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Studies in the Book of Acts - Part Three	06/02/2013 - 09/01/2013

The Bible gives us four descriptions of Jesus' life, but only one of the early church. St. Luke isn't interested in merely giving an understanding of hor the church operated, functioned, or is organized. His primary desire is to convey how Christianity broke through barriers and changed lives, families, cities: peoples. Join us as we work our way through this extraordinary story.
	Paul Presents the Gospel, Brian Hughes, 06/09/2013 Antioch was the first missionary church in Christian history. They weren't part of a master strategic plan out of Jerusalem. They were simply a community on mission. [Acts 12:25 and Acts 13:1-15]
	A New Mission Breakthrough, Brian Hughes, 06/02/2013 Antioch was the third largest city of the Roman Empire. It was unusually multi-cultural and cosmopolitan. It also became the next major location for disciples makind disciples. [Acts 11:19-26]

Trinity Sunday	05/26/2013 - 05/26/2013

Cornelius is the opposite of the pre-converted Saul. He was a good and decent man. He honored God and lived an exemplary life. Problems were that he didn't know Jesus and he was a Gentile. Both he and Peter were about to be converted. Study 11
	Trinity Sunday - The Conversion of Cornelius, Brian Hughes, 05/26/2013 Cornelius is the opposite of the pre-converted Saul. He was a good and decent man. He honored God and lived an exemplary life. Only problem is he didn't know Jesus and he was a Gentile. Both he and Peter were about to be converted. Study 11 [Acts 10:1-8, 22, 34-35]

Pentecost Sunday	05/19/2013 - 05/19/2013

Saul was completely hostile to the Gospel and the Church. He was not seeking. He was not "open" to the conversation. His conversion is proof that the power is not within you to change a person, but the Spirit. Study 10
	Pentecost Sunday , Craig Moorman, 05/19/2013 Saul was completely hostile to the Gospel and the Church. He was not seeking. He was not "open" to the conversation. His conversion is proof that the power is not within you to change a person, but the Spirit. [Acts 9:1-9]

Easter & Season of Easter	03/31/2013 - 05/12/2013

The glorious resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! He is Risen, He is Risen Indeed! The weeks after Easter we will focus on the disciples and how they functioned upon hearing of Jesus rising from the dead and how they spread the Gospel everywhere they traveled.
	Living a Life on Mission in the Workplace, Stacy Reeder, DVM, 05/12/2013 Stacy Reeder, DVM, shares a message about life on mission in the workplace. Dr. Reeder is a former member and Lay Pastor from St. John who has recently joined a veterinary practice in Waynesboto, Virginia. [Matthew 20:25-28]
	Studies in the Book of Acts - Part 2, Brian Hughes, 05/05/2013 One of the most significant little phrases in the Book of Acts is v.4 "They who had scattered preached the Word wherever they went." Every Christian evangelized wherever they went. [Acts 8:1-8]
	Studies in the Book of Acts - Part 2 "Stephen Presents the Gospel", Brian Hughes, 04/28/2013 The charge against Stephen was that his preaching about Jesus made the Temple obsolete and that Jesus made the Law of Moses equally obsolete. Clearly this was a fundamental challenge to those clinging to their religious power. [Acts 6:7-14]
	Studies in the Book of Acts - Part 2 "Counter-Attack", Craig Moorman, 04/21/2013 The forces opposing the church now comeforward with three different attacks. But the Spirit allows the early believers to stand strong againt them. (Study #7) [Acts 4:32-37]
	Studies in the Book of Acts - Part 2 "Peter Defends the Gospel", Brian Hughes, 04/14/2013 Acts 4-7 the church experiences persecution, opposition and hostility. The religious leaders are concerned about the enourmous challenge the church is making to their authority. Peter responds (Study #6) [Acts 4:1-13]
	Watoto Wa Mungu - Children of God, Karen Heist & Chris Hughes, 04/07/2013 Karen Heist and Christine Hughes, having recently returned from Good Samaritan Orphanage (GSO) in Tanzania, share their highlights and reflections. Building on the good work God has already begun there, we are invited to partner in the extraordinary new vision emerging for GSO and their surrounding community. [John 1:9-13 & 1 John 3:1]
	Easter Sunday - Christ the Victor!, Brian Hughes, 03/31/2013 Jesus Christ has defeated death! He lives! [Mark 16:1-6]

Holy Week - Maundy Thursday	03/28/2013 - 03/28/2013

Holy Week
	Maundy Thursday, Craig Moorman, 03/28/2013 Holy Week

Palm "Passion" Sunday	03/24/2013 - 03/24/2013

The last words -- one soldier, who heard them all, uttered his own, "Truly, this man was God's son."
	The Crucifixion, Brian Hughes, 03/24/2013 The last words - one soldier who heard them all uttered his own, "Truly this man was God's son." [Mark 15:25-39]

The Season of Lent	02/13/2013 - 03/17/2013

Nearly every year we move from the joy of Palm Sunday, to the joy of Easter Sunday. Even for those who attend worship services during Holy Week, the last hours of Jesus' life are only briefly read and considered. But those final hours changed history. Mark's Gospel has been called a Passion Narrative with a long introduction. Join us as we spend time on the core events that shaped what it means to be a Christian.
	The Torture and Humiliation, Brian Hughes, 03/17/2013 Jesus did not beg for mercy. He did not provide the proper sport for his captures. Obviously not satisfied, the soldiers dehumanized him. In this brief interlude in the story, we learn again the depth of the human condition and the costliness of Grace. [Mark 15:15b-23]
	Jesus, Barabbas, and Pilate, Brian Hughes, 03/10/2013 A notorious criminal was awaiting death. He was set free and an innocent man was crucified in his place. To understand this transaction is to understand the theologia crucis, a Theology of the Cross and the heart of the Gospel. [Mark 15:1-15]
	Condemned by the Righteous, Craig Moorman, 03/03/2013 The Sanhedrin was a council of seventy-one elders, considered to be among the wisest and post pious men of the time. The people most expected to recognize and hail him could not. Grace is more dangerous than we can imagine ... even today. [Mark 14:53, 55, 61-68, 70-72]
	The Garden of Gethsemane, Brian Hughes, 02/24/2013 The idea that Jesus was in anguish that evening, pleading with God, is unsettling to many Christians. Was it only for his own impending journey or might it have been about something else entirely? [Mark 14:31-42]
	The Last Supper, Brian Hughes, 02/17/2013 Jesus took the matsoh and said, "Take, eat, this is my body." That was not part of the traditional Haggadah, the text of the Passover. As had happened so often in the past, the disciples had no idea what He meant. [Mark 14:12, 22-25]
	Ash Wednesday, Craig Moorman, 02/13/2013 Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the season of Lent. On this evening we remembered the sacrifice that Jesus made for US and we were marked with the sign of the cross on our foreheads with ashes.

A Study of the Book of Acts	01/13/2013 - 02/10/2013

The Bible gives us four descriptions of Jesus' life, but only one of the early church. St. Luke isn't interested in merely giving us an understanding of how the church operated, functioned or is organized. His primary desire is to convey how Christianity broke through the barriers and changed lives, families, cities: peoples. Join us as we work our way through this extraordinary story.
	Peter Presents the Gospel - Study 5, , 02/10/2013 Peter gives his evidence in two ways: Objectively and Subjectively. Evidence of changed lives or healing cannot all by itself prove that Jesus is real, even as objective arguments do not pursuade the whole person. It takes both. [Acts 3:15-26]
	The New Community - Study 4, Craig Moorman, 02/03/2013 Peter urges he hearers to "save themselves from this corrupt generation." Which generation and how corrupt? [Acts 2:40-47]
	The Power Arrives - Study 3, Brian Hughes, 01/27/2013 The Spirit falls on the disciples, a crowd gathers, and a worship service begins: A gather of Jews and Gentiles "before the nations" as a crowd of diverse people delare "the wonders of God." [Acts 2:1-13]
	Preparing Your Life for Mission - Study 2, Brian Hughes, 01/20/2013 The disciples are frozen in distress and inaction at Jesus ascension. For them, their training was over, and now they were alone. Nothing could have been further from the truth. [Acts 1:6-26]
	Preparing Your Mind for Mission - Study 1, Brian Hughes, 01/13/2013 Jesus prepares the Apostles minds before he sends them the Holy Spirit. It is often forgotten that intensive training occurred before the coming of Pentecost. [Acts 1:1-14]

Epiphany - Baptism of Our Lord	01/06/2013 - 01/06/2013

"A New Revelation of Dignity"
	Epiphany - Baptism of Our Lord, Brian Hughes, 01/06/2013 "A New Revelation of Dignity" [Matthew 2:1-12]

First Sunday of Christmas	12/30/2012 - 12/30/2012

"In My Father's House"
	First Sunday of Christmas - "In My Father's House", Brian Hughes, 12/30/2012 "In My Father's House" [:uke 2:41-52]

Christmas Eve	12/24/2012 - 12/24/2012

Christmas Eve 2012
	Christmas Eve - 9:30 "The True Meaning of Christmas", Thomas Han, 12/24/2012 "The True Meaning of Christmas" [Luke 2:1-14]
	Christmas Eve - 7:30 "A Christmas Message", Brian Hughes, 12/24/2012 "A Christmas Message" [Luke 2:1-14]
	Christmas Eve 4 PM Children's Service, LaDonna Cunningham, 12/24/2012 A reading of "Listen to the Silent Night" as the children sat at LaDonna's feet and listened attentively. [Luke 2:1-14]

The Season of Advent	12/02/2012 - 12/23/2012

Advent is a time to prepare for the coming of the Christ Child.
	4th Sunday in Advent, Brian Hughes, 12/23/2012 [Luke 1:39-45]
	3rd Sunday in Advent - Trust in God, Brian Hughes, 12/16/2012 [Luke 3:7-18]
	2nd Sunday in Advent - A Season of Preparation, Craig Moorman, 12/09/2012 During the season of Advent, is there room in your home and schedule to adequately prepare for the gift of Chistmas, the Way of the Lord? This morning Pastor Craig leads us as we consider the challenges before us as we address this (potentially) poignant question. [Luke 3:1-6]
	1st Sunday in Advent - "I've got plenty of time for that.", Shane Strutz, 12/02/2012 An introduction to Advent, the need to feel in control, and the distractions that lead us astray. [Luke 21:25-36]

Christ the King Sunday	11/25/2012 - 11/25/2012

The Truth, the Whole Truth, and Nothing But the Truth.
	Testifying to the Truth, Wendy Woods, 11/25/2012 The Truth, the Whole Truth, and Nothing but the Truth - so help me God. [John 18:33-37]

Thanksgiving Eve Worship	11/21/2012 - 11/21/2012

Be mindful of the challenge to be thankful in all circumstances.
	Thanksgiving Eve Worship, Brian Hughes, 11/21/2012 Be mindful to be thankful in all circumstances. [Matthew 6:25-33]

"We Are the Body"	09/02/2012 - 11/25/2012

There's a Wonderful song by Casting Crowns entitled, "If We Are the Body" which challenges the Church-US-to be the Body of Christ for such a time as this: The lyrics go..."But if we are the body, Why aren't His arms reaching? Why aren't His hands healing? Why aren't His words teaching? And if we are the body, Why aren't His feet going? Why is His love not showing them there is a way? There is a way. Please join us throughout the month of September as we explore many and various themes for what it means to be a viable and effective community of faith, His Body.
	"What will Change and What will Endure?", Brian Hughes, 11/18/2012 Everything changes except the love and the power of God. [Mark 13:1-8]
	Revolutionary Response: And Yours?, Craig Moorman, 11/11/2012 Revolutionary Response: And Yours? In the 12th chapter of Mark's gospel, Jesus is presented with a very basic question: "Which commandment is the first of all?" His response was revolutionary and created quite a stir among the religiously elete. Not only that, but He summarized the essence of what it means to be a Christian ... and, how to respond to the world in which we live. What will be our response? [Mark 12:28-34]
	All Saints: Ministry of Truth and Tears, Brian Hughes, 11/04/2012 All Saints Sunday: While we remember those who have gone before us, we are reminded to care for those who are still in our midst. [John 11:32-44]
	A New Beginning, Brian Hughes, 10/28/2012 Free. Freedom. We all want it..for everyone. So what gets left behind for new doors to open and...oh, by the way, who has the key? [Jeremiah 31:31-34 & John 8:31-36]
	We Are the Body: "A Place to Stand", Craig Moorman, 10/21/2012 It was around the year 250 B.C. that the mathematician/physicist Archimedes said, "Give me a place to stand, ... and I will move the world." Where has God placed you, and how will He move the world through you? [Acts 2:37-47]
	"Small Groups & Discipleship", Stephen Wright, 10/14/2012 By unfolding the story of his experiences with small groups, here at St. John, he shares with us how those small groups helped shape his and the other group members into discipleship. [Acts 2 37-47]
	We Are the Church, Joseph Lettrich, 10/07/2012 We are the church. A community of believers, sharing Peter's message. [Acts 2:37-47]
	One Body, One Heart, Thomas Han, 09/23/2012 Christians are called to come together as one body to serve the Lord as living sacrifices. To do this, each of us needs to separate ourselves from the world and become one with our brothers and sisters in Christ. Only when the many become one body, with one heart, will we become living sacrifices for the Lord. [Romans 12:4-8]
	"Parable of the Vine and the Branches", Gary Tartanian, 09/23/2012 Jesus says, "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener ... you are the branches." This is wonderful news for us, whether our branch is bearing fruit, or even if it has fallen off the trellis and is laying in the dust. [John 15:1-12]
	"Clarity of Vision = Unity of Purpose", Ann Eustis, 09/16/2012 We are the Body: "Clarity of Vision = Unity of Purpose" Unity of vision: How do we bridge the distance between our heads and our hearts in order to truly see? St. Paul lets us in on the secret: When we are the body, we are to give up our childish ways and be singluarly focused on love. [1 Corinthians 13:8-13]
	"We Are the Body", Craig Moorman, 09/09/2012 There's a wonderful song by Casting Crowns entitied, "If We Are the Body" which challenges the Church - US - to be the Body of Christ for such a time as this. [1 Corinthians 12:26]
	The Jesus Whisper: Invitation & Challenge, Karen Heist, 09/02/2012 From the moment he reached out to his first disciples until his parting words to them, Jesus balanced his invitations into discipleship equally with purposeful challenge. He drew them near in relationship and spiritual growth, but also sent them forth into challenges that required divine leadership and testing. This is still how he prepares his people for kingdom work today. How is Jesus calling you closer? How is he challenging you to move? [Matthew 4:18-22; Matthew 28:18-19]

