As we head towards Easter it is pretty tough to ignore the pain and difficulty that awaited Jesus. In fact as Jesus followers it also seems like we also have to deal with these sad things. What if looking at Jesus at this dark time actually gave us a path on how to navigate our own stuff? We are going to face tough things, what if there is a better way?

Nothing to be Ashamed of

Shame is not guilt. Guilt is something I feel because I did something, shame attaches itself to my identity. It tells me that I am unworthy or no better than my worst moment. Jesus hates that you are still carrying shame.

As we head towards Easter it is pretty tough to ignore the pain and difficulty that awaited Jesus. In fact as Jesus followers it also seems like we also have to deal with these sad things. What if looking at Jesus at this dark time actually gave us a path on how to navigate our own stuff? We are going to face tough things, what if there is a better way?

It had to be Done

Often times after we have faced something hard we look back and see the decisions we made and say something like: it had to be done. When you look at the cross and all that Jesus endured, that is exactly how Jesus felt. Jesus did that so that we could live.

As we head towards Easter it is pretty tough to ignore the pain and difficulty that awaited Jesus. In fact as Jesus followers it also seems like we also have to deal with these sad things. What if looking at Jesus at this dark time actually gave us a path on how to navigate our own stuff? We are going to face tough things, what if there is a better way?

A World Without Jesus

Can you imagine a world where Jesus does not exist? Some think that is already the case, but I disagree. If Jesus does not do all that he does, this world looks very different. Horrific things happened on Friday for Jesus, but man was it good on Sunday.

Guest Speaker - Pastor Ryan Showalter

Do I know where I am going? It's okay to admit that you are lost, in fact far more often we simply just try to work harder or go fast as if that will help us get where we are going, even when we don't know. Ask God, and he will give us direction. 

GracePoint Church, A Place Where You Can Know God, Be Known & Find Belonging.

Join us LIVE on Sundays at 10am for worship and a special message.

As we head towards Easter it is pretty tough to ignore the pain and difficulty that awaited Jesus. In fact as Jesus followers it also seems like we also have to deal with these sad things. What if looking at Jesus at this dark time actually gave us a path on how to navigate our own stuff? We are going to face tough things, what if there is a better way?

Cry Me a River

Our world is facing a sadness epidemic. Our teens are especially in danger of hopelessness having too much power in their life. As we look to Jesus and his final week, how did Jesus deal with intense sadness?

As we head towards Easter it is pretty tough to ignore the pain and difficulty that awaited Jesus. In fact as Jesus followers it also seems like we also have to deal with these sad things. What if looking at Jesus at this dark time actually gave us a path on how to navigate our own stuff? We are going to face tough things, what if there is a better way?

Are you Prepared?

It’s not a shock to say that life is hard or can be very difficult at times. How we deal with those times has a lot to do with how well we prepare. Jesus seems to push the idea that being ready for Him can make a huge difference in our life.

Everywhere you turn, someone’s telling you how to live. A lot of times it's well-intentioned and Almost True, but misses the mark in ways that can hurt us. How do we know which truths will actually lead to a meaningful life and which ones lead us down more unhealthy paths?

Nobody’s Perfect

There are a couple of angles we can think about in this almost true. Some of us have the unhealthy desire known as perfectionism and how we see ourselves and others is always skewed. The other bent is that I am not perfect so why try. But God calls us to perfection, how do we avoid these pitfalls, but honor God?

Everywhere you turn, someone’s telling you how to live. A lot of times it's well-intentioned and Almost True, but misses the mark in ways that can hurt us. How do we know which truths will actually lead to a meaningful life and which ones lead us down more unhealthy paths?

The Happiness Gospel

God wants us to be happy, right? Now I happen to believe that scripture says that God loves it when we are happy, but our happiness is not His primary concern. However, some people make the connection that if I am not happy then either there is not God or God does not love me.

Everywhere you turn, someone’s telling you how to live. A lot of times it's well-intentioned and Almost True, but misses the mark in ways that can hurt us. How do we know which truths will actually lead to a meaningful life and which ones lead us down more unhealthy paths?

You are Enough

This sounds so right in our current culture. This phrase has come as a counter to all the bullying or negative self-images of the past. There is some truth in it, but there is a very sinister piece to this philosophy that can lead us away from God.

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Everywhere you turn, someone’s telling you how to live. A lot of times it's well-intentioned and Almost True, but misses the mark in ways that can hurt us. How do we know which truths will actually lead to a meaningful life and which ones lead us down more unhealthy paths?

Self-Love or Selfish

Jesus said that part of the greatest commandment was to love my neighbor as myself. What does this self-love look like and how do we keep it from becoming only about me? Especially when most other commands from Jesus revolve around me putting others first.

Everywhere you turn, someone’s telling you how to live. A lot of times it's well-intentioned and Almost True, but misses the mark in ways that can hurt us. How do we know which truths will actually lead to a meaningful life and which ones lead us down more unhealthy paths?

Your Truth

Many people today confuse truth with perspective. When we do that it makes truth subjective and open to whatever that individual thinks. So what is true to me, may not be true to you, but we are encouraged to live our truth, speak our truth and it seems right. What if this was a trap?

Everyone loves things that are new, right? A new car, new house, new baby, new golf clubs, new movie, new season, new job, new day! There’s also something about the New Year. It’s a chance to reset. It’s an opportunity to rethink how the year before went and make changes. That’s what this series is all about. It’s about A NEW BEGINNING. It’s about starting fresh. It’s hitting the reset button on your life or areas in your life that aren’t going the way you want. It’s all about taking time to refocus your attention on the most important things in life.

