Preacher Paul's Blogs

As we move into the season of Epiphany, we will turn our attention to the familiar yet often misunderstood story of the Magi. In Matthew’s telling, their journey is not quick, simple, or neatly wrapped up with Christmas morning. The Magi follow a light without a map, travel a long and uncertain road, make detours along the way, and arrive to Jesus in his home. Their story reminds us that faith is rarely about having all the answers in advance. It is about trusting God enough to take the next step, even when the destination is unclear. This Sunday’s sermon, Trusting God One Step at a Time , invites us to see our own lives reflected in that journey. Like the Magi, we begin this new year carrying hopes, questions, and uncertainties. God does not promise us perfect directions or a clear timeline, but God does promise light for the road and presence along the way. Epiphany asks whether we are willing to follow that light and to trust that encountering Christ may change the direction we tak...

As we look ahead to worship this Sunday, our focus will be on Luke 2:15–20 and the theme Unexpected Gifts . This familiar scene invites us to notice how God chooses to work through ordinary people in ordinary moments. The shepherds were simply doing their jobs when God revealed something life-changing to them. Their story reminds us that God often meets us not when we are ready or searching, but right where we are, offering grace in ways we did not anticipate. The passage also shows us that God’s gifts are not always fully understood at once. Mary treasures and ponders what she has seen, while the shepherds return to their lives changed, praising God. In both responses, we see that receiving Christ leads to reflection, gratitude, and faithful living. God’s gifts continue to unfold over time, shaping our hearts and calling us to carry what we have received into the world. As you read Luke 2:15–20 this week, consider these questions: Where might God be offering you an unexpected gift r...

This Sunday we will be listening to Mary’s song from Luke 1:46–55, often called the Magnificat. In this passage, Mary gives voice to joy that runs deeper than emotion. She sings because God has drawn near and because promises spoken long ago are now becoming real. Her words remind us that Advent is not only about waiting, but about reunion. Reunion between family members, reunion between hope and fulfillment, and most importantly reunion between God and humanity through the child born in Bethlehem. Mary’s song celebrates the moment when what once felt distant suddenly feels close. At the same time, Mary’s song is not sentimental. It speaks of a reunion that reorders the world. The proud are scattered, the lowly are lifted, the hungry are filled, and mercy stretches from generation to generation. This is the joy of God coming home to God’s people and inviting us home as well. As we move closer to Christmas, this passage asks us to consider how God’s nearness reshapes our lives, our prio...

As we continue our Advent season, this week’s message invites us to reflect on what it means to be on a journey home. Isaiah 9:2–6 speaks to a people walking through deep darkness, unsure of what lies ahead, yet still placing one foot in front of the other. Our upcoming sermon, The Journey, explores how God meets us not at the destination, but right in the midst of our uncertainty. The light of Christ does not wait until we have everything figured out. It shines on us where we are, giving us enough hope and clarity to keep moving forward. My prayer is that this passage reminds you that you are never navigating your path alone. Christ walks beside you, strengthening you, guiding you, and offering the light you need for the next faithful step. Advent is not simply a countdown to Christmas. It is a journey shaped by trust, expectation, and the presence of the One who leads us home. As you prepare your heart this week, consider: Where do you feel the need for Christ’s guiding light right n...

As we continue our Advent journey, this week’s sermon invites us to think about what it truly means to prepare for the coming of Christ. Using Jeremiah 33:14–16, we will explore how God’s promise of a “righteous Branch” calls us to make space in our lives for hope. Just as we clear clutter in our homes before welcoming a guest, we are invited to clear both spiritual and material clutter that distracts us from the heart of the season. Advent is not simply about getting ready for Christmas. It is about preparing a place within ourselves for Christ, who enters quietly yet brings peace, justice, and renewal. We will look together at what it means to set the table of our hearts and welcome the Guest who transforms everything God touches. My hope is that this message helps us slow down, breathe, and remember why we prepare in the first place. Questions to consider this week: What clutter, physical or spiritual, might God be inviting you to clear? Where in your life do you need to create ...

As we begin the season of Advent, our focus this Sunday will be on Isaiah’s beautiful words, “Comfort, O comfort my people.” These verses remind us that Advent is more than a countdown to Christmas. It is God’s invitation to come home. Not simply to a place, but to a renewed relationship with the One who prepares a path for us even in the wilderness. Just as holiday gatherings stir memories of warmth, belonging, and restoration, Isaiah announces that God is drawing near to lift valleys, level mountains, and make a way back to hope for all who feel far away. As you read Isaiah 40:1–6 this week, consider: Where in your life do you most long to “come home” to God? What might it look like to make room for Christ in the wilderness places of your heart?

  As the Advent season begins, we enter a time when God’s people listen for an invitation not just to a place, but to a renewed relationship. This year, our sermon series, “ Home for the Holidays ,” invites us to reflect on what it means for God to call us home during this sacred season. Just as many of us feel the pull to return home during the holidays, Advent stirs our longing for comfort, belonging, restoration, and joy, and reminds us that God is preparing the way back to hope.   • Week 1: “The Invitation Home” (Isaiah 40:1–6) – As Advent begins, we hear God’s gentle invitation home, much like receiving a holiday invitation from someone who loves us. Isaiah reminds us that God calls us back to comfort, hope, and renewal. • Week 2: “Making Preparations” (Jeremiah 33:14–16) – As we prepare our homes for family and friends, Advent invites us to prepare our hearts for Jesus Christ, the coming Messiah. Jeremiah reminds us that God’s promised salvation is drawing near. ...

