Stephanie- Leadership
2024 began with the regular routines: filling in the church calendar, discerning the Word for the year (thanks Linda K.), and starting a reading plan. Alex asked the team, “Can we have 2 words? I think our word is ‘Missional Imagination.’ By the way, here’s a book on prayer.” God planted a seed at our first LT meeting that has been growing since.
Encouraged by our reading, the team started praying bold, imaginative, and specific prayers. As a team, we have been learning what it means to listen and discern God’s will in prayer together. God is transforming the leadership into a PRAYING team.

​And His church at Crossroads is becoming a PRAYING Church. We don’t have a prayer team because our church IS the prayer team. Whether it’s Sunday mornings together, or Saturday walks around the neighborhood, Crossroads is growing as a PRAYING church.

Greg- Financial
In His Word, God has given us all pretty clear guidance on how to seek, hear and understand His will. Through prayer, sometimes including fasting, studying His Word, and listening to Godly wisdom of mentors, leaders and other pillars of the church, leaning in and moving forward with prudent action in line with what we are hearing — AND ALWAYS IN UNITY!
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So it should be no surprise that we have heard bits and pieces from Him over the past year or so as we have sought his will via the above means. And from time to time - and most recently, I believe - He has “congealed” many of those bits — some small and some large — into another prudent action plan for us. You may ask - what, Greg, does all that have to do with finances? I have seen God work through His people called to this, His church we call Crossroads in unbelievable ways in the past year.

When I did not think it was possible, in at least three areas I have seen God miraculously provide the financial resources needed to accomplish His mission for us:

1. Campus Use Permit Update: Sustained/increased provision of money and skilled labor by our campus partners and our congregation to complete the groundwork for future growth of Hope Academy for Dyslexics. This is still a work in progress, but the Crossroads share of these expenses were provided for and spent in the period ending in December 2023

2. Building The Dream capital improvement campaign: Again, sustained/increased provision by our faithful congregation partnering with our campus partners (reduced cost/donated labor and materials) to complete our urgent roof replacement, as well as painting in the kitchen and education wing. And we’re just getting started on the projects - GO GOD!)

3. Staff growth: Most recently I believe God has spoken to us through His faithful congregation via new pledges to our General fund. We now have almost all of what is needed to fund the monthly cost of bringing on a critically needed member to our staff at a time when we are seeing growth and diversity in our ministries. GOD has known this all along, and has watched our faithful seeking of His plans for us and calling to serve this community where He has planted us.
Every time I consider these I get goose-bumps, and sometimes even tears of joy! I hope you  can clearly see, that time and again, God has honored our UNIFIED efforts to seek His plans (and timing) for ministry at Crossroads.

Cheryl- Care
Crossroads Care Team provides an opportunity to demonstrate our love, compassion and mercy for one another while meeting each other’s needs. We serve in the areas of care, hospitality, benevolence and special church events. Various areas of responsibility might include caring for others through calls, cards, visits, preparing and delivering meals, providing transportation, and helping with errands. Crossroads major events are also coordinated through the Care Team.

This last year we cared for new moms, those with health issues and/or family needs. We continued to reach out and make connections through calls, visits and church events. God blessed us with new families at Crossroads, allowing us to make connections and share the love of Jesus. Our involvement with various community organizations – Options Health, Hands and Feet, Children of Faith also increased as we served alongside them.
The Care Team is currently developing plans to train and equip successors to serve on the team. We encourage and mentor others to serve with us. If you are interested in serving, contact Cheryl Summers, Care Team leader, for additional information..

Kathy- Admin
In the unity of purpose felt on the Leadership Team. We are being asked time and again to take a leap of faith where we feel God leading us. The leaps are sometimes scary, but if we are faithful, God will also be faithful.
As far as the Office Team, we answer the phones, email and greet visitors as they come in the door. We keep congregation information up to date, we prepare materials for the sermons and we copy forms for meetings. There’s always something to do. God is good!

Wayne- Worship
This quarter the crossroads, tech and praise team has experienced the dividends of the new praise team leadership that has been in place since January. Perhaps it just took time to gel. Perhaps we individually needed to grow into a unit. Perhaps it was the additional time we would spend in prayer prior to rehearsals and worship services. Perhaps it was the joys and sorrows we weekly shared with each other.

It was certainly evident in the way everyone would pitch in after rehearsal and after service to put all the equipment away. It was evident when any one of us would walk in the door and all the others would shout out "How are you doing with that issue, that hurt, that thing we've been praying for?" I can say for sure that the praise team has experienced a musical miracle. The one where in the middle of a song one or more of us will realize that we are making beautiful music. We are doing the thing that we oh so long to do and it sounds beautiful. It sounds beautiful to us and we are hopeful that It sounds beautiful to God & you.