New Vision

Lots of times in church life you will hear a pastor say that God has a plan for you and I think it often goes in one ear and out the other. Our world takes about a Vision board and people put all kinds of things on there, however most of them are selfish. God wants to inspire a vision for your personal life and for the community around you.

Everyone loves things that are new, right? A new car, new house, new baby, new golf clubs, new movie, new season, new job, new day! There’s also something about the New Year. It’s a chance to reset. It’s an opportunity to rethink how the year before went and make changes. That’s what this series is all about. It’s about A NEW BEGINNING. It’s about starting fresh. It’s hitting the reset button on your life or areas in your life that aren’t going the way you want. It’s all about taking time to refocus your attention on the most important things in life.

New Friends

Some might see this title and freak out. Pastor Steve is telling me to dump my friends, maybe. However, that is not the purpose. You might see this and think friends is not an important church topic, wrong. Friends are one of the most powerful things in this world and when we choose well the benefits are massive.

Everyone loves things that are new, right? A new car, new house, new baby, new golf clubs, new movie, new season, new job, new day! There’s also something about the New Year. It’s a chance to reset. It’s an opportunity to rethink how the year before went and make changes. That’s what this series is all about. It’s about A NEW BEGINNING. It’s about starting fresh. It’s hitting the reset button on your life or areas in your life that aren’t going the way you want. It’s all about taking time to refocus your attention on the most important things in life.

New Focus

When you have a problem, where do you turn? So often it’s to google or to a family member or friend and that’s not evil, but those things cannot deal with the most desperate moments of our lives. What if going to God became second nature?

Everyone loves things that are new, right? A new car, new house, new baby, new golf clubs, new movie, new season, new job, new day! There’s also something about the New Year. It’s a chance to reset. It’s an opportunity to rethink how the year before went and make changes. That’s what this series is all about. It’s about A NEW BEGINNING. It’s about starting fresh. It’s hitting the reset button on your life or areas in your life that aren’t going the way you want. It’s all about taking time to refocus your attention on the most important things in life.

New Mind

As we begin a new year the focus is often on renewing or refocusing. To hit those reset buttons and have those new opportunities we need to reset our minds. The place where our decisions are made.

Everyone loves things that are new, right? A new car, new house, new baby, new golf clubs, new movie, new season, new job, new day! There’s also something about the New Year. It’s a chance to reset. It’s an opportunity to rethink how the year before went and make changes. That’s what this series is all about. It’s about A NEW BEGINNING. It’s about starting fresh. It’s hitting the reset button on your life or areas in your life that aren’t going the way you want. It’s all about taking time to refocus your attention on the most important things in life.

New Heart

When we encounter Jesus and make Him a priority, we experience genuine life change. So often we just go through the motions or do the most urgent things on our to-do lists, but far too often we neglect the most important things.

As we approach another new year and set goals or make resolutions, what if we could be a little more sure of our success? Something happened in the past that has tremendous power to impact our future. Let's head in 2025 with our eyes focused on possibility, not just wishful thinking.

Christmas is not all gingerbread houses, candy canes and light displays. There are parties, family get-togethers, gifts to buy, things to do and that is just the stuff that is supposed to bring us joy. The world is a scary place right now, lots of division, wars throughout the world and so many other problems. When you combine the state of the world and the busyness of Christmas it can make us feel a bit weary. Not much has changed since that first Christmas in regards to issues in the world, but one thing that did, was Jesus coming down. Christmas brings Hope, Peace, Joy and love right smack in the middle of all those weary things.

Surprised by Love

This week we zero in on why joy is possible in a world that can be so weary. Love came down and moved into the neighborhood. Love changed everything. This week we celebrate the Love of God with a service filled with fun, special music and some adorable actors.

Christmas is not all gingerbread houses, candy canes and light displays. There are parties, family get-togethers, gifts to buy, things to do and that is just the stuff that is supposed to bring us joy. The world is a scary place right now, lots of division, wars throughout the world and so many other problems. When you combine the state of the world and the busyness of Christmas it can make us feel a bit weary. Not much has changed since that first Christmas in regards to issues in the world, but one thing that did, was Jesus coming down. Christmas brings Hope, Peace, Joy and love right smack in the middle of all those weary things.

Happiness or Joy

We live in a world that is obsessed with trying to make ourselves happy. We try all the fads, we buy all the things, we “do the work”, we go to therapy and on and on. Happiness is an emotion, as in it is fleeting. Joy on the other hand is a decision and a character quality. Christmas is a time when we were first told of great news that would bring great joy. God wants us happy, but more importantly, He wants us to choose Joy.

Christmas is not all gingerbread houses, candy canes and light displays. There are parties, family get-togethers, gifts to buy, things to do and that is just the stuff that is supposed to bring us joy. The world is a scary place right now, lots of division, wars throughout the world and so many other problems. When you combine the state of the world and the busyness of Christmas it can make us feel a bit weary. Not much has changed since that first Christmas in regards to issues in the world, but one thing that did, was Jesus coming down. Christmas brings Hope, Peace, Joy and love right smack in the middle of all those weary things.

Peace - Good or great

You hear it all the time, this thing or that food or that place is so ‘good’. Now I happen to think that’s bad. I think it’s bad because we are becoming increasingly satisfied with good or average or alright. God has great news for us. God wants the best for us. Best doesn’t have to be most expensive or hard to get, but it does require us to not settle.