As we gather for our annual Thanksgiving Eve service this Wednesday, I want to share a glimpse of the message we will reflect on together. Our sermon, “The One Who Returned,” takes us into Luke 17:11–19, where Jesus heals ten lepers on his journey toward Jerusalem. All ten receive the gift of restored life, yet only one turns back to give thanks. On a night dedicated to gratitude, this passage invites us to pause and consider how often God blesses us in quiet, ordinary ways and how rarely we return to say “thank you” with the same enthusiasm that we bring to our requests and needs. The Samaritan who returns does more than give thanks; he recognizes God’s grace at work in his life and chooses relationship over rushing ahead. This story speaks especially well to Thanksgiving Eve. Before the busyness of Thursday, before the travel, cooking, and gatherings, we are invited to become like the one who came back. Gratitude has a way of slowing us down and helping us see where God has been fa...

November 23 is Christ the King Sunday abd my sermon will be based on Luke 17:20-21. The Pharisees asked Jesus when the kingdom of God would come, expecting a dramatic sign. Jesus responded with something far more challenging and far more hopeful. The kingdom is already among us. It is not something distant or hidden. It is something unfolding here and now in the ordinary rhythms of our lives. This week’s sermon explores how Christ revealed the kingdom in his day, how the Spirit continues to move through our lives and community today, and how God’s promised future draws us forward with hope. As we move toward Christ the King Sunday, I invite you to spend time with this passage and consider the quiet ways Christ’s reign is already breaking into your life.  Where do you see signs of God’s presence in the everyday moments around you?  How might God be inviting you to participate in the work of the kingdom this week?

This Sundy, we’ll turn to the book of Joshua, where the Israelites finally cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land. After years of wandering, God tells them to take twelve stones from the riverbed and build a memorial, so that when future generations ask, “What do these stones mean?” they will remember what God has done. We’ll talk about how those stones were more than just markers of an event; they were a testimony of faith, a reminder that God’s promises hold steady even when the waters seem deep. In our own lives, we have “stones of remembrance” too, moments, people, and experiences that remind us of God’s faithfulness. This week, as we prepare for worship, I invite you to think about the stories that have shaped your faith.  What are the “stones” in your life that remind you of God’s presence?  Who are the witnesses who helped you carry them?

This Sunday, we will explore one of the most unusual and thought-provoking stories in Scripture, the story of Balaam and his donkey. It reminds us how easily we can become so focused on our own plans, desires, or emotions that we miss the warning signs God places in our path. Balaam, a man who once spoke directly with God, allowed ambition to cloud his discernment until even his donkey could see the danger he could not. Yet in God's mercy, that interruption saved his life. Sometimes we confuse divine detours with delays or disappointments. But what if the obstacle we resent most is actually God's way of protecting us? What if the roadblocks in our lives are acts of grace meant to keep us from going too far down a destructive path? As you read Numbers 22:21–34 this week, consider these questions: Where might God be placing warning signs or gentle interruptions in your life right now? Are there moments you have resisted a delay that, in hindsight, might have been an act of merc...

This Sunday we will gather to celebrate All Saints Day , a time to honor those who have gone before us in faith and to remember that we are also part of that great communion of saints. In Philippians 1:6, Paul reminds the believers that “the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ.” That verse captures the heart of our faith, that the story of every saint, past and present, is ultimately the story of God’s grace. God began this work in us, sustains it each day, and will one day bring it to glorious completion. As we prepare for worship, I invite you to reflect on this truth: we are saints not because of what we have done, but because of what God is doing in us.  How have you seen God’s good work continue in your life, even in times of struggle or doubt?  And where might God still be calling you to trust that the work is not yet finished?

  Reformation Sunday By Pastor Paul   What exactly is Reformation Sunday, you may ask, and why do we celebrate it each year? Those are two good questions that I will try to succinctly answer in just a few paragraphs. Reformation Sunday is observed on the last Sunday of October by many Protestant churches, including the Presbyterian Church USA. It commemorates the Protestant Reformation, which began on October 31, 1517, when Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg (pronounced VIT-ten-burg ), Germany. This bold act challenged the church's practices and set into motion a movement that shaped the course of Christianity. On Reformation Sunday, we celebrate the truths that were rediscovered during the Reformation: salvation by grace alone ( sola gratia ), through faith alone ( sola fide ), in Christ alone ( solus Christus ), based on the authority of Scripture alone ( sola scriptura ), all for the glory of God alone ( soli Deo glori...

This Sunday’s sermon, “See for Yourself,” from Mark 7:6–9, challenges us to think about how easily truth can be distorted when we pass along what we think we know instead of returning to the source. Jesus confronted this problem in his own time when religious leaders elevated human traditions above God’s commandments. On this Reformation Sunday, we are reminded that faith must continually be reformed, not by opinion or custom, but by the living Word of God. We live in a world overflowing with voices claiming to speak truth. Yet, just as in Jesus’ day, the greatest danger comes when we stop verifying what we hear and begin to mistake human words for God’s Word. The Reformers risked everything to put Scripture into our hands so we could read it for ourselves. The question now is whether we still take advantage of that gift. As you prepare for worship, consider: How do I ensure that what I believe about God’s Word comes from Scripture itself? What might God be asking me to rediscover or r...

