Side by Side
Cultivating Peace
October 1, 2023 • Elijah Schiarelli • Matthew 5:23–24, John 14:27, Romans 12:9–18
We all want peace. Not just in the world, but in our jobs, our homes, our relationships, and ourselves. And yet, so few of us feel like we have it. But just because we can’t feel peace doesn’t mean it’s not there. Pastor Elijah Schiarelli shows us that peace is a gift given to us by God, and it can grow stronger in us with practice and cultivation. Peace isn’t something that happens by avoiding conflict - it’s the prize found at the end of resolving conflict. Pastor Elijah discusses what living side by side at peace with everyone looks like: being willing to engage in the conflict with those around us so that we can all take hold of peace.
How to Be Kind
September 24, 2023 • Brian C. Hughes • Colossians 3:12, Romans 12:19–21, 1 Corinthians 4:12–13
We can CHOOSE kindness, regardless of whether others around us do. In this week’s message, Pastor Brian Hughes shows us how kindness is the treatment of another with respect, help and care, regardless of how I’m being treated. If we choose kindness in our homes, as a response to others who treat us without it, over time, people will take a second look at the One whose name we bear. Pastor Brian discusses how when we choose kindness consistently, over time, others will too.
Should I Forgive?
September 17, 2023 • Brian C. Hughes • John 21:15–17, Luke 11:4, Luke 22:54–62
For us to live well, side by side, forgiveness has to be deployed…regularly. In this week’s message, Pastor Brian Hughes shows us that forgiveness is at the heart of God because where there is no forgiveness, there is no community, no church, no family, no real living side by side. Forgiveness is the medicine that heals and it’s the glue that keeps us together and healthy through our failures. Pastor Brian discusses how forgiveness has a double benefit: it resets the relationship and it frees the one who got hurt.
What is Love?
September 10, 2023 • Brian C. Hughes • Genesis 2:18, 1 Corinthians 12:31, 1 Corinthians 13:1–8, Romans 5:8
What is love? Love is a broad word in our culture and we use it in a lighthearted way. In this week’s message, Pastor Brian Hughes shows us what love is and how it does not exist apart from Truth. To exist side by side and to do it well, you must be able to give truth and receive it. Pastor Brian discusses how living side by side means putting the needs of others above my own…Where there is nothing in it for you except for the benefit of the one you love.