Summer 2012 - Can I Believe?	07/08/2012 - 08/26/2012

Injustice: Hasn't Christianity been an instrument for oppression? Isn't the Bible historically unreliable and regressive? If God is good, why is there so much evil in the world? What should I do with my doubts? So many post-modern questions. So much confusion on our part; how do we answer when confronted with basic challenges to our faith? Discover with us the value of solid intellectual and emotional Christian answers.
	The Man No One Believed, Craig Moorman, 08/26/2012 Jesus is offensive. He is offensive to every culture in every part of the world in every period of time. The Gospel message that all our hard work in this life is worthless and that we must rely on Jesus alone for salvation offends us to the core. [Mark 6:1-13]
	Faith as Understanding, Brian Hughes, 08/19/2012 I can't believe unless I find at least one absolute proof for God. There are no proofs of God that will convince all rational persons, but there are at least two or three dozen pretty good arguments. [Hebrews 11:1-7]
	What should I do with my doubts?, Brian Hughes, 08/12/2012 Religion has led to untold strife, division and conflict. It may be the greatest enemy of peace in the world. If Christians continue to argue only "they" have the truth, the world will never know peace. [John 20:1-18]
	If God is good, why is there so much evil in the world?, Brian Hughes, 08/05/2012 Amid evil and suffering, abandoning faith is neither helpful in handling suffering nor understanding where God can be found when it happens. [1 Peter 1:3-12]
	Isn't the Bible historically unreliable and regressive?, Brian Hughes, 07/29/2012 The Christian faith requires an understanding of how the Word and Bible are uniquely linked. For the unbeliever, there is widespread acceptance that the Bible is a historically unreliable collection of myths and legends. [Luke 1:1-4; 24:13-32]
	Injustice: Hasn't Christianity been an instrument for oppression?, Brian Hughes, 07/22/2012 If Christianity is the truth, why has the institutional church supported war, injustice and violence over the years? Further, even if Christian teaching has much to offer, why are there so many smug, self-righteous fanatics who are products of that truth? [James 2:1-17]
	Converted by the Spirit, Craig Moorman, 07/15/2012 We are not capable of finding God unless we experience spiritual conversion initiated by God. That's not a call to morality and religion, but rather, it's a challenge to morality and religion. [Acts 10:27-46]
	Come and See, Brian Hughes, 07/08/2012 All of us need to come and see Jesus. For skeptics, "come and see" means to examine the evidence. [John 1:25-51]

Leave It: A Study About Forgiveness	06/10/2012 - 07/01/2012

So many of us are held in bondage by things that happened in our past. Someone betrayed us, lied to us. And we are still carrying around bitterness, resentment and unforgiveness. We are going to look at what the Bible says about forgiving those who hurt us.
	Personal Failure: Leave It, Brian Hughes, 07/01/2012 The All-Powerful, Ever-Present God makes a choice: I will remember their sins no more. If we want to get beyond our past failures, we have to recognize that there is no sin that you will or have ever committed that is too big for God's grace. [1 John 1:1-10]
	Leave It: Making Amends, Brian Hughes, 06/24/2012 There is something that takes priority even over the worship of God, Jesus says, and that is to honor God by doing your part to bring restoration in your relationships. [Matthew 5:21-26]
	Leave It: But How Do I Forgive?, K. Craig Moorman, 06/17/2012 Many of us are living with a root of bitterness. We're not even completely aware of it because we've learned to function with a grudge. Scripture says that love keeps no records of wrong, but bitterness keeps detailed records, doesn't it? [Mrk 11:12-25]
	Leave It: Reframing the Labels, Brian Hughes, 06/10/2012 God's truth about you is bigger than any current truth in your life. God, through the power of Christ, is going to break the labels that bind you. [2 Corinthians 5:16-21]

The Empty Tomb	06/03/2012 - 06/03/2012

"Go and tell Peter." Of all of the disciples, why is this one named? Redemption and transformation await even him. And you. And me.
	The Empty Tomb, Brian Hughes, 06/03/2012 "Go and tell Peter." Of all the disciples, why is this one named? Redemption and transformation await even him. And you. And me. [Mark 16:1-8]

Pentecost	05/27/2012 - 05/27/2012

There was a time when people became so devoted to God and so irrationally committed to each other that the Holy Spirit used them to give birth to a new community. Old barriers, old ethnic hostilities got broken down. No more Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male or female. The rich were motivated to actually give to help the poor. They are together with glad hearts; and they changed the world.
	Pentecost - An Acts 2 Church, Brian Hughes, 05/27/2012 There was a time when people became so devoted to God and so irrationally committed to each other that the Holy Spirit used them to give birth to a new community. Old barriers, old ethnic hostilities got broken down. No more Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male or female. The rich were motivated to actually give to help the poor. They ate together with glad hearts; and they changed the world. [Acts 2:1-13 and Psalm 104:24-35b]

Easter Season	04/15/2012 - 05/20/2012

The first half of Mark's Gospel tells us about the PERSON of Jesus, but leaves us with unanswered questions about the WORK of Jesus. As soon as Peter confesses that Jesus is the Christ, the focus changes and Jesus immediately begins talking about the Cross. The entire second half of Mark's Gospel explains why is was necessary and what it accomplished.
	Centurian, the Women, and Joseph of Arimathea: Unexpected Faithfulness, Craig Moorman, 05/20/2012 Three sets of people were present at Jesus' death. They were a Pagan, a Pharasee and Jewish Women - an unexpected grouping. The Cross changes everything. [Mark 15:33-47]
	The Betrayers, Brian Hughes, 05/13/2012 Here we have a man who appears to be a believer in every outward behavior...until he isn't. Judas' betrayal was particularly difficult as he was part of the occupying Romans or the religious establishment. He was part of the inner circle. [Mark 14:12-21, 27-28]
	The Vinedresser - Confirmation Sunday, Brian Hughes, 05/06/2012 The Vinedresser uses pruning shears, not a chain saw. He's not going to work on everything all at once. He's not going to make you face every kind of trouble right now. He's not going to teach you everything about Himself; but something about who He is can make a decisive difference in every stage of life. [John 15:1-8]
	The Meaning of His Death, Brian Hughes, 04/29/2012 Here we find Jesus third attempt to teach His disciples the meaning of His death. Many beleive Mark 10:45 is the key verse to understanding the intent of Mark's Gospel. [Mark 10:32-52]
	Jesus on the Mount, Jesus off the Mount, Brian Hughes, 04/22/2012 Most religious human beings believe there is a God behind the workings of the universe and that presence is often mediated for us inside Temples. Standing on the Mountain that day, Jesus teaches He is Himself the mediator. [Mark 9:2-29]
	The King on a Cross, Brian Hughes, 04/15/2012 What must Jesus do: Die, Suffer, and do so voluntarily. Within that must lie the seeds of Grace. [Mark 8:27-9:1]

Holy Week	04/01/2012 - 04/08/2012

We worship this week, remembering the excitement of Jesus arrival with shouts of joy and waving palm branches. We also worship remembering of the Last Supper, His betrayal and crucifixion. The week ends with glorious celebration of our risen Christ.
	Easter Sunday - He is Not Here, Brian Hughes, 04/08/2012 History tells us the disciples all lived lives of sacrificial service and died terrible deaths to spread the Gospel of the risen Christ. Could a hoax have transformed them like that? [1 Corinthians 15:1-11 and Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24]
	Good Friday, Brian Hughes, 04/06/2012 Centurion, the Women, and Joseph of Arimathea: Unexpected Faithfulness [Mark 15:33-47]
	Maundy Thursday - Dinner Among Friends, Brian Hughes, 04/05/2012 The first Passover meal was held on the night before a great deliverance -- a deliverance from physical slavery. The Lord's Supper was was held on the night before an even greater deliverance -- salvation from sin and death itself. [Mark 14:12-26]
	Palm Sunday - Hail to the King, Brian Hughes, 04/01/2012 Chapters 11 though 15 cover only a week of His life; but it consumes nearly a third of Mark's Gospel. The disproportionate length shows that the Gospels are not biography. These chapers are the fulfillment of Jesus' ministry; not simply the end of it. [Philippians 2:5-11 and Psalm 31:9-16]

Lenten Series: "Because Normal Isn't Working"	02/26/2012 - 03/25/2012

Nowaways, normal is hard work. Overwhelmed, overloaded, and exhausted, everybody talks about wanting more time, but only to catch up on what they're already doing. Families suffer. Health suffers. Priorities get lost in the mix and joy evaporates. In churches, normal is lukewarm Christianity, self-fentered spiritural consumerism, and shallow, me-driven faith. People claim to know God, gut their actions deny Him.
	A Weird Kind of Sexy, Brian Hughes, 03/25/2012 In our culture today, sexuality has a toxic, crippling effect on who God wants us to be and how he made us as men and women. If we want to be healthy and whole, we must make deliberate choices. [1 Corinthians 6:12-17]
	A Brief History of St. Patrick, Shane Strutz, 03/18/2012 Normal Isn't Working - St. Patrick, a short history, God's preparation, and Celtic Evangelism. Teaching out in a weird new way. [John 3:14-21]
	Pleasing God is Weird, Craig Moorman, 03/11/2012 Unfortunately, wanting to please our peers and doing whatever it takes to fit in doesn't end in our teens. It's human nature to find the right tribe. [John 12:37-42]
	A Weird that Money Can't Buy, Brian Hughes, 03/04/2012 Why in the world would Jesus say that rich people have a more difficult time entering God's Kingdom? It's more an observation than a judgment. [Luke 12:13-21]
	The Joy of Being Weird, Brian Hughes, 02/26/2012 We live in a time-starved society that relentlessly pushes us to the limits. Buy more, do more, accomplish more, conquer more. It's insane; yet we call it normal. [Luke 10:38-41]

The Gospel of Mark	01/08/2012 - 02/19/2012

The essence of other religions is advice; Christianity is essentially news. Other religions say, "this is what you have to do in order to connect to God forever; this is how you have to live in order to earn your way to God." But the Gospel says, "This is what has been done in history. This is how Jesus lived and died to earn the way to God for you." Because Mark is believed to be the oldest of the written accounts of Jesus, it is considered the model and source of the other three. Join us as we come to know Jesus through the lens of The Gospel of Mark.
	Ash Wednesday - Who is this King?, Brian Hughes, 02/22/2012 Here in the middle of Mark's Gospel, someone finally gets it and confesses Jesus' real identity. It won't happen again until the very end. [Mark 8:1-30 (Specifically Mark 8:22-31)]
	Religion vs. the Gospel, Brian Hughes, 02/19/2012 The Law listed a number of physical conditions that blocked individuals from entering into worship. Jesus refused to have His diciples bound by such traditions. [Mark 7:1-23 (Specifically Mark 7:14-23)]
	Faith and Power, Craig Moorman, 02/12/2012 Two stories are woven together to teach us something of Jesus' power. The forces that bow down to Him are completely outside our control. [Mark 5:21-43 (Specifically Mark 5:14-23)]
	The Word of the King, Brian Hughes, 02/05/2012 This is the first place in Mark's Gospel where Jesus teaches using the method of parable. Unlike the other writers, Mark does not include long passages of Christ's teaching. Parables invite deep meditation and reflection. [Mark 4:1-34 (Specifically Mark 4:1-20)]
	The Community of the King, Craig Moorman, 01/29/2012 In chapter 3, we find Jesus beginning the creation of a new community, a transformed people who will embody the Kingdom. Preaching, Teaching and Healing, Jesus calls together his followers. [Mark 3:7-35 (Specifically Mark 3:20-35)]
	The Meaning of Free Grace, Brian Hughes, 01/22/2012 Jesus claimed the authority to heal and forgive. He also sat down to eat with sinners. The teachers of the Law understood both were forbidden actions and yet Jesus needed no other authority than his own person. [Mark 1:35-2:17 (Specifically Mark 2:1-12)]
	The Meaning of the Kingdom, Craig Moorman, 01/15/2012 If Jesus is the King, why is the Kingdom only "near"? Why doesn't he say, "I am here so the Kingdom has arrived?" What is that? [Mark 1:16-34 (specifically Mark 1:14-20)]
	Your Gospel is Too Small, Brian Hughes, 01/08/2012 Mark's Gospel is about the "Kingdom." The kingdom of God has come into the world in weakness and service, not strength and force. [Mark 1-1-15 specifically Mark 1:1-8]

Christmas - 2011	12/24/2011 - 01/01/2012

The Word in Flesh Appearing - We all love Christmas. We love the Christmas stories that we can easily visualize in our minds: Mary and Joseph and the baby, the straw and the manger, the sheep and the shepherds, the angels and the angelic choir, the three wise men, their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. But in John’s gospel, we hear something quite different.
	Home to Nazareth, Brian Hughes, 01/01/2012 Home to Nazareth - Jesus birth and early life seemed to convey, here's a guy of no consequence. Everything about the birth and his home town was unimpressive. And yet, in that apparent obscurity and ordinariness was the one who would change history unto eternity. [Luke 2:22-40]
	The Word in Flesh Appearing, Brian Hughes & Craig Moorman, 12/24/2011 We all love Christmas. We love the Christmas stories that we can easily visualize in our minds: Mary and Joseph and the baby, the straw and the manger, the sheep and the shepherds, the angels and the angelic choir, the three wise men, their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. But in John's gospel, we hear something quite different. [Isaiah 9:2-7; Psalm 96; Titus 2:11-14 and John 1:1-18]

The Season of Advent	11/27/2011 - 12/18/2011

The four Sundays prior to Christmas are known as the time of preparation for the Christ Child...Advent.
	Love Speaks the Truth, Craig Moorman, 12/18/2011 Most people have a misunderstanding that keeping the peace means avoiding confrontation at all costs. But the Bible says that only causes more problems. Repressing the truth, rather than dealing with the truth, causes trouble. [1 Corinthians 13:1-7 and Matthew 7:3-4]
	Love is Forgiving, Brian Hughes, 12/11/2011 Do you have a grudge? Do you get resentful? Do you get full of bitterness? How do you handle it when someone hurts you? Forgiveness may be the single most difficult act of love, above all other things we've talked about in this series. [1 Corinthians 13:1-5 and Matthew 18:21-22]
	Love is Patient, Brian Hughes, 12/04/2011 How can you and I experience what it means for love to be patient? This isn't just patient with circumstances. This is patience in our relationships, patience with people. It comes from the Greek word makrothumos. [1 Corinthians 13:1-5 and Mark 10:13-16]
	Love is Respectful, Craig Moorman, 11/27/2011 Respect is showing value and honor to others by our actions. When we dishonor or devalue a person, we could say we disrespected them. We disregarded them. The common vernacular is..."We dissed them." [1 Corinthians 13:1-5 & Luke 7:36-48]