This Sunday’s message, “Living Faith,” is drawn from 2 Timothy 1:3–7 , where Paul reminds his young protégé to “rekindle the gift of God that is within you.” In this passage, Paul reflects on the faith that first lived in Timothy’s grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice, a faith that has now taken root in Timothy himself. It is a powerful reminder that our faith is shaped by the prayers, examples, and steadfast trust of those who came before us. Paul’s words call us to remember that same sacred responsibility in our own lives, to nurture the gift of faith within us and to pass it on with love and courage. As we prepare for worship, reflect on who has helped shape your faith journey.  How are you tending the flame of faith in your daily life?  And in what ways might God be calling you to share that light with others this week?

This Sunday will be a truly special day in the life of Old Waxhaw Presbyterian Church as we celebrate 270 years of worship, service, and community. Our congregation will join together with our friends from Wade Memorial Presbyterian Church for a homecoming service at 11:00 a.m., followed by a covered dish luncheon in the Fellowship Building. We are honored to welcome back Rev. Dr. R. Shane Owens, Honorably Retired, who once served as pastor of Old Waxhaw and will deliver a message titled “Let’s Go Home Again,” based on Luke 15:11–32, the parable of the prodigal son. This story of homecoming, forgiveness, and grace reminds us that no matter how far we may wander, God always welcomes us back with open arms. As we reflect on 270 years of ministry, may we also remember the countless ways God has guided, restored, and renewed this church through every generation. As you prepare for worship this week, consider these questions: How has Old Waxhaw been a “home” for you in your faith journe...

This Sunday we turn to Luke 17:5-6, where the disciples ask Jesus to “increase our faith.” Jesus responds with an image that still stirs us today: even faith as small as a mustard seed can move what seems immovable. In other words, the power of faith is not in its size but in the God we place it in. Real faith isn’t about collecting more; it’s about trusting enough to act, even when forgiveness, obedience, or hope feels impossible. Jesus then reminds us that discipleship is not about earning God’s favor but simply doing what we ought to do as servants who have already received God’s grace. This helps us shift our focus away from “Do I have enough faith?” toward “Am I willing to trust God with the faith I already have?” As you prepare for Sunday, consider these questions:  Where in your life have you been waiting until you felt like you had “enough faith” before acting?  How might God be calling you to step forward this week with the faith you already carry?

This Sunday, we will explore our love for the "Good Old Days".  All of us have moments when we look back and think the past seemed easier, safer, or better than today. Songs, stories, and our own memories tempt us to put on rose-colored glasses. Yet the writer of Ecclesiastes reminds us that wisdom is not found in wishing for yesterday but in living faithfully today. God has placed us in this moment for a reason, equipping us with gifts to face the challenges and opportunities of our time. Instead of chasing the “good old days,” we are invited to discover the “good new days” God is creating right here and now. As you read and pray over Ecclesiastes 7:10 this week, ask yourself:  In what ways am I tempted to romanticize the past instead of trusting God today?  How can I live in such a way that future generations will see God’s faithfulness through me?

This Sunday we turn to one of the most cherished images of Christ: the Good Shepherd. In John 10:14–15, Jesus declares, “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me.” We will reflect on the difference between simply knowing about Jesus and truly knowing Jesus in a personal, life-changing way. The sermon will explore how Christ’s voice leads us, how obedience flows from love, and how our call to love others, even those who are difficult to love, is the clearest sign of belonging to him. As you prepare for worship, I invite you to consider:  Do you know Jesus only in your head, or do you know Christ in your heart and daily life?  How might you take one step this week toward listening for God’s voice, living out Christ’s commands, or extending love in a hard place?

 This Sunday we will turn to Psalm 139:14, where the psalmist proclaims, “I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Together we will reflect on what it means to be created by God with care and intention. Each of us is unique, not an accident or a mistake, but part of God’s ongoing work in the world. The psalm reminds us that our lives carry signs of God’s craftsmanship, even when we are tempted to see only imperfections. We will also consider how the marks and experiences of our lives, both joyful and difficult, can be seen not as flaws but as reminders that God has shaped us with purpose. Each person has a role within God’s Kingdom, and every part of our story can serve to strengthen us and bless others. Questions for reflection: How do you see evidence of God’s craftsmanship in your own life? In what ways might your story, with its unique marks and experiences, encourage someone else this week?

This Sunday, September 7, 2025, I will be out of the pulpit, and Rev. Christina Trimble will be leading our Worship Service. Rev. Trimble, a familiar face to our congregation, is a member of Providence Presbytery and currently resides in Lancaster, SC, with her brothers and parents. She has previously served as a short-term missionary in Ethiopia, Mexico, and Arizona, and has pastored churches in Pennsylvania and New York. In her free time, she enjoys reading, card making, and spending time with her dog, Danny. Her sermon, titled “The Cost of Transformation,” will be based on Jeremiah 18:1–11 and Luke 14:25–33 . Please note that the service will not be broadcast via Zoom that day. I hope you will attend in person and welcome Rev. Trimble as she brings God’s Word to us.