Having experienced that miracle once, twice or multiple times has fostered confidence & growth. We have grown to trust each other to trust ourselves to let go and let God's spirit guide the music. Dare I say that we have jointly grown in our relationship with & in our service to God.

Perhaps you, the Crossroads congregation have also seen glimpses of it. If not, it is our prayer that you will.

Wayne (Yes we have two Waynes ;) )- Facilities
I love seeing people connect with each other at the BBQs, Potlucks, and at church. Crossroads is such a warm and welcoming place where everyone can feel at home. It’s great seeing the new faces at church and that more people are coming to church. It is a blessing that we are growing as a church, and we are seeing new families being part of our wonderful community. The generosity of this community is amazing. The building the dream campaign has been a success and because of it we are able to update our facility, put a new roof on the building, and make our campus even better than it was before. Crossroads is a special place with so many special people.

Sermon Reflections from God at the Movies "Greater"| Alex Hardt | June 2, 2024  

​Pastor Alex is always up for something fun to stimulate us to think more biblically and to put our faith into action.  This month’s series focusing on movie themes highlighting our culture is an excellent way to show that God is not dead and that His principles are alive and well.  We often have to search for them but God has not abandoned us to our culture and left us without evidence of His world, His power and His might!  Thank you Jesus.

The movie ‘Greater’ focuses on a young man, Brandon Burlsworth, who overcomes great odds to accomplish his goals.  He has a never quit attitude and does not allow himself to focus on his fears but concentrate on his faith in himself and God. Pastor Alex likens Brandon’s story to that of David told in 1 Samuel 17.  David, like Brandon, did not let their own fears paralyze them into to non-action.   David was the youngest son of Jesse and his 3 older brothers were in the army of Israel serving King Saul.  They were in the valley of Elah facing the Philistine troops.  David carried things back and forth to his brothers and was tending his father’s sheep in between.   For 40 days the Philistines had sent their giant of a soldier, Goliath, to challenge the Israelites through the use of intimidation and fear.  His size alone would have given them pause to be worried.  David arrives bringing food to his brothers and asks what is happening.  David hears what is going on and the threats given by Goliath and is incensed by his words. He asks a couple of questions.  1 Samuel 17:26 And David said to the men who stood by him, “What shall be done for the man who kills this Philistine and takes away the reproach from Israel? For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?”   It was logical to ask what would be the reward given to the great warrior who could defeat this giant as soldier were paid for their services.  However, his second question comes from David’s faith and deep rooted belief that God watches out for and cares about the nation Israel.  He is not a God of stone or wood, not an idol but a living being who parts the seas, feeds the hungry, and frees the enslaved.   David knew that not standing up to this ‘giant’ showed their fear and lack of faith in Almighty God.  He knew that the God of Israel was greater than any Philistine giant.

Just like the character Brandon shows in the movie, David knew the character of God.  He knew Him to be the Almighty one.   How did he know this, he had personal experience.  1 Samuel 17 34-36 “But David said to Saul, “Your servant used to keep sheep for his father. And when there came a lion, or a bear, and took a lamb from the flock, 35 I went after him and struck him and delivered it out of his mouth. And if he arose against me, I caught him by his beard and struck him and killed him. 36 Your servant has struck down both lions and bears, and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be like one of them, for he has defied the armies of the living God.”   David knew that His God was mighty and was bigger than anything, any giant, which would come his way.  

How about you?  Do you believe that the God of your faith is greater than any circumstances or people you will ever encounter?  1 John 4:4 gives us courage “Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.’    David belonged to God’s people and knew God loved, cared and defended him.  As a believer, we too have that assurance.  God is with us.  Here are a few scriptures that give me hope and remind me that I can be like David and am seen as a love one by God himself.  Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”  For Joshua and the children of Israel the ‘them’ was their enemies.  What or who is your ‘them’??  God promises to be with us 24/7 standing beside us as we walk each day confronting our problems and He will give us the victory- just like He did David.    David did not let his fears overcome his faith and stepped out in faith to confront the giant Goliath.  He chose his weapons carefully and allowed God to use him to slay the giant.  Paul faced difficulties in his ministry and tells us he stood resolute, like David, in the presence of fear.  I use 2 Corinthians 12:9 as my go to verse along with the Deuteronomy passage when I am in need of courage.  “ But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”   David and Paul both knew that God has it handled and we just need to walk in faith trusting Him to deliver us.

