flash that catches our attention, Advent invites us to stay alert—to watch for the ways God’s light breaks into our lives in unexpected moments of grace, truth, and love.As you prepare for worship, consider:Where have you seen flashes of God’s light in the midst of darkness?What might God be revealing to you through Christ, the true Light?How are you being called to reflect that light to others this Advent season?Join us this Sunday as we look for the light that shines in the darkness—and discover the hope it brings.Advent Sunday Worship Schedule9:45–10:30 AM · Sunday School 10:45–11:00 AM · Carols & Hymns 11:00 AM · ONE Service for Advent

3rd Sunday of Advent December 14, 2025Sermon Series: The Lights of the SeasonSermon: Turning Lights On Scripture: Luke 1:26-38What does it look like to let God’s light break in—fully, boldly, and right where we are? This Sunday, we continue The Lights of the Season with Turning Lights On from Luke 1:26–38, as Mary receives the astonishing news that she will carry the Savior of the world. Her courageous “yes” becomes the moment God’s light begins to shine in a whole new way.Just as flipping on a light changes everything in an instant, Advent reminds us that God’s presence often meets us unexpectedly—calling us to trust, to believe, and to step forward with faith even when the path isn’t fully clear.As you prepare for worship, consider: Where might God be asking you to say “yes” in this season? What new light could God be turning on in your life?  How is Christ’s presence illuminating your waiting and your hope?Join us for the Third Sunday of Advent as we open ourselves to God’s surprising, hope-filled light.Advent Sunday Worship Schedule9:45–10:30 AM · Sunday School 10:45–11:00 AM · Carols & Hymns 11:00 AM · ONE Service for Advent

2nd Sunday of Advent December 7, 2025Sermon Series: The Lights of the SeasonSermon: Hanging Lights Scripture: Luke 3:2-20What does it take to prepare the way—not just with decorations and to-do lists, but within our own hearts? This Sunday, we continue The Lights of the Season with Hanging Lights from Luke 3:2–20, where John the Baptist calls God’s people to turn, reset, and ready themselves for the Light that is coming.Just as hanging lights takes intention, care, and a bit of rearranging, Advent invites us to look honestly at our lives and make space for Christ’s transforming work. John’s bold message reminds us that preparation isn’t passive—it’s active, courageous, and full of hope.As you prepare for worship, take a moment to reflect:What in your life needs “rearranging” so Christ’s light can shine more fully?How is God calling you to prepare the way in your daily rhythms and relationships? What new brightness might God be ready to hang in your life this Advent?Join us for the Second Sunday of Advent as we continue walking this sacred season—expectant, hopeful, and ready to shine.Advent Sunday Worship Schedule9:45–10:30 AM · Sunday School 10:45–11:00 AM · Carols & Hymns 11:00 AM · ONE Service for Advent

1st Sunday of Advent November 30, 2025Sermon Series: The Lights of the SeasonSermon: The Yellow Lights of AdventScripture: John 1:1-14What does it mean to wait well — to slow down, notice God’s presence, and make room for Christ to shine in the midst of a busy world? This Sunday, we begin The Lights of the Season, our Advent sermon series, with The Yellow Lights of Advent from John 1:1–14. Like a caution light that causes us to pause, Advent invites us to breathe, reflect, and prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus, the Light of the World.As you prepare for worship, take a moment to reflect: Where in your life is God inviting you to slow down and pay attention? How might a “yellow light” moment deepen your faith in this season of anticipation? Where do you see the Light of Christ breaking through your everyday rhythms?Join us for the first Sunday of Advent as we step into this sacred season with expectancy, hope, and holy pause.Advent Sunday Worship Schedule9:45–10:30 AM · Sunday School 10:45–11:00 AM · Carols & Hymns 11:00 AM · ONE Service for Advent

Thanksgiving Sunday November 23, 2025Sermon: The Rules of ThanksgivingScripture: Philippians 4:4-7What does it really mean to live with a grateful heart—not just in a season of thanksgiving, but every day? This Sunday, we’re diving into The Rules of Thanksgiving through Paul’s encouraging words in Philippians 4:4–7. He reminds us that joy, prayer, and peace aren’t dependent on our circumstances—they’re practices that shape our lives in Christ.As you prepare for worship, take a moment to reflect:What does rejoicing in the Lord look like in your daily life?How might prayer and gratitude reshape the way you handle worry or stress?In what ways is God inviting you to experience His peace more deeply?Join us as we explore how thanksgiving is far more than a holiday—it’s a way of life rooted in God’s presence and promiseSunday Worship Schedule 8:45 AM – Contemporary Worship 10:00 AM – Sunday School 11:00 AM – Traditional Worship

