2024 Sunday Service
Patience
May 5, 2024 • Larry Emerson
Patience is a virtue that is continually tested in our daily lives, from waiting in line at the grocery store to dealing with difficult individuals. It is a quality that can be challenging to uphold, especially when working towards long-term goals. However, it is crucial to recognize that practicing patience reflects the love of God in our actions and interactions with others. It allows us to demonstrate understanding, kindness, and empathy towards those we encounter, showing them the grace and compassion that come from a place of inner strength and faith. Therefore, embracing patience not only benefits those around us but also helps us cultivate a sense of peace and harmony within ourselves as we navigate life's challenges with grace and resilience. #god #faith #jesus
Peace with Others
April 17, 2024 • Larry Emerson
In a world that is often filled with chaos, division and hostility, it can be hard to cultivate peace with those around us. However, as Christians, we are called to strive towards this goal. God's message of love and peace is one that is meant to be extended to all those we encounter in our daily lives. This means that we are called to treat others with kindness and respect, even when we may not agree with their beliefs or behaviours. It is only through cultivating a spirit of peace and unity that we can hope to make a positive impact in our communities and in the world at large. God's call to have peace with others is not always easy, but with prayer, intentionality and the grace of God, it is possible.
Hope and Joy
March 24, 2024 • Larry Emerson
As believers, we have hope because we know that our ultimate victory is already secured through Christ's sacrifice on the cross. We have hope that no matter what challenges we face in this world, we are ultimately destined for a life of eternity in the presence of God. This hope brings us joy, knowing that we are loved and chosen by God, that we have a purpose and a calling in this life, and that we are never alone in our struggles. Our joy comes from the assurance that God is always with us, guiding us, supporting us, and giving us the strength to overcome any obstacle that comes our way. So, let us hold on to our hope in Christ and let it fill us with joy, knowing that we are beloved children of God, accepted and cherished beyond measure. Let us rejoice in the goodness of the Lord and let our hearts be filled with gratitude and praise for all that He has done for us. May our hope and joy in Christ shine brightly for all to see, drawing others closer to Him and sharing the light of His love with the world. #jesus #bible #god
Clothed in Joy
March 17, 2024 • Larry Emerson
One of the defining characteristics of Christianity is the emphasis on joy. While other religions may prioritize solemnity and austerity, Christians are called to be joyful in all circumstances. This does not mean that we should ignore or deny our struggles or difficulties, but rather, we should find joy even amidst trials. #bible #god #jesus
Joy Unstoppable
March 10, 2024 • Larry Emerson
One of the main sources of joy we can have in Christ is through our salvation. Knowing that we are loved and forgiven by God brings a sense of peace and contentment that cannot be found anywhere else. We are reminded of this in Psalms 16:11 which says, "You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand." In addition to our salvation, another source of joy comes from following Christ's teachings and living a life that is pleasing to Him. This may involve making sacrifices and going against societal norms, but the rewards far outweigh any temporary discomfort or difficulties. Jesus himself said in John 15:11, "I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete." Furthermore, our joy in Christ can also come from the community of believers that we are a part of. As we come together to worship, pray, and serve, we build each other up and find joy in being united as the body of Christ. In Romans 12:15, it says to "rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn." This shows the importance of finding joy in both our own individual faith journey and also in the support and fellowship of our fellow believers. #bible #god #jesus
Focus, Forget, Forward
January 28, 2024 • Larry Emerson
In the journey of life, our minds can often wander, getting caught up in the past or worrying about the future. However, it is important to understand the power of focusing on the present moment. By letting go of what may have happened or could happen, we can truly live in the now and move forward with purpose. In Philippians 3:13, the Apostle Paul reminds us to forget what is behind us and press on towards what lies ahead. This scripture serves as a powerful reminder to keep our eyes fixed on the future and to not let the past hold us back. It is through this focus and determination to move forward that we can truly reach our full potential.
Fan the Flames
January 21, 2024 • Larry Emerson
As Christians, we are called to keep the flame of our faith burning bright. It is not something that we can simply let flicker and die out over time. We must be intentional about fanning those flames and feeding our souls with the Word of God. When we neglect our spiritual health, our faith can become stagnant and we may struggle to find the motivation to continue on our journey. However, when we devote time to nurturing our relationship with God and seek to deepen our understanding of His truth, we will find that our faith is ignited with a renewed passion. Let us commit to fanning those flames of fire in our faith, so that we may be a light to the world around us.
The Father's Heart
January 14, 2024
As Christians, we believe that God's love and grace are boundless. No matter how far we may stray from His path, there is always room for us to come back to Him. In fact, it's God's desire that every single one of His children should repent and turn away from sin, so that they may experience the fullness of His love and mercy. It's easy to become discouraged and feel like we've gone too far, but the truth is that there is no limit to God's forgiveness and compassion. So if you find yourself feeling lost or burdened by the weight of your mistakes, know that God is waiting with open arms, ready to welcome you back into His loving embrace.