“Maundy Thursday”

Maundy Thursday marks a significant moment in the Christian calendar. Observed on Thursday
during Holy Week, just before Good Friday, it recalls the final evening Jesus shared with His
disciples before His crucifixion. The word “Maundy” comes from the Latin mandatum, meaning
“commandment,” directly pointing to Jesus’ words in John 13:34.
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one
another.”
This night is not merely a historical remembrance—it is a call to embody the heart of Christ.
Maundy Thursday centers around the Last Supper (Luke 22:7–20). Jesus gathers with His
disciples to celebrate the Passover, a meal rooted in Israel’s deliverance from Egypt (Exodus 12).
Yet, on this night, Jesus redefines the meaning of the meal.
He takes the bread and says:
“This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.”
Then the cup:
“This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.”
What had been a memorial of past deliverance becomes a declaration of a greater
redemption—the sacrifice of Christ for the sins of the world.
In his final hours on earth, Jesus poured His love out to the disciples. I can only imagine this
being similar to a parent saying a last goodbye to their children. We, too, can share in this
outpouring of Christ’s love. He will see if we truly understand by the way we live our lives.

Good Friday Service 6:30

Sunrise Breakfast 8:00

Sunday School 9:30

Easter Worship 10:30

Hope to see you there.

Pastor Steve

“The Family of God”
Remember the old song that said, “I'm so glad I'm a part of the family of God?” Not one
of my favorite hymns, but the message is so true. What does it mean to be a part of the
family of God?
“God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself
through Jesus Christ.” (Ephesians 1:5)
The family of God is not obtained through natural birth. Instead, it is a result of being
born again into God’s family through Jesus Christ and His sacrifice. Christianity is not
just a religion; it is a relationship rooted in Jesus.
Being part of God’s family requires surrender and dedication as we walk through life. It
means putting God first in every relationship. It is a desire or longing to be with Him
every day.
In my family, I often brag about my parents and siblings. The older I get, the more I
appreciate my family. I've found the same to be true with my spiritual family. I love
spending time with God and my spiritual siblings.
The church is not an organization—it is a family. We are called to love, forgive, and bear with
one another.
“Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.”
(Romans 12:10)
Appreciate what you have and work diligently for God. The future of our family depends on it.
Blessings, my friends. I hope to see you on Sunday.
Pastor Steve

“When God Doesn’t Seem to Make Sense”

There are moments in every believer’s life when God’s ways seem confusing—when prayers go
unanswered, circumstances appear unjust, and His timing feels painfully slow. During those
times, we must seek biblical understanding.

In Isaiah 55:8–9, the Lord declares that His thoughts and ways are higher than ours.
This is not meant as an insult, but to show that we are not capable of thinking like God.
We rarely see the big picture that God sees. That is where faith comes in. God works in
ways of eternal purpose that we may not understand. Faith is strengthened in the
unexplained and does not come from understanding but through trusting in the
unknown. God’s timing is not our timing. We live in the immediate; God works in the
eternal. We seek satisfaction while God is focused on salvation. What seems important
to us might not be on God’s immediate agenda.

There is no greater example of this than the cross. What appeared to be a victory for
evil was actually the start of mankind's redemption. While the world saw darkness,
Jesus was already saving the lost. The repentant thief on the cross became the first
convert in the least likely of times.

Today, we become anxious and troubled over life's issues. We wonder why God isn’t
sending Jesus back. However, it is in His timing. I have often said my belief is that as
long as God sees the faithful doing the work of redemption, He will wait. So, allow this to
encourage you: God will say when, but until then, we must keep at His work.
Blessings, my friends. I hope to see you on Sunday.