23rd Sunday after Pentecost  November 16, 2025Sermon: Our Membership PromiseScripture: Romans 12:1-2What does it really mean to belong—to God, to one another, to the Church? This week, we’ll explore Our Membership Promise through Paul’s words in Romans 12:1-2. He reminds us that true worship isn’t confined to a sanctuary—it’s found in offering our whole selves to God and allowing our lives to be transformed by His love.As you prepare for worship, take time to reflect: What does a life of genuine commitment to God look like for you? How might you live out your faith beyond Sunday morning? In what ways is God calling you to be a living example of His grace?  Join us Sunday as we consider how being a member of Christ’s body is less about a name on a roll—and more about a life fully offered to God.

22nd Sunday after Pentecost  November 9, 2025Sermon: What’s Your Motivation?Scripture: Mark 12:38-44What drives your faith, your generosity, your daily choices? In this week’s passage from Mark, Jesus points to a humble widow whose quiet act of giving reveals a heart fully devoted to God. Her story invites us to look beyond appearances and ask what truly motivates us to give, serve, and live as disciples.As you prepare for worship, take time to reflect: What motivates you to give—time, resources, or love? How do your daily actions reflect your trust in God? What might God be calling you to offer wholeheartedly this week? Come ready to explore what it means to live not for recognition, but from a place of genuine faith and love.Sunday Worship Schedule 8:45 AM – Contemporary Worship 10:00 AM – Sunday School 11:00 AM – Traditional Worship

21st Sunday after Pentecost  November 2, 2025Sermon: What's a Saint to Do?Scripture: 2 Thessalonians 1:1-4, 11-12All Saints Sunday is a time to remember and give thanks for the faithful who have gone before us—the saints who have shaped our faith and shown us what it means to live for Christ. In Paul’s words to the Thessalonians, we’re reminded that God calls each of us to live lives worthy of His calling, strengthened by grace and love in action.As you prepare for worship, reflect on these questions: Who are the saints—past and present—who have influenced your faith? How might God be calling you to continue their legacy of faith, hope, and love? What does it look like to live as a “saint” today?  Come ready to remember, give thanks, and be inspired to live faithfully in the footsteps of those who came before us.Sunday Worship Schedule 8:45 AM – Contemporary Worship 10:00 AM – Sunday School 11:00 AM – Traditional Worship

20th Sunday after Pentecost October 26, 2025Sermon Series: Who's Your Neighbor?Sermon: How to be a NeighborScripture: Luke 10:25-37This Sunday we continue our series, Who’s Your Neighbor?This week’s message, “How to Be a Neighbor,” comes from Luke 10:25–37—the parable of the Good Samaritan.In this well-known story, Jesus challenges us to expand our understanding of what it means to love our neighbor. Being a neighbor isn’t just about who lives nearby—it’s about showing mercy, compassion, and action wherever there is need.As you prepare for worship, reflect on these questions: What does Jesus’ story of the Good Samaritan teach us about love in action? How might God be calling you to cross boundaries or step out of your comfort zone to care for someone in need? Where might you find opportunities this week to be a neighbor? Come ready to open your heart and hands to the kind of love Jesus calls us to live out every day.Sunday Worship Schedule 8:45 AM – Contemporary Worship 10:00 AM – Sunday School 11:00 AM – Traditional Worship

19th Sunday after Pentecost October 19, 2025Sermon Series: Who's Your Neighbor?Sermon: Your Neighbor is Right Beside You.Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27This Sunday we continue our series, Who’s Your Neighbor?This week’s message, “Your Neighbor Is Right Beside You,” comes from the scripture 1 Corinthians 12:12–27.In this passage, Paul reminds us that we are all part of one body in Christ—each connected, each essential. Loving our neighbors begins right where we are: with the people beside us in our church, community, and daily lives.As you prepare for worship, reflect on these questions: Who are the “neighbors” God has placed right beside you? How might God be calling you to strengthen the body of Christ through love and service? What gifts has God given you to build up the community of faith? Come ready to grow in love for the neighbors God has placed in your midst.Sunday Worship Schedule 8:45 AM – Contemporary Worship 10:00 AM – Sunday School 11:00 AM – Traditional Worship