This Sunday, as we gather for worship on Labor Day weekend, we will reflect on the gift of rest and the wisdom of sharing our burdens. In Exodus 18:17–23, Moses’ father-in-law Jethro saw the danger of trying to do everything alone. He reminded Moses that even the most faithful leaders need help and that God’s plan has always been for the community to share the load together. Just as Jethro’s words helped Moses rediscover balance, they also remind us that rest is not weakness but a holy gift. God rested on the seventh day, and even Jesus stepped away from the crowds to pray and renew strength. If they could rest, surely we can too. As we worship, we will consider how rest renews us, restores our perspective, and deepens our trust in God. As you prepare for Sunday, ask yourself:  Where in your life are you carrying too much alone?  And what might it look like this week to truly accept God’s gift of Sabbath rest?

This Sunday we will turn to Luke’s Gospel ( 13:10-13)  where Jesus notices a woman who has been bent over for eighteen years. She did not call out for help, yet Jesus saw her, called her forward, and restored her not only to health but also to her community. The story reminds us that God often meets us in the ordinary moments of life, taking the first step toward us even when we are not seeking. As we worship together, we will reflect on how God still sees us, calls us out of hidden places, and transforms our brokenness into new life. The God who restored the bent-over woman is the same God who continues to work in our lives today.  This week, please consider: Where might God already be at work in your life this week?  How might you be called to notice and respond to the ways God is drawing you forward?

This Sunday we will look at Paul’s affliction and how it affected his attitude and mission. In 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, Paul shares his experience of carrying a persistent “thorn in the flesh,” a burden that prayer did not remove. Instead of healing, Paul received something even greater: the assurance that God’s strength shines most brightly when our own strength is gone. We will reflect on how our broken places can become the very spaces where God’s presence rests and God’s love flows most freely. As we gather, we will be reminded that it is okay to not be okay. The church is meant to be a place where we can admit our struggles without shame and lean on one another for support. We will see that our weaknesses are not obstacles to ministry but invitations for God’s power to work through us.  This week, consider these questions:  Where might God be inviting you to rely less on your own strength and more on God’s grace?  How might your “thorn” become a testimony of God’s sus...

This Sunday, we come to the final sermon in our Summer Sermon Series on “Carson’s Blessing.” We’ll hear one of Jesus’ most beloved parables: the story of the lost sheep from Luke 15. At first glance, it seems like a simple tale. A shepherd leaves ninety-nine sheep to find the one that wandered away. But there is so much more going on beneath the surface. This parable is not just about sheep and shepherds; it is about the persistent, never-giving-up love of God that seeks out those who feel far from home. In a world where it is easy to focus on those already gathered, Jesus reminds us that the heart of the gospel is pursuit. God’s love is always reaching, always searching, and always celebrating when anyone, no matter how lost, finds their way back. As we prepare for worship, I invite you to think about these questions:  Who in your life needs to know they are worth the search?  And how might God be calling you to join in the work of seeking, welcoming, and loving those who fe...

This Sunday, we continue our Carson’s Blessing summer sermon series with a message titled “By Witness, Not by Right,” based on Acts 1:8. We will explore what it truly means to be a witness for Christ, not as experts or authorities, but as ordinary people whose lives have been touched by grace. From fishermen in Galilee to believers today, the power of witness has never been about credentials. It has always been about telling the truth of what we have seen and experienced of God's love. Together, we will reflect on how the Spirit empowers us to share our faith, not out of superiority, but from awe and gratitude. As you prepare for worship, I invite you to consider:  Where have you personally encountered God's grace in your life? How might your own story speak louder than any sermon or theological argument to someone who needs hope?

This Sunday, we continue our summer sermon series titled Carson’s Blessing, based on a benediction shared by Dr. Carson Brisson. Our focus will be on Joel 2:12–13, where the prophet calls us to return to God with all our hearts. Joel's words remind us that God is not looking for outward displays or dramatic gestures. Instead, God longs for hearts that are open, honest, and ready to be transformed.  This journey of return is not something we do alone. Joel reminds us that the whole community is called to come together in repentance and hope. As we worship together, may we be reminded that God is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love. As you reflect this week, ask yourself: What does it look like for me to return to God not just with my words, but with my heart? How might our community return together in faith and renewal?

This Sunday’s sermon, titled “No Right to Speak,” is based on 2 Corinthians 4:18, where the Apostle Paul reminds us to fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. We will explore how often we move through life surrounded by beauty, truth, and grace, yet fail to truly notice God’s presence in it all. Over time, we can grow spiritually blind, even when God is near. Through the words of Dr. Carson Brisson, Professor Emeritus at Unity Presbyterian Seminary, we will reflect on the hard truth that we have missed the beautiful far too often, and what it means to amend that. As we prepare our hearts, consider:  Where in your life have you been focusing on what is temporary, while missing what is eternal?  What would it look like for you to truly see God’s beauty in the ordinary moments of your week?  I look forward to worshiping with you as we open our eyes together.

This Sunday, we will reflect on the profound mystery and hope found in John 1:1–9, exploring the theme “Love’s Crucified Light.” We will consider how the light of God, revealed in Christ, shines most brightly not in moments of power or comfort, but through suffering, sacrifice, and even death. Drawing from Carson Brisson’s blessing, we will talk about how this crucified light leads us through even the deepest darkness, not just to survival, but to home. Whether broken, rejected, or lost, we are never beyond the reach of God's redeeming light. As you prepare for worship, consider this:  Where have you seen God's light in your darkest moments?  And how might the cross change your understanding of what God’s power and presence really look like?