Pastor Steve

“Need hope?”
We live in a world full of many concerns. When you turn on the news, look at social
media posts, or listen to everyday conversations, you hear people who feel discouraged
and worried. These feelings dominate many lives today. Yet, amid all the noise of
concern and discouragement, hope still exists. Hope is more than wishful thinking; it is a
confidence that strengthens our spirit, even in the midst of darkness. People have
always faced disasters, economic hardships, wars, rumors of war, and personal
struggles. It is important to realize that hope is not based on personal accomplishments
and should not be influenced by circumstances. Our hope is rooted in God. The Bible
reminds us in Romans 15:13, "May the God of hope fill you with joy and peace as you
trust in Him." This verse reminds us that our hope is not something we create but
something we find in serving God. Hope allows us to see the bigger picture. Often, we
are influenced by current circumstances that capture our attention. Our faith in God
helps us see beyond those. As followers of Christ, we are called to be vessels of hope.
In a world filled with despair, we may be the only hope others see. When others notice
only problems, we must remind them that God is still at work. Hope does not deny life's
difficulties; it provides someone to help us through them. The message of Jesus Christ
is the greatest story ever told. Through faith in God, we do not have to live
pessimistically in a negative world. It’s about choosing faith over fear, and
encouragement over discouragement. Sometimes, you can encourage others simply by
reminding them that our hope is found in God. Despair is real, but even better is the
strength we find by trusting in God. I have told people who felt overwhelmed that the
mistake they were making was focusing on the immediate or the small picture. Faith in
God allows us to see beyond the darkness and understand the bigger picture of His
plan for our lives. Be blessed, my friend. I hope to see you on Sunday.

Pastor Steve

Additional Scriptures: Jeremiah 29:11, Matthew 5:3-10, and Psalm 42:11

Easter Season

Easter is known for the reality of sin confronted and victory over death. This is all
possible because of the loving sacrifice of Jesus. The death of Jesus on the cross was
necessary for the redemption of mankind. If sin could have been eradicated by any
other means, the cross would not have been required. Jesus' death, burial, and
resurrection were all necessary for our redemption. In other words, we could never have
been forgiven of our sins without his sacrifice. Death is said to be the greatest and final
enemy of mankind. It is vital to understand that Jesus did not just survive death; he
defeated it. The hope we have today would not be a reality without the loving sacrifice of
Jesus.
Often, I hear people say they don’t believe in God. However, I have never met anyone
who doesn’t believe in death. It appears that death is the final event in an individual's
life, but that is just not true. Jesus very clearly explains this in John 11:25-26, “I am the
resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live even though they die; and
whoever lives by believing in me will never die.” This is his promise to us.
This Easter season, may you find life through faith in Jesus. His sacrifice was costly,
and his victory is real. You can experience a fresh look at life and death this year by
accepting his offer. For additional help, read 1 Corinthians 15 and John 14. I hope to
see you on Sunday. Blessings, my friends.

Pastor Steve

The story of the prophet Zephaniah

The people have been living in dark days. Decades before Jerusalem was destroyed,
God gave a warning through the prophet. The people of Judah had completely
abandoned the Lord, turned from their true faith, and begun to worship false gods. They
dismissed God as irrelevant. They were prosperous and saw no need for God. They
had no desire to repent of their sins, for they were living comfortably in their own world.
The prophet tells them the day of the Lord will come, and Judah will be destroyed.

I think people can become so comfortable in their lifestyle that they no longer feel the
need to call out to God. It appears that the only time these people were serious about
God was when they were being overthrown by other nations.

Let’s look at that today and how it relates to our world. We always talk about all the
broken things in our world. I must ask: what would be different if our faith were stronger,
if we were not complacent, and if we did not find comfort in our possessions? Realize
how desperate we are for God's presence and direction.

I believe this could be a wake-up call for America. What was true then is true today. May
we find the desire to come to God once again with all our being. He is the source of
living faith, and we must trust him. Jesus is the God of yesterday, today, and forever.
Our commitment to him will not be mere lip service but will be seen by the love in our
hearts reaching out to others. Serve God now with all that we have. May your love and
faithfulness be pure, and your commitment to God be greater than ever. I hope to see
you on Sunday.

Pastor Steve.

