Preacher Paul's Blogs

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?