What Love Is . . .	11/06/2011 - 11/23/2011

It's about love. From the moment you are born until the moment you die; and every second and every minute and every hour and every day and every month and every year and every decade, the purpose of life is God giving you and me time to learn how to love, as God loves. In one of the most famous passages in the New Testament, St. Paul helps us understand the breadth of that love.
	Thanksgiving Eve, Brian Hughes, 11/23/2011 Give thanks when things are still and when there are storms. [Philippians 4:4-9]
	Love is Humble, Randy Newbauer, 11/20/2011 Humility takes enormous amounts of courage. It takes a high self-esteem. It takes a personal security. Whenever you find somebody who is arrogant, prideful, boastful, egotistical, or self-concerned, you can know that they are masking deep insecurity. [1 Corinthians 13:1-5 & Matthew 18:1-4]
	Love Does Not Envy, Rich Melheim, 11/13/2011 The most common destroyer of friendships is not anger, it's not impatience, it's not apathy, and it's not unkindness. It is impossible to envy someone and love them at the same time. So, what is envy? It's resenting God's goodness to others and ignoring God's goodness to me. That's what envy is. [1 Corinthians 13:1-5 & Matthew 20:1-15]
	Love is Kind, Brian Hughes, 11/06/2011 Kindness is love in action. It is something you do. It creates feelings. It produces enourmous emotions. But love is not a feeling; it is an action. It is a blief that becomes real in your behavior. The Bible says that love is kindness in action. [1 Corinthians 13:1-5]

Think Orange	09/25/2011 - 10/30/2011

Families and churches are each working hard to build faith in kids, but imagine the potential results when the two environments synchronize, maximizing their individual efforts. What can the church do to empower the family? How can the family emphasize the work of the church? They can "Think Orange".
	So What IS a LUTHERAN Christian anyway?, Brian Hughes, 10/30/2011 Why do you belong to a Lutheran congregation? Why aren't you a member of a Presbyterian, Methodist, Congregational, Catholic, Independent, or Pentecostal church? Why are you a member of a Lutheran church? [Romans 3:19-28]
	Widen the Circle, Craig Moorman, 10/23/2011 Widen the Circle [Deuteronomy 6:1-9]
	Create a Rhythm, Brian Hughes, 10/16/2011 Create a Rhythm [Deuteronomy 6:1-9]
	Make it Personal, Brian Hughes, 10/09/2011 Make it Personal. [Deuteronomy 6:1-9]
	Fight for the Heart, Brian Hughes, 10/02/2011 Fight for the Heart [Deuteronomy 6:1-9]
	Imagine the End, Brian Hughes, 09/25/2011 Week one of Faith 5 [Deuteronomy 6:1-9]

Fall Launch	09/04/2011 - 09/18/2011

Gearing up for the new program year, we'll explore being "Born Into Hope", "God's Great Promise", and "God's Greatest Decision".
	God's Greatest Decision, Brian Hughes, 09/18/2011 Why does St. Paul wait to tell the guards he is a Roman citizen only after he wa beaten, jailed and put in stocks...and nearly killed? Why in the world didn't he say it BEFORE he was jailed and beaten to save himself from being tortured? What was he thinking? [Philippians 2:5-11]
	God's Great Promise, Brian Hughes, 09/11/2011 What's so great? What is it that is so life-giving, energizing, wonderful about the Good News God has given to us in Jesus? Paul says to this little church, "He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it on the day of Christ." [Philippians 1:1-11]
	Born Into Hope, Brian Hughes, 09/04/2011 We need a living hope to get through life and endure suffering. A living hope enables us to have both sorrow and joy. Our living hope is an inheritance achieved for us by Christ. [1 Peter 1:3-9]

The Gospel in Community; The Book of James	07/10/2011 - 08/28/2011

This summer we will explore, verse by verse, the book of James. Understanding the Gospel in our lives today.
	A Fellowship of Concern, Brian Hughes, 08/28/2011 A Fellowship of Concern [James 5:7-20]
	A Community of Justice, Part 2, Craig Moorman, 08/21/2011 A Community of Justice, Part 2 [James 4:13-5:6]
	A Counter-Culture of Grace, Robert Mbinda, 08/14/2011 This summer we are working through the book of James. On the 14th of August, we were pleased to have Fr. Robert Mbinda, from Good Samaritan Orphanage in Mbeya, Tanzania to bring us the message. Fr. Robert and his wife Mariam have been visiting with us this summer. [James 4:1-12]
	A Community of Peace-making, Brian Hughes, 08/07/2011 A Community of Peace-making [James 3:1-18]
	A Fellowship of Practice, Craig Moorman, 07/31/2011 A Fellowship of Practice [James 2:18-26]
	A Community of Justice, Brian Hughes, 07/24/2011 A Community of Justice [James 2:1-17]
	A People Under the Word, Brian Hughes, 07/17/2011 A People Under the Word [James 1:18-27]
	A Society of Suffering, Craig Moorman, 07/10/2011 Read James 1:1-18 and checkout the handout for this week for questions meant to make these teachings relavant in our communities today. [James 1:1-18]

Remember - 4th of July Weekend	07/03/2011 - 07/03/2011

Remember - "Remember the days of old; consider the generations long past. Ask your father and he will tell you, your elders, and they will explain to you." Deuteronomy 32:7
	Remember, Thomas Han, 07/03/2011 A question asked near election time..."Are you better off now than you were before?" Perhaps the question is, "Are you better off now, since you've accepted Christ as your savior?" [Deuteronomy 32:7]

Masquerade	05/29/2011 - 06/26/2011

I don't know about you, but I can only assume if you are anything like me, chances are that you've become rather skilled at wearing different masks. That means I can fake it SPIRITUALLY, and so can many of you. Masquerade masks, all of us have them and we are going to ask God to teach us to drop the masks, allowing us to be the REAL us.
	Financial Fakers, Brian Hughes, 06/26/2011 I'm overwhelmed, I'm financially struggling, but I'm not going to let you know because I look all materially put together on the outside. I'm financially fake! [Proverbs 13-7 & Romans 1:25]
	Hiding Your Hurt, Brian Hughes, 06/19/2011 Two ways God heals: through His people and through His presence. In most instances, they are one and the same. [Mark 2:1-12]
	Hiding Your Sin, Brian Hughes, 06/12/2011 After you sin you have two choices: Conceal it or Confess it. Only one of thoe choices allows real freedom. [Acts 2:1-13 & 2 Samuel 11:1-5]
	Self-Deception, Brian Hughes, 06/05/2011 Two truths of self-deception: those who don't know...don't know...that they don't know. The longer we view ourselves through a distorted lens. the more likely we are to believe a distorted truth. [Matthew 26:31-35]
	Masquerade: Hiding from God, Brian Hughes, 05/29/2011 No shame: buwsh (boosh); to be ashamed; to be disappointed, to be confused, to become dry. Before sin there was no shame! No reason to hide. No embarrassment, no masks whatsoever. [Genesis 2:21-25]

The Season of Easter	05/01/2011 - 05/22/2011

These Sundays after Easter are set aside to teach about the Great Commission, The great Commandment and The Ascension. The print material, the Weekly Update which includes the Readings and Reflections for those weeks are also available along with the recording of the message. We invite you to join us every week for one of our 3 worship services, but if time or geography makes your visit impossible, please follow our sermon series throughout the year.
	On Fire for Jesus!, Bishop Herz-Lane, 05/22/2011 Jesus walks with them on the way to Emmaus, but they don't recognize him at first. It isn't until that evening as the risen Jesus broke the bread, as He had done on the last day of His life; they recognized Him and their eyes were, once again, open to the Scriptures. [Luke 24:13-35]
	The Ascension, Dr Robert Mbinda, 05/15/2011 The One who came and stood beside us - has gone up. It is time to stop gazing up into heaven (Acts 1:11) and start looking on earth for evidence of His rule, because no matter who is in the White House or what the newspapers say, Christ is Pantocrator (i.e. "Ruler of All") [Acts 1:1-12]
	The Great Commandment, Brian Hughes, 05/08/2011 If the average church should suddenly take seriously the notion that every lay member - man or woman - is really a minister of Christ, we could have something like a revolution in a very short time. [John 21:15-19]
	The Great Commission, Brian Hughes, 05/01/2011 The single greatest gift Christ-Followers can give to the people around them is an introduction to the God who created them, who loves them, and who has a purpose for their lives. Nothing beats it--not monetary gains, not job opportunities, not recognition or accolades. [Matthew 28:16-20]

Holy Week	04/17/2011 - 04/24/2011

Holy Week, 2011
	Easter Sunday, Brian Hughes, 04/24/2011 In Exodus, a lampstand was one of the few pieces of futniture that God commanded to be put in the tabernacle. For generations it stood to highlight the object that best represented God's goodness. Where does the light go on Easter morning? [Revelation 1:9-20, Matthew 28:1-10]
	Maundy Thursday, Brian Hughes, 04/21/2011 Maundy Thursday, 2011 [Edodus 12:1-4, 11-14, John 13:27-35]
	Palm Sunday - Rearranging Furniture, Brian Hughes, 04/17/2011 Jesus rides into Jerusalem as a King. All of the accounts tell us He went immediately to the Temple. The meek one becomes terrible in His actions, declaring himself as King. How much rearranging furniture are we expecting? [1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Luke 19:45-20:2]

Counterfeit Gods	03/09/2011 - 04/10/2011

We think that idols are bad things, but that is almost never the case. The greater good, the more likely we are to expect that it can satisfy our deepest needs and hopes. Anything can serve as a counterfeit god, especially the very best things in life. It has supplanted God in your heart and in your affections. You will pursue that thing with an abandon and intensity that shoud be reserved for God alone. Join us as we explore a modern understanding of idolatry.
	The Hidden Idols, Brian Hughes, 04/10/2011 Today the need for meaning has detached itself from anything more important than the individual self and the need to fulfill the needs of one's ego. This is the hidden idol that leads many away from God, seeking their own ends rather than inside the Kingdom. [Jonah 1:1-3]
	The Power and the Glory, Cmdr. Dave Oravec, 04/03/2011 One of the sure signs of idolatry in our politics is that opponents are not considered simply mistaken, but evil; a political philosophy turned into a saving faith. [Daniel 2:1-12]
	The Seduction of Success, Brian Hughes, 03/27/2011 Modern society puts great pressure on individuals to prove their worth through personal achievement. It is not enough to be a good citizen or family member; you must always win. [2 Kings 5:1-10]
	Money Changes Everything, Brian Hughes, 03/20/2011 Jesus warns people far more often about greed than about sex, yet almost no one thinks they're guilty of it. How can we recognize and become free from this power that blinds us? [Luke 16:13-15]
	All You've Ever Wanted, Brian Hughes, 03/13/2011 Why is getting your heart's desire so often a disaster? One of the central figures in the Bible is Abraham. He longed for a son and one was born to him. Then God asked Abraham to give it all up. [Genesis 22:1-8]
	Counterfeit Gods - Ash Wednesday, Brian Hughes, 03/09/2011 To contemporary people the word idolatry conjures up images of primative people bowing before statues. Yet, our contemporary society is not fundamentally different from these ancient ones. [Romans 1:14-23]

Forgotten Virtues	02/06/2011 - 03/06/2011

Virtues: quaint echoes from a morally suppressed past or something profoundly missing in daily life? In a world of vitriol and corrosive public discourse, a forgotten virtue of HONOR. In an impure world there is the forgotten virtue of PURITY. In a world of disposable relationships, a forgotten virtue of LOYALTY. In a world where anything goes, whatever benefits me, the forgotten virtue of INTEGRITY. In a place where people just believe they are entitled, 'I deserve this'; we can reclaim the forgotten virtue of believing in God and GRATITUDE in every way.
	Forgotten Virtues: Gratitude, Brian Hughes, 03/06/2011 Entitled verses Gratitude, two divergent ways of looking at the world. One says, "I'm breathing air, so I'm Owed." The other is a forgotten virtue...Gratitude. [Luke 17:11-19]
	Forgotten Virtues: Integrity, Brian Hughes, 02/27/2011 Wouldn't you agree thoday that so many segments of society are being destroyed by the duplicity of leaders or organizations that claim one thing and yet do something else? It's tragic when people are more shocked by integrity than they are by lack of integrity. [1 Samuel 12:1-5]
	Forgotten Virtues: Loyalty , Mike McQuaid, 02/20/2011 All disloyalty is born out of a divided heart. God created us to show us His love and to have an intimate, ongoing fellowship with us, that while we were still sinners, while we were being disloyal to Him, He loved us so much that He sent His one and only Son to die for our sins. [Matthew 26:30-35]
	Forgotten Virtues: Purity, Brian Hughes, 02/13/2011 So, why have we forgotten these virtues. as a culture? Why are we here? Why is God's standard here? Why the gap? I think it's because we have forgotten who we are. [Romans 12:1-2]
	Forgotten Virtues: Honor, Brian Hughes, 02/06/2011 What does honoring do? Honoring esteems and lifts up. Dishonoring devalues and tears down. To honor someone is to believe the best about them; to dishonor is to believe the worst. [Mark 6:1-6]

Once Upon a Marriage	01/09/2011 - 01/30/2011

There's nothing quite like a juicy love story...the romance, the intrigue, an maybe a little scandal. We're digging into some of the greatest biblical marriages to see what we can learn. Even though these marriages took place thousands of years ago, they're still somehow contemporary and relevant. Travel back in time with us for Once Upon a Marriage.
	Hosea and Gomer, Brian Hughes, 01/30/2011 At first, their marriage was a lovely and productive, but soon Hosea became distracted by work. Gomer became distracted by other things too. Before long, Gomer bore a son, who looked suspiciously like the mailman. [Hosea 1:1-22]
	Abraham and Sarah, Mike McQuaid, 01/23/2011 One day, God told Abraham, "You will become the father of a great nation." But, Sarah could not bear children. "No problem" God said, "Just wait and I will give you as many children as there are stars in the sky." So, Abraham and Sarah waited...and waited...and waited. [Genesis 12:1-7]
	Ahab and Jezebel, Brian Hughes, 01/16/2011 Ahab was a powerful king, but an easy going sort of fellow. So, when Jezebel came into the picture, she began to make some changes. Before long, Ahab found himself in a world of hurt. Due to technical difficulties, there is no recording of this particular sermon. [1 Kings 21:1-20]
	Jacob & Leah (and Rachel), Brian Hughes, 01/09/2011 We know that Jacob never had the love of his father. We also know that Jacob lost the love of his mother. He enters into marriage with baggage; and God would still use him to lead a great people. [Genesis 29:1-12]

