Jesus directs our attention on what it will take for us to reach the finish line. Following Jesus does not create a smooth and easy path for us. In fact, following Jesus and his Word will lead to division among people, even among people very close to one another. Thankfully, Jesus and his Word also unite us to a long list of runners who have finished the race and won the prize. We know where following Jesus leads.

August 21, 2022 (Pastor Caleb Kurbis) Hebrews 12:1-12 - "The Hardest Race of Your Life"

Jesus’ sharp words remind us that the door to heaven is narrow. It’s easy to develop a false sense of security about our standing before God based on some superficial, external familiarity we have with him. Jesus warns, however, that many who think they are on the path to heaven will end up shut out. We must make every effort to enter through the narrow door, that is, through faith in him.

August 28, 2022 (Pastor Kurbis) Hebrews 12:18-24 - "Our Lives, Two Mountains, One Eternal Summit"

How dangerous is the sin of pride? Holy Scripture says that even if you were to keep all of God’s other commands and yet stumble over his directive to be humble, God threatens “judgment without mercy” just for that one sin alone. 
Today the words from our Savior wound our arrogant hearts. Then the Great Physician cuts out our pride, removing our sin, healing our attitudes, and compelling us to rejoice that, wherever Jesus is operating, “those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

September 4, 2022 (Pastor Paul Zell) - James 2:1-13

September 4, 2022 (Vicar Jacob Ungemach) Luke 14:1, 7-14

Jesus’ sharp words expose our desire to pursue comfort and avoid pain at all costs. He tells us that all those who follow him ought to count the inevitable cost we will incur. When we do so, however, we realize that whatever we might have to give up or put up with for Jesus will pale in comparison for what we gain through life with him. Counting the cost is especially pertinent on “GROW Sunday” when we consider all that needs to be set aside as we pursue the eternal strength and everlasting peace of God in his Word.

September 11, 2022 (Pastor Caleb Kurbis - Luke 14:25-35 - "Spiritual Presurgical Assessment"

Throughout this series, "Wounds that Heal" we have seen that not all wounds are bad. The precise incision of a skilled surgeon wounds the patient, but only in order to cure him or her. In the same way, we often say that words cut us to the heart. Often, however, those sharp words can provide the healing wounds we need. Join us as we hear some of Jesus’ sharpest words for us – words that wound in order to heal.
Today’s Focus: With a string of questions Jesus exposes the self-righteousness of our hearts. Self-righteousness is an attitude that causes us to be bitter and upset when those we judge unworthy are welcomed into Christ’s presence to be seated at his table. In response, Jesus shows us the joy that exists in heaven whenever one such sinner repents – and invites us to know and experience that joy with him.

September 18, 2022 (Pastor Kurbis) Luke 15:1-10 - "With Souls, We Don't Cut our Losses"

A lot can happen in 40 years. Ask the parents who see their “over-the-hill kid” blow out 40 candles. Ask the spouses who pull out the 40-year-old photo album filled with wedding memories. Or ask someone who has served in Gospel ministry in three schools and three churches in five different states over the last four decades. Yes, a lot can happen in 40 years. And if we could best encapsulate all that happens over 40 years, we can use one word: grace.
In his grace God has instituted the office of the pastoral ministry so that his eternal gospel would be proclaimed, his people would be built up, and his kingdom would grow in hearts and lives. God has blessed his church through the ministry of Pastor Paul Zell and the service of his family. Today we thank God for his grace to them and to countless others through 40 years of gospel ministry. God’s grace abounds!

September 11, 2022 (Pastor Caleb Kurbis - Luke 14:25-35 - "Spiritual Presurgical Assessment"

Living Savior

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