Sermon Reflections from God at the Movies "If" | Alex Hardt | June 16, 2024  

In our journey through life, we often find ourselves at a crossroads, pondering the profound questions of existence: Why am I here? What is my purpose? These questions are not just philosophical musings but are deeply rooted in our desire to find meaning and direction. The quest for purpose is universal, and it's a treasure hunt where the map to our destination is God's wisdom.
 
Wisdom is more than knowledge; it's the application of God's truth in our lives. It's a treasure that surpasses all material wealth, offering us a life of peace, security, and fulfillment. Unlike the fleeting satisfaction that comes from earthly achievements, wisdom provides us with a guiding light through life's complexities. It's about seeing our lives from God's perspective and aligning our desires with His.
 
Our lives are often marred by brokenness and pain, leaving us feeling lost and disconnected. However, through our faith in Jesus Christ, we can experience healing that transcends the physical realm. The story of Jesus healing the deaf and mute man in Mark 7 is a powerful testament to this truth. It's not just about the restoration of physical abilities but about finding a renewed sense of purpose and identity in Christ.
 
Purpose is not a passive state; it requires action. It's about translating our beliefs into deeds that reflect God's love and grace. The movie "If" illustrates this beautifully, showing characters who find purpose in helping others. Similarly, we are called to serve and love, making God's compassion tangible in the world. Our actions can have a profound impact, as seen in the story of a young girl creating "bags of grace" for those in need, embodying the very essence of living out one's purpose.
 
LIFE APPLICATION
This week, challenge yourself to actively seek God's wisdom in your daily life. Reflect on how you can apply this wisdom to serve others and make a positive impact in your community. Ask yourself:
 
How can I incorporate prayer and scripture into my daily routine to grow in wisdom?
 In what areas of my life do I need healing to fully embrace my God-given purpose?
 What tangible actions can I take this week to demonstrate God's love to those around me?
 
Remember, your purpose is not defined by the world's standards but by your relationship with the Heavenly Father. Embrace the journey, knowing that each step guided by God's wisdom leads you closer to the treasure of a purposeful life.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
Wisdom Surpasses Wealth Wisdom is more precious than material riches because it guides us to live in alignment with God's will. By valuing wisdom above earthly treasures, we prioritize our spiritual growth and find true fulfillment in life.

Healing Leads to Purpose The healing of the deaf and mute man illustrates that Christ's touch goes beyond physical restoration; it opens us to a deeper understanding of our purpose. Embracing Jesus' healing can lead us to a life of clarity and meaningful action.

Action Reflects God's Love Living out our purpose is not passive; it requires action that reflects God's love to the world. By actively serving others and sharing the gospel, we fulfill our calling and make a tangible impact in the lives of those around us.

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

Sermon Reflections from God Promises Problems | Damon Hopkins | September 17, 2023

How many of us experience pain, suffering, and difficulties in our life? The answer would be that all of us do.  At some point in our life, whether it's right now, in the past, or in the future... All of us will experience some kind of suffering.  In those moments we often look for healing from those within our perimeter of view or we look towards things of this world.  But...What about if we looked somewhere else? What if we sought to find comfort in God? 

In these verses, 2 Corinthians 1:3-8, the Apostle Paul expresses praise and gratitude to God, who is the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort. Paul acknowledges that God comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others in their troubles with the comfort we have received from Him. He emphasizes that as followers of Christ, they have shared in both suffering and consolation. Paul shares his own experiences of facing hardships in Asia, where he and his companions were burdened beyond their ability to endure, even to the point of despair. However, he notes that this occurred so that they would not rely on themselves but on God, who raises the dead. Paul concludes by expressing his confidence that God will continue to deliver them from such perilous situations and that the Corinthians' prayers will contribute to their deliverance.

Have you ever noticed how we seem to need or want God more when problems are big? That when we realize we can't solve this thing or overcome that obstacle or achieve something on our own, is exactly when God seems to be most prevalent.  Like Paul, when we are at our weakest, the best thing we can do is get on our knees and pray to God.  We need to surrender our life over to God and let him take control. Is it easy?!? Nope. Being vulnerable and open is very difficult to do. Asking for help is hard to do.  Complete surrender seems impossible to do, but it's the best thing we can do.  God is not just some big God who lives in a galaxy far far away.  Our God is close by and cares deeply for us. He knows every detail about us.  God is waiting for us to turn to him instead of this world.  As amazing as our friends and family are they can't do what God can do.  God can wipe away every tear, overcome every fear, give us peace beyond understanding, and give us hope when all seems lost.  

In essence, these verses remind us to find comfort and strength in God during times of difficulty and suffering, and how in doing so, it enables believers to offer support and empathy to others facing similar challenges.

I don't know what you or others in your life is going through right now, but my hope and prayer is that you lean into God during this time.  Pray for God's comfort to be upon everyone present and for the ability to comfort others in times of need.

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.