A Simple Word for Complex People

We continue talking about transformation this week, and the role of prayer in that process. 

Are you "transformable?" Or are you one of those who says, "I am who I am ... take me or leave me?" Being "transformable" means submitting to the work of God in us, trusting that God uses us with others to accomplish something greater. 

This week is Women's Sunday, and our saints did an amazing job leading worship. I was asked to continue on the Lent sermon series on bread, and this is what I offered. Bottom line: The harvest is not in the manna.

Many of us have that crazy story (or storIES) that we keep to ourselves. Peter stood on the authority of his craziest story. Maybe it's time we share ours too.

Understanding this passage is critical for those today who believe in God and serve God through the church. We are called to be a Contrast Community, where life looks differently than the rest of the world.

Jesus dined with both Judas and Peter, in part because he recognized and honored the inherent value of both, regardless of their past actions or future accomplishments. Salt and Light people do too. 

The church is an outpost of heaven -- a territory of paradise. As such, it ought to look and function just as heaven does. 

Can you imagine how transformative we could be if we set aside our silly differences and focused on the one who truly deserves our loyalty?

We stand on the shoulders of giants. The people who have gone before us handed down their stories, to which we add ours. It's important for us to tell those stories to those who will follow us. 

Everyone stands on foundational beliefs and values that govern how they think and act. Our baptisms -- and all that baptism represents -- belong in the mix.