Christmas is not all gingerbread houses, candy canes and light displays. There are parties, family get-togethers, gifts to buy, things to do and that is just the stuff that is supposed to bring us joy. The world is a scary place right now, lots of division, wars throughout the world and so many other problems. When you combine the state of the world and the busyness of Christmas it can make us feel a bit weary. Not much has changed since that first Christmas in regards to issues in the world, but one thing that did, was Jesus coming down. Christmas brings Hope, Peace, Joy and love right smack in the middle of all those weary things.

The Gift of Hope

The Christmas season has many special qualities and traditions, and most people really love this time of year. However, thrown in the middle of all those good vibes is a world that is packed with obligations, events, costs and that does not even take into account the state of our world. If we stop and look around it can be pretty scary. This is why we need to look to Christmas a bit deeper and find the hope.

We feel more busy and rushed than ever and when you add the holidays onto that, it's almost overwhelming. Jesus gives us a pretty strong word in the gospels that states the busier I am, the harder it is to love. 

It seems strange that so many of us know the power of gratitude, both giving and receiving, yet it’s not something we talk about beyond one Thursday a year. In this series we will look at some moments of thanksgiving  in the Bible and see the powerful impact they made on those that expressed them.

A Victorious God

Our world often corrupts beautiful things and we spend a lot of time frustrated and angry about that. In Revelation Jesus takes a worldly idea and flips it on its head. How we understand conquering and victory and how we gain those, are very different from a Christian perspective. We spend a lot of time looking for the Lion, when the lion was the lamb the whole time.

It seems strange that so many of us know the power of gratitude, both giving and receiving, yet it’s not something we talk about beyond one Thursday a year. In this series we will look at some moments of thanksgiving  in the Bible and see the powerful impact they made on those that expressed them.

A Faithful God

It’s not quite Christmas time yet, but the song of Mary is an interesting journey into gratitude. What does it mean to live in thankfulness for what God has done, but also trust in the promises of what God is still yet to do? Mary reminds us that God’s heart is so big.

It seems strange that so many of us know the power of gratitude, both giving and receiving, yet it’s not something we talk about beyond one Thursday a year. In this series we will look at some moments of thanksgiving  in the Bible and see the powerful impact they made on those that expressed them.

Calling God

David teaches us a few things about thanksgiving. He is always willing to do it, but at the same time willing to ask for something else. One of the things we can be most thankful for is a relationship with God, not just an emergency hotline.

From the latest headline to social media comments, to the person who just cut you off in traffic—there are plenty of opportunities to be offended each day. But what if we decided to respond differently to those around us? Together, let’s learn how to live with No Offense.

Bitterness traps, Forgiveness Releases

So many of us have been wronged by someone or by unjust systems. Some way more than others and feeling anger and holding grudges can seem completely justified. However, are those feelings doing anything good for you or those you love?

From the latest headline to social media comments, to the person who just cut you off in traffic—there are plenty of opportunities to be offended each day. But what if we decided to respond differently to those around us? Together, let’s learn how to live with No Offense.

We Are Not as Right As We Think

It is really hard being right all the time. It makes being around dumb people so much harder. Having judge in my Christian job description is exhausting. I wonder how much my attitude towards others is having negative effects.

From the latest headline to social media comments, to the person who just cut you off in traffic—there are plenty of opportunities to be offended each day. But what if we decided to respond differently to those around us? Together, let’s learn how to live with No Offense.

Get Closer

We all have people in our circles that frustrated us with how they talk, how angry they are, how self-righteous they are and if you can’t think of one, it might be you. Many of these people are close to us, so we have a relationship with them. How can we have better relationships, without becoming like them?

From the latest headline to social media comments, to the person who just cut you off in traffic—there are plenty of opportunities to be offended each day. But what if we decided to respond differently to those around us? Together, let’s learn how to live with No Offense.

Stop Being Offended

In the book of James he gives us a difficult but rewarding task. He says, “be slow to anger.” Christians have things to be angry about though, things like sin and injustice. But I wonder if that “righteous” anger is doing us a disservice.

We’re heading into a very intense election season. Politics isn’t an emotionally neutral topic. It has the power to divide us instead of bring us together. Politics can so color the way we see the world that we’re left wondering if someone could hold political beliefs different from our own and still follow Jesus. How would our outlooks change if we filtered our politics through our faith rather than filtering our faith through our politics?

Believers or Followers?

Christians are well known for being people of faith and believing the truths of the Bible, but Jesus does not call us to just believe, He calls us to follow Him. When we follow Jesus we will look very different than the rest of the world.

We’re heading into a very intense election season. Politics isn’t an emotionally neutral topic. It has the power to divide us instead of bring us together. Politics can so color the way we see the world that we’re left wondering if someone could hold political beliefs different from our own and still follow Jesus. How would our outlooks change if we filtered our politics through our faith rather than filtering our faith through our politics?

Kingdoms and Covenants

Jesus often talked about the kingdom of God and the kingdom of this world. They are sharp differences between the two or at least there should be. Same is said of the Old and New covenants we are told about. I wonder if we are representing the wrong kingdom or living in the Old.

We’re heading into a very intense election season. Politics isn’t an emotionally neutral topic. It has the power to divide us instead of bring us together. Politics can so color the way we see the world that we’re left wondering if someone could hold political beliefs different from our own and still follow Jesus. How would our outlooks change if we filtered our politics through our faith rather than filtering our faith through our politics?

What we are losing

If I were to ask you what is the faith of the next generation worth, what would you say? Hopefully Everything, but that is not playing out. Are we more concerned out our children’s political views or their faith? The church is losing influence to those under the age of 40 and politics is a huge factor. Is there another way?