How good are you at trusting God when times get hard?  Do you cave or do you stand strong in the Lord?  I can say from personal experience that each time you have to face a challenge it gets easier to walk with God and trust Him.  Why? Because of personal experience!  You know that God has seen you though before and He will not let you down. That is what David relied upon, he remember the lion and the bear.  What experiences do you have that you can praise God for and remember His faithfulness?  God is faithful.  You can depend upon Him.  Claim Lamentations 3:21-23 “But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: 22 The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;  his mercies never come to an end;   23 they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”  1 Corinthians 10:13 “ No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”   Just like David, God will see you though every trial, He is faithful.
 
Linda
 
Here are a few more movies similarly themed.  “I can only Imagine”, “Overcomer”, “The Rookie” and even “Sandlot”.  Good summer viewing.
 
Valley of Elah    I took this picture of the valley where the battle took place. You can just envision the armies on the hills facing one another.
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​MESSAGE LINK
Click Here to View the Message on Youtube
Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am.
​Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass

Sermon Reflections from Notice | Alex Hardt | May 5, 2024  
 
Pastor Alex began his sermon this Sunday by opening up that mysterious box called emotions. Because of our emotions run amuck, we often feel invisible, overwhelmed, unloved, downtrodden or despairing.  In the midst of our turmoil, he suggested we need to take a pause to reset our perspective and look up.  God knows, God notices and God can take care of us because He is sovereign and loves us beyond measure.  Looking up to God and giving Him our worries and concerns- the roots of our emotions, will bring us back to a life that is resting in Him.

Pastor Alex used the telling scriptures from Mark 5 to show us how we operate in our own human realm.  We cope with our situations until we come to the ‘end of our rope’.  Jairus, a synagogue leader, who was desperate to find a solution to his daughter’s seemingly fatal illness.  In spite of the Jewish leader’s opposition to Jesus, he humbled himself and came to Jesus seeking healing.  He begged Jesus to come and heal her as he believed that he could restore her.  Likewise, the woman who had been bleeding for 12 years came to Jesus in a crowd of people.  She believed if she could just touch Jesus she would be healed.  She certainly had not been able to find any sort of healing from doctors or medicines.  Jesus was her last hope as well.  Both of these people had exhausted their own resources and turned to Jesus as a last resort to find help.   Jesus was willing and agreed to go with Jairus and felt the woman’s touch in the midst of the crowd.  Jesus felt power leave him as she was healed.   Jesus’ healing always cost him something just as our salvation cost him his life.  They had tried to ‘fix’ the problem themselves but realized they were trying to do the healing in their own power and needed Jesus.  Our own strength can accomplish much but the reality is that we need Jesus with us each step of the way to reach our goals and His purposes for our lives.
Both the woman and Jairus were noticed by Jesus.  He acknowledged Jairus’ problem and was willing to go with him and bring healing.  He recognized the pull of power from his body when the woman touched him and saw her faith.  God notices you and me and desires to ‘help’ us in our times of need. I love Nahum 1:7 “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble.  He cares for those who trust in him, “ and 1 Peter 5:7 “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you”.  What emotion are you harboring today?  God sees you and knows you.  He is ready and willing to help you as He helped Jairus and the woman.  All you need to do is ask Him for His help like they did.  He will be there for you!

Lastly, Pastor Alex reinforced the fact that God knows, sees, understands and hears our cries in sharing the Exodus 3 story of Moses and God in the burning bush. Moses was a simple shepherd tending his flocks in the wilderness of Midian.  God appeared in a burning bush, burning but not consumed, and spoke with Moses.  He told Moses He had heard the cries of his people in Egypt, knew of their oppression by the Egyptians and was concerned for their lives.  He then told Moses he was going to go and be part of the solution.  God was going to use Moses to rescue his people.   I know Moses was overwhelmed as he objected to God’s request putting up several excuses as to why he could not possibly do this for God.  God however is sovereign and through His might and power can and did overcome all of Moses objections. 

What problems are you facing that seem overwhelming today?  Is the emotion of overwhelm putting up excuses in your mind as to why you can’t trust God to help you?  Like Moses, we need to step back, pause and let God’s Holy Spirit fill us with resolve and purpose so we can walk with God all the way into it and then through where God is leading.  Can you be a Moses?  Can you step out with Jesus and embrace what God has for you and trust Him with the solution?   Perhaps God will go with you to fix the problem like Jairus, or his touch will cause you to be healed and ready to go forth in faith or maybe God is asking you to partner with Him in His work and move with Him.  In all cases, the way with God moves us forward and involves faith and trust.  Memorized Nahum 1:7 and 1 Peter 5:7. God’s promises are true and He keeps all his promises. Claim them in your life and move forward with Jesus.

Blessing,
Linda
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MESSAGE LINK
Click Here to View the Message on Youtube
Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am.
​Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass

Sermon Reflections from Jesus is Here | Julio Barros | April 14, 2024

It was a pleasure to welcome Pastor Julio to the pulpit today as he and his congregation had worked alongside us in packing meals for Rise Against Hunger.  It was a glorious time of serving together in spite of the fact that there was a language barrier.  It was a glimpse of heaven as we know all believing peoples will be there on day worshiping the Lord together.