Christmas	12/24/2010 - 01/02/2011

In the Name of Heaven...here is shelter.
	2nd Sunday after Christmas - One Thing, Brian Hughes, 01/02/2011 When we're setting goals for the new year, it's tempting to tackle everything we want to change about our lives. But how often does that really work? Instead, what if we focused on less to accomplish more? Join us as we explore the porwer of One Thing. [Isaiah 43:14-21]
	1st Sunday after Christmas - He will be called a Nazarene, Brian Hughes, 12/26/2010 Pastor Brian spoke about the birth of our savior and of the seeminly unlikely place where he was born. [Matthew 2:19-23]
	Christmas Eve 10:30 Service, Brian Hughes, 12/24/2010 On Christmas we think about the hardship of being with child, away from home and looking for a safe place to have the child. Even in this age, it would be hard to imagine for most of us, but in the time of the birth of the Christ child, in the Name of Heaven, there was shelter. [Isaiah 9:2-7; Titus 2:11-14; Luke 2:1-20]
	Christmas Eve 5:30 PM, Mike McQuaid, 12/24/2010 At this family service, designed with young children in mind, the congregation was told the story about the long journey of Mary and Joseph and the kindness of someone who took them in so that they'd have a safe place for the baby Jesus to be born. The congregation was asked, "What does Christmas mean to you?" [Isaiah 9:2-7; Titus 2:11-14; Luke 2:1-20]

Advent 2010	11/28/2010 - 12/19/2010

In the weeks leading up to Christmas, Christians have always used this time to take a closer look at who Jesus is. Who was this Son of God, how did He come to Earth, why, an wat does that mean for us? These four weeks examine these questions and show us how we too can rejoice with the angels, singing, "God and sinners, reconciled!"
	God and Sinners Reconciled, Brian Hughes, 12/19/2010 Jesus came into the world, instantly a king. Yet he came not with piety, but with humility and lived among the sinners offering them new life. [Colossians 1:19-23]
	Jesus, Our God, Brian Hughes, 12/12/2010 The gift of the Christ child was given to us, to ultimately die for us to forgive us our sins. [Colossians 1:15-20]
	Jesus, Our King, Brian Hughes, 12/05/2010 Jesus, King at His birth. Who came to dwell among us...God with us. [Colossians 1:9-17]
	Jesus, Our Gospel, Brian Hughes, 11/28/2010 Jesus, God With Us. God's gift to creation! [Colossians 1:1-8]

A Tale of Two Men: Naaman and Zacchaeus	11/14/2010 - 11/21/2010

One was a military hero and politically well connected. The other wealthy with access to levers of power. Both were about to have an up close and personal experience with God's Grace that left them in their current employment, but changed forever their understanding of what it meant.
	Zacchaeus, Brian Hughes, 11/21/2010 What bound Jesus to stay at Zacchaeus' house? Of all the people standing around waiting to hear him preach, why did our Lord choose that guy? It was in the character of His mission. [Luke 19:1-10]
	Naaman, Cmdr. David Oravec, Chaplain, USN, 11/14/2010 Naaman has come a long, ragged way. The man who derided the stupid river in Israel now packs his mules with Samaria's dirt so that at home he may worship on holy ground. [2 Kings 5:9-19]

Seeking the Sacred	11/07/2010 - 11/07/2010

Sacred Space: What is it and how do we know when we're there? In cleansing the temple, Jesus restores God's sanctuary for the benefit of everyone. When he curses the fig tree, He shows how His power should be fruitful in us.
	Seeking the Sacred, Brian Hughes, 11/07/2010 Sacred Space: What is it and how do we know when we're there? In cleansing the temple, Jesus restores God's sanctuary for the benefit of everyone. When he curses the fig tree, He shows how His power should be fruitful in us. [Mark 11:12-17]

Beyond Smoke and Mirrors: Integrity	09/26/2010 - 10/31/2010

Most people set out to succeed in life in two main areas: relationships, and work. Usually, what they do is just launch into those arenas on autopilot. They commit themselves to work or relationships, expend effort, and try hard. Sometimes, in the work arena, they might even get a lot of training or schooling for their chosen field. But, however they prepare, they usually jump in and go for it, hoping to make it all work. And therein, from both research and the Bible's perspective, is the problem. No matter how hard we try to make life work, no matter how much effort we put into it, we will always hit the ceiling that our character makeup dictates. Who we are dictates what we will be able to accomplish, and to try to accomplish anything without focusing on becoming the best person we can be will be futile in the end.
	When You're Smaller, You're Bigger, Brian Hughes, 10/31/2010 The biggest character question anyone will ever answer in life is whether or not they are God, and if not, "who is?" Having been blessed with a direct encounter with Jesus, Paul knew well the right answer. [Philippians 2:1-11]
	Oriented Toward Increase, Brian Hughes, 10/24/2010 People of healthy, integrated character are people of growth. If someone is not growing, something is wrong, and they are probably dying or going backwards. Jesus teaches us to invest out talents and not bury them away unused. [Matthew 25:14-25]
	Embracing the Negative, Brian Hughes, 10/17/2010 Part of life and success is facing, dealing with, and resolving "negative reality." We see this in Genesis where God, who as soon as the universe fell, actively went to Adam and Eve, dealt with the problem, and came up with a redemptive solution. [Genesis 3:1-9]
	Getting Results, Brian Hughes, 10/10/2010 We are trained in the "what" of our work, but much less in the "who" we need to become to do it well. Paul teaches us to be very sure of who you are and confident in who God created you to be. It's how you are made, and you can celebrate in your giftedness. [Romans 12:1-8]
	Oriented Towards Truth, Brian Hughes, 10/03/2010 Mature character integrity goes beyond just being "honest" when it comes to the truth. It is a stance in life that is "oriented towards reality." Jesus shows how to receive life as it really is. [Matthew 7:1-6]
	Establishing Trust, Brian Hughes, 09/26/2010 Mature character integrity goes beyond just "being nice" to people. It is able to make a way to people's hearts through extending unmerited favor to people, and also through being appropriately vulnerable. It is also able to engender trust in people through proving to be dependable and faithful. [Luke 7:29-32]

2010-2011 Fall Launch	09/05/2010 - 09/19/2010

As we get back into the swing of a new program year, we explore the Grand Invitation of Grace, being Too Blessed to be Stressed and Making Wise Investments in the Kingdom of God.
	Wise Investments, Mike McQuaid, 09/19/2010 Have you been making good investments? Have you been planning for your retirement years? Have you been making shrewd investments with those dollars you have saved? Have you been making plans? Have you been making plans for your long-term future? [Luke 16:1-13]
	Too Blessed to be Stressed, Brian Hughes, 09/12/2010 Spontaneous, strategic, or sacrificial; which best describes how you pursue a relationship with Christ? Intentionality can be everything. [Luke 6:38, 43-45 and Proverbs 22:9]
	The Grand Invitation of Grace, Mike McQuaid, 09/05/2010 God is welcoming you and welcoming me to come home. To come home to where we belong; to come home to that for which we were created. [Matthew 11:25-30]

The Greatest Sermon Ever; The Sermon on the Mount	07/11/2010 - 08/29/2010

Even non-Christians have heard of the Sermon on the Mount. Christians have heard many sermons on it, but still find parts of it hard to understand-and hard to apply in our lives. John Stott puts it this way: "The Sermon on the Mount is probably the best-known part of the teaching of Jesus, though arguably it is the least understood, and certainly it is the least obeyed." Let's study it again. Perhaps we will find new treasures as well as old.
	God's Inclination, Brian Hughes, 08/29/2010 Our God is a benevolent parent. Sometimes in the midst of daily living, it's really hard to see or understand what He's up to. Then we get ambushed by His Grace. [Matthew 7:7-11]
	The Truth About Treasures, Brian Hughes, 08/22/2010 Despite our difficult economic times, there's something in our culture that spurs us on to want more and more. Along the way we ca forget to stop and thank God for all we have. Jesus teaches His followers the meaning of what's really important. [Matthew 6:19-24]
	Secret Faith, Mike McQuaid, 08/15/2010 Certain mechanical prayers can be said over and over with the upshot being a deadness that can settle into a person's soul. Jesus teaches His followers how to enter a more aughentic and joy-filled place of prayer. [Matthew 6:1-18]
	Truth Telling, Brian Hughes, 08/08/2010 Remember when a handshake used to be enough? Today no sane business person would conclude a deal without a written contract. Jesus calls His followers to a life of integrity. [Matthew 5:33-37]
	Looking, Lusting, or Loving?, Brian Hughes, 08/01/2010 Imagination is a wonderful gift from God. But there is also a shadow side to our ability; we can imagine ourselves n dishonoring, self-destructive scenarios. We can play those negative tapes endlessly in our minds. Jesus teaches us to be aware of this potential. [Matthew 5:27-30]
	Healing Relationships, Brian Hughes, 07/25/2010 Jesus makes a connection between our relationships with others and our relationship with God. Strong and healthy relationships with fellow believers is one part of a balanced spiritual life. [Matthew 5:21-26]
	Being Salt and Light, Mike McQuaid, 07/18/2010 Nothing packs a punch like a genuinely transformed life. Jesus knew that if He could get transformed believers to walk alongside of seekers, good things were going to happen. [Matthew 5:13-16]
	The Beatitudes, Brian Hughes, 07/11/2010 There is a miraculous transfer at the heart of biblical Christianity. In every other religious system a person finds righteousness by following rules and regultaions. In Christ, we discover God's desire to pout it into our lives. [Matthew 5:1-12]

Grace Changes Everything	06/06/2010 - 07/04/2010

How do you live out the Gospel between Sunday morning and Saturday night? Between the world as it is and the world to come? Between cultural engagement and distinctive practice as a Christ follower? Join us as we explore how the Gospel changes our hearts, brings us into community and is lived out in the world.
	A People for Others - Grace in Tanzania, Karen & Jim Heist, 07/04/2010 Four years ago a prayer and a chance meeting set into motion a dynamic ministry partnership between the people of St. John and the Good Samaritan Orphanage of Mbeya, Tanzania. This Sunday, Karen & Jim Heist, our ambassadors to GSO, will share experiences from their recent trip and some of the remarkable ways your gifts and love, through God's grace, are changing lives on the other side of the globe. The PDF for this week features their message and a number of wonderful pictures from their mission trip to GSO. [Matthew 25:34-36]
	Cultivating the Garden, Brian Hughes, 06/27/2010 When you realize the Bible is one continuous story, with the truth sprinkled into it along the way, you'll come to realize God has freed you to live out your vocation in the joy and peace we have in Jesus Christ. The Gospel radically changes how and why we work. [Colossians 3:23-24]
	Leaning Into a Better Future, Brian Hughes, 06/20/2010 The word "Holy" means set apart, distinct, different. The idea of a Holy Nation tells us God calls us to be a distinct and different community that demonstrates what life could be like under the Kingship of Jesus Christ. [1 Peter 2:9]
	Three Ways to Live, Brian Hughes, 06/13/2010 From whence does our salvation come? We ignore God and make our own way in life, obeying our own wants and needs. We can dedicate our lives to a religion, obeying the demands put forth with an expectation we will be rewarded for our faithfulness. OF, because we have experienced Grace, we surrender all and follow. No audio file available for this message. [Romans 5:1-11]
	The World that is..., Brian Hughes, 06/06/2010 "In, but not of" the world is sometimes easier said than done. As Christ followers we "breathe" the same cultural air as everyone else, sometimes to our detriment. Does this mean we should withdraw into our own enclaves? The Old Testament prophet Jeremiah has great wisdom for us even today. [Jeremiah 29:1-9]

Trinity Sunday - Trinity: Understand or Praise?	05/30/2010 - 05/30/2010

Do we fully understand the complexities of genes and DNA, or stars, planets and solar systems? Do we completely comprehend the complexities of God, or of ourselves or those closest to us? Even so, this God declares he cares for us humans? What is your response to this God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit?
	Trinity Sunday - Understand or Praise?, Mike McQuaid, 05/30/2010 Do we fully understand the complexities of genes and DNA, or stars, planets and solar systems? Do we completely comprehend the complexities of God, or of ourselves or those closest to us? Even so, this God declares he cares for us humans? What is your response to this God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit? [John 16:12-15]

Pentecost - Another Advocate	05/23/2010 - 05/23/2010

The word, "advocate," has Latin roots that mean to summon or to call. The "voc" part of the word is means "voice." The Greek word, paraclete, means to summon to the side of. Do you have an advocate? Who? What does your advocate do? What difference does it make in your life that you have an advocate?
	Pentecost - Another Advocate, Mike McQuaid, 05/23/2010 The word, "advocate," has Latin roots that mean to summon or to call. The "voc" part of the word is means "voice." The Greek word, paraclete, means to summon to the side of. Do you have an advocate? Who? What does your advocate do? What difference does it make in your life that you have an advocate? [Acts 2:1-21, John 14:8-17]