We’re heading into a very intense election season. Politics isn’t an emotionally neutral topic. It has the power to divide us instead of bring us together. Politics can so color the way we see the world that we’re left wondering if someone could hold political beliefs different from our own and still follow Jesus. How would our outlooks change if we filtered our politics through our faith rather than filtering our faith through our politics?

When Fear Rules

Fear is one of the greatest motivators in our world and a weapon used most often in the political world. Fear of the other sells, fear of the unknown sells and when we make decisions based on fear, we lose. The most common command from Jesus was to “Fear not.”

We’re heading into a very intense election season. Politics isn’t an emotionally neutral topic. It has the power to divide us instead of bring us together. Politics can so color the way we see the world that we’re left wondering if someone could hold political beliefs different from our own and still follow Jesus. How would our outlooks change if we filtered our politics through our faith rather than filtering our faith through our politics?

What we value most

I honestly think most Christians think the same answer to this question. Here the kicker, I also think that most non-Christians don’t believe us and I think they are right. Politics are causing division and that division hurts our witness. What does Jesus call us to?

The Trinity defies easy explanation, but its beauty is no less real. This series we will explore the doctrine of the Trinity and reveal how a greater appreciation for this important teaching can shed light on what we understand about the Father’s love, the Son’s gift of salvation, and the Spirit’s invitation to community.

God the Spirit

The Spirit empowers us understand God’s nature and to live in unity with other believers. The Spirit guides us, encourages us, convicts us and leads us into deeper relationship with God and others.

The Trinity defies easy explanation, but its beauty is no less real. This series we will explore the doctrine of the Trinity and reveal how a greater appreciation for this important teaching can shed light on what we understand about the Father’s love, the Son’s gift of salvation, and the Spirit’s invitation to community.

God the Son

Jesus helps us to gain access to the Father’s love. Our union with Jesus unites us with the Trinity and give access to God’s power. Because of Jesus we are free from fear and sin.

The Trinity defies easy explanation, but its beauty is no less real. This series we will explore the doctrine of the Trinity and reveal how a greater appreciation for this important teaching can shed light on what we understand about the Father’s love, the Son’s gift of salvation, and the Spirit’s invitation to community.

God the Father

God the father is described as creator and one we are totally dependent on, but the Father is completely for us and promises us everything we need. The Father’s love is unconditional and seen clearly when we offer love to one another.

The Trinity defies easy explanation, but its beauty is no less real. This series we will explore the doctrine of the Trinity and reveal how a greater appreciation for this important teaching can shed light on what we understand about the Father’s love, the Son’s gift of salvation, and the Spirit’s invitation to community.

Three in One

The Trinity is one of the essential teachings of the Church. It is the doctrine that expresses the nature of God as father, Son and Holy Spirit existing in unity with one another. There is a powerful truth about God’s love being experienced in community that we all need to be reminded of.

When Jesus gives us his most in-depth teaching on the devil it is not about exorcisms, possession, terrifying nightmares. Nope, He talks about lies and truth. Because the devil knows that if he can get us believing a lie, it will naturally lead us further from God. In this series we will confront some lies and anchor ourselves in truth.

“What Happens in Vegas”

What a stupid phrase, brilliant ad campaign but horrible meaning. This lie gives rise to the idea that if no one is there to witness it or finds out, then it does not matter. That is not how our actions work, because there are always consequences.

When Jesus gives us his most in-depth teaching on the devil it is not about exorcisms, possession, terrifying nightmares. Nope, He talks about lies and truth. Because the devil knows that if he can get us believing a lie, it will naturally lead us further from God. In this series we will confront some lies and anchor ourselves in truth.

“Not good enough”

All of us at one time or another have seen ourselves as less than. This lie has only been magnified by social media. Because now all we see are other people we know having more, doing more, looking better and it causes us to believe this lie even more.

When Jesus gives us his most in-depth teaching on the devil it is not about exorcisms, possession, terrifying nightmares. Nope, He talks about lies and truth. Because the devil knows that if he can get us believing a lie, it will naturally lead us further from God. In this series we will confront some lies and anchor ourselves in truth.

This is just who I am, I can’t change”

One of the lies we often carry is one that keeps us stuck. We settle for what is or has been, instead of what could be. Setting our minds on truth and off of just ourselves can make a huge difference.

When Jesus gives us his most in-depth teaching on the devil it is not about exorcisms, possession, terrifying nightmares. Nope, He talks about lies and truth. Because the devil knows that if he can get us believing a lie, it will naturally lead us further from God. In this series we will confront some lies and anchor ourselves in truth.

“Bootstrapping”

There is an old lie that goes:  God helps the one that helps themselves. That lie pushes an agenda that I always have to be strong according to the world and I have to do it alone. All of these ideas are unbiblical and look nothing like Jesus.

Looking for connections to Jesus and our faith should not only be a thing we do on Sunday’s or when we are doing religious activities. What would happen if we looked for ways in all the things we do to connect others and even ourselves to Jesus. In the next few weeks we will use the medium of Film and look for a few flickers of faith in some of our biggest hit movies.

Wonka

The famous chocolatier has more than his fair share of imagination. This prequel forces us to wrestle with choices and their consequence’s. Wisdom is something that is undervalued in our world and without it, trouble is just around the corner.

Looking for connections to Jesus and our faith should not only be a thing we do on Sunday’s or when we are doing religious activities. What would happen if we looked for ways in all the things we do to connect others and even ourselves to Jesus. In the next few weeks we will use the medium of Film and look for a few flickers of faith in some of our biggest hit movies.