Neighbors helping neighbors while it still matters
We have all had the opportunity to help others. I know in my neighborhood back in
January we received close to a foot of snow and many of my neighbors were stuck in
their driveways. I have a little Kubota tractor with a bucket on the front. When the snow
finally quit falling, I cleared my driveway and then continued to clear a few of my
neighbors' driveways. Most of them only had little lawn tractors with blades on the front
and that was not going to be sufficient for this snowstorm. Opportunities like this present
themselves on a regular basis. When I pray, I ask God to show me such opportunities
so that I can be a witness for him and a blessing to others. I am not trying to brag on my
accomplishments, rather trying to point out how God gives us opportunities in life. My
prayer is that you will also experience such opportunities and do all that you can to
bless others. It may not be a snowstorm, but whatever it is work at it as if you were
working for the Lord because neighbors helping neighbors is still a thing. Blessings my
friends.
Pastor Steve
Matthew 22:37-40
Philippians 2:4

Psalm 50
What does it mean to be ready?
This Psalm is an eye-opener. God tells his people what they are doing right and reminds
them that the sacrifices they make are for their benefit more than his. For God owns
everything on this earth. Verse 10 is a familiar verse. “For all the animals of the forest
are mine, and I own the cattle on a thousand hills.” He goes on to say that he even
knows the birds on the mountains. He says that if he were hungry, he would prepare
something for himself. He makes this point because the sacrifices we make to God are
not based on his need; they're based on our commitment. He talks about a person who
appears Godly on the outside, yet lives an unproductive life on the inside. He describes
the unlawful way a person treats family members, yet claims to be a believer. He warns
of this type of lifestyle. Although it may seem like we're getting away with it, his warning
is that, even though he is silent for now, he will respond powerfully if we don't repent. It
reminds us that life's choices are not supposed to be based on satisfying our desires.
Rather, we are to make decisions that align with God’s plan. In this article, I simply want
to remind you that the thought of God coming first in our lives is only the beginning. This
Psalm reminds us that full surrender is required, disobedience will be punished, and
repentance to faithfully serve God is mandatory. May you see this as an encouragement
to reaffirm your commitment to God. Thank you, my friends. I hope to see you on
Sunday.
Pastor Steve

“A Biblical perspective on how people can stay in the ministry.”
Unbelievably, there were plenty of people in the Bible who experienced
discouragement. For example, Moses (Num. 11:11–15) became discouraged when the
people kept whining. Elijah (1 Kings 19) allowed worry to overtake his trust in God.
Jeremiah (Jer. 20:7–9) felt belittled and betrayed because people laughed at him.
Paul (2 Cor. 1:8) refers to the trouble he experienced while serving the Lord.
Here are a few tips on how to combat discouragement and frustration while serving in
the church. First, understand the necessity of Biblical rest. This is why God was so
insistent on remembering the sabbath as a day of rest. Next, realize the importance of
shared ministry. Do not try to accomplish everything on your own, rather ask God to
provide you with a helper or two. Third, help to create a culture of encouragement and
gratitude. We are working for the Lord Jesus, but building a culture of feeling
appreciated keeps spirits lifted up. Next, cast a vision that connects ministry to mission.
Our Know, Grow, Share, and Show is the foundation for all of our ministries. Finally,
pray for a heart that cares for souls; otherwise, ministries become programs without
purpose, and that will wear anyone out.
I hope this helps to keep you serving God faithfully in the ministry he has given you.
Blessings, my friends. I hope to see you on Sunday.
Pastor Steve

“Why people quit doing ministry in the church”
Part two
A Biblical Perspective
Interestingly, Scripture records many faithful servants who experienced discouragement:
 Moses (Num. 11:11–15)
 Elijah (1 Kings 19)
 Jeremiah (Jer. 20:7–9)
 Paul (2 Cor. 1:8)
Discouragement is not failure—it is a human response to prolonged strain.

How Churches Can Help People Stay in Ministry
 Teach biblical rest and shared leadership.
 Build cultures of encouragement and gratitude.
 Clarify vision and connect ministry to mission.
 Care for the souls of those who serve.
 Allow seasons of stepping back without shame.