The text of Pastor Julio’s sermon was Luke 18 and the parable of the unbelieving judge who was constantly bombarded by the widow coming to him seeking justice.  She was persistent until the judge finally relented and sought justice for her.  Her persistence was likened to our prayers and our need to be persistent in prayer.  God is listening and desires to know our hearts.  That which one prays for repeatedly is truly on their heart and matters to them.  God knows this and honors persistence.

Pastor Julio spoke on the importance of prayer in various ways.  First, he mentioned that prayer has a physical effect on the one who prays.  This close time with God makes one happier and even will cause one to smile.  Taking time to pray daily will make a difference in your life as it is what the Bible would consider good medicine.  Proverbs 17:22 “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”    Spending time with God will change your heart and provide an attitude adjustment for better living.

Next, Pastor mentioned the spiritual effects of having a prayer life.  When you pray you build something around you that adds protection and hope for your family and wisdom for daily living.  It is a time when you tap into the wisdom of God and let it flow into you.  Prayer is not just mindless repetition but communication and relationship building with God himself.   How do you build friendships with others?  You do it by spending quality time with them, sharing your heart and working together.   God allows us to spend quality time with Him, share our hearts and serve Him with others to strengthen our relationship with Him. Jesus called himself our friend in John 15:14 “You are my friends if you do what I command.”  Our question to ourselves should be, how do I know what God commands of me?  Through His Word He reveals himself to us, through faith in Jesus and the indwelling of His Holy Spirit we can learn of God’s ways and through prayer God speaks to us.  Being the friend of Almighty God is an awesome thing.
Now to the actual praying and the need to be persistent like the widow in the parable.  God will answer prayer but in His time.  Isaiah 55:9 “

“As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”   We do not know the times of life, the interactions of relationships and the whys and why nots of all things like God does.  So His answers are sometimes, “Yes”, sometimes “No” and sometimes “Wait”.   We must keep praying and trust in God’s timing and sovereignty.  We must always remember that God gave man free will and what God desires may not come to pass if the person is unrepentant and rejects God.  Pray diligently that the Holy Spirit will be able to soften your loved ones hearts towards God and that they will come to know Jesus.  I lean on 2 Peter 3:9 “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”  God desires that all come to know Him- so keep on praying. 

Pastor Julio closed with this thought, “May our daily life be an act of prayer.” That would truly bring a change of heart to us both physically and spiritually. Praise God!

Linda

​MESSAGE LINK
Click Here to View the Message on Youtube
Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am.
​Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass

 Sermon Reflections from Jesus is Grace | Alex Hardt | April 7, 2024
 
As Pastor Alex preached from Luke 15 this Sunday, I caught a vision of the many facets of Jesus’ character.  Our God has many attributes to who He is.  Some are ones that are for him alone like- sovereign, creator, Savior, glory, Omnipresent, Omnipotent and Omniscient and others are ones that He has in perfection but desires that we emulate like love, mercy, justice, goodness, kindness, compassion, patience, etc.  From the parables in Luke 15 and Jesus’ actions we can learn much about our Lord.

As Pastor Alex noted, Jesus began by confronting the narrow minded thinking of the religious leaders.  Luke 15:1-2 “Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. 2 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”   The religious leaders were criticizing Jesus for associating with known sinners.  Their idea was that their sins were small in comparison and they were more worthy.  However, Jesus showed by his actions and words that He is impartial.  He loves all sinners and desires that all would come to repentance and faith.  2 Peter 3:9 “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”

The first parable Jesus told the crowd was of the lost sheep.  The shepherd loses one sheep and leaves the 99 in search of the lost. His conclusion in verse 15:7  “I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.”   This attitude shows Jesus’ incomprehensible love.  It is a love beyond our understanding.  Alex put it this way, the pursuit of the lost.. is a reflection of the Father’s love for His children. We do not understand that kind of full love that would lead Him to send his only son to die on our behalf.  John 3:16 says it this way, “ For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”   God’s love is complete and beyond our understanding.  Thanks be to God for His great love for us!

The second illustration Jesus told the crowd was of the woman who had 10 silver coins and had lost one.  She went in search of this lost coin and like the lost sheep she rejoiced when she found it.  Luke 15:10 “ In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” This speaks of God’s great joy when someone turns to Him and accepts Jesus as their Savior and Lord by his infinite grace.  His joy at our turning to him shows His kindness that we do not deserve.  His grace is favor that is undeserved. He gives it freely, feels His joy freely and we did nothing to earn it.  The joy of redemption is the restoration of the lost by the GRACE of God! Thanks be to God for His marvelous grace towards us!