Barbie

Barbie is one of the biggest box office movies ever and as a character she tends to draw emotions on all sides. There is a tension between what some think she stands for and it’s not solved by one movie. The movie revolves around identity and expectations and at the heart is a call to truly see the image of God in everyone.

Looking for connections to Jesus and our faith should not only be a thing we do on Sunday’s or when we are doing religious activities. What would happen if we looked for ways in all the things we do to connect others and even ourselves to Jesus. In the next few weeks we will use the medium of Film and look for a few flickers of faith in some of our biggest hit movies.

Spider-Man: Across Spider-verse

One of the things about Spiderman and why he is the greatest superhero ever written. Stan Lee wanted people to have a character that was a real person, had real issues, but this other responsibility thrust upon him, he never stopped being a teenager and dealing with those coming of age questions, but also having to deal with evil forces and others things that like to get in the way. We have more in common with Spidey than we thought.

Our kids in the next week will be learning all about what kind of a Friend we have in God. A friend is someone you can trust, someone that loves you, someone that sticks by you through it all. That is not a message just meant for kids. As we share with them during VBS, it felt like a good idea to be reminded of this truth.

God is a friend you can trust

When things are uncertain or fearful or life feels life a never-ending set of storms, it helps to have someone you can trust to guide you through it. Or to have someone that will be present in the midst of the storm.

Our kids in the next week will be learning all about what kind of a Friend we have in God. A friend is someone you can trust, someone that loves you, someone that sticks by you through it all. That is not a message just meant for kids. As we share with them during VBS, it felt like a good idea to be reminded of this truth.

God is a friend who loves

It’s easy to love people that we feel are loveable or love us back. However, God shows us that His Love extends far beyond easy. What does it look like to love people even though they hurt you or are nothing like you?

Extinguish worry by rejoicing in God, acknowledge his presence and talk to God.

Is your future being held up by your past? Instead of being dragged down and immobilized by the weight of guilt, pain, or a lingering sense of failure, what freedom could we find in laying those burdens down? God does not see you as your failures or the labels you have taken on over the years. God has something new in store.

Moving past my Past

We have all done things we are not proud of and for a lot of people those things define them. God says that we are not our worst decisions. Let’s try it His way for a change.

Is your future being held up by your past? Instead of being dragged down and immobilized by the weight of guilt, pain, or a lingering sense of failure, what freedom could we find in laying those burdens down? God does not see you as your failures or the labels you have taken on over the years. God has something new in store.

Blissfully Forgetful

Mom’s amaze me in how they can just go through all they do in order to bring a child into this world and quickly forget about that pain. I wish that had that forgetfulness in pill form. We all could use a dose of not holding on to hurts.

Is your future being held up by your past? Instead of being dragged down and immobilized by the weight of guilt, pain, or a lingering sense of failure, what freedom could we find in laying those burdens down? God does not see you as your failures or the labels you have taken on over the years. God has something new in store.

A new name

We have all been labeled something at some point. Lazy, flakey, aggressive, wound tight, naughty, and what we often do is buy into that label and it dictates our decisions and behavior. God has a new name for you.

By looking at the words of Jesus about being living water or the bread of life, we get a powerful glimpse of Jesus’ love for us. Our life is ultimately made whole and satisfied in Jesus. Each week we will unpack a metaphor and literally taste something good.

Eat my Flesh and Drink my Blood

This sounds way grosser than it actually is, but if you are new to church, it is pretty disturbing. Jesus makes these powerful comparisons that have much deeper spiritual meaning. This is actually meant to be a call to celebration, even though it sounds like a Biblical horror movie.

By looking at the words of Jesus about being living water or the bread of life, we get a powerful glimpse of Jesus’ love for us. Our life is ultimately made whole and satisfied in Jesus. Each week we will unpack a metaphor and literally taste something good.

I am the True Vine

When Jesus talks about this food he encourages something different than the other food metaphors. This time instead of partaking, he wants us to rest or abide on the vine. He is offering us a place on the vine and a promise.

By looking at the words of Jesus about being living water or the bread of life, we get a powerful glimpse of Jesus’ love for us. Our life is ultimately made whole and satisfied in Jesus. Each week we will unpack a metaphor and literally taste something good.

I am the Bread of Life

Bread is one the many staples in our world. It contains lots of calories and flavor and has the power to sustain us. Jesus takes this image and wants to have a serious conversation about what really satisfies. Spoiler alert, it’s not a snickers.

By looking at the words of Jesus about being living water or the bread of life, we get a powerful glimpse of Jesus’ love for us. Our life is ultimately made whole and satisfied in Jesus. Each week we will unpack a metaphor and literally taste something good.

I am Living Water

We all know our bodies need water to survive. Jesus teaches that in order for us to truly live, we need Him in our lives. Wells can run dry, our lips can lack moisture and chap, our eyes can get sticky when we are dehydrated. All of these are nothing compared to being spiritually dried out.

As we head to Easter and celebrating what Jesus did for the whole world, we are going to stop off at different points when Jesus connected with someone and their entire lives where transformed. Jesus makes the difference between hope and despair or love and hate or my past or a future. That power to make a difference is still at work today.

Easter- That Changes Everything

The moment Jesus walked out of that tomb is the single biggest turning point in history. When we come face to face with it, our lives will never be the same.

As we head to Easter and celebrating what Jesus did for the whole world, we are going to stop off at different points when Jesus connected with someone and their entire lives where transformed. Jesus makes the difference between hope and despair or love and hate or my past or a future. That power to make a difference is still at work today.

The Difference between my past and future

Some stay stuck in the past because they feel they deserve it, others because they don’t know any other way. It makes it very hard to see a better future when we keep looking at things with obstructed vision.

