Higher - Walnut Grove Lutheran Church

Higher 6: Chained & Free

May 24, 2020

While this time of social distancing can be frustrating because of the increased limitations we experience, it reminds us that limits are part of life. We may not like limits, but they help us to realize that we need Someone to help us. That Someone is Jesus, in Whom we experience amazing freedom, even in times of great limitations.

Higher 5: Persecuted & Praising

May 17, 2020

One thing that none of like to do is suffer, but suffering is part of life in this world. Is there a way to rise above it? As we look at the account of Paul & Silas in jail in Philippi, we see that they were able to do so. How? By living their lives before God. He is our foundation & future and the source of our identity, joy and hope regardless of our circumstances. Therefore, we can still pray, praise and hope, even while we suffer. (Based on Acts 16:16-40.)

Higher 4: Christ-centered & inclusive

May 10, 2020

How does God think about people? This is an important question because, without it, we assume that God thinks like we do & accepts or rejects people based on whether they fit with his picture of what a follower of his should look like. Thankfully, God does not think like we do. He shows no favourites & he accepts people from all nations who fear him and do what is right (Acts 10:35). When we think about people like he does, we can be Christ-centered & inclusive.

Higher 3: Loved & Loving

May 3, 2020

What we believe can help shape our reality because our beliefs direct our vision and influence the environment we create. But our beliefs need to be based on what is true. The truth of the resurrection of Jesus helps us to see and people who know that, because of Jesus, we are loved & loving.

Higher 2: Sinner & Saint

April 26, 2020

Facing a crisis is never fun. But through each crisis we face, God invites us to change our way of thinking and build our life on the new identity that Jesus gives us. We are now beloved, forgiven children of God and that changes everything for us.

Higher 1: Weak & Spirit-filled

April 19, 2020

One of the last things that Jesus said to his followers before he ascended into heaven was to tell them to wait in Jerusalem until they received the gift of the Holy Spirit. Everything changed for the weak and unqualified disciples when they received the Holy Spirit. The higher life that Jesus wants to give to us happens when we are weak & Spirit-filled.