Dust

"A Command to be Joyful"

July 14, 2024 • Daniel Kitchel • Luke 7:36–50, 1 John 2:3–6

Indifference, apathy, and having our arms crossed spiritually are postures that many Christians face today. This is not what Jesus died for nor how we have been called to live. Jesus said, "I have come to give them life, and life to the full!" We are commanded to rejoice and celebrate. How much joy do you have?

"Eating Together"

July 7, 2024 • Daniel Kitchel • Matthew 20:20–28

Jesus used meals as a central way to reach others. He broke bread with everyone. Many have said, "He changed the world one meal at a time." As we seek to follow Jesus, we are called to live as he did. God calls us to open our homes and tables to others. May we know the life-changing power of demonstrating hospitality.

"Church as Family"

June 23, 2024 • Daniel Kitchel • Romans 12:9–13, Mark 3:31–34, Matthew 20:20–28

Your faith is personal, but it is not private. We are called to live out this faith among a family of believers. Jesus said, "Those who do God's will are his brothers, sisters, and mother." This teaching was radical because it opened up the idea that family is not solely based on bloodlines or names but on faith. This family relationship we are to have with one another in the church is rooted in hospitality. Hospitality is everything. We are to have open homes, hearts, wallets, and prayer lists. We share burdens to lighten the load and rejoice with those who rejoice to double the joy. Our conversations move from shallow norms to deep wells of accountability and love. It means we always have another chair ready at the table for a guest to enter, as we are called to make the stranger our friend.

"You Cannot Follow Jesus Alone"

June 16, 2024 • Daniel Kitchel • Matthew 10:1–4, Romans 12:9–13

Jesus lived in community with others. If we are to follow Him, we are called to do the same. You cannot follow Jesus alone. As God's children, we are adopted into a larger family that includes other adopted brothers and sisters. We must do our best to bear with one another, love, forgive, and get along. It is a calling to love another radically.

"No False Advertising"

June 9, 2024 • Dustin Kitchel • Malachi 3:9–10, Luke 21:1–4

If we want to be like Jesus, we must take to heart how generous he was with his whole life. He gave all. His generosity saved our lives. God has called us to do the same. As Christians, we are asked to give our first fruits to set the tone for how we view our money and resources. It is important to understand that God does not need our money - he wants our hearts.

"How Does God Speak?"

June 2, 2024 • Daniel Kitchel • Matthew 6:5–8, 1 Kings 19

We often want and expect God to speak loudly and with great might. However, due to God's personal nature with humanity, he chooses to speak with a whisper more than we realize. The question is, "Are we quiet enough to hear what is being said?"

"Silence & Solitude"

May 26, 2024 • Daniel Kitchel • Luke 5:12–17

Scripture tells us multiple times that Jesus withdrew to lonely places. In fact, we are told that he did this often in his life. There were special places where he would go to get away from the schedule and people. Spending time alone with his Father was essential. Silence and solitude are scary words in our busy culture. The idea of slowing down contradicts the speed in which we live. But, if we follow Jesus, we must do as he did. He made quiet and secluded prayer a part of his routine. This type of prayer aided his heart as he prepared to teach, heal the sick, lead the disciples, and face the excruciating death on the cross.

"Home"

May 19, 2024 • Daniel Kitchel • John 14:15–27

God has made a home within us. As believers, we do not have to wander or look for God. Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would come and make a home with us. The Apostle Paul boldly declared that our bodies, our entire lives, are a temple for the Holy Spirit. This changes everything.

"The Way"

May 12, 2024 • Daniel Kitchel • Luke 9:57–62

If we were to ask, "What does it mean to be a Christian?" many would respond similarly: -Go church -Read your Bible (occasionally, of course) -Don't do this -Don't do that -Listen to KLOVE (nothing wrong with that!) -Vote this way -You get the idea... It would be a list similar to this and it would likely not mention anything about following Jesus. God wants to take us to a deeper place than lists like this. He invites us to a way of life.

"A Beginning"

May 5, 2024 • Daniel Kitchel • Acts 11:26, Matthew 4:18–22

The word "Christian" is used no more than three times in the New Testament, while the word "disciple" is used over 260 times. Jesus said, "Follow me."

Cross Church Norman

"Do As He Did"