This afternoon, I received a phone call from a dear church member about the tragic flooding in Texas. We discussed the question that weighs heavy on many hearts: how could something like this happen in a Christian state, at a Christian camp, with precious children as victims? I must admit, I have wrestled with this myself over the last couple of days, spending the afternoon in prayer and tears, seeking comfort in God's word. As you may have heard, devastating flash floods struck central Texas on July 4th. At least 69 people have lost their lives, including many children, and 11 children from Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp, remain missing. Rescue teams continue their urgent search as families wait in unimaginable anguish. You too may ask why God would allow this to happen. This question has echoed through the centuries from the faithful throughout Scripture. Job asked it. The psalmists cried it out. Even Jesus Himself, in His darkest moment on the cross, cried, "My Go...

This Sunday, we continue our summer series exploring the powerful words of Carson’s blessing with a message titled Called into Becoming , based on Genesis 12:1-3. In this familiar story, God calls Abram to leave behind everything familiar and step into the unknown with only God's promise to guide him. Abram is not just called to receive a blessing but to become a blessing to the world. That same calling rests on us today. God does not simply bless us for our own sake but invites us into an ongoing process of growth, change, and becoming who God created us to be. As you reflect this week, consider these questions:  How has God’s blessing been at work in your life? How might God be calling you to become a blessing to others? I look forward to worshiping with you.

This Sunday, we begin our summer sermon series with “Joy and Nothing Less,” a message rooted in Philippians 4:4–7 and inspired by the opening line of Dr. Carson Brisson’s beautiful benediction. Scripture calls us to “Rejoice in the Lord always,” but joy can feel distant when life is hard. In this message, we will explore how joy is not tied to favorable circumstances but is a deep gift from God. We will also reflect on the peace that does not wait for us to find it but comes to us, guarding our hearts and minds even when life feels uncertain. As you prepare your hearts for worship, ask yourself:  What is the difference between happiness and joy in your own life?  When has God's peace met you where you were, just when you needed it most?

  Summer Sermon Series Beginning Sunday, June 29, we will embark on a new summer sermon series rooted in a beautiful benediction by Dr. Carson Brisson, Professor Emeritus at Union Presbyterian Seminary in Charlotte. At the end of each class, Dr. Brisson would offer a heartwarming blessing that stayed with many of us long after the final lecture. Over the next seven weeks, we will explore the profound themes woven into that benediction. From the pursuit of joy and peace to the lifelong journey of becoming a blessing, and finally to the radical hospitality that defines Christian discipleship, each sermon will stand on its own while building upon the one before it. I hope you will join us each week as we open our hearts to the Spirit's movement and reflect on what it means to be found, transformed, and sent in the name of Christ. Pastor Paul

This week, I will be out of the pulpit, on vacation.  Rev. Edgar McCall will deliver a sermon based on  John 2:1-11.  We hope you can join us! Rev. McCall has served as an ordained PC(USA) pastor for over 35 years, retiring from First Presbyterian Church in Lancaster in 2024.  He and his wife, Noel, live in Indian Land.  He enjoys monthly lunches with the Lancaster pastor’s group, which includes Paul.

This Sunday is Trinity Sunday, a day when the church pauses to reflect on the mystery and beauty of our triune God. The sermon, “As Clear As Mud,” will acknowledge that the Trinity is not something we fully understand, but something we faithfully experience. We will explore how God the Creator brings life from chaos, how Christ reveals God's heart through love and sacrifice, and how the Holy Spirit continues to guide us into truth and transformation. The doctrine of the Trinity may feel overwhelming, but it points us to a God who is deeply involved in every part of our lives. As you prepare your heart for worship, I invite you to read John 16:12–15.  What does it mean to trust a God who is beyond our comprehension yet intimately present?  How have you experienced the presence of the Father, the Son, or the Holy Spirit this week? 

This Sunday’s sermon, “That Was The Holy Spirit,” invites us to reflect on the power and presence of the Holy Spirit as revealed in Acts 2:1–8. Pentecost is more than a historical event, it is a reminder that God’s Spirit is still moving among us, comforting us in our sorrow, convicting us toward what is right, and accompanying us through every moment of life, both sacred and ordinary. The same Spirit that filled the disciples with boldness continues to work quietly and powerfully in our lives today. As you prepare your heart this week, consider:  When have you felt an unexpected peace or a sudden clarity in a difficult moment? Might that have been the Spirit?  How might God’s Spirit be moving in your life right now, even in the most ordinary places?

This Sunday, we will gather to celebrate Ascension of the Lord Sunday, focusing on Luke 24:50–53. In this brief yet powerful passage, we witness Jesus blessing the disciples before ascending into heaven. Rather than feeling abandoned, the disciples return to Jerusalem filled with joy. Jesus did not leave them with an ending, but with a mission. The sermon, titled “Until Then, Do This,” will explore what Jesus asked the church to do while waiting for his return: to build up the church, take care of one another, and love as Christ loved. As you prepare for worship, consider these questions:  What have you done this week that helps build the body of Christ?  Who around you needs to experience the love and care Christ has entrusted to you?

