Messages

Pastor’s Message

Springtime. It is that wonderful time of year that makes me think of new beginnings.  Sometimes I just sit in awe of the beauty God places around us.  This past Easter weekend was beautiful, not just for the beauty around us and the awesome weather we had, but also for the reminder of what Easter is all about.  We serve a God who creates amazing beauty, but we serve a God who loves us so very much that he sent his Son to die on a cross for us and defeat death by raising Him from the dead.  I can’t think of a better time than on a beautiful Spring day to reflect on the love that God the Father has for us. 

God’s Word reminds us in Ecclesiastes 3:1 “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”  Have you ever taken a moment to notice the beauty in the change of seasons?  Think about it.  With each season, there is something to appreciate and celebrate.  Springtime announces the end of winter.  It represents the beginning of hope and new life.  With our yards and flower gardens coming to life and a shift into warm weather, Spring is a time to appreciate the newness in nature.

Could you imagine if there were only one season to experience?  What would things look like?  Would we be able to experience this portion of God’s grace and beauty?  Some people don’t like the changing of the seasons.  I do.  I’m thankful we live in a beautiful area where we can experience all four seasons.  The changing of the seasons reminds us however that change is inevitable.  It’s unavoidable.  It brings about the unexpected, things we didn’t plan for.  Whether good or bad, it comes with something new.  It pushes us out of our comfort zone.  However, no matter how ready or reluctant we are to embrace change, one thing is for certain – God is with you every step of the way.  No matter what life brings your way, God is with you in each and every change to lead and guide you.  As believers, every change should bring you closer to God.  The closer you get to God, the more your faith in Him increases.  The more you trust God, embracing the changes He orchestrates for your life will become easier.  I pray you’ll be able to enjoy some beautiful spring weather and the changes that are coming with it. 

I hope to see you in church this coming Sunday.  Don’t forget – let your light shine for Jesus!

Pastor Rick

Message From Andy (Student Minister)

“Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.”
– Philippians 2:4

A few weeks ago at J.A.M., prayer was requested for one of our friends whose family is going through a difficult time.  Immediately, another of our J.A.M. kids said, “Oh, I’ve been watching out for him at school!”  His comment struck me and encouraged me that our J.A.M. kids “watch out” for each other and support each other even outside of church! 

When Jesus was asked by a Pharisee about the great commandment, he responded in this way:

Jesus said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”  On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.

I am so grateful God has blessed me with this group of youth to work with and for a church family who loves them and models the importance of loving God and loving each other! 

Let’s continue to GLORIFY, GROW, GIVE, AND GO as we GROW GOD’S KINGDOM TOGETHER! 

Andy