Reflections: December 29-30, 2007

This week's "Reflection" by Matt Sasso, Pastor of Jr. High Ministries

This weekend we talked about some twisted views that we are presented with in our relationship with God and how they effect us as we pursue a deeper relationship with our Heavenly Father. While at times these twists can be convincing, what if you and I knew the opposite of those twists? What if we lived each day in response to such a relationship? Could we then know that we are invited in a relationship with the one true God and the truth? Could we then know that there is a God who knows us and loves us?

Read Romans 3:21-28.

Think about how the knowledge of this truth can impact our daily walk with each other and our personal relationship with God. I would love for you to share how this verse guides your life and concept of a relationship with Him.

Reflections: December 22-23, 2007

This week's "Reflection" by Gary Keith, Pastor of Teaching/Worship
This Christmas season Pastor Jeff and I have wanted to take some of the stresses and pressures of the season, expose them and then see how we might have a richer and fuller experience of Christ. This past weekend we talked about Scrubbing out Selfishness by looking at the example of Jesus as found in Philippians chapter two.

Remember the story of the man who gave his life for others after the Air Florida flight crash into the Potomac? That event reminds us that the noblest moments of human existence occur when we sacrifice our rights on behalf of others. May this be a Christmas of noble moments in many of our lives. May this be a Christmas where we selflessly serve others. If you try this, or experience it this Christmas season, would you mind sharing your story with me on the BLOG below. We can gain encouragement from one another as we share our life experiences.

Thanks and may this be your best Christmas ever.
Merry Christmas.

Reflections: December 15-16, 2007

This week's "Reflection" by Gary Keith, Pastor of Teaching/Worship

Refurbishing Relationships - What a complex subject!
I woke up at 3:30 this morning and couldn't get back to sleep. My mind was filled with thoughts about how those who have been the victim of adultery heard my message this weekend. How does someone who's been the victim of adultery show selflessness? In Joseph's case God spoke to him in a dream as he was part of a greater plan. But for those today who face the betrayal of a spouse who commits adultery, how do they respond?

In many cases adultery leads to divorce. In fact, Jesus knew how difficult it is to forgive the sin of adultery and included it in his exceptions for divorce in Matthew 5:31-32. But I think once the initial feelings of anger and betrayal are expressed and maybe even a divorce occurs, there is room for forgiveness and acts of selflessness. I've seen it in the lives of several who have lived through this terrible sin. What do you think? Let me know by writing on the reflections blog below.

For those who have not experienced adultery first hand, I'd love to hear your stories of how the Holy Spirit of God enabled you to show selflessness or become sacrificial as you refurbish a relationship this Christmas season. My prayer is that God's Holy Spirit would specifically lead each one of us to start the healing in this complex world of relationships.

Reflections: December 8-9, 2007

This week's "Reflection" by Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching/Youth

This weekend we talked about brushing off the bling during this Christmas season. Though there may be some physical actions associated with brushing off the bling, it is primarily a heart attitude that we need to check.

In looking at the simplicity of the Christmas story and the way that Jesus came,

• What are some ways that you keep your heart in check so that the pursuit of the bling does not blind you from the true meaning of Christmas, and you are not weighed down by the cultural pressure of having to provide it?
• What are some ways that we can participate in the cultural traditions of Christmas (presents, decorations, etc...), and still communicate the true meaning of our celebration to the people around us?
• How can the joy that Jesus birth brought to the world be restored in all the busyness and pressure of the season?

God bless you this Christmas season as we celebrate the greatest gift that has ever been given.

Reflections: December 1-2, 2007

This week's "Reflection" by Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching/Youth

So, as we discussed clearing the clutter this weekend, have any of you come up with some encouraging ways that the rest of us can keep the focus on the real meaning of Christmas without allowing it to be swallowed up by the clutter? I know that in the crazy hectic world that we live in, each day it can be downright exhausting to try and wade through the clutter that seems to bombard us in the form of busyness, relational stress, and financial worries; Just to name a few. But I can't help but continue to believe that if we will be faithful to clear the clutter that creates so much anxiety, and causes us to lose hope, that God has wonderful peace that can only come when our focus and dedication is for Him. Would you please click the link below and share with us some of the ways that you keep the reminders of the vital things in place so that the clutter does not overrun your life?

May your Christmas season be filled with the peace of God. Merry Christmas!