This Sunday, we will explore a beautiful story from Acts 16:9–15, the story of Lydia. At first glance, it may seem like a small moment. A riverside gathering, a quiet conversation, and a single heart opened to the Gospel. But it is actually a turning point in the spread of Christianity. Lydia becomes the first recorded European convert, and her immediate response to God’s grace is to open her home to others. Her faith is not just personal. It is practiced in hospitality. This reminds us that God is often working long before we arrive. Our role is to be faithful witnesses to what God is already doing. As you prepare your heart for worship, ask yourself:  Where might God already be preparing the way in your life or community?  How might you respond with the same kind of openness and welcome that Lydia showed to others?

As we approach the Fifth Sunday of Easter, our sermon will focus on a powerful and hope-filled vision from Revelation 21:1-6. In this passage, we are given a glimpse of God’s ultimate promise, a new heaven and a new earth where mourning, crying, and pain will be no more. In a world full of uncertainty, this vision reminds us that God’s work of renewal has already begun and will one day be brought to glorious completion. We’ll explore how this promise isn’t just about the future, but speaks to our present lives with real comfort, real hope, and real purpose. As you reflect on this Scripture in the days ahead, ask yourself:  What brokenness in your life or in the world are you longing for God to make new?  And how might you share the hope of God’s “ultimate tomorrow” with someone who needs it this week?

This Sunday, we’ll spend time in one of the most comforting and powerful images Jesus gives us. In John 10:1–10, Jesus describes himself as both the Shepherd and the Gate. He is the one who knows us by name, leads us with love, and offers us life in its fullest. This is more than just a comforting metaphor. It is an invitation to trust, to follow, and to find safety and purpose in Christ. We are not left to wander alone. We are called into belonging, protected in God's care, and led toward a life that is abundant and whole. As you reflect this week, consider these questions:  Where in your life are you in need of protection or direction?  Are you listening for the voice of the Shepherd or being drawn by other voices?

This Sunday, we will reflect on one of the most powerful stories of transformation in Scripture: Saul’s encounter with the risen Christ on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-6). Saul, once a fierce persecutor of the early church, was forever changed by a divine interruption that redirected his life for God's purpose. We will explore how God's grace still transforms lives today, not by ignoring our past, but by using it to shape who we are becoming. As we continue celebrating the Easter season, we will be reminded that God does not define us by who we were, but by who God calls us to be. As you prepare for Sunday, I invite you to reflect on this:  Where in your life might God be trying to interrupt your plans in order to transform you?  How might your past experiences become a blessing to others through God's grace?

Last Sunday, we celebrated the resurrection as a promise for all people. This week, we turn to Acts 5:27–32 and reflect on what it means to be witnesses of the resurrection. The apostles stood before the Sanhedrin, the same council that condemned Jesus, and boldly proclaimed that God raised Christ from the dead. They were not speaking out of pride or defiance. They spoke because they had experienced the risen Christ and were empowered by the Holy Spirit to share that truth. As followers of Christ, we are called to do the same. Our witness may not place us before a council, but it should shape our lives and conversations. Take time this week to ask yourself: Where is God calling me to speak with courage and compassion? How is the Holy Spirit helping me share the hope of the resurrection with those around me?

This Easter Sunday, we'll be exploring Acts 10:34-43, where Peter makes the revolutionary declaration: "I truly understand that God shows no partiality." In my sermon titled "A Resurrection Promise for All People," we'll examine how the resurrection of Jesus breaks down barriers and challenges our human divisions. Peter's encounter with Cornelius, a Roman centurion, becomes a powerful moment of realization that God's love transcends all boundaries in which we divide ourselves. The resurrection establishes a new kind of community where our differences do not separate us but find new meaning within God's greater plan of salvation for all humanity. As you prepare your hearts for Easter worship, I invite you to reflect on these questions:  Where in your own life have you placed limitations on God's love?  Have you ever had an experience like Peter's, where God challenged your assumptions about who belongs in God's family? 

As we prepare for Palm Sunday and the beginning of Holy Week, our focus this year turns from the familiar palm branches and shouts of “Hosanna” to something deeper: the Passion of Christ and the meaning we find through loss. Our scripture from Philippians 3:7–11 invites us to consider how even our most painful experiences can be transformed when we view them through the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. The Apostle Paul, once so proud of his accomplishments, came to see them as nothing compared to the surpassing value of knowing Christ. In the same way, our own grief and suffering can lead us into a more meaningful relationship with God when we allow Christ to meet us in the midst of them. This Sunday’s sermon, “Finding Meaning,”  will walk us through the final step of our Lenten journey: moving beyond acceptance into the discovery of meaning. As you reflect this week, consider these two questions: What have I lost that God might be redeeming in ways I don't yet see? How mi...

This Sunday, as we continue our Lenten series, an examination of Elisabeth Kübler-Ross’s five stages of grief, we will reflect on a vulnerable and powerful moment in Jesus’ life. In Luke 22:39-46, we find Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, praying in anguish and yet moving toward acceptance. When Jesus says, “Not my will but yours be done,” he shows us that acceptance is not about giving up or giving in. It is about opening ourselves to God's purposes, even when they are difficult to face. We live in a world that tells us to resist and control every situation. Yet in this moment, Jesus invites us to stop fighting what cannot be changed and to trust that God's strength will sustain us. As you prepare your heart this week, I encourage you to reflect on these questions:  Where in your life are you holding on too tightly?  How might God be inviting you to let go and embrace acceptance so you can live more fully in God's grace?