The last parable in this series is the story of the prodigal son.  The son who takes his inheritance and squanders it recklessly.  When he comes to his senses in the depth of despair, he realizes at that the servants in his father’s house are better off than he is.  He returns home and his father unexpectedly welcomes him home and prepares a feast of celebration.  Jesus was trying to explain the concept of mercy and forgiveness.  The father is merciful and forgiving towards anyone who repents and turns to Him.  Without Him, they were lost and now they are found.  They have moved from death to life which is what we do in Christ through our faith in Him.  Alex’s statement is so true, only the compassion of the Father can turn sinners into repentant citizens of heaven!

The other son who had worked diligently all those years was upset over the father’s welcome feast.  However, the father shows understanding and wisdom when he tells the other son in Luke 15:31 “‘My son,’ the father said, ‘you are always with me, and everything I have is yours.”   The son who stayed has had the benefit of the father’s love and care all those years and has a full inheritance plus time with the father.  The father desires that the other son understand the love, joy and compassion towards the lost when they come home.  They were dead and now are alive.  Ephesians 2:4-5 “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.”  Thanks be to Jesus for His amazing Grace towards us!

Linda

​MESSAGE LINK
Click Here to View the Message on Youtube
Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am.
​Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass

Celebrating Easter Sunday: The Resurrection and Its Transformative Power

Introduction: Easter Sunday stands as the pinnacle of the Christian faith, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. In Luke 24, we find a vivid portrayal of this momentous event and its profound impact on the disciples and believers throughout history. This event didn't just change their context but the entirety of human history.  Jesus' life, death, and resurrection for our sins/brokenness, wasn't deserved or earned by humanity, but Jesus was sacrificially given to us by God because he loves us.  He wanted to get us back, make us right with him, and give us new life, life eternal.  On Easter Sunday, we dove deep into the narrative of Luke 24, where we uncovered the transformative power of Christ's resurrection and its enduring significance for our lives today.

LUKE 24:1-8
On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. 2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3 but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. 5 In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? 6 He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 7 ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ ” 8 Then they remembered his words.

The Reality of the Resurrection: Luke 24 gives an incredible depiction of the reality of Jesus' resurrection. The empty tomb, the angels' proclamation, the women who discovered the empty tomb, and the disciples' encounters with the risen Christ all serve as undeniable evidence of this miraculous event. Just as the disciples were astonished to find the tomb empty, we too are invited to ponder the reality of Jesus' victory over death and the implications it holds for our faith.  This wasn't just an important historical event, it was a life changing, history altering, hope fostering, game changing event.  Jesus wasn’t just for the disciple's context or point in history, but for all Human History.  Through Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, God would bring about redemption and reconciliation for all Humanity not just for that time or for those people.  

The Transformation of Believers: The resurrection of Jesus brings about a profound transformation in the lives of His followers. Initially they didn't believe.  They were overwhelmed with grief because their Lord, their King, their Messiah was gone, and they didn't know what to do.  They were terrified for their lives after defying the Roman Empire, so they hid in fear, filled with doubt, and full of despair.  But when Jesus revealed himself to the women at the tomb, then to the two on the road to Emmaus, and finally to all of the disciples they still didn't believe because it seemed improbably, actually impossible.  No one has ever been resurrected. How could Jesus be alive? In Luke 24, we witness the disciples' journey from doubt to faith, fear to courage, and despair to hope as they encounter the risen Christ and he revealed the scriptures to them. Their hearts burn within them as Jesus opens their minds to understand the Scriptures, igniting a flame of hope and conviction that propels them to boldly proclaim the gospel to the ends of the earth.

LUKE 24:30-32
30 When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. 31 Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. 32 They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?”

The Promise of Redemption and New Life: Through His resurrection, Jesus extends the promise of redemption, forgiveness of sins, and the hope of new life to all who believe in Him. In Luke 24, we witness Jesus commissioning His disciples to proclaim repentance and forgiveness of sins to all nations, underscoring the transformative power of His resurrection in reconciling humanity to God. This promise echoes throughout the ages, inviting us to embrace the life-giving message of salvation found in Jesus Christ. There is only one path to the heavenly Father, to redemption, and reconciliation, to new life, and that is through Jesus Christ. While some may view this as narrow and limiting, it is open to all, unrestricted by race, status, or background. This reconciliation wasn’t earned or deserved by humanity but sacrificially given to us by our loving God, who embodies Love because He is Love. This divine commission echoes throughout history, beckoning all people to embrace the life-giving message of salvation found solely in Jesus Christ. In His resurrection, Jesus offers not only forgiveness of sins but also the hope of new life—an eternal inheritance that transcends the limitations of this world and promises everlasting joy in the presence of God.

