Claiming Your Identity

Last week, we identified that we are forgiven and are asked to do likewise to others.  And on the heels of that message, we are further given more outrageous news – that the kingdom of God is unlike anything we knowPoor Jonah. The guy never could get comfortable. Jonah had …

I’m forgiven. Now what?

The what is this: we are also a people that forgives others. Today our perspective is broadened by the good news that God’s forgiveness is not based on our idea of fairness, but rather on abundant, unimaginable grace.  And we are called to go and the same. It’s not an easy …

Summer at the Movies: As Good As It Gets

SUMMER AT THE MOVIES: As Good as it Gets The summer is winding down and this is the last week of our “Summer at the Movies” series. We begin this week with the following scene: A burning bush in the distance, a voice commanding Moses to take off his shoes, …

Rallying to Rise up Together!

The sight of school supplies in the stores signal that a new season is coming. It brings me excitement – because I still love school supplies even though I no longer teach or am in school.  And I am also excited because it means that a new program year at Shepherd …

Summer at the Movies: Raising Helen

Summer at the Movies: Raising Helen: In the second to last week of our summer series, we will focus on how God calls unlikely people to be his servants.  We begin in Exodus, where five women defy the Pharaoh and save a young boy’s life.  Our movie, “Raising Helen”, is …

Summer at the Movies: The Interpreter

Last week, we met Jacob’s favorite son, Joseph.  And learned that Joseph, though an inquisitive and unique boy, was also somewhat of a thorn in his brothers’ side.  And things being things, we last saw Joseph being led to a life of slavery in Egypt.Fast forward a number of years …

Summer at the Movies: Bruce Almighty

Bruce Almighty: It’s been a challenge to pair the stories of the First Families with Movies from our time.  And its been fun as well… We have been following Jacob for a while now.  This week, Jacob is on the move with his wives, children, servants and flocks.  However, word …

Summer at the Movies: Week Two

Ever After: This summer, we will use clips from movies, along with stories from our ancestors, to learn about God’s amazing steadfast love and the folks God chose to lead the way. This week – we will focus on how God’s plan is not necessarily our plan.  Jacob and Esau …

Summer at the Movies – Week One

Summer is here!   This summer, we will use clips from movies, along with stories from our ancestors, to learn about God’s amazing steadfast love and the folks God chose to lead the way. This week – we will focus on how God’s plan is fulfilled.  Isaac was the miracle …

Mission Impossible?

Is it really possible to be steadfast disciples for Christ?  We’d like to think so but the real world often creeps in and we are left to make some difficult choices.  The lessons for Sunday June 22 are brutally honest about discipleship – with good reason. Jeremiah knew the frustration of having …