Easter Season - Discover the New You	04/11/2010 - 05/16/2010

When we read the words of Colossians, it's important to remember they are from a letter written directly to a local church in the first century. St. Paul was receiving reports of lives being changed in this church, families healed, and many were becoming devoted followers of Christ. He wrote this letter encouraging these people to continue growing and changing. Perhaps you are wondering what God has in mind for you, your home, your workplace. Paul's letter can teach you what that path can be like.
	, , 05/23/2010
	A New Voice, Brian Hughes, 05/16/2010 Prayer can be alien to our proud human nature. And yet, somewhere, someplace, somehow all of us reach the point of falling to our knees, bowing our heads, fixing our attention on God and praying. [Colossians 4:2-6]
	A New Look at Relationships, Mike McQuaid, 05/09/2010 You can show up at church and look, act, talk and give right. But our home life might be a war zone. Almost anyone can fake it for an hour or so on Sunday. Imagine the countless homes that could be changed by the power of the Gospel. [Colossians 3:18-4:1]
	A Whole New You, Brian Hughes, 05/02/2010 Whose opinions, thoughts, and words about you matter the most? In this passage Paul uses the image of stripping off old dirty clothes. What do we need to get rid of and how can they be damaging how we balance out our life as a Christ follower? [Colossians 3:1-17]
	A New Foundation, Brian Hughes, 04/25/2010 A true church holds fast to the faith which it has received. It does not forget the teaching about Christ which it has been taught. St. Paul is clear the only lasting and stable foundation for life is Jesus Christ. [Colossians 1:28-2:23]
	Discovering the New You - A New Look at Jesus, Mike McQuaid, 04/18/2010 In just a few verses, we see Jesus as the eternal God. So we may turn to His Word and ask; What has Jesus done? What is He doing now? What will Jesus do in the future? [Colossians 1:15-27]
	Discover the New You - A New Look at the Church, Brian Hughes, 04/11/2010 In this passage St. Paul gives five marks of a biblically functioning church. His central and core pillar: true faith in Jesus Christ. [Colossians 1:1-14]

Holy Week - 2010	03/28/2010 - 04/04/2010

This is the week which begins with Jesus jubiant arrival into Jerusalem and continues the story through the torment, torture, crucifiction and ends with His magnificent resurrection on the third day.
	Easter Sunday - Empty Strips of Cloth, Brian Hughes, 04/04/2010 Empty Strips of Cloth - "He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee." [Luke 24:1-12]
	Good Friday, Brian Hughes, 04/02/2010 There is no audio file for this worship service as there was no message. [Isaiah 58, Isaish 53, Luke 23:42-46]
	Maundy Thursday, Mike McQuaid, 04/01/2010 The telling of the story of the betrayal, condemnation and fortelling the death on the cross on Friday. [Exodus 12:1-4, 11-14]
	Across the Kidron Valley, Brian Hughes, 03/28/2010 Jerusalem and the Mount of Olives; two Holy places separated by a deep gash river across the land. Faith and Doubt are often equally separated, but Christ is never far from either. [Luke 19:28-40]

Lent - The Prodigal God: A Tale of Two Brothers	02/21/2010 - 03/21/2010

One son kept the rules religiously. One son broke them all. One father loved them both beyond anything they could ever imagine. There are two ways to be your own Savior and Lord. One is by breaking all the moral laws and setting your your own course, and one is by keeping all the moral laws and being very, very good. The Prodigal God is a Lenten sermon series and group study based on Jesus' great parable - The Prodigal Son.
	We Had to Celebrate, Mike McQuaid, 03/21/2010 The centerpiece of the parable is a feast. The father throws a feast, filled with "music and dancing" and the greatest delicacies, to mark the reconciliation and restoration of his son. There was no choice. [Luke 19:11-32]
	Everything I Have is Yours, Brian Hughes, 03/14/2010 The elder brother is furious with the father for receiving his younger brother back into the family. He alludes to it when he says, "you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends." The elder brother is angry because of the cost of this reconciliation. [Luke 15:1-6, 25-32]
	He Refused to go in, Brian Hughes, 03/07/2010 Most people who read and study The Parable of the Prodigal Son concentrate completely on the character of the younger son, his repentance, and the father's forgiveness. And yet look at the text. Almost half of the story is about the older son. [Luke 15:25-32]
	Give Me My Share, Brian Hughes, 02/28/2010 The story begins when the younger son comes to the father and says, "Give me my share of the estate." In ancient times, when the father died, the oldest son always got a "double portion" of what any other child got. If there are two sons, the older would get two-thirds of the estate and so the younger would get one-third. The story opens with the younger son asking for his one-third of the inheritance. [Luke 15:11-32]
	He Welcomes Sinners, Brian Hughes, 02/21/2010 Jesus challenges his listeners' fundamental assumptions about God, sin, and salvation. He gives them an entirely new way of thinking about God, themselves, and the whole world. This week we look at the first two of these parables. There are three sets of characters: 1. The unwilling listeners, 2. the lost things, and 3. the joyful seekers. [Luke 15:1-10]

The Blessed Life	01/31/2010 - 02/14/2010

Pursuing happiness takes work. Ever want more than that for your life? God does. Finding that sense that your one and only life has been worthwhile can be counter-intuitive and even harder to hold. But God wants us to be blessed. Discover what the Bible says about living: The Blessed Life.
	The Blessed Life: The Generous Eye, Brian Hughes, 02/14/2010 Spontaneous, strategic or sacrificial; which best describes hor you pursue a relationship with Christ? Intentionality can be everything. Due to technical difficulties, there is no audio file. Please check out the R&R handout to explore details of message. [Luke 6:38, Proverbs 22:9]
	The Blessed Life: The Blessed Test, Mike McQuaid, 02/07/2010 What do we seek most in life, security, freedom, power or significance? How's it working out so far? By pursuing these things, do we give God our best or what's left over? Due to record breaking snowfall in our area, services were cancelled and therefore there is no audio file. Please check out the R&R handout for additional details about this message. [Luke 16:10-11]
	The Blessed Life: A Heart of Generosity, Brian Hughes, 01/31/2010 We can have three mindsets around life: the bag is never enough, the basket is more than enough, the barn is infinitely more than enough. How much can God bless you? Due to technical difficulties, there is no recording of this message. Please check out the R&R handout from that morning for further detail about this message. [Proverbs 11:24-25]

Taking It Home	01/03/2010 - 01/24/2010

According to the Search Institute, across the spectrum of social sciences, theology, and religious studies, relatively little academic attention has been paid to spiritual development for children and youth, despite its appearing to be an important facet of human development. Why the gap in inattention? Explanations include the skepticism of empiricists and scientists about religion and spirituality and the pressure in academia to study and publish on "serious" topics. Join us as we connect our sermons with Sunday School topics AND give you tools to have those spiritual, Christ-centered conversations at home.
	The Disciples, Brian Hughes, 01/24/2010 Jesus captured the attention and respect of men, women, and children by serving their needs. If you want to pass on faith to peoplein your home or circle of contacts, serving them is a great place to begin. Four Keys: Family Service [Luke 5:1-11, 8:1-3]
	Jesus Goes to Nazareth, Brian Hughes, 01/17/2010 Jesus experienced a lot of conversations with many people -- some caring, some less than caring. The Spirit of God speaks good news, release, recovery, freedom, and favor. How can you do the same in your home? Four Keys: Caring Conversations There is no recording as church was cancelled due to a record breaking blizzard. The R&R handout will be helpful in filling in the blanks. [Luke 4:14-30]
	John the Baptist, Mike McQuaid, 01/10/2010 "What then should we do?" the crowds asked John upon haring his call to faith. Don't rest on your spiritual lineage, but devote yourselves to living your faith in tangible ways. Helping people in your life to trust in Jesus means being present with God and them regularly. Four Keys: Family Devotions [Luke 3:1-18]
	The Boy at the Temple, Mike McQuaid, 01/03/2010 Beyond religious rituals, what patterns of behavior can we establish in our homes that communicate love of and for God? Jesus' parents appear to have taught him rituals of sitting, listening, and asking. Four Keys: Rituals and Traditions [Luke 2:41-52]

Christmas is For-Giving	12/06/2009 - 12/20/2009

Christmas is always thought of as the best time of the year. Unfortunately, as we go through life we often experience family and relational pain, and Christmas can go from being the highlight of the year to the most difficult time. In this three-part study, we learn how to forgive others, how to ask for forgiveness, and what it means to be forgiven.
	Learning From Life, Brian Hughes, 12/27/2009 Who will shape your future? Are you ready to change yourself? How about the world? How will you know if you're making progress? Join us as we step into the New Year considering Lifeshapes: The Circle -- Repent [Matthew 11:25-30]
	Christmas Eve -- Forgiving, forgoing, forgetting: FOREVER!, Brian Hughes, 12/24/2009 Christmas Eve [Luke 2:1-20]
	Christmas is For-Getting, Brian Hughes, 12/20/2009 How many of us think, "You know, by this time in my life, I thought that things would be different. I thought things would be much better. I can't believe that I'm at this age and this stage and here's where I am. God, I thought things would be changed." [Matthew 1:18-23]
	Christmas is For-Going, Brian Hughes, 12/13/2009 Oftentimes, beneath the facade, we see what's really there. Many of us learned to play the game; that is to be polite, just to hit the surface issues. Surely, that is not what God wants. [Matthew 5:23-26]
	Christmas is For-Giving, Brian Hughes, 12/06/2009 Kids love Christmas. Can't wait for the presents, going to grandma's house, and sitting on Santa Claus' lap. Sometimes for us adults, not so much. Step one for season survival; forgiveness. [Matthew 18:21-34]

Earthly Footsteps: A Walk with Christ	11/15/2009 - 11/25/2009

I think most people picture the Hold Land as they think it was in the first century or maybe they imagine it through the artistic talents of painters or perhaps their own imagination. Since Pastor Brian returned from his pilgrimage to Israel, he's been asked, "What was it like to 'see' the places where so much of Jesus' ministry happened?" Earthly Footsteps will be part of the answer.
	What does Honor mean in a family?, Mike McQuaid, 11/15/2009 God tells every one of us to "Honor your father and mother." How can children (of all ages) fulfill this command? What do children need (especially from their father and mother) to keep this commandment? Where is God's grace (unconditional love) in the midst of the giving and the keeping of this commandment? Due to a technical problem, the audio recording of this message is not available. [Exodus 20:12 and Ephesians 6:1-4]

God Is Closer Than You Think	10/04/2009 - 11/08/2009

Every moment of your life is like a page in a "Where's Waldo" book. God is there, the Scriptures tell us--on every one of them. But the ease with which He may be found varies from one page to the next. God is closer than you think! Intimacy with God can happen right now if you want it. A closeness you can feel, a goodness you can taste, a reality you can experience for yourself. That's what the Bible promises, so why settle for less?
	Heaven Breaking Through, Brian Hughes, 11/08/2009 Jesus came preaching, teaching and healing. He died and was raised. In what practical ways does this make a difference in our ordinary lives? [Micah 6:8 and Matthew 9:35-38]
	God Wants a Relationship With You, Mike McQuaid, 11/01/2009 Every human being you have ever seen was made in the image of God. Every human being is one Jesus seeks out and offers salvation -- and does so through us. If we experience God through people, how might this impact our interactions? [Colossians 4:7-18]
	Listening to the Voice of God, Brian Hughes, 10/25/2009 Every thought is either a response that will strengthen you to live a Kingdom kind of life, or one that is robbing you of that life. How can we cultivate a mind that will hear the Word? [John 10:11-18]
	Partnering With God Today, Brian Hughes, 10/18/2009 Sometimes we put off listening for God's presence today because we're all set to do it tomorrow. Does it matter if we start listening today? [John 16:5-7]
	Where is God in My World?, Brian Hughes, 10/11/2009 When two people are in similar situations, God's presence may be clearly visible to one, but elisive to the other. What can account for this? [Matthew 13:44-45]
	God's Desire for People, Brian Hughes, 10/04/2009 It's one thing for us to talk about how much we want to experience God, but how much do you think God wants to be with us? What if God sent you an invitation to be His Facebook friend? [Exodus 33:12-17]

Earthly Footsteps	09/20/2009 - 09/20/2009

I think most people picture the Holy Land as they think it was in the first century or maybe they imagine it through the artistic talents of painters or perhaps their own imaginations. Since returning from my pilgrimage to Israel, I've been asked, "What was it like to 'see' the places where so much of Jesus ministry happened?"
	Just Across the Street in Capernaum, Brian Hughes, 09/20/2009 Healing of Peter's Mother-in-Law and Peter's Calling. Where is Jesus' healing touch today? [Luke 4:38-44]

Fall Launch -- Jesus Loves Us All	09/06/2009 - 09/13/2009

Fall Launch
	Jesus Loves the Little Children - 11:30 AM, Mike McQuaid, 09/13/2009 Jesus welcomed and blessed children. He was not bothered by them, nor was he above them. He told the disciples not to stop them from coming to him. How do you respond when a child (of any age) approaches Jesus? [Matthew 19:13-15]
	Jesus Loves the Little Children - 10:15 AM, Mike McQuaid, 09/13/2009 Jesus welcomed and blessed children. He was not bothered by them, nor was he above them. He told the disciples not to stop them from coming to him. How do you respond when a child (of any age) approaches Jesus? [Matthew 19:13-15]
	Working Night & Day -- Why?, Mike McQuaid, 09/06/2009 As we leave the dog days of summer behind, crossing the threshold of Labor Day, life can get busier with a return to school, sports, work, and other schedules. Before we dive headlong into all this labor, let's consider to what end we work. [1 Thessalonians 2:9-12]

