In this special Christmas Eve sermon, Pastor Tyler explores the theme of "LOVE," reflecting on the deep connection between love and anxiety, particularly during the holiday season when we often ponder what we treasure most. The sermon weaves through the traditional Christmas narrative in Luke 2, emphasizing the varied responses of characters like Caesar Augustus, the shepherds, and Mary, each illustrating different ways of receiving the divine gift of Jesus.
Pastor Tyler invites us to find ourselves in these characters, considering how we can make space for Jesus in our lives. He challenges us to treasure Jesus as the greatest gift and embrace the transformation He offers. By pondering His presence, we are encouraged to move from reflection to actively sharing God's love with the world. This sermon calls us to let the transformative power of Jesus be born anew in our lives, inspiring us to treasure and praise Him throughout the Christmas season and beyond.
PEACE
December 22, 2024 • Clair Deidda • Isaiah 9:6
Clair, who leads our Outreach and Prayer Ministries, delves into the prophetic words of Isaiah 9, which foretell the coming of a child who would change everything. This isn't just any peace we're talking about – it's the deep, transformative shalom that only God can bring. We're challenged to move beyond our typical ways of seeking peace through escapism or numbing, and instead lean into the Prince of Peace himself. The four promises in Isaiah's prophecy – light shining in darkness, joy springing up in gloom, breaking the yoke of oppression, and burning the instruments of war – all find their fulfillment in Jesus. As we prepare our hearts this Advent season, we're invited to receive this child-king and allow Him to bring His peace into every area of our lives. It's a reminder that true peace isn't found in circumstances, but in a person – Jesus, our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.
HOPE
December 15, 2024 • Brice Herrick • John 1:1–18, Isaiah 9:1–2
Pastor Brice takes a deep dive into the prologue of John's Gospel, uncovering profound truths about Jesus Christ. The message reveals how John artfully connects Jesus to both the Creation story and the Exodus, painting a picture of Christ as the Word, the Light, and the catalyst for new creation. We're challenged to consider the magnitude of these claims: Jesus as fully divine, eternally existent, and the source of all life. This isn't just ancient theology; it's a call to recognize that God hasn't abandoned us in our darkness. Instead, He's entered our world, offering us unshakable hope and a bright future. As we navigate the ups and downs of the Christmas season, we're invited to let our moments of despair serve as reminders of the glorious future God has prepared for us. This message encourages us to choose hope, not as mere optimism, but as a powerful act of faith and endurance.
JOY
December 8, 2024 • Tyler Gorsline • Philippians 2:5–11
Pastor Tyler delves into Philippians 2:5-11, uncovering the profound truth of Christ's self-emptying love. This passage, known as the 'Christ Hymn,' reveals how Jesus, despite being fully God, chose to humble Himself and become human for our sake. We're challenged to adopt this same mindset of Christ - one of selflessness and joy in serving others. The message reminds us that true joy isn't found in worldly power or success, but in following Jesus' example of radical self-surrender. As we navigate the sorrows and challenges of life, we're encouraged to choose joy deliberately, not as a fleeting emotion, but as a steadfast attitude rooted in our faith. This choice to embrace joy, even in difficult circumstances, becomes an act of faith and a powerful testimony to the transformative power of Christ in our lives.
