Feb. 8, 2009 Pastor Vonna Thomas
"Faith on Trial"
Many of us have experienced times of trials in our lives, whether economic uncertainty, relationship difficulty or loss. When we go through those seasons of our lives, from where do we receive our hope for a new beginning or better future? Have you ever felt your faith was being tested? What if our faith was actually on trial and worse yet ... we were found guilty? From where would we receive hope? Isaiah has an answer for us.
Feb. 1, 2009 Pastor Charlie Swartz
"Getting to Know You"
We all know that we are supposed to love each other, "Duhh!" But how do we do that? Paul suggests that to love someone different than ourselves, we need to understand their culture and then do what they understand to be loving. This is quite a challenge. And yet, it is true. What about the different culture that your spouse has? Or your friend? Or your co-worker? Or that troublesome cousin?
Feb. 15, 2009 Pastor Charlie Swartz
"Weak and Strong" We are all a combination of weak and strong. Naaman, the commander in chief of Aram, is noted as being a strong warrior and having leprosy. I like that he is not defined by his illness, but is described as a person of abilities living with a very idfficult and incurable condition. as he seeks help, he is directed to our Lord. But - his strength almost keeps him from the cure!
Feb. 22, 2009 Pastor Charlie Swartz
"Shining Through Cracks"
We all know people who do not experience the love of Jesus. They seem deaf to the good news and blind to the light. They might be in our family or among our friends or in a crowd of strangers. How can we help God open their hands to His mercy? Paul believes that through the cracks in our broken lives, the power of Jesus radiates. Others have a chance to glimpse the power of God when they see us in a place of weakness. How can that be?