The Kingdom of Heaven is like . . .	06/14/2009 - 08/30/2009

The Kingdom of Heaven is like . . . Jesus taught a kind of "Christianity Illustrated." If a picture is worth a thousand words, Jesus spoke volumes through His stories. He told colorful, unforgettable, compelling, culturally relevant stories. The Hebrew word for parable is machal. It means "a riddle." Through these riddles Jesus will be your teacher, He will stretch your mind. He will shape your soul. He will introduce you to the Kingdom of Heaven.
	But What Does God Say?, Mike McQuaid, 08/30/2009 Today Jesus teaches us two lessons: First, a matter of priorities-that many have a priority for their traditions over the calling of God. Secondly, and more subtly, far too often religious traditions become replacements for carrying out God's work of mercy and justice to the human misery of the world. [Mark 7:1-8]
	Wherein Is Our Hope, Brian Hughes, 08/23/2009 A Canaanite woman who has given up hope for her daughter, implores Jesus to heal her. There is an abundance of grace and powerful compassion in Jesus. There is our hope. [Matthew 15:21-28]
	Contentment in All Things, Mike McQuaid, 08/16/2009 Paul gave himself to something bigger and greater tha himself. His life had signicifance beyond himself. He was not free from worry, pain or limitations, but he was content. What do you have in Christ that no person or situation can ever take away from you? [Philippians 4:10-23]
	Peace Through Prayer , Brian Hughes, 08/09/2009 Conflict in a church can arise in many levels. Sometimes it's theology, others personality or who gets to decide for he church. Paul addressed it in the church in Philippi. What do you think happens in the heart of God in these situations? (Due to technical difficulties on the 9th of August, the recording of this sermon is not available.) [Philippians 4:2-9]
	Hope for the Future, Brian Hughes, 08/02/2009 Paul hungered to know Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. Knowing and believing that we will be raised to eternal life in his name is essential if we are to live lives of deep surrender to God's will. How does that confidence influence how you live today? [Philippians 3:1-4:1]
	Humility in Service, Brian Hughes, 07/26/2009 We can look at the pecking orders in life and see them as harmless and benign. Paul did not see it that way at all. He holds up Jesus as the perfect example of servanthood. How can this insight influence our view of others? [Philippians 2:1-30]
	Strength in Suffering, Mike McQuaid, 07/19/2009 Paul was persecuted and imprisoned because of his commitment to follow Christ. Yet even in his cell, he rejoiced that the message of Jesus was being communicated to everyone around him. Can Paul’s example influence you in a tough situation you might be facing? [Philippians 1:12-30]
	Joy in Community, Mike McQuaid, 07/12/2009 Paul expresses great joy over those who have worked with him as partners in the Gospel. These were followers of Christ who had labored by his side, encouraged him, and suffered with him. Who are our partners? [Philippians 1:1-11]
	Spiritual Serenity, Brian Hughes, 07/05/2009 God does not force us to His will. The only response that will bring wholeness to our lives is to say yes to Christ and then live it out. We can resist and deny Him and He will let us go our own way. But he gives us every opportunity to open our lives again and say Yes. [Matthew 21:28-32]
	When Last Minute Living Fails, Brian Hughes, 06/28/2009 "Too Late" may be the saddest sentence in the English language. Each person makes hundreds of choices a day that reveal the fabric of how one’s soul has been knit together. Why is it so hard to prepare for the one thing in life that really matters? [Matthew 25:1-13]
	Overcoming Resentment, Brian Hughes, 06/21/2009 Who is eligible for entry into the Kingdom of Heaven? Who can be a child of God? Who is invited to live in the Father’s house? Answer – anyone. [Matthew 20:1-16]
	Overcoming Barriers, Mike McQuaid, 06/14/2009 Growth is the normal condition of living things. When we cease growing, we start dying. What’s in your way of growing in Faith, Hope and Love? Due to an equipment failure, the recording of the message is not available. The printed text of that message is available in PDF format in the handout for June 14th. [Matthew 13:3-13]

Confirmation Sunday: Send me?? Send me!	06/07/2009 - 06/07/2009

"God" conjures up many different meanings in many people's minds. In order to trust in, praise, and follow "God," we must know who or what we mean by that term. Who is your God? What does God want you to do? What is your response to God, especially God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit revealed in the Bible?
	Confirmation Sunday: Send me?? Send me!, Mike McQuaid, 06/07/2009 "God" conjures up many different meanings in many people's minds. In order to trust in, praise, and follow "God," we must know who or what we mean by that term. Who is your God? What does God want you to do? What is your response to God, especially God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit revealed in the Bible? [Isaiah 6:1-8]

Pentecost Sunday	05/31/2009 - 05/31/2009

Pentecost Sunday: Everybody a Prophet
	Pentecost: Everybody a Prophet, Mike McQuaid, 05/31/2009 A Christian is an ordinary person in whom something extraordinary has occurred. The Holy Spirit has descended upon each of us, giving us the power to speak the truth in Jesus' name. In Christ we are all prophets. [Acts:2:1-21]

Post Easter Sermon Series: "Miracles"	04/19/2009 - 05/24/2009

The English word miracle comes from the Latin words miro ("to wonder") and miru ("wonderful"). It's the same root from which we get the word mirror. Does your experience of life and faith ever have moments of wonder? Do your encounters with Christ in worship and prayer ever bless you with something wonderful? Does your life ever mirror the events that Jesus enacted in the Bible? What are the miracles in our day and time?
	Opening Blind Eyes: The Miracle of Hope, Brian Hughes, 05/24/2009 When life gets blurry, God wants us to see through our "obstacle" illusions. When they came upon this the blind man, the disciples didn’t say, "Jesus, is there anything that we can do for him? Is there any hope? Jesus, could You heal him?" No, all they said was, "Who could we blame?" [John 9:1-12]
	Water to Wine: The Miracle of Transformation, Mike McQuaid, 05/17/2009 Expectations. They're something every single one of us deals with in life. Jesus' mom had a few expectations at a certain wedding. What are some unmet expectations you've had of God in the past? How did you deal with your disappointment? [John 2:1-11]
	Raising Lazarus: The Miracle of Resurrection, Brian Hughes, 05/10/2009 Ask yourself, "What in your life is dead or is dying?" Be really honest. It could be your faith. It could be Hope. It could be Love. Just maybe something inside of you has died, and God wants to bring it back to life. [John 11:1-16]
	Healing: The Miracle of Wholeness, Mike McQuaid, 05/03/2009 Jesus heals a man who couldn't walk. What is your handicap? Is it old baggage you're saddled with in the present? Could it be that He's drawing you to Him, but you are just not hearing Him? Due to technical difficulties with the recording device on May 3rd, a recording of the sermon is not available at this time. The Reading & Reflection is expanded to include the text of that sermon. Take a few minutes to read this thought provoking message. [John 5:1-5]
	Freedom: The Miracle of Liberation, Brian Hughes, 04/26/2009 A fear-filled parent pleads for his son's health. Jesus calls out a great evil and leaves us understanding obstacles to real faith: Sign-demanding faith, Second-hand faith, and Self-centered faith. [Mark 9:14-27]
	Calming the Storm: The Miracle of Faith, Brian Hughes, 04/19/2009 Jesus calms the wind and the waves, saving a boat load of disciples. Question: "Do you believe God still does miracles?" Yes, all the time. Next question: "Do we understand why God does some and not others?" No...not at all. Last question: "How big do our miracles have to be before we rate them connected to faith?" That's the right question. [Mark 4:35-41]

At Home in Galilee	04/12/2009 - 04/12/2009

Surprise. The failure of the disciples, the denial of Peter, all the betrayal, none of this is the end of the story. A fresh start can be made, and where will that new beginning be? At Home in Galilee.
	At Home in Galilee, Brian Hughes, 04/12/2009 Surprise. The failure of the disciples, the denial of Peter, all the betrayal, none of this is the end of the story. A fresh start can be made, and where will that new beginning be? At Home in Galilee. [Mark 16:1-8]

Palm Sunday - It's the Way God Acts	04/05/2009 - 04/05/2009

We wanted Jesus to come in to town on a warhorse; Jesus rode in on a donkey. We wanted Jesus to go up to the statehouse and fix the political problem; he went to the temple to pray. We wanted Jesus to get organized, mobilize his forces, get the revolution going, and set things right; Jesus gathered with his friends in an upper room.
	It's the Way God Acts, Brian Hughes, 04/05/2009 We wanted Jesus to come in to town on a warhorse; Jesus rode in on a donkey. We wanted Jesus to go up to the statehouse and fix the political problem; he went to the temple to pray. We wanted Jesus to get organized, mobilize his forces, get the revolution going, and set things right; Jesus gathered with his friends in an upper room. [Mark 11:1-11]

Hope Lives: A Journey of Restoration	03/01/2009 - 03/29/2009

Hope lives: a hope that walked to a cross, a hope that oppression sought to silence, a hope that was raised and a tomb left empty. In Christ, that hope lives and so we are now able to help relieve the pain and suffering so prevalent in our world. Join us for our spring small group series. Go on a journey with us. A journey into the heart of Jesus. A journey that transforms our hearts. A journey in which the words of God are proclaimed and the works of God are done. A journey of restoration.
	Be the Change, Brian Hughes, 03/29/2009 The journey of serving those in need is, in essence, the journey of following Christ. And God has created each person uniquely for the journey, giving each one spiritual gifts, skills, and passions with which to serve him, to be the change we want to see in the world. This week we'll explore our individual gifts and be reminded that it is God's grace that sustains us along the way. [1 Corinthians 13:1-12]
	A Heart that Prays, Brian Hughes, 03/22/2009 Prayer is the means God has given us for the journey of loving and serving those in need. This week of prayer and journaling will help us explore the power of prayer in a world in need of restoration and help us make prayer a part of daily life. [Nehemiah 1:1b-4a]
	Breaking the Spirit of Poverty, Mike McQuaid, 03/15/2009 Understanding poverty will guide the steps we take in releasing others from it. This week we'll explore what poverty is--its causes and effects and how it's a spiritual matter at its core. [Deuteronomy 15:7-11]
	For Such a Time as This, Brian Hughes, 03/08/2009 God has provided a map for our journey in loving others. This week we'll explore what the Bible has to say about serving the poor, the widows, and the orphans, and how God desires for us to show his love to those in need. [James 2:14-17]
	Poverty of the Heart, Brian Hughes, 03/01/2009 The first step on the journey is to understand the poverty of the heart, to search our hearts and ask why it's sometimes so hard to help those in need. How are things like materialism and individualism stifling compassion? On the journey, we'll set down the burden of guilt and pick up God's grace instead. [Isaiah 40:28-31]

Ash Wednesday: Confession	02/25/2009 - 02/25/2009

Ash Wednesday: Confession
	Ash Wednesday: Confession, Mike McQuaid, 02/25/2009 Ash Wednesday: Confession [Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21]

Fanatic	02/08/2009 - 02/15/2009

Fanatic: Ask yourself the question, "What do I worship?" You might be surprised by the answer. Do you spend the same time and energy toward God as you do with sporting events, concerts or even your Wii? Are you as fanatical about showing your praise for God as you are about showing off your house? If not, then maybe you're worshiping the wrong things.
	The Glory of God with Us, Brian Hughes, 02/22/2009 "In the cross of Christ I glory, towering over the wrecks of time," we used to sing in the old hymn. It is a peculiar glory, a discordant revelation that shines forth here. But even in humanity's violent response to the Christ, God with us, a light shines through, the glory will not be quenched, even by human resistance. [Mark 9:2-9 and (Psalm 50:1-6)]
	True Worshipers, Brian Hughes, 02/15/2009 When is the last time you have been overwhelmed in the presence of God? What does that look like, feel like, sound like? God is seeking worshipers. Is worship a way of life for you? [2 Samuel 6:1-5, 14-16]
	What God Desires Most, Brian Hughes, 02/08/2009 Why is worship so important? It's because there is a war for your worship. There is a literal war being waged for your worship. "Thou shalt have no other gods before Me" is not just a dusty phrase cast in old English absolutes. It's a statement of practical reality; we will worship something, the question is what? Or whom? [Hosea 4:1-3]

Fearless	01/11/2009 - 02/01/2009

FEARLESS: Battles are inevitable but victory is not. We often find ourselves contending with forces that are stronger than we are. So how do you stand fearless when there's so much at stake? Be inspired by accounts from God's Word about average people who became champions and overcame insurmountable odds. Do you have what it takes? Experience "FEARLESS" to find out once and for all.
	Fearless: The Giant or God? David and Goliath, Brian Hughes, 02/01/2009 What lies are you believing or ignoring? What is your focus on? The giant or God? How does that play out in your life? [1 Samuel 17:1-11]
	Fearless: When Lions Sit Down to Pray, Brian Hughes, 01/25/2009 How to maintain integrity when the lions are already seated about, praying and giving thanks for their next meal — you! [Daniel 6: 12b-16 (NRSV) ]
	Fearless: No Testing Please - Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, Brian Hughes, 01/18/2009 Faith that’s tested is faith that can be trusted. In what area of life are you most tempted to follow people’s expectations instead of God’s? There is a difference between believing in God and believing God. What are you "believing God" for? [Daniel 3:1-15]
	Fearless: Not Good Enough - Gideon, Brian Hughes, 01/11/2009 God saw Gideon as a mighty warrior. Gideon saw himself as weak and one of the least. What are some of the beliefs about yourself that God is helping you overcome? What has fear kept you from doing that God wants you to do? What are you going to do about it? [Judges 6:1-4, 11-15]

Post Christmas Services	12/28/2008 - 01/04/2009

Post Christmas Worship
	2nd Sunday After Christmas: How Best to Begin a New Year, Brian Hughes, 01/04/2009 Praying as a Way of Life [Matthew 6:9-13]
	1st Sunday After Christmas: Just Like Us, Brian Hughes, 12/28/2008 It was not to angels - ethereal, heavenly beings that God came in the Incarnation. It was rather to real, suffering, flesh-and-blood folk like us. [Hebrews 2:10-18]

Christmas Eve 2008	12/24/2008 - 01/24/2009

Christmas Eve Services 2008 4 PM 5:30 PM & 10:30 PM
	We Will Never Be The Same - 10:30 PM, Brian Hughes, 12/24/2008 Christmas: We Will Never Be The Same [Isaiah 52:7-10 & Hebrews 1:1-4]
	We Will Never Be The Same - 5:30 PM, Mike McQuaid, 12/24/2008 Christmas: We Will Never Be The Same [John 1:1-14]
	We Will Never Be The Same - 4 PM, Mike McQuaid, 12/24/2008 Christmas: We Will Never Be The Same [John 1:1-14]

Christmas: This Changes Everything	11/30/2008 - 12/21/2008

Advent 2008 - Christmas: This Changes Everything
	Lord of the Sabbath; from Rules to a Living Faith, Brian Hughes, 12/21/2008 The Sabbath is a gift from God. It is a gift under threat. It was given to protect us from overwork, from never getting a day off, from being treated like a machine. Jesus faced the other side of that dynamic; making a rule out of a gift. Christ tells us, life is a gift, my gift to you, and opens the door to a living Faith. [Matthew 12:1-13]
	The Healing of a Demon-possessed Man; from Chaos to Purpose, Mike McQuaid, 12/14/2008 Today we would call him "homeless," mentally ill, or self abusing. The Bible says this man's problem was, at it's root, a spiritual issue. How did this man get in this condition? Where did he open his soul to the powers of evil that they completely took over? The text doesn't say, but we know one thing; after his encounter with Christ his life took on a very different goal. [Mark 5:1-20]
	Paul’s Conversion; from Anger to Peace, Brian Hughes, 12/07/2008 The one who persecuted the church becomes Christ's chosen instrument to bring His name to the world. After being restored by Ananias and spending time with the disciples in Damascus, Paul began proclaiming Jesus in the synagogues. Anger and heading in the wrong direction give way to peace and assurance. [Acts 9:1-6]
	The Samaritan Woman; from Shame to Freedom, Brian Hughes, 11/30/2008 The Samaritan woman at the well was no angel. Mixed up with a wrong crowd, this poor woman from Samaria had quite a reputation. She had been married five times and was living in sin with a man who wasn't her husband. Her story is an antecedent of Christian witness; Christ’s unexpected presence shuts old doors to the past while flinging wide new ones toward tomorrow. [John 4:19-26]