LUKE 24:45-48
45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 46 He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 

What does this mean for me? As we celebrate Easter Sunday this last week and reflect on the resurrection of Jesus Christ, let us be reminded of the transformative power of this momentous event. Just as the disciples were transformed by their encounter with the risen Christ, may we too experience the reality of His resurrection in our lives. May we embrace the promise of redemption and new life, and may we boldly proclaim the good news of salvation to all who will listen. Truly, Easter Sunday is a time of joy, hope, and renewal—a time to celebrate the victory of our risen Savior over sin and death.

He is Risen.
He is Risen Indeed!

Blessing,
Pastor Alex Hardt

MESSAGE LINK
Click Here to View the Message on Youtube
Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am.
​Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass

 Sermon Reflections from Palm Sunday- The Triumphal Entry | Sara Wade | March 24,2024  
It was nice to have Sara Wade back to speak this Sunday.  She is passionate about sharing the love of Christ with others, and it certainly comes through as she speaks.  This being Palm Sunday, she wanted to see the events of Palm Sunday through the lens of 1 John.

The Palm Sunday events reveal a willing Christ who humbly entered the city of Jerusalem riding on a donkey.  This showed humility as He was the Son of Almighty God and deserved a chariot and crown if not more!  Yet, he did not demand recognition or the things that go along with being a king.  The people willingly praised Him and shouted Hosanna, Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!  The city was teeming with those coming for Passover and many in the crowds had heard of the great miracles Jesus had performed and took control of the scene.  They waved palm branches and sang praises to God. The proclaimed Jesus as Messiah.  His disciples were confused at by all the happenings and did not fully understand them until after Jesus’ death and resurrection.

Sara spoke about John’s words of love, proclaiming God is love from 1 John. The people who praised Jesus were doing so to show their love and devotion foe who He was and who they thought He was.   John knew later in his ministry that this love, selfless praise, can only come from God.  Love originates with God.  The mission to come to earth and be the sacrificial Lamb of God to die for our sins was accomplished by Jesus on the cross.  He knew where he was headed that day as he went down the steep road into Jerusalem.  I’m sure the human part of Jesus soaked in those brief moments of praise and love the crowd provided. Jesus knew their ‘love’ was going to be fleeting and He would end up at the cross.        

Sara questioned each one of us to think about our commitment to God’s love.  1 John 4:7 says, “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.”  The love we have for one another comes from God himself.  He brought love into the world and showed us the ultimate in love by sending Jesus.  To be able to truly love one another and be unified in faith we must love God.  Through the power of His Holy Spirit, He fills us with the power to love others in a way we cannot humanly love.  How can you love strangers?  How can you love those who would do you wrong?  It is only possible with God because God is love and He will give us the love we need for one another.

She gave a powerful challenge that forced us to realize a new that love must be done in community.  We have to be united in love to give out the gospel message of love and hope.  A church divided will not move forward.   I am reminded that Jesus prayed for the unity of all believers in John 17:22-23 “The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.”    Jesus wanted us to know and feel the love He has for the Father so that we will feel 1 with Him.  He even shares some of His glory with us so that we can know we belong to Him.  This is the love Sarah is talking about that we need to access and apply to our Christian walk.

May your feet feel lighter as you walked the Palm Sunday road today with Jesus.  Knowing his feelings of love and devotion for you can uplift and move us forward to love one another in a more profound and genuine way.  He deliberately went down that Palm Sunday pathway for you and me!
(PHOTOS BELOW)
Palm Sunday & Eastern Gate

The road ends at the eastern gate through which Jesus entered the city. It is now closed.  In later times the gate was blocked to keep Messiah from entering, not realizing that Jesus had already come that Palm Sunday so long ago.
Linda

MESSAGE LINK
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Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am.
​Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass

 Sermon Reflections from Righteous Anger | Alex Hardt | March 10,2024  
 
Anger is an emotion that can easily go from God serving to self-serving in a flash.  When you get angry or use your anger, you need to look at what motivated the anger.  Were you upset over a slight or injustice to yourself,  a friend or relative or were you upset by an affront to God’s honor and name.  Was a godly principle called into question, God’s Word maligned or was the slander pointed towards God?  God can certainly defend himself but we also can be upset to anger over injustice.  God desires that we love justice and mercy.  Micah 6:8 “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.  And what does the Lord require of you?   To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”  When angry is used,  it is essential to maintain godly character and ‘right’ motives.  Unlike the emotions of love and happiness, anger can turn good reasons to bad in a heartbeat.  As Pastor Alex reminded us, we need to be sure that our reasons for seeking justice are in line with God’s character and purpose. 