18th Sunday after Pentecost October 12, 2025Sermon Series: Who's Your Neighbor?Sermon: Won’t You Be My Neighbor?Scripture: Luke 10:25-37Through the familiar story of the Good Samaritan, we’ll explore what it truly means to love our neighbors—not just in words, but in action. Jesus calls us to expand our understanding of “neighbor,” breaking down barriers and living with compassion that reflects His love.As you prepare for worship, reflect on these questions: Who are the “neighbors” God has placed in your path lately? What might it look like to love them the way Jesus does? How can our church embody neighborly love in our community?  Come ready to begin this new series with us as we learn to see and love others the way Christ calls us to.Sunday Worship Schedule 8:45 AM – Contemporary Worship 10:00 AM – Sunday School 11:00 AM – Traditional Worship

17th Sunday after Pentecost October 5, 2025Sermon: One BIG FamilyScripture: 1 Corinthians 12:24-27This Sunday we celebrate World Communion Sunday.This week’s message, “One BIG Family,” comes from 1 Corinthians 12:24–27.World Communion Sunday reminds us that we are part of one family in Christ—joined together across nations, cultures, and traditions. In worship, we’ll reflect on what it means to belong to the body of Christ and live as one big family.As you prepare for worship, reflect on these questions: What does being part of God’s “one big family” mean to you? How do you see the body of Christ at work in our church, our community, and around the world? Where is God calling you to live out unity in love and service? Come ready to gather at the Lord’s Table with brothers and sisters across the globe, celebrating that we are one in Christ.

16th Sunday after Pentecost September 28, 2025Sermon Series: FearSermon: Wearing MasksScripture: Ephesians 2:4-10, 19-22This Sunday we continue our series, Fear.This week’s message, “Wearing Masks,” comes from Ephesians 2:4–10, 19–22.Fear often tempts us to hide behind masks—pretending to be someone we’re not, or covering up the parts of ourselves we think others won’t accept. But God, rich in mercy and love, reminds us of who we really are: His beloved, redeemed, and chosen people.As you prepare for worship, reflect on these questions: What “masks” have you been wearing in your daily life? How have those masks shaped your relationships with God and others? What would it look like to rest in your true identity in Christ?  Come ready to lay down your masks before God—and to be reminded of His grace that makes us whole.Sunday Worship Schedule 8:45 AM – Contemporary Worship 10:00 AM – Sunday School 11:00 AM – Traditional Worship

15th Sunday after Pentecost September 21, 2025Sermon Series: FearSermon: Wearing MasksScripture: Ephesians 2:4-10, 19-22This Sunday we continue our series, Fear.This week’s message, “Wearing Masks,” comes from Ephesians 2:4–10, 19–22.Fear often tempts us to hide behind masks—pretending to be someone we’re not, or covering up the parts of ourselves we think others won’t accept. But God, rich in mercy and love, reminds us of who we really are: His beloved, redeemed, and chosen people.As you prepare for worship, reflect on these questions: What “masks” have you been wearing in your daily life? How have those masks shaped your relationships with God and others? What would it look like to rest in your true identity in Christ?  Come ready to lay down your masks before God—and to be reminded of His grace that makes us whole.Sunday Worship Schedule 8:45 AM – Contemporary Worship 10:00 AM – Sunday School 11:00 AM – Traditional Worship

14th Sunday after Pentecost September 14, 2025Sermon: What Are You Afraid Of?Scripture: Isaiah 43:1-3This Sunday we begin a new series, Fear.Fear is something we all know—whether it’s fear of failure, fear for our loved ones, fear of the unknown, or fear of not being enough. But scripture reminds us: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.” (Isaiah 43:1)In this first message, we’ll look at God’s promises in the midst of our fear and discover how His presence reshapes the way we face life’s challenges.As you prepare for worship, take some time to reflect on these questions: What fears have been most present in your life lately? How have those fears shaped your thoughts, words, or actions? Where have you experienced God’s presence breaking through your fear?  Come ready to bring your honest fears before God—and to hear His words of comfort and strength.Sunday Worship Schedule 8:45 AM – Contemporary Worship 10:00 AM – Sunday School 11:00 AM – Traditional Worship