This Sunday, we continue our Lenten journey with a heavy but deeply meaningful passage: Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36–46). Our message, “Depression,” explores how even Jesus experienced overwhelming sorrow and spiritual anguish. Far from being a sign of weakness or lack of faith, Jesus' grief shows us that emotional and spiritual darkness can be holy ground. He prayed honestly, persistently, and with trust, even when answers didn't come quickly. This sermon will not minimize the reality of clinical depression but will invite us to see how our faith walks beside our pain, never in denial of it. As you reflect this week, consider:  Where in your life have you experienced Gethsemane moments?  How might you allow yourself or someone you love to rest in the truth that even Jesus grieved deeply, and yet remained connected to God? _________________________________________________________________________________ As we continue our Lenten Journey examining the five ...

This Sunday, we'll continue our Lenten journey on the five stages of grief with a powerful message from Mark 7:24-30, exploring the encounter between Jesus and the Syrophoenician woman. This remarkable story shows us what happens when desperation meets faith, as a mother from outside the Jewish community approaches Jesus seeking healing for her daughter. When faced with what appears to be rejection, she doesn't retreat but instead engages Jesus with clever persistence that ultimately results in her daughter's healing. This passage invites us to examine our own tendency to bargain with God during difficult times, and how God might transform our negotiations into deeper, more trusting relationships. As you prepare for worship this week, I invite you to reflect on these questions:  When have you found yourself bargaining with God during times of crisis or need?  How might your own desperation become an opportunity for deeper faith rather than just a transaction? Consider how ...

This Sunday, we'll continue our Lenten journey with part 2 of our series exploring the stages of grief as identified by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross and reflected in Scripture. After examining denial last week, we now turn to anger as seen in Jesus' cleansing of the temple (Mark 11:15-19). We'll discover how Jesus' righteous anger wasn't a loss of control, but a purposeful response to corruption and misuse of sacred space. Kübler-Ross recognized anger as a natural part of processing loss, and in Jesus' actions, we see this emotion channeled toward restoration rather than destruction. As you prepare your hearts for worship, I invite you to reflect:  When have you experienced anger that ultimately led to positive change?  How might God be inviting you to transform your own anger into constructive action Let’s come together on Sunday, ready to explore how God might be calling us to transform our anger into a force for renewal.

This Sunday, we'll be exploring Matthew 16:21-23, where Jesus reveals to his disciples that he must suffer and die in Jerusalem. When Peter takes Jesus aside and rebukes him, saying "God forbid it, Lord! This must never happen to you," Jesus responds with the striking words, "Get behind me, Satan!" This powerful exchange reveals how we often practice spiritual denial, accepting only the parts of faith that comfort us while avoiding difficult truths. Through Peter's story, we'll examine how denial, whether in our faith or personal lives, may feel protective but ultimately prevents growth and transformation. As you prepare your hearts for worship, consider these questions:  What uncomfortable truths in your spiritual journey have you been avoiding?  When have you, like Peter, tried to direct God's path rather than following where God leads?  Remember that Lent invites us into honest self-examination, calling us to move beyond denial toward a deeper d...

Grieving Change and Loss -  A Lenten Journey to Resurrection Lent is a season of reflection, repentance, and preparation, a time when we walk with Christ toward the cross and the hope of resurrection. This year, our Lenten journey acknowledges the reality of grief, recognizing that loss and change are inevitable parts of life. Drawing from Elisabeth Kübler-Ross's five stages of grief, we find these experiences reflected in the stories of Scripture. Grief is not a straightforward process but a deeply human experience that can involve denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. These stages, though not always sequential, are evident in the New Testament as Jesus' disciples, followers, and even Jesus navigate suffering, loss, and transformation. By engaging with these themes in Scripture, we open ourselves to God's presence in the midst of sorrow and the promise that grief is never the end of the story. Each week, we will explore a different stage of grief, conn...

This Wednesday, we'll gather for our Ash Wednesday service where we'll explore Psalm 51:10-12, focusing on David's heartfelt prayer for renewal and restoration. I'll be sharing how this ancient prayer speaks directly to our modern need for spiritual renewal and fresh starts. We'll explore how God offers us not just forgiveness, but complete spiritual transformation. Just as David sought more than mere behavioral modification, we too are invited to experience God's creative work in making us new from the inside out. As you prepare your hearts for this service and the beginning of our Lenten journey, I encourage you to consider:  What areas of your life feel most in need of God's renewing touch?  When you think about "the joy of salvation" that David mentions, what does that mean to you personally, and how might God be calling you to rediscover that joy during this season of Lent? I look forward to seeing everyone at 6:00 p.m.  Please plan to stay f...

This Sunday, we will journey with Peter, James, and John up the mountain as we explore the Transfiguration of Jesus in Luke 9:28-36. For months, the disciples had followed Jesus, seeing him as their teacher, healer, and leader. But on this mountain, they witness something extraordinary, Jesus shining in divine splendor, standing alongside Moses and Elijah. In that moment, the veil is lifted, and they glimpse Christ’s true glory. Yet, as quickly as the vision appears, it vanishes, and they are left with a command: “This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!” What does it mean to truly listen to Jesus in our lives today? How do these mountaintop moments shape our faith when we return to the everyday valleys of life? As we prepare for worship, I invite you to reflect on this passage.  Have you ever had a “transfiguration moment” where you saw God’s presence more clearly?  How did it change you?  And in the midst of daily distractions, how can we better listen to Christ’s voic...