Final Thought
Most people who quit ministry did not stop loving God.
They stopped believing that serving in their current environment was healthy or sustainable.

“Why people quit doing ministry in the church”
People quit doing ministry in the church for many reasons, and rarely is it just one. Scripture and
pastoral experience together show that burnout usually comes from a mixture of spiritual,
relational, and structural issues. Here are a few reasons I found while researching.
Many people leave ministry simply because they are exhausted.
 They serve too long without breaks (Exod. 18:17–23).
 Faithful servants are often asked to do more instead of being supported.
 Rest is sometimes treated as optional rather than biblical (Mark 6:31).
When ministry becomes a burden rather than a joy, people begin to withdraw.
While ministry should not be done for applause, lack of encouragement wears people down.
 Paul frequently affirmed those who labored with him (Rom. 16).
 When effort goes unnoticed year after year, discouragement grows (Gal. 6:9).
 People don’t need praise—they need to know their work matters.
People disengage when they don’t understand why they are serving.
 No clear mission or direction (Prov. 29:18).
 Ministries maintained out of tradition rather than fruitfulness.
 Volunteers treated as laborers instead of partners in the gospel (1 Cor. 3:9).
When purpose fades, motivation soon follows.
Some quit because the ministry replaced their personal walk with God.
 Serving God without spending time with God (Luke 10:38–42).
 Identity tied to performance rather than grace.
 Ministry becomes mechanical instead of devotional.
Eventually, empty wells cannot keep giving water.
Next week, a Biblical perspective on how people can stay in the ministry. Be blessed, my friends.
I hope to see you on Sunday.
Pastor Steve

Conquering the Giants in Your Future

Facing Tomorrow’s Challenges with Faith in God

Every believer will face “giants” in life—obstacles that seem intimidating, overwhelming, and
beyond human strength. These giants may take the form of fear, uncertainty, opposition, loss, or
personal weakness. Scripture reminds us, however, that giants are not signs of God’s absence but
opportunities for His power to be revealed. Giants are inevitable—but not invincible. God has a
plan and a purpose for your life. Encountering giants seems to be part of life. If our successes
were based on the size of the problem, the giants would always win. The giants reveal where our
faith lies. The outcome is never based on our ability to understand, but rather on our faith in God.
Every battle requires preparation. Fortunately, God goes before us and never considers the size
of the problem. Our faith in him is evident, as in the story of David and Goliath. God prepares us
before the battle. However, we must remember to give glory where it is due. Victory is for God’s
glory, not our praise.
Giants will appear in your future, but they do not determine the outcome—God does. The same
Lord who parted the Red Sea, brought down Jericho’s walls, and empowered David still reigns
today.
“If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31)
Do not fear the giants ahead. Face them with faith grounded in God’s promises, empowered by
His presence, and confident that the battle belongs to the Lord. Blessings, my friends. I hope to
see you on Sunday.
Pastor Steve
1 Samuel 17

Article on communication
successful communication is more than talking. Successful communication involves
understanding, empathy, and the ability to actively listen. This not only applies to
couples or friends but also describes the relationship that we are to have with God.
Proper communication is best described as two-way communication. The amazing thing
about God is he is not only a great listener but is able to give us proper guidance and
direction through his holy word and the example that we see lived out in the life of
Jesus. As we approach February and Valentine’s Day read First Corinthians 13 and
make every effort to achieve effective communication in your relationships at home, at
work, Church, and life in general. May God richly bless you I hope to see you on
Sunday.

Pastor Steve.

“Having a proper focus for the New Year.”