Pre-Advent 2008	11/16/2008 - 11/23/2008

Pre-Advent 2008
	Christ the King - What is truth?, Brian Hughes, 11/23/2008 Along the many paths of human history, seekers have asked, "What is truth?" How can I know what is objectively authentic? Or is everything just shades of opinion and personal experience? We claim the answer is found only through faith in Jesus Christ, King of all creation and ruler of all kings. [John 18:33-37]
	I Surrender, Brian Hughes, 11/16/2008 I Surrender - The first believers had an unshakable devotion to spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ. Most people think the church is here for us. We have forgotten, we are the church and we are here for the world. [Acts 5:28-29]

One Month to Live	09/28/2008 - 11/02/2008

One Month to Live - a series emphasizing small groups, centered around the book One Month to Live. With eye-opening insights and soul-inspiring truths, One Month to Live challenges readers to embrace the life God has entrusted to them and to live it out moment by moment with wholehearted authenticity, honesty and integrity. Each of One Month to Live’s 30 chapters — one for every day in a life-changing month — offers fresh strategies for overcoming habits that mire Christians in mediocrity. These strategies come to life through uplifting make-it-count moments, inspiring quotations, colorful true stories and questions for reflection. Readers examine how they can live passionately, love completely, learn humbly, and leave boldly to create a legacy that endures for generations after they're gone. Through this life-changing journey, readers learn to embrace their own mortality and live their lives more fully—with no regrets.
	Living A No-Regrets Life, Mike McQuaid, 11/02/2008 The whole point of this series was not so much to prepare you to die as it was to prepare you to live! God willing, you will live for many, many more months, years, or decades, enjoying life to the fullest. We’ve discovered four universal principles that are unique in expression that will enable us to live the life God created us to live, to live passionately, to love completely, to learn humbly and to leave boldly. [John 10:1-10]
	Leave Boldly, Brian Hughes, 10/26/2008 Everyone desires to leave a lasting imprint in life. Something that outlives them, a legacy to be remembered, that made a difference. Harold Kushner said, "I am convinced that it is not the fear of death, of our lives ending, that haunts our sleep so much as the fear … that as far as the world is concerned, we might as well never have lived." God has placed a deep desire within all of our hearts to live a life that matters, to make a lasting mark on this earth. [Matthew 7:24-29]
	Learn Humbly, Brian Hughes, 10/19/2008 People who face the end of their lives have a remarkable humility. They have to depend on others. They are no longer self-sufficient or proud. Yet in their weakness they have discovered a liberating truth. In his second letter to the Corinthians, Paul wrote, "But He [God] said to me, 'My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.' So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me." [Luke 9:18-27]
	Love Completely, Brian Hughes, 10/12/2008 To love completely we need the power of love. This principle is the area of greatest regrets because it deals with our relationships and is the most important of the four principles in this series. Christ showed us the most powerful demonstration of love when He went to the cross, and in the cross we find the power to love the people in our lives, and we need God's power to love completely. [Romans 15:1-13]
	Live Passionately, Mike McQuaid, 10/05/2008 Nothing great ever happens without passion. The driving force behind all great art, all great music, all great literature, all great drama, all great architecture is passion. God wants you to live a life of passion. God created you to be a passionate person. You were made with the capacity for passion because God is a passionate God. He feels things so deeply. Regardless of your personality, God made you to be a passionate person. [Luke 5:18-20; Luke 5:24-26]
	Living the Dash, Brian Hughes, 09/28/2008 Looking at old tombstones, you can't help but recognize that entire lives are now reduced to two dates and one little dash. It could be next week or next year or decades away. Only God knows. Our lives are in His hands. But there is one thing we have a vast amount of control over. We get to decide how we're going to use our dash. You get to choose how to spend that little dash of time between the two dates of your earthly existence. [John 10:7-15]

Fall Launch 2008	09/07/2008 - 09/21/2008

Fall Launch 2008
	Who Is Your Security Blanket, Mike McQuaid, 09/21/2008 Who is your security blanket?
	Paybacks Are a Gift, Brian Hughes, 09/14/2008 During Jesus' earthly ministry, offenders were forgiven up to three times; but the fourth offense need not be forgiven. Kind of gives some historical depth to the so-called "three strikes" laws doesn’t it? Even among closest friends, sometimes we do dumb things that damage people around us. Peter asks about logical consequences and instead learns something about Grace. [Matthew 18:21-35]
	Watch it Buddy, Brian Hughes, 09/07/2008 What does a "watchman" do and what's the one way he can fail in his job? Or better yet, what happens when people ignore the warnings? In our day we try to teach our children and others all about logical consequences, yet that's not entirely the answer either is it? [Ezekiel 33:7-11]

Summer 2008	06/22/2008 - 08/31/2008

Summer 2008
	Booking Passage to Tarshish, Mike McQuaid, 08/31/2008 Booking Passage to Tarshish
	A Matter of Good Judgment, Brian Hughes, 08/24/2008 A Matter of Good Judgment
	Transformations, Brian Hughes, 08/17/2008 After devoting eleven chapters of his letter to Rome to theological discussion, Paul now turns to how this works out in daily living. He urges that Christ followers not be captivated by the foolishness of the world, but would, through the wisdom of God, become pure and mature in faith.
	A Family Restored, Brian Hughes, 08/10/2008 The Joseph story is often called a "Novella" (little novel) and is the longest continuous story in the book of Genesis. Here we see another of God's amazing reversals as Joseph exclaims: "Even though you intended to do harm to me, God intended it for good, in order to preserve a numerous people, as he is doing today."
	Jumping Overboard into Grace, Mike McQuaid, 08/03/2008 Jesus appears before his disciples in the middle of a storm and calls to Peter to join him in walking on the water. Jesus is, standing out on the sea, the demanding Lord who is present with those in need, who exhorts followers to trust him and not be afraid.
	Priceless Worth, Mike McQuaid, 07/27/2008 With finite resources, circumscribed abilities, and limited time, is it not good for us to be concerned to save, to guard, and to conserve our resources? Perhaps. Yet Jesus comes with an exuberant, extravagant, overflowing love, an abundance of grace. Can we trust him to provide what we need, not just the bare necessities, but an overabundance? [Matthew 14:13-21]
	Waste and Grace, Brian Hughes, 07/13/2008 In God's kingdom, there is a great deal of waste, much wasted effort, wasted intentions. But by the grace of God, there is also much good harvest.
	Gonna Lay Them Burdens Down, Brian Hughes, 07/06/2008 Contrary to all expectations, even Jesus offers a yoke. Jesus' yoke is easy, but still a yoke. What is real freedom? It is not a lack of expectations. A violin string cannot sing until it is bound to the instrument. Freedom is being yoked with Christ. [Matthew 11:25-30]
	A Life of Freedom, Mike McQuaid, 06/29/2008 Paul urges the Christians in Rome to offer themselves up to be used as God's instruments of righteousness and so be set free from sin by grace. [Romans 6:12-23]
	Getting a Life, Mike McQuaid, 06/22/2008 In our rather settled, accommodated life, Jesus comes along and tells us the Gospel will create as many problems as it solves. Is it possible for us to proclaim this division-provoking, tension-initiating good news? [Matthew 10:24-39]

Pentecost 2008: Growing up ... Human	05/11/2008 - 06/15/2008

The Bible tells us Jesus Christ was and is the Word. From our human perspective, words are the symbols we use to communicate meaning between ourselves and others. But Jesus is so much more than mere symbol; He is and was the primary communication of God – the "Word made Flesh." What can we learn from the One who is the very essence of communication? How can we grow up in faith to become mature communicators?
	Ready, Fire, Aim!, Brian Hughes, 06/15/2008 Making choices and acting on them communicates commitment - from intentions to action. Choosing and exercising options requires a conscious act of will. The city of Ephesus is a major player in the early church. St. Paul found himself the center of a riot when he challenged the religious piety of the inhabitants! On the other hand, some of our repetitive actions can interfere in our communication and in relationships. [Acts 19:21-41]
	I Want ... (fill in the blank), Brian Hughes, 06/08/2008 Wants come in all shapes and sizes: to be, to do, to have, as well as what I want for myself versus what I want for others. Wants can be short or long-term, small or large. They are our dreams that often are translated into specific goals and objectives. The Rich Young Man thought he knew what he wanted, but then he met Jesus. [Matthew 19:16-22]
	Nothing More than Feelings, Brian Hughes, 06/01/2008 Feelings are spontaneous physical responses that show nonverbally on the outside of you. Feelings can also provide a wealth of information when we know what they're trying to tell us. It wasn't until Jesus broke bread in front of the disciples they remembered their hearts had been previously "stirred" by His teaching. Feelings can tell us a great deal about a situation, but often they're mixed. [Luke 24:31-35]
	The Meaning You Make, Brian Hughes, 05/25/2008 Our experiences, our training, our family of origin, our belief systems; all of these things impact how we interpret what we want to say and what we hear from others. Beliefs influence perceptions much like a selective filter. Nicodemus brought certain expectations to his encounter with Jesus, but walked away a changed man. [John 3:1-16]
	A Sense of Awareness, Brian Hughes, 05/18/2008 The Awareness Wheel includes five "zones" and is a tool for knowing what is going on around and within us when we are communicating. It's also a powerful tool when giving and receiving feedback. Becoming aware of non-verbals is an important first step in communication. Jesus was a master at reading situations before he spoke. [Luke 9:10-17]
	Cloud of Witnesses, Mike McQuaid, 05/11/2008 An adult facing a difficult time said, "Since coming to church, I have found more resources to deal with this difficult time." As we celebrate Pentecost Day, we recall the Holy Spirit empowering eyewitnesses of Jesus to share the good news about His life, death, and resurrection. Today, as 18 youth affirm God's work in their baptism by publicly professing faith in Jesus Christ, we recall a cloud of witnesses before and around them, and us. In whom do you believe? [Acts 2:1-13]

Early May 2008	05/04/2008 - 05/04/2008

Early May 2008
	Faith on the edges, Brian Hughes, 05/04/2008 As Peter draws his letter to a close, he assures his readers that their "fiery ordeal" is a test of faith and an opportunity to share in Christ's suffering. He also assures them of God's grace to restore and strengthen them. [1 Peter 4:12-14; 1 Peter 5:6-11]

Easter: Trading My Sorrows	04/06/2008 - 04/27/2008

We celebrated Joy and New Life on Easter morning. And yet here we are a couple of weeks later, back to seeing our lives meander through all the hurts, the rejections, the losses, the suffering and injustice that were there before. What's changed? Our culture tells us to "move on and get over it." The empty tomb gives us permission to examine grief and come to understand how it has been transformed by Christ.
	Life After Rejection, Mike McQuaid, 04/27/2008 Shame and Blame are the twin siblings of a de-motivated life. They also lock us into a profound grief about our life's trajectory. Forgiveness in Christ frees up our past. [John 8:2-11]
	Walking a New Direction, Brian Hughes, 04/20/2008 As we follow after Christ, we may notice there are others not coming along for the journey. Moving forward sometimes means walking away from those who are "stuck." [Matthew 12:46-50]
	Choosing Poorly, Brian Hughes, 04/13/2008 Watching someone make a really bad life choice, feeling helpless knowing the impending consequences, leaves us wondering what to do with all the emotions and thoughts the logical outcome leaves behind. [Genesis 3:8-13]
	Grief Acknowledged, Brian Hughes, 04/06/2008 On their last night together Jesus told his disciples they would grieve. Following Christ does not insulate us from loss. But he does promise it will have an endpoint. [John 16:17-24]

Holy Week and Easter 2008	03/16/2008 - 03/30/2008

Holy Week and Easter 2008
	Your Identification Please, Brian Hughes, 03/30/2008 Last Sunday Christ appeared to his frightened followers, first to Mary Magdalene, telling her, "Don't hold me," then rushing on through the locked doors of his disciples, revealing himself to them. This Sunday, Christ is still on the move. He's back, this time to show himself despite the doubts of Thomas. Thomas needs visible, tangible proof? Well, that's just what Christ gives him. He gives whatever anybody needs to believe. [John 20:19-31]
	An Easter Earthquake, Brian Hughes, 03/23/2008 Easter 2008 message. [Matthew 28:1-10]
	Good Friday 2008, Brian Hughes and Mike McQuaid, 03/21/2008 Good Friday 2008
	Maundy Thursday 2008, Brian Hughes, 03/20/2008 Maundy Thursday 2008
	Palm Sunday 2008, Mike McQuaid, 03/16/2008 Holy Week begins today with the telling of Jesus' jubilant reception by the crowds in Jerusalem saying, "Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!" The rest of the story is told as our worship continues on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday. [Matthew 21:1-11]

Lent - A Passion for God's Story	02/06/2008 - 03/09/2008

How the Bible tells us God's story.
	The Prophets' Calling, Brian Hughes, 03/09/2008 Centuries have passed since Moses' work was accomplished. Sadly, once again people all too readily fall back into their same old selfish patterns. The prophet Isaiah steps onto the stage of history and reminds everyone there are such things as personal consequences. But even the smoldering wick of faith will not be snuffed out; a Servant is coming. [Isaiah 42:1-7]
	David's Destiny, Brian Hughes, 03/02/2008 A man is slumped in a chair in a state of shock. Through the prophet Nathan, he hears a variation on "Which do you want first, the bad news or the good news?" The prophet then responds, "The bad news is that you will not build a house for the Lord. The good news is that God will build a house for you." This story can be understood as the "ideological summit" of the Old Testament. [1 Samuel 16:1-13]
	Moses' Assignment, Brian Hughes, 02/24/2008 God does not abandon his people. He hears their cries and responds with a covenant that reaffirms his compassionate love for them. Characteristically, God starts with one man. God appears to risk his plan on the slender thread of what happens to one child. Later called to his mission after a serious failure as an adult, Moses falls on his face before a burning bush and nothing is ever the same again. [Genesis 12:1-7]
	Abraham's Adventure, Mike McQuaid, 02/17/2008 What makes a seventy-five year old man "take off his slippers and put on his walking shoes" to embark on a trek across the desert? His adventure meant leaving behind a comfortable lifestyle for an unknown destination. Why? Put simply, it was the sight and sound of God. He also set in motion a train of events that would, eventually, bring Jesus to the world. [Genesis 12:1-7]
	Noah's Voyage, Mike McQuaid, 02/10/2008 Stepping out of the ark was probably as large an act of faith as stepping into it. Noah did not enter the ark merely to escape an impending disaster. He also was part of God's strategic plan of ultimate redemption. Entering in to God's Story for humanity is always life changing. [Genesis 7:1-12]