As we head to Easter and celebrating what Jesus did for the whole world, we are going to stop off at different points when Jesus connected with someone and their entire lives where transformed. Jesus makes the difference between hope and despair or love and hate or my past or a future. That power to make a difference is still at work today.

The Difference between sitting and standing

I realize this is a pretty simple determination, but in regards to how you interact with Jesus, it makes a huge difference. One shows a willingness to be with Him, the other points to caution and resistance.

As we head to Easter and celebrating what Jesus did for the whole world, we are going to stop off at different points when Jesus connected with someone and their entire lives where transformed. Jesus makes the difference between hope and despair or love and hate or my past or a future. That power to make a difference is still at work today.

The Difference between choice and fate

It can be so frustrating to see people settle for lives they think must just be their lot. Jesus does not preprogram us on a set collision, but offers us a choice for something better.

As we head to Easter and celebrating what Jesus did for the whole world, we are going to stop off at different points when Jesus connected with someone and their entire lives where transformed. Jesus makes the difference between hope and despair or love and hate or my past or a future. That power to make a difference is still at work today.

The Difference between hope and despair

We encounter a man who is struggling to not give into the grief and pain. Jesus shows up and challenges him to choose hope instead. This is not ignoring the reality of pain, but one way it can be endured.

Imagine living in a time where you had to worry about every word you say and what might happen if the wrong person hears it. Imagine you are a person that has the power to bring change or even protection for others. The book is the story of Queen Esther, but I think we can find some common ground with our own situation.

The Reward

Esther and Mordecai risked everything to stand up against Haman and save their people. A festival was created to remember this event and it points beautifully to what we call communion..

Imagine living in a time where you had to worry about every word you say and what might happen if the wrong person hears it. Imagine you are a person that has the power to bring change or even protection for others. The book is the story of Queen Esther, but I think we can find some common ground with our own situation.

The Risk

There is always a great risk in standing up for others or standing on your principles, especially if they are at odds with society. Courage is no longer defined by being willing to go off to war, but by who is willing to choose God’s way, even when it’s scary.

Many of us in church have a habit of talking to God, but what if we got a little better at listening to God?

Guest Speaker: Pastor Jake Knight

Imagine living in a time where you had to worry about every word you say and what might happen if the wrong person hears it. Imagine you are a person that has the power to bring change or even protection for others. The book is the story of Queen Esther, but I think we can find some common ground with our own situation.

Powerless

Compared to major heads of state, CEO’s or billionaire’s most of us feel relatively powerless to affect the world around us. Esther was no different, accept when she stepped into God’s will. When God calls us into something, power is all around.

We live in a very congested part of America and it feels like there is just not enough space. Space gives us mental freedom to be thoughtful in how we live our lives. We make good choices when we have space. It’s the opposite of all the pressure we have in our lives. This series we want to talk about making space in our lives so we can be who God is calling us to be.

The Better Blessing

So often we think of generosity only in financial terms. While it of course is clearly seen there, it’s not the only place it happens or the only area of our life it affects. Being generous can transform, guide, protect, bless and refresh us.

We live in a very congested part of America and it feels like there is just not enough space. Space gives us mental freedom to be thoughtful in how we live our lives. We make good choices when we have space. It’s the opposite of all the pressure we have in our lives. This series we want to talk about making space in our lives so we can be who God is calling us to be.

A Wealth of Wisdom

When we seek wisdom in whatever area we find ourselves in, I believe good things happen. Approaching things with a plan tends to lead to better results. What areas in your life could you do with a bit more wisdom?

We live in a very congested part of America and it feels like there is just not enough space. Space gives us mental freedom to be thoughtful in how we live our lives. We make good choices when we have space. It’s the opposite of all the pressure we have in our lives. This series we want to talk about making space in our lives so we can be who God is calling us to be.

Joy with More or less

Learning to be content with who I am rather than what I have is very difficult in our society. Chasing after money or stuff is not bringing us joy, but rather leaving us a bit empty.

We live in a very congested part of America and it feels like there is just not enough space. Space gives us mental freedom to be thoughtful in how we live our lives. We make good choices when we have space. It’s the opposite of all the pressure we have in our lives. This series we want to talk about making space in our lives so we can be who God is calling us to be.

Me, My Stuff and God

To have a healthier relationship with our finances, we need to understand that Everything I have belongs to God, we are called to manage it and there are perks to managing it well.

God wants to party too.

A special and fun filled Christmas event celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

It’s always fun to change our perspective when things seem familiar. This year we are going to look at the Christmas story through the eyes of the Angels that visit different folks in the Gospels. We learn that what was said to those people has importance for us as well, but how exciting is it that all of Heaven rejoiced at the birth of Jesus?

Go Tell Them

So often we think that there is no way God could ever use me, but then we have the story of the shepherds and that changes everything. You are a part of the Christmas story!

It’s always fun to change our perspective when things seem familiar. This year we are going to look at the Christmas story through the eyes of the Angels that visit different folks in the Gospels. We learn that what was said to those people has importance for us as well, but how exciting is it that all of Heaven rejoiced at the birth of Jesus?

Go Tell Mary

In Elizabeth’s story we found answers in the ordinary, but in Mary’s story we find answers in the miraculous. God can do amazing things in places that do not make a lick of sense, but it requires us to trust His will.

It’s always fun to change our perspective when things seem familiar. This year we are going to look at the Christmas story through the eyes of the Angels that visit different folks in the Gospels. We learn that what was said to those people has importance for us as well, but how exciting is it that all of Heaven rejoiced at the birth of Jesus?