Psalm 37 is a reminder from David for the Godly to remain faithful and put their trust in
God, even when it seems the wicked are advancing. He tells us not to worry, for their
success is short-lived. We are to take delight in the Lord and commit everything we do
to Him. In life, the wicked will often seem to gain more than the Godly. David clearly tells
us not to fret about their wicked schemes. God's plans for the righteous are eternal; the
wicked may seem to have success, but it’s short-lived. David says in verse eight, “Stop
being angry! Turn from your rage! Do not lose your temper- it only leads to harm.” I don’t
know if you react in anger or rage, but the message here is very clear. We are to put our
trust in God and not worry about what appears to be a win for the wicked. May the God
of love comfort you as you place your trust in Him. With love, be blessed. I hope to see
you on Sunday.
Pastor Steve

Opportunity awaits

The turning of the calendar often brings mixed emotions. For some, the new year is filled with
anticipation; for others, it arrives carrying the weight of unfinished goals, lingering grief, or
seemingly unanswered prayers. Scripture consistently reminds us that God is a God of new
beginnings. The new year is not merely a change in time—it is an invitation to see with fresh
eyes the opportunities God is already preparing. All too often, we approach the New Year by
asking others what their New Year’s resolutions are and setting our own goals. What if we
approach the new year by asking God what he wants from us this year? After all, shouldn’t our
goal be to please God in everything we do? Spend some time in serious prayer and talk with God
about 2026. Maybe it is a new way of witnessing to others, studying the Bible in a different way,
or intensifying your prayer life. Maybe it is accomplishing the issue you have been putting off
for most of last year. Whatever it may be, let’s make 2026 all about God and not about us. Love
and prayers. Hope to see you Sunday.
Pastor Steve
Isaiah 43:19 Philippians 3:13-14

The Post-Christmas Letdown
For weeks we have prepared for Christmas. Watching specials on television and decorating our
homes. We anticipate moments filled with joy and meaning. Then suddenly, it is over. The lights
come down, the calendar turns, and life returns to its ordinary rhythm. For many, this season
brings a quiet sense of emptiness known as the post-Christmas letdown. If you have ever felt this
way, you are not alone—and you are not failing spiritually. Even the most special of moments
can be followed up by a sense of loss. Scripture reminds us that the hope of Christmas was never
meant to last for just one day. Christmas Was the Beginning, Not the Ending
John 1:14 declares, “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.”
Christmas celebrates Jesus coming into our world, not merely visiting. The wonder of Christmas
does not fade because the decorations do. Christ’s presence continues long after the carols end.
The shepherds returned to their fields. Mary treasured these things quietly in her heart. Life
resumed—but it was never the same. Christmas changed everything, even in the ordinary. Post-
Christmas letdown often comes when routines return. The gatherings were not perfect, and loved
ones are still gone, the bills arrive and the world may seem broken. But the gospel never
promised escape from reality—it promised us Emmanuel, God with us and he is the difference
maker. Blessings my friends. I hope to see you Sunday.
Pastor Steve

Adoration is the highest form of praise because of who God is. It is God revealing himself to us.
The Christmas hymn says, “oh come, let us adore him.” Our adoration is always a response to God’s self-revelation. We adore Him because He first reveals Himself to us. When the shepherds encountered the angels, they saw heaven revealed:
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:14)
The revelation led to worship: “The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God…” (Luke
2:20) Whenever Christ is revealed—through Scripture, or in worship—the only fitting response is
adoration. At Christmas we celebrate the Christ-child because of who he is not all the things he is about to do for us, and this is true adoration.
Blessings my friends. I hope to see you Sunday.
Pastor Steve

“The Humble Christ”
Reflecting on Jesus Christ during the Christmas season brings to mind the model of
humility. It is remarkable to consider how Jesus, often referred to as the King of Glory,
would leave Heaven and come to Earth with a clear purpose. Despite this significance,
there was no accommodation for him in the world he came to save, leading to his birth
in a manger, commonly used as a feeding trough.
During this time of year, many television programs depict royalty attempting to conceal
their identities and seeking to experience life as ordinary individuals. In contrast, the
humility of Christ is evident from his birth and remains visible throughout his life—for
example, his entry into Jerusalem on a colt or donkey rather than a white stallion. Even
on the cross, when he uttered, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" he still
expressed compassion toward others, stating, "Father, please forgive them, for they
know not what they do."
This Christmas season presents an opportunity to reflect on the life and humility of
Jesus Christ. I encourage you to invite Jesus into your life as your personal Savior and
to recognize the broader invitation to be part of his Kingdom. This message emphasizes
the importance of obedience to Jesus, starting with seeking forgiveness for one’s sins
and welcoming Him into daily life. The message from humble Jesus is a message for
each of us. May this be a Christmas season where we humbly respond to his life-
changing plan for our world.
Blessings, my friends. I hope to see you on Sunday.
Pastor Steve