The Amazing Race	01/06/2008 - 02/03/2008

To run well the amazing race of life requires rigorous training: five disciplines to build strength and stamina for the long road ahead. There are those who start exercising, but then quit when it starts to hurt. It doesn't start working until it hurts. There's an important principle of life right there. Nothing begins to work until it hurts. Discipline is saying no to old habits for last year and acting on the directive of God for this New Year. You can't skip over discipline to live a Christ-like, Spirit-filled life. It's like running an amazing race.
	The Amazing Race - Stewardship, Brian Hughes, 02/03/2008 The ongoing success of Jesus' mission has now been entrusted to you and me. Jesus has passed the baton on to us, calling us to the highest place of trust. Now is the time to run our leg of life's relay. [John 21:15-22]
	The Amazing Race - Service, Brian Hughes, 01/27/2008 Servanthood is an attitude demonstrated in action as we pursue The Amazing Race of life. God has entrusted us to live out the real mission of Jesus, the humble servant who modeled true greatness. [John 13:2-17]
	The Amazing Race - Prayer, Brian Hughes, 01/13/2008 Evil is a reality in our world, but the good news in this Amazing Race of life is that Jesus' hard-won power trumps the power of Evil. Disciplined Prayer allows us to experience transformation as we fully acknowledge our dependence on God. [Mark 5:1-13]
	The Amazing Race - The Word, Brian Hughes, 01/06/2008 To run well, the amazing race of life requires rigorous training: five disciplines to build strength and stamina for the long road ahead. The first discipline addresses our need to hear from Heaven each day, to gain direction and transformation from The Word. [1 Timothy 4:1-8]

Advent 2007 - Mission: Possible	12/02/2007 - 12/30/2007

When you realize that this world is not all there is (in fact this is just kind of the kindergarten stage) and that eternity is going to go on for millions and billions of years (yet you will only spend 60, 70, 80 years or so here on earth) a lot of things lose their importance. They just don't seem that important when you put them in perspective of eternity. Every child of God has been created with unique gifts for the mission that only they can fulfill.
	Just Like Us, Brian Hughes, 12/30/2007 The Letter to the Hebrews speaks of the great mystery of the God "for whom and through whom all things exist," coming to us as one who is like us "in every respect." Our God came among us as Jesus of Nazareth, our brother. He is able to help us, to save us, to lift us up, because, in the Incarnation, he joins us in the human experience of daily life. [Hebrews 2:10-18]
	Mary's Mission - Participating in Grace (5:30), Mike McQuaid, 12/24/2007 Mary's Mission - Participating in Grace (5:30 service).
	Mary's Mission - Participating in Grace (10:30), Brian Hughes, 12/24/2007 Mary's Mission - Participating in Grace (10:30 service)
	Joseph's Mission - Protecting the Innocent, Brian Hughes, 12/23/2007 Joseph transitions from engaged guy to protector of the unborn Christ. Then he finds himself fleeing his home, protecting the baby Jesus from an angry King Herod. His role as a man and father expanded in ways he never expected. Some of us are called to acts of mercy and justice, protecting the innocent and vulnerable. [Matthew 1:18-25]
	Zechariah's Mission - Praising God, Mike McQuaid, 12/16/2007 Just after hearing he was going to be a Dad, Zechariah lost all ability to speak. He was unable to share what he knew about the Good News soon to be born in Bethlehem. The day his voice returns he immediately bursts into song. Some of us are called to praise God in word and song. [Luke 1:62-79]
	John the Baptist's Mission - Preparing the Way, Brian Hughes, 12/09/2007 John the Baptist takes up Isaiah's prophecy and now adds the sense of urgency. He tells everyone he can, "The One you've been waiting for? Guess what, he's almost here!" Some of us are called to help prepare the way for Christ, that new lives may be touched by the Gospel. [Matthew 3:1-5]
	Isaiah's Mission - Pointing toward Hope, Mike McQuaid, 12/02/2007 Old Testament prophets had a unique role in God's unfolding revelation: pointing toward the future. Isaiah's mission was profound - he was called to shift the entire religious landscape. No longer would God be named by what He had done in history (God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob); God would now be known by what He was planning to do at some point in the distant future: send the Messiah. Some of us are called to be witnesses of Hope, pointing toward what God intends for our future. [Isaiah 35:1-10]

Thanksgiving and Christ the King Sunday 2007	11/21/2007 - 11/25/2007

Thanksgiving and Christ the King Sunday 2007
	Fighting the Powers, Brian Hughes, 11/25/2007 In our celebration of Christ the King, we can think of few places in scripture where the largeness of the reign of Christ is more sweepingly and eloquently expressed than in the grand affirmations of Colossians. Christ the King is the glue that keeps the cosmos together. [Jeremiah 23:1-6]
	Little Things Count, Mike McQuaid, 11/21/2007 What does God want out of us anyway? What does Jesus expect? It is God's job to worry about issues of effectiveness, long-term worth, and global value. It is our job to be faithful; to be, in our lives and deeds, an outpost of the kingdom, a credit to the king. We know who sits on the throne. [Matthew 25:31-40]

How Wise People Build Wealth	11/04/2007 - 11/18/2007

Tens of thousands of college grads and thousands of MBAs file for bankruptcy every year. The scary part? All graphs show the numbers going up and to the right. What's up with that? God-honoring money management is far and away more a matter of wisdom and character than it is of education. Doing it right sets one up to "take hold of the life that is truly life." Are you up to the challenge of deciding for true wealth?
	How Wise People Build Wealth, Part 3, Brian Hughes, 11/18/2007 The latest cost estimate for raising a child from infancy to age 22 is now over $300,000. If you plan to help kids with college, it's going to be way more than that. People who figure out God's way of managing money, who humble themselves to learn His ways, over time are often surprised how God's wisdom works so well in their lives [2 Corinthians 9:1-8]
	How Wise People Build Wealth, Part 2, Brian Hughes, 11/11/2007 In 2006, Warren Buffett pledged the largest philanthropic gift in history: 30-40 billion dollars. Lessons from Buffett's strategies, coupled with sage advice from Scripture, provide a base for a biblical approach to money management. Realistically, how can God use you to change the world if you can't manage your own financial affairs? [Ecclesiastes 5:10-18]
	How Wise People Build Wealth, Part 1, Mike McQuaid, 11/04/2007 More people went bankrupt last year than graduated from college. Eighty percent of the cars on U.S. Highways are worth less than what people owe on them. In communities like ours, most people actually have very little equity in their homes. They owe, they owe, so it's off to work they go! It's time to let Christ reset our priorities. [1 Timothy 6:3-10]

Not in My Backyard!	09/23/2007 - 10/28/2007

Caring or being used? Compassion or codependence? Healthy limits or divisive walls? How does a Christian discern the difference? What are legitimate boundaries? How do I answer when someone wants my time, love, or energy? Aren’t boundaries selfish? Christians often focus so much on being loving and giving that they forget their own limitations. Boundaries are personal property lines that define who you are and who you are not, and influence all areas of your life. It’s also a very Biblical concept.
	Boundaries and Your Family, Mike McQuaid, 10/28/2007 Establishing boundaries with our family of origin is a tough task, but one with great reward. It is a process, with certain distinguishable steps. The basic question is this: "Where have you lost control of your property?" [Joshua 24:14-15]
	Boundaries and Your Friends, Brian Hughes, 10/21/2007 Friendship: the word conjures up images of two people who will be there for one another. The saddest people on earth are those who end their days with no serious relationships in which they are supported or have learned to support another. Boundary conflicts between friends come in all shapes and sizes. Learning how to establish solid friendships is a task well worth embracing. [1 John 4:7-12]
	Boundaries and Your Work, Brian Hughes, 10/14/2007 The "Fall" divided love from work. Before the Fall, Adam was connected with God and, in that profound connection, engaged the tasks God had given to him. After the Fall, he worked amid the toil of a broken humanity and world. Understanding boundaries can help resolve many work-related problems, as well as how to be happier and more fulfilled in the work we do. [Genesis 1:27-31]
	Boundaries and Your Self, Brian Hughes, 10/07/2007 We have learned that boundaries are biblical. We have begun setting limits on others. We’ve moved from taking no or too much responsibility to taking just what is appropriate. But how do we begin putting boundaries on ourselves? Instead of just looking at the control and manipulation others may attempt to place on us, we continue our series by reflecting on our own internal boundary conflicts. [1 Thessalonians 4:1-8]
	How Boundaries are Developed, Brian Hughes, 09/30/2007 There's an old saying that "Insanity is genetic – it's inherited from your kids." Well, boundaries are not inherited. They are built. To be the truth-telling, responsible, free and loving people God intends us to be, we need to learn about limits. [Genesis 3:21-24]
	9:00 - What are Boundaries?, Brian Hughes, 09/23/2007 Physical boundaries mark a visible property line indicating that someone holds the deed. In the emotional and spiritual world, boundaries are just as real, but often harder to see. In reality, these boundaries define your reality, your soul if you will, and they help you guard and maintain it. [Genesis 1:1-5]
	11:30 - What are Boundaries?, Mike McQuaid, 09/23/2007 Physical boundaries mark a visible property line indicating that someone holds the deed. In the emotional and spiritual world, boundaries are just as real, but often harder to see. In reality, these boundaries define your reality, your soul if you will, and they help you guard and maintain it. [Genesis 1:1-5]

Fall Launch 2007	09/02/2007 - 09/16/2007

Fall Launch 2007
	Determined Discipleship, Mike McQuaid, 09/16/2007 Prayer is a central concern in the Books of Luke and The Acts of the Apostles. In today's gospel reading, Jesus tells a parable about a persistent woman who harasses an unjust judge until he finally gives in and gives her the just judgment she demands. Jesus seeks to remind us how we ought to "pray always and not lose heart." [Luke 18:1-8]
	Mustard Seeds, Brian Hughes, 09/09/2007 We have doubts. It can be difficult to trust in the teachings and promises of God. It is even more difficult to do all Jesus has called us to do. We frequently cry out in desperation for God to increase our faith. We tend to forget God has given us all we really need. The smallest amount of faith is enough to make miracles happen. [Luke 17:5-10]
	Like Today Never Happened Before, Brian Hughes, 09/02/2007 This is one of the great "grace texts" of the church. In this letter, because of St. Paul's own autobiography, the contrast between a former unhealthy way of living and the great love of God that allows for new possibilities is clearly defined. Such Grace means living like today never happened before. [1 Timothy 1:12-17]

Summer 2007	06/24/2007 - 08/26/2007

Summer 2007
	Christian Leadership 101, Mike McQuaid, 08/26/2007 The call of God upon a life, vocation, is a great gift of God. The call comes not because of our personal attributes, or because of any of our alleged virtues, but solely out of the gracious goodness of God. Our only qualification to be disciples is the call of God. The authorization for each of our ministries is God's. [Jeremiah 1:4-10]
	It Takes a Wrecking Ball, Mike McQuaid, 08/19/2007 The Jesus who crashes into our personal space in this text is light years from the sugary, serene pastel portraits of a gentle Savior that adorn church hallways. We may prefer a Jesus who soothes, who comforts, who improves our lives. Our text reminds us Jesus is not so constrained when it comes to the lost. [Luke 12:49-56]
	When God Refuses to Listen, Brian Hughes, 08/12/2007 We pray our prayers, we sing our songs to God. What is "good" worship? What is the true test of Christian prayer and praise? The prophet tells us that we must link our worship to our lives, that we must test our liturgy by our ethics, that justice is a good criterion for the validity of our worship. [Isaiah 1:1;Isaiah 1:10-20]
	Majoring in the Minors, Mike McQuaid, 08/05/2007 What is really important in life? What ought to be our highest priorities? To be a Christian, a follower of Jesus, is to keep focusing upon what is important and to keep refusing to become preoccupied with what is unimportant. [Luke 12:13-21]
	A Plea for Persistence, Mike McQuaid, 07/29/2007 When Jesus' disciples asked him about prayer, he gave them a model prayer, the Lord's Prayer. Then he told them a parable that urges persistence and dogged determination in prayer. In our relationship with God, we are to keep at it, keep attempting to be attentive to the incursions of God into our lives. [Luke 11:1-13]
	Hospitality, Brian Hughes, 07/22/2007 An often neglected, sometimes underestimated, Christian virtue is hospitality. Hospitality requires that we expose ourselves to others. As Christians, we must be willing to receive others, to welcome them into our lives. [Luke 10:38-42]
	Belief in Action, Brian Hughes, 07/15/2007 Jesus was a teacher who taught not only through ideas, stories, and concepts but also through active example. He calls us, not simply to think about God, but to actively serve God and neighbor. [Luke 10:25-37]
	Healed by the Wrong People, Pastor Brian Hughes, 07/08/2007 Sometimes God's incursions among us are surprising. Sometimes God's power comes to us when we least expect it from people we least expect. Sometimes we are healed, restored, saved by strangers. This is the peculiar nature of salvation by a stranger named Jesus. [Luke 9:51-62]
	We Will Follow You, But..., Pastor Mike McQuaid, 07/01/2007 God gave this one and only Son to reach lost people. For those who really and truly desire to become more like Christ in their lives, a mark of discipleship is that you become most like him when you are part of His work making the Lost become Found. 3D living is a framework for operating successfully and effectively as God’s means for reaching the Lost. [Luke 9:51-62]
	You Belong, Brian Hughes, 06/24/2007 Paul speaks to the Galatians on the change which has occurred in their lives "now that faith has come." We are reminded that, because of the work of God in Christ, in the cross and resurrection of Jesus, we are given a home, a place in the kingdom of God. We belong. [Galatians 3:23-29]

... In the Name of God	06/03/2007 - 06/17/2007

Since the opening moments of the Christian Church, "Father, Son, and Holy Spirit" has been the proper name of God. Our worship services contain this title. We baptize children and adults using this title. We end prayers with these words. But what