Go Tell Liz

We live in a world that is always looking for the spectacular. I wonder what we miss or overlook because of this obsession. Liz and Zack were just going about their life and in their faithfulness God did something amazing.

Sometimes people hear the word servant and they immediately think of someone beneath them or less than. When you look to Jesus, He said that we should look to serve, rather than be served. It feels backwards to what the world says. This series is all about why we serve and what happens when we do.

Outward Thinking

This week we want to take more practical steps when it comes to the superpower of serving. What does it look like to serve in different areas of our life, home, work, relationships, the world.

Sometimes people hear the word servant and they immediately think of someone beneath them or less than. When you look to Jesus, He said that we should look to serve, rather than be served. It feels backwards to what the world says. This series is all about why we serve and what happens when we do.

Stop Going to Church

This title seems radical and kind of against what we are doing at GracePoint. I don’t want people to stop coming to church, but I do want us to stop just attending church and more actively -Be the Church.

Sometimes people hear the word servant and they immediately think of someone beneath them or less than. When you look to Jesus, He said that we should look to serve, rather than be served. It feels backwards to what the world says. This series is all about why we serve and what happens when we do.

Getting them Home

Whenever you hear the word sacrifice it tends to make people grimace. It means I have to give up something I don’t want to. that being said, many of the greatest gifts ever given come from sacrifice, true world change has always come from sacrifice.

Sometimes people hear the word servant and they immediately think of someone beneath them or less than. When you look to Jesus, He said that we should look to serve, rather than be served. It feels backwards to what the world says. This series is all about why we serve and what happens when we do.

Not about Status

So often our world describes greatness through the lens of our status, what we have, do, etc… but Jesus shows us that it is service that truly makes someone great. I wonder if the world has it upside down.

Ever read a passage of the Bible and think something like: What in the world is that in there for? It should happen to all of us, because there is strange stuff in there. However, strange as it is, God is still revealing Himself to us in those passages.

The Seven Sons of Sceva

A strange story in Acts talks about a group that are preforming miracles but do not even know the one doing them. While it is obvious they have a lot to learn, it seems like these boys might be teaching us something too.

Ever read a passage of the Bible and think something like: What in the world is that in there for? It should happen to all of us, because there is strange stuff in there. However, strange as it is, God is still revealing Himself to us in those passages.

Skeleton Army

Sometimes in life we can feel a bit distant from God. Bones are dry, cemeteries are solitary places and most of us have felt dead inside. Resurrection however is not just an Easter thing. God makes all things possible.

Ever read a passage of the Bible and think something like: What in the world is that in there for? It should happen to all of us, because there is strange stuff in there. However, strange as it is, God is still revealing Himself to us in those passages.

Bears Oh My

Elisha is being made fun of and he gets his revenge through the help of God and some bears. This strange encounter is a powerful reminder that the battle really belongs to the Lord. Our call is to be faithful and trust that God has got this.

Ever read a passage of the Bible and think something like: What in the world is that in there for? It should happen to all of us, because there is strange stuff in there. However, strange as it is, God is still revealing Himself to us in those passages.

Talking Donkey

Shrek is not the only one to ever have to deal with a talking donkey. Balaam was a prophet that was not listening very clearly and he needed something drastic to wake him up. What constitutes the need for a wake-up call and how do they look today?

Ever read a passage of the Bible and think something like: What in the world is that in there for? It should happen to all of us, because there is strange stuff in there. However, strange as it is, God is still revealing Himself to us in those passages.

Wrestling with God

Have you ever prayed to God and it didn’t end how you thought it would or should? You are not the only one. Jacob has this strange encounter with God that ends up both blessing and breaking him.

In our world some of the most fundamental things human desire is a need to feel valued and wanted. This idea comes straight from God. God wants to know us deeply and wants every person to know they belong in the family of God. At GracePoint we believe that so deeply that we think the church should be a place where that happens too.

To Belong Here

At GracePoint we seek to be a place that helps to reinforce that value of being known, but also to be a place where you can contribute and be a part of something special.

In our world some of the most fundamental things human desire is a need to feel valued and wanted. This idea comes straight from God. God wants to know us deeply and wants every person to know they belong in the family of God. At GracePoint we believe that so deeply that we think the church should be a place where that happens too.

To Belong To The Church

To feel like you belong somewhere or are accepted is a great feeling. In a world that is often so individualized, there is a beauty in knowing that we are a part of something bigger than ourselves.

In our world some of the most fundamental things human desire is a need to feel valued and wanted. This idea comes straight from God. God wants to know us deeply and wants every person to know they belong in the family of God. At GracePoint we believe that so deeply that we think the church should be a place where that happens too.

To Know One Another

Beyond the understanding of value God sees in us, there is another call to see value in one another. To Love my neighbor is much easier when I see them the way God does.

In our world some of the most fundamental things human desire is a need to feel valued and wanted. This idea comes straight from God. God wants to know us deeply and wants every person to know they belong in the family of God. At GracePoint we believe that so deeply that we think the church should be a place where that happens too.

To Be Known by God

One of key feelings we have as humans is a desire to be valued. To have a sense of purpose or to believe that we matter. That desire is real and it comes straight from God. According to God, you matter, you have purpose and God wants you to know Him as well.

Have you ever wondered how some of the different books of the Bible connect to the larger story of God. This series is going to do just that. We are going to trace the gospel of Jesus from Genesis all the way to Revelation. We will see God’s plan for the world and for us in fresh ways and in places you maybe have not looked before.