(Just for clarification we need to be sure that we know what the character of God is.  Psalm 86:15 describes God “But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.’  1 John 4:8 “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” Leviticus 11:44 “I am the Lord your God; consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I am holy.”  Search the scriptures for the attributes of God so you can better emulate His character.  As a believer you are in the process of ‘sanctification’ from the time you receive Jesus as your Savior until you breathe your last breath.  The Christian life is a process of the Holy Spirit indwelling us and molding our character to be more and more like Jesus.  It is important to know the character of God, study His Word and pray so that you can recognize missteps and ask His help for day by day living.  If you’d like a devotion about the attributes of God, my book Strategic Living looks into godly character. I have copies or it is available on Amazon.)

Therefore, it takes godly character to keep anger in check and godly character to recognize when situations need a righteous anger response which is always tempered with grace.  I love the verse in 1 Peter 3:15 “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,”   When talking with someone about the Lord Jesus, we are to give an answer but do it with grace and respect.  Responding with righteous anger seems to me to be a time when a similar response is needed.

I have a story I want to relate that reminds me of Pastor Alex’s response to the racial slurs concerning his friend.  Pastor Alex was quick to admit that his anger was righteous but his responding words were not filled with grace.  Similarly, Moses was righteously angry about the Israelites worshiping a golden calf but he broke the tablets in anger.  Exodus 34:1-2 records what the consequences were for Moses breaking the tablets God had given him. “The Lord said to Moses, “Chisel out two stone tablets like the first ones, and I will write on them the words that were on the first tablets, which you broke. 2 Be ready in the morning, and then come up on Mount Sinai.”  Moses broke the tablets in anger and he had to carve out a new set himself.   His anger was justified but not the breaking of the tablets.     
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My story is of a young college man who was attending a Christian college in Southern California.  There was an assembly with a guest speaker addressing the crowd.  As the person spoke the young man was consumed with righteous anger over the blatant lies the speaker was saying about principles in God’s Word that were totally untrue or against scripture.  He got up and went forward, took the microphone away from the speaker and confronted him for his lies.  Needless to say, the young man was expelled from the school.  A Christian attorney helped him navigate any repercussions.  Later he enrolled in a different Christian college that was more biblically aligned.  His stand for God’s Word is commendable but not without consequences.  I would imagine that as this young man grows his love for God’s Word will increase and he will remember the stand he took in support of God’s truth as written in scripture.
Learning how to use our anger in defense of the gospel is necessary to see change but it needs to be filled with prayer, study, and a healthy dose of grace all around.

Linda

MESSAGE LINK
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Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am.
​Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass

 Sermon Reflections based on from ​Cosmic Interpretations, Galactic Forgiveness | Alex Hardt | January 28, 2024

What a wonderful way to end our series on Joseph and God’s goodness. Redemption and Forgiveness are at the heart of the gospel and were so well demonstrated in the story of Joseph. Our memory verse, Genesis 50:20 shouted out to us each week the truth of God’s sovereignty, goodness and omniscience.  “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. 

Pastor Alex began with Genesis 45:1-4 where the story of Joseph’s revelation of himself to his brothers shows his great humility and love for his ‘lost’ brothers.   During a great famine in the whole land, Joseph’s brothers had journeyed to Egypt to buy grain. (Joseph had interpreted a dream Pharaoh had concerning 7 good years and 7 lean years.  Pharaoh believed Joseph and put him in charge of the plan to keep them all alive during the 7 lean years.  Genesis 41.)  In chapter 42, Jacob sent his sons to Egypt to buy grain but did not allow his youngest Benjamin to go with them.   While buying grain they encountered Joseph but did not recognize him.  He required that they leave one of their brothers there and bring their youngest brother to him to verify their story, he had accused them of being spies.  Then Joseph had his servants put the silver they had paid for the grain with back in their sacks.  When the brothers discovered this, they were terrified and decided not to go back.  Well, the famine continued and they eventually needed to return.  The fact that Jacob’s youngest, Joseph’s brother, was required to go troubled Jacob immensely.  All he could think about was how he had lost Joseph and feared losing Benjamin too.  Judah promised that he would bring Benjamin back or die trying.  When they appeared before Joseph this second time, they were very afraid of his retribution for the ‘stolen’ silver.  Joseph as overcome with emotion at their meeting and said in Chapter 45:4-5 “ Come close to me.” When they had done so, he said, “I am your brother Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt! 5 And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you.”

After all that had transpired, Joseph had seen God’s hand in all that God had allowed to happen.  He did not have hatred or revenge in his heart but overwhelming love.  Joseph had seen God’s provision from the pit to the palace.  He knew from experience God is sovereign and omniscient!   He tried to relay this to his brothers, but they had not made the journey from pit to palace and did not understand Joseph’s love and compassion. 