This Sunday, we'll be exploring Jesus's challenging words from Luke 6:32-36 in my sermon titled "Quid Pro No." We'll examine how Christ calls us beyond the transactional " quid pro quo " mindset that dominates our culture and invites us into a radical, kingdom way of loving. Jesus asks us, "If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you?" and pushes us to consider what happens when we love without expectation of return. This message will challenge us to recognize where we might be keeping score in relationships and instead embrace our identity as "children of the Most High" who, like God, show mercy even to the ungrateful. As you prepare for worship this week, I invite you to reflect on these questions:  Where in your life have you been practicing conditional love, giving only when you expect something in return?  What would it look like for you to identify one relationship where you've been keeping score, and intentio...

Life often feels like the shifting seasons. One moment is filled with joy and comfort, and the next brings struggle and uncertainty. This Sunday, we will explore Jesus' words in Luke 6:17-26, known as the Sermon on the Plain. In this passage, Jesus offers both blessings and warnings. He assures those who are struggling that they are not forgotten and reminds those who are comfortable not to place their security in temporary things. His words challenge us to consider what it truly means to be blessed, not by the world’s standards but by God's. Whether we find ourselves in a season of joy or hardship, Jesus calls us to trust in God's presence and to use our blessings to care for one another. As you reflect on this passage, consider these questions:  Where do you see yourself in Jesus' blessings and warnings?  How might God be calling you to trust more fully in every season of life?

This Sunday, we will explore Psalm 138 and what it teaches us about the transformative power of worship. Too often, we view worship as something personal, something we do to recharge or fulfill an obligation. But true worship is more than that; it is a bold proclamation of God's greatness that has the power to shape our lives and impact the world. Whether we are in seasons of joy or struggle, worship reorients our hearts and reminds us that God’s love endures forever. Just as the psalmist declared praise before all, our worship can bear witness to those around us and serve as a source of strength in challenging times. As we prepare for worship this week, I invite you to reflect on these questions: How does worship shape your perspective, especially in difficult moments? In what ways can your worship extend beyond Sunday morning and into the world?

Pastor Paul will be out of the pulpit this Sunday. Rev. Hilary Shuford, Bridge Executive Presbyter of Providence Presbytery, will deliver the message. Preaching from Jeremiah 1:4-10, Rev. Shuford will present the second part of Paul's sermon, Living Out Our Sacred Purpose. Please plan to attend and hear Rev. Shuford's message

This Sunday, we'll be exploring Luke 4:14-21, where Jesus returns to his hometown synagogue and makes a bold declaration about his identity and purpose. Through this powerful passage, we'll examine what it means to discover and live out our God-given calling.  We'll look at how Jesus, filled with the Spirit, confidently stepped into his mission and demonstrated perfect alignment between his identity and actions. This wasn't just true for Jesus but it's also relevant for each of us as we seek to live out our callings. Whether in our workplaces, our communities, or our church, we're all called to participate in Christ's ongoing work of transformation. As you prepare for Sunday's message, I invite you to reflect on these questions: Where in your life do you feel the greatest sense of joy and purpose when serving others? Could this be a sign of God's calling? What would it look like for you to declare, like Jesus, "Today this scripture has been fulf...

As we gather this Sunday, we will reflect on Psalm 36:5-10 , a beautiful passage that invites us to reconnect with the source of all life and joy: God’s steadfast love and abundant grace. This psalm reminds us that God’s love reaches to the heavens, God’s faithfulness is as vast as the skies, and in God’s light, we find clarity and hope. Together, we will explore how this divine abundance calls us to trust in God’s provision, walk confidently in God’s light, and share the joy of God’s love with those around us. The sermon, titled "The Fountain of Life and Light," will encourage us to reflect on where we seek fulfillment and how we can allow God’s presence to guide and sustain us. As we start a new year, this is an opportunity to renew our trust in God’s care, set aside our fears, and embrace the joy that comes from God’s overflowing grace. As you prepare for worship this week, consider these questions:  Where do you see evidence of God’s steadfast love in your life?  How can...

This Sunday is Baptism of the Lord Sunday , a special day when we will reflect on the significance of Jesus' baptism and reaffirm our own baptismal vows during worship. It is a moment to remember that through water and Spirit, we are claimed as God’s beloved and called to live out our faith in the world. We will explore Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 , where the heavens open, the Spirit descends like a dove, and God proclaims, "You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased." This moment reveals Jesus’ identity and mission and invites us to consider our own baptismal calling. In a world that often ties worth to achievements or status, baptism reminds us that our identity is rooted in God’s grace. As we prepare for worship, I encourage you to reflect on these questions:  What does it mean for you to live as God’s beloved in your daily life?  How might reaffirming your baptismal vows inspire you to live with greater purpose and faith?  I look forward to sharing this meaningfu...

This Sunday, we’ll dive into the story of the Magi (Matthew 2:1-12) and the gifts they brought to Jesus: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These gifts are rich with meaning, and we will explore what they tell us about who Jesus is and what they mean for our lives as His followers. As we reflect on the journey of the wise men, we’ll consider how their story invites us to bring our own gifts and devotion to Christ. As you prepare for worship, take some time to reflect.  What gifts, whether of time, talent, or love, are you offering to Jesus?  How might you honor Christ more fully in this new year? I look forward to seeing you all on Sunday.