In the End

Some look at Revelation and see something scary, others see all kinds of hidden clues, but God wants us to see where all of creation is heading. Spoiler alert, it’s really good.

Have you ever wondered how some of the different books of the Bible connect to the larger story of God. This series is going to do just that. We are going to trace the gospel of Jesus from Genesis all the way to Revelation. We will see God’s plan for the world and for us in fresh ways and in places you maybe have not looked before.

Beautiful Feet

The theme throughout this series has been that God desires the gospel for all of creation. We are part of His plans for this good news getting out to the whole world and even redeeming our world itself.

Have you ever wondered how some of the different books of the Bible connect to the larger story of God. This series is going to do just that. We are going to trace the gospel of Jesus from Genesis all the way to Revelation. We will see God’s plan for the world and for us in fresh ways and in places you maybe have not looked before.

The Gospel in Writing

In the Psalms and Proverbs we get snippets and songs of what it means to live a life out of the Gospel and what it looks like when we choose not to. The Gospel should cause us to worship.

Have you ever wondered how some of the different books of the Bible connect to the larger story of God. This series is going to do just that. We are going to trace the gospel of Jesus from Genesis all the way to Revelation. We will see God’s plan for the world and for us in fresh ways and in places you maybe have not looked before.

The Prophets Good News

All throughout the Old Testament we meet these people called prophets. They would announce things or bring a strong word from God. God was using them and still uses them to remind us of His plan for creation.

Have you ever wondered how some of the different books of the Bible connect to the larger story of God. This series is going to do just that. We are going to trace the gospel of Jesus from Genesis all the way to Revelation. We will see God’s plan for the world and for us in fresh ways and in places you maybe have not looked before.

The Kings Gospel

One of the more difficult periods in Israel’s history was when they looked to the wrong kind of king. They drifted in all kinds of directions, but God was still active. Even the Kings can teach us about redemption.

Have you ever wondered how some of the different books of the Bible connect to the larger story of God. This series is going to do just that. We are going to trace the gospel of Jesus from Genesis all the way to Revelation. We will see God’s plan for the world and for us in fresh ways and in places you maybe have not looked before.

The Gospel at the Tabernacle

It’s hard to see all the animal sacrifices and blood and see the gospel, but its there. In fact God’s redeeming act is on display in more than just covering our sin.

Have you ever wondered how some of the different books of the Bible connect to the larger story of God. This series is going to do just that. We are going to trace the gospel of Jesus from Genesis all the way to Revelation. We will see God’s plan for the world and for us in fresh ways and in places you maybe have not looked before.

He Brought Them Out

In the book of Exodus we get the story of God’s people being rescued from slavery. This is all about redemption and God’s grace. Most think of Moses and they think law and commandments, but that is backwards.

Have you ever wondered how some of the different books of the Bible connect to the larger story of God. This series is going to do just that. We are going to trace the gospel of Jesus from Genesis all the way to Revelation. We will see God’s plan for the world and for us in fresh ways and in places you maybe have not looked before.

Children of the Promise

God’s plan of redemption weaved through this guy named Abraham. Here’s the beauty, all of us are a part of the same promise God gave to him, if we do something he did.

Have you ever wondered how some of the different books of the Bible connect to the larger story of God. This series is going to do just that. We are going to trace the gospel of Jesus from Genesis all the way to Revelation. We will see God’s plan for the world and for us in fresh ways and in places you maybe have not looked before.

In the Beginning

Even in Genesis we see God’s plan of redemption on display. There has never been a moment that God has not cared and loved His creation.

Have you ever wondered how some of the different books of the Bible connect to the larger story of God. This series is going to do just that. We are going to trace the gospel of Jesus from Genesis all the way to Revelation. We will see God’s plan for the world and for us in fresh ways and in places you maybe have not looked before.

What is the Gospel?

Many know that the first 4 books in the New Testament are called the gospels, but why? Is the Gospel only found there or are there other places we can find Good news? This series we will get the 30,000 foot view of God’s plan and an up close one.

Looking for connections to Jesus and our faith should not only be a thing we do on Sunday’s or when we are doing religious activities. What would happen if we looked for ways in all the things we do to connect others and even ourselves to Jesus. In the next few weeks we will use the medium of Film and look for a few flickers of faith in some of our biggest hit movies.

Onward

Two Elven brothers set out on an adventure to bring their father back for one day. However, along the way beautiful things have been happening. Sometimes it’s easy to miss the little joys in life, because of our desire for something else.Two Elven brothers set out on an adventure to bring their father back for one day. However, along the way beautiful things have been happening. Sometimes it’s easy to miss the little joys in life, because of our desire for something else.

Looking for connections to Jesus and our faith should not only be a thing we do on Sunday’s or when we are doing religious activities. What would happen if we looked for ways in all the things we do to connect others and even ourselves to Jesus. In the next few weeks we will use the medium of Film and look for a few flickers of faith in some of our biggest hit movies.

A Man called Otto

How do you think you come across when others see you or hear you? Tom Hanks character is grumpy and rude, but there is something under that shell that longs for more. Sometimes we act in opposition to what we really want.

Looking for connections to Jesus and our faith should not only be a thing we do on Sunday’s or when we are doing religious activities. What would happen if we looked for ways in all the things we do to connect others and even ourselves to Jesus. In the next few weeks we will use the medium of Film and look for a few flickers of faith in some of our biggest hit movies.

 Top Gun Maverick

Pete Mitchell is back in this blockbuster and just as cocky and impetuous.  However, if Tom Cruise can grow and develop in this movie, so can we. Many of the trials he faces have alternatives we must deal with as well. How will we face them?