13th Sunday after Pentecost September 7, 2025Sermon: Following Jesus: What’s the Sign?Scripture: Matthew 18:15-20This week in our series Following Jesus, we’ll explore how Jesus calls us to live in community—working through conflict, seeking reconciliation, and recognizing His presence when we gather in His name.As you prepare for worship, reflect on: Where do you most need reconciliation in your life? How does Jesus’ promise to be present “where two or three are gathered” shape your faith? What signs of His presence are you noticing this week?  We return to our regular schedule this Sunday! 8:45 AM – Contemporary Worship 10:00 AM – Sunday School 11:00 AM – Traditional Worship

11th Sunday after Pentecost August 24, 2025Sermon: Following Jesus: Taking the YokeScripture: Matthew 11:25-30This Sunday we begin a new sermon series: Following Jesus.Jesus invites us in Matthew 11:25–30 to “take my yoke upon you and learn from me.” A yoke may sound like a burden, but what if following Jesus actually brings rest, freedom, and new strength for the journey?As you prepare for worship, consider: What burdens are you carrying right now? How might walking closely with Jesus lighten your load? What does it mean to truly find “rest for your soul”?Come and discover together what it looks like to follow Jesus—step by step, side by side. 9:00 AM – Sunday School 10:00 AM – Worship (One service – summer schedule continues through August)

If you’ve ever been to a Waffle House, you know it’s a place where all kinds of people gather—early risers, late-night travelers, locals, strangers, and friends. And no matter whether you like your hashbrowns scattered, covered, or smothered, there’s always a seat at the counter and hot coffee waiting.This week’s scripture tells the story of Jesus calling Matthew—a tax collector—and sharing a meal with an unexpected crowd. Much like that diner booth, the table Jesus sets is open to everyone.As you prepare for worship, consider: Who might you be surprised to find sitting at Jesus’ table? How can we create space in our own lives for unexpected guests? What does it look like to extend grace in everyday moments?  We hope you’ll join us as we gather to reflect, connect, and grow together.

What holds us back from going all in? This week’s sermon, Almost Faith, draws from Acts 26:14–29 and invites us to reflect on those moments when we’re close to belief—but not quite there.Where are we saying “almost” when it comes to faith, trust, or purpose? What helps us take the next step?PLUS—this Sunday is our Blessing of the Backpacks! All students, teachers, and school staff are invited to bring their backpacks or bags as we send them into the new school year with prayers and encouragement.

This week’s scripture paints a picture of two builders—one who builds on rock, and one on sand. It invites us to consider what gives stability and direction to our lives.As you prepare for worship, consider: • What does a strong foundation look like in your day-to-day life? • What values or habits help guide your decisions? • Where might things feel a little shaky—and why?We hope you’ll join us as we gather to reflect, connect, and grow together.

This week, we turn to the story of Jesus walking on water and Peter’s attempt to join Him. When Jesus asked, “Why did you doubt?” He wasn’t just questioning Peter’s faith—He was offering an invitation to deeper trust.As we reflect on this moment, try to consider: What holds us back from stepping out in faith? How do we respond when we feel uncertain or afraid? Where is Jesus calling us to trust Him more fully? We hope you’ll join us as we explore these questions together in worship.

Words have power. What are your words saying about your heart? Join us as we reflect on how kindness and grace can transform the way we speak and live. Plus — it’s our next Intergenerational VBS Sunday! After worship, all ages are invited to stay for lunch and hands-on activities designed to help us dive deeper into this theme together.

We’re continuing our sermon series exploring some of the most powerful and personal questions Jesus asked. These aren’t just ancient words—they’re questions He still asks each of us today.This week, we turn again to Jesus’ conversation with Peter in John 21:15–17. After asking “Do you love me?”, Jesus continues with even more questions that invite us to reflect deeply on our love, our calling, and how we live out our faith.Join us as we listen for what these questions might be asking of us today.

Today we continue a new sermon series that explores some of the most powerful and personal questions Jesus asked. These aren’t just ancient words—they’re questions He still asks each of us today.This weeks question is an interesting one: “How much bread do you have?” Join us as we dive into this question.