Solomon said, “Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, able to discern between good and evil; for who can govern this your great people?” 1 Kings 3:9 Pastor John Writes: I read one definition of wisdom which said: “Wisdom is the ability to apply knowledge, experience, understanding, and insight in a…
God saw everything that he had made, and indeed, it was very good. Genesis 1:31 Pastor John Writes: I’m always amazed at the wonders of nature and God’s creation. This month, the summer solstice will occur at 4:50 pm on June 20. The summer solstice begins the astronomical summer in the Northern Hemisphere,…
When Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion for them because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Matthew 9:36 Pastor John Writes: Throughout scripture, compassion is emphasized as a fundamental virtue. God is described as a God of compassion, Jesus has compassion on those in need, and Paul encourages…
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:25-26 Pastor John Writes: Jesus says these words to Martha, the sister of Lazarus, who…
Pastor John Writes: Every year, Holy Week invites us to walk alongside Jesus Christ in his final days on earth, from his triumphal entry into Jerusalem to his death on the cross and glorious resurrection. This week is a time for us to pause and contemplate the life and immense love of our Savior. …
Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love. 1 John 4:7-8 Pastor John Writes: During the month of February, we turn our hearts and minds to the words of…
And the one who was seated on the throne said, “See, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Then he said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end.” Revelation 21:5-6 Pastor John Writes: I…
The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see — I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a…
Your blessed people, trusting in your merit, on the earth’s extended face from each other far, but one in spirit, sound with one accord your praise. These words from Count Nicholas Ludwig von Zinzendorf, from November 13, 1748, express our church’s understanding of Christ’s presence as both our friend and Chief Elder. The writings…
We do not live to ourselves, and we do not die to ourselves. If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s. For to this end Christ died and lived again, so that…