The Advent season is upon us. The traditional Advent season celebrates themes such as Hope, reminding us that God keeps his promises. Peace, that points to the one who calms the storms within us. Joy, who celebrates the good news that Christ has come, and love that reflects the heart of God, revealed through his son. Here are some ideas as we prepare for Advent: find time and space for you to get alone and spend some time in silence and prayer. Find an Advent devotion that you can read. The church will have some available. Advent also causes us to reflect on God’s love, so you can show his love by serving others. Finally, resist the pressure of the hurried holidays. Don’t get caught up in all of the commercialism. Enjoy the peace of the Christmas season through Jesus Christ. Remember, Advent points us to both the past and the future as we celebrate our relationship with Jesus—blessings to all of you. I hope to see you on Sunday.
Pastor Steve.

Thanksgiving is often marked by tables filled with food, homes filled with laughter, and hearts filled with gratitude. Imagine for a moment what Thanksgiving would look like if Jesus Himself were the invited guest at your table. How would He change the conversation? What would you thank the Father for? And what would He have to say in dialogue? A Thanksgiving with Jesus is not ultimately about a holiday; it is about the way He shaped our lives. Jesus teaches that
Thanksgiving begins in the Heart. When Jesus gave thanks, it was never dependent on circumstances. He thanked the Father before multiplying bread for the hungry crowd. He gave thanks before raising Lazarus. He gave thanks on the night He was betrayed, breaking the bread that symbolized His own suffering.
A Thanksgiving with Jesus is an invitation to shift our focus:
·        from what we have, to who we have
·        from a temporary viewpoint, to eternal promises
·        from present struggles, to God’s unchanging faithfulness
 
I know many of you have gone through difficulties and struggles. Remember, we praise not for what we have, but for Jesus being there for us in both the difficult times and the blessings. Hope to see you Sunday.
 
Happy Thanksgiving!
Pastor Steve

Thanksgiving has always been about family and sharing a meal. I remember as a boy going to my grandmother’s and all the family would gather to visit and celebrate. Always plenty of food, some “Old People” food that I never developed a taste for. Turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, and gravy were the mainstays with plenty of homemade pies. Somewhere along the way, “Black Friday” became a thing, and family visits turned shorter due to shopping trips. Today, with all the online deals, it seems that Thanksgiving is more about consumerism than family visits. Christians should lead the way in Thanksgiving traditions. After all, the origin of Thanksgiving comes from the Bible, as I mentioned last week. Leviticus, Chapter 7, Deuteronomy Chapter 16, and many of the Psalms are Psalms of Thanksgiving,. I realize people are going to shop, but let’s do what we can to preserve the origin with praise and a heartfelt thankfulness to the one who gave us a reason to be thankful. Blessing my friends. Hope to see you Sunday.
 
Pastor Steve

The origin of Thanksgiving is recorded in the Bible. Many believe Thanksgiving began with the Pilgrims’ arrival in America. Thanksgiving originated as an Old Testament practice, predating America and establishing an early pattern for gratitude. Israel was commanded to give thanks continually in Leviticus, Chapter 7, and many of the Psalms are Psalms of Thanksgiving.  Deuteronomy 16 talks about the Feast of Tabernacles, showing that Christian Thanksgiving has its origins in Scripture rather than American traditions. Early Christians adopted Thanksgiving as a spiritual discipline. In fact, the Greek word Eucharist literally means Thanksgiving. Every time they gathered around the Lord’s Table, they were enacting an aspect of Thanksgiving. So how did we get our modern Thanksgiving? In 1620 the Pilgrims put Thanksgiving into practice. Their first harvest was in 1621. When Governor William Bradford declared a three-day feast, they invited their native neighbors. They prayed and read scriptures. Thanksgiving was about celebrating all the good that God had provided.  It is not about football or shopping. It is about expressing gratitude to God for the harvest, safety, and resources. In 1798, George Washington proclaimed the National Day of Thanksgiving to honor Almighty God.  In 1863, Abraham Lincoln made it a national holiday, intentionally referring to an act of repentance and gratitude. As we celebrate Thanksgiving, let us remember its origins are rooted in the Holy Word of God, not merely American traditions. That may help us keep a proper focus. Blessings, my friend. Hope to see you Sunday.
 