​Our life’s journey gives us opportunities to see God in action, experience His love, compassion and forgiveness first hand.  If we allow Him to work in our lives we are enriched in both faith and character.  Joseph is a wonderful example to us of God’s power of sanctification and how He grows and matures us in our faith. Joseph wanted restoration of his family and reconciliation with them not revenge. 

Joseph is an example to us of the power of forgiveness.  His life was transformed from possible bitterness and hatred to love, acceptance and longing for his brothers and father.  Forgiveness is transformative to each of us on the inside. It works it wonders by making us better in Christ.  We can accept hurts, betrayal, wrongs and hatred and let them go. Christ will take those and replace them with love and kindness.  Letting go frees us and gives us a new pathway in Him.  Joseph certainly had a new pathway with his brothers and father and whole family who come to be cared for and settled in the land of Goshen. 

Where are your pathways leading you?  Are you moving forward with forgiveness by embracing Christ?  God promises forgiveness in Christ, Ephesians 1:7 “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.”   Through forgives we are free to serve Him, Psalm 130:4 “But with you there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve you.”    Our memory verse from our study of 1 John was 1:5 “This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all.”   Forgiveness in Christ brings us into God’s light and the darkness is dispelled!  Praise God!

1 Timothy 6:17 wisely speaks to us and I see Joseph lived by these principles.  “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.” 

Joseph kept his focus on God.  May we do likewise and experience His providential care, forgives of sins and love.
Linda
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MESSAGE LINK
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Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am.
​Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass. 

Sermon Reflections based on Dream Higher | Alex Hardt | December 31, 2023

Happy New Year!?!
I'm wondering if you are like me and at some point, you thought why even bother making plans, or doing a new years resolution, or looking to the future?  Everything around me looks dismal, broken, and new years resolutions never work anyway.  What I am going through won't change and anything I do won't make a difference.  It will be the same today, tomorrow, and the next day. 

In a world often shadowed by uncertainties and limitations, the scriptures in Isaiah, Revelation, and Philippians shine forth as beacons of hope, inviting us to dream higher and embrace a future anchored in God's promises. These passages, although diverse, weave together a profound narrative that resonates with the core essence of faith—trusting in God's redemptive plan, pursuing spiritual maturity, and adopting a forward-looking perspective.  Our past and our present doesn't define our future. In fact, the only thing that holds weight on our future is God.  

Isaiah 43:1-13: Isaiah's words echo through the ages, offering assurance in times of tribulation. As the Israelites faced exile and uncertainty, God reassured them of His abiding presence. His promise of redemption isn't just a distant hope but a present reality—a reminder that the Creator of the world is actively working on behalf of His people.  If you thought you were alone in this world, then you would be wrong.  We have a God who is always with you and always for you, working on your behalf for Good.  

Revelation 21:1-8: John's apocalyptic vision paints a picture of a new heaven and earth. It's a breathtaking glimpse of a future where pain, sorrow, and suffering cease to exist. This vision isn't merely an allegory but a tangible promise of God's ultimate restoration.  Just because we have failures, brokenness, pain, suffering, death now doesn't mean that's how it will always be. God paints a future where every tear is wiped away and where death no longer exists.  

Philippians 3:12-14: Paul's words exhort believers toward spiritual maturity. He encourages a relentless pursuit of Christlikeness, urging us not to dwell on past successes or failures but to press on toward the upward call of God—a call that beckons us toward a higher purpose and a deeper communion with Christ.  We can hold on to the past all we want but it won't change the future.  If we dwell in the past and the present then we will never move toward the future that God has for us.  God has something much greater for us, but we have to let go of our fears and failures.  We have to surrender today and yesterday, to discover tomorrow.  

Discussion Questions:
How do you navigate between living in the reality of present circumstances and holding onto the hope of God's promises for the future?
In what ways can we encourage one another to pursue Jesus?
What steps can we take to cultivate a forward-looking perspective amidst life's challenges and uncertainties?

Practical Application:
Let's engage in a practice of daily reflection and prayer. Allocate time each day to meditate on a specific promise from Scripture. Journal about how that promise speaks to your current situation and future hopes. Share these reflections with a trusted friend or within a faith community to encourage one another in holding onto God's promises amidst life's ebb and flow.

As we journey in faith, may we hold firm to these timeless truths, envisioning and pursuing a future anchored in God's unwavering hope. Embracing a future of hope involves actively participating in God's redemptive narrative, seeking spiritual maturity, and fixing our gaze on the promises that transcend our present circumstances.

Blessings,
Pastor Alex

MESSAGE LINK
Click Here to View the Message on Youtube
Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am.
​Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass.