The Church: “Life Together”

As the title hints, this comes out of Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s famous book, Life Together, regarding “the communion of saints,” as referenced in the Apostles’ Creed: “I believe in the communion of saints…” Jesus is born in a time of conflict. Herod soon enough plots to destroy any would-be challengers. Jesus lives out his ministry “in the midst of foes,” as Bonhoeffer states. Christians are scattered in the midst of foes. And yet, “the physical presence of other Christians is a source of comparable joy and strength to the believer” (17). This message sets the tone for the entire Advent Season: how shall we be together in a pandemic, what shall we learn (pay attention to), and what shall we reflect upon? The church is the Body of Christ. When it is gathered, Christ is more than present.

The Greatest Stories Ever Told: Parable of the Sprouting Seed

For some folks these days, it's hard to see what God is doing in the world. What is the kingdom of God? How does it happen? Jesus tells us in this parable.

Includes My Story from Wendy Calvert.

The Greatest Stories Ever Told: Parable of the Lamp and the Scale

Why does Jesus teach in parables to begin with? Why not just speak plainly? In this passage Jesus tells us...with a parable!

Includes My Story from Paul Kiehl.

The Greatest Stories Ever Told: Parable of the Sower

While we can't control whether or not others hear and receive the word of God, we can control whether or not WE hear and receive the good news. In this story Jesus gives us three cautions to help.

Marta - Philippians 3

2020 leaves us much to be discouraged. This is a message about hope for the future and resisting cynicism by having an eternal perspective.  Pastor Marta preaches about hope from Philippians 3.