Pastor Steve

You’ve probably all heard the hymn “I’ve got a mansion just over the hilltop,” but do you
know where the story originated? Ira Stanphill (1914-93) was preaching in a time of
depression. One day, he went for a drive and ended up in a very poor neighborhood of
rickety houses. He saw a young girl who stood in front of the shack that was her home.
Her dress was patched, and she was clutching a tattered ragdoll. Her smile and
radiance contrast strikingly with the grim poverty around her. Curious, he rolled down
his window and asked, “What makes you look so happy?” She exclaimed, my father just
inherited a fortune, and he is building a mansion for us just over the hill. The story
sparked Stanphill’s imagination and became his understanding of what the Lord is doing
for his followers. In Jesus’ farewell discourse, he said, “In my Father's house are many
mansions; if it were not so, I would’ve told you. I go to prepare a place for you...” Mr.
Stanphill used the truth of that scripture and the story of the little girl to pin the song that
we sing to this day, which brings so much hope. What you might not know is that Mr.
Stanphill's life was broken as his wife left him, and shortly after, he received an
announcement from his doctor that he had a malignant brain tumor and was told, “you
only have three months to live.” He recovered and went on to ride over 500 songs,
many of them dealing with trials and testing and proving God‘s promise that he does
give us songs in the night. (Psalm 42:8.) I have seen the difficulties of life firsthand and
many of you have as well, but God does give us a song in the night, and he has
prepared for us a mansion just over the hilltop and someday we will be together
celebrating as mortgage free owners of the mansion that Christ has built for us. Stay
faithful, my friends, we do serve a living God, who is certainly the light in the darkness.
Blessings, hope to see you Sunday.
Pastor Steve.

Have you ever thought about how much of life is based around special events. Birthdays, Anniversaries, major holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and recently Easter. What happens after the “Big Day”? I remember early in my ministry people would say the way to measure the effectiveness of a revival is to see what follows. Let us examine the holidays with the same lens.
What do we gain after a birthday? The hope is another year wiser and seeing life more practical. After every big event should be a noticeable improvement in some aspect of the way we live. Easter has just passed and we reflect upon Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection. So, let us ask the question, have we gained something this year or was it just another Easter? The road after Easter would direct us toward accomplishing more for the kingdom of God. After all He gave His very best for us and left us with a command to reach others with His good news. So, the question is simple, how do we use these special days to grow closer to Jesus and bring the lost with us? It is called having the right intent. When we put Jesus first every event or opportunity in our life should create a desire to share the message of Jesus. Do not miss the hope of this Easter. Make an occasion to share the message with someone who needs Jesus. Being intentional is the pathway of successful communication. Blessings my friend.
Hope to see you soon.
Pastor Steve

Renewal and Hope
I would like to talk to you about the renewal and hope that can be found in this world today. When we invite Jesus into our life and ask him to forgive our sins, we not only have salvation through him, but we also now have a new life. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says “... anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone a new life has begun.” So, what does it mean to be a new person? in John’s Gospel chapter 10, verse 10 Jesus says “the thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.” This fullness is more than having a new set of goals and values in life. This is about experiencing a satisfaction like never before bringing your life to a new level of happiness. The paradox to me is how Christ through his death can bring new life to us. One man’s death gives the opportunity for us to have a new life. As you look forward to the new life that is so evident in the spring time, please remember that through Jesus this new life can be a part of your identity as well.

Blessings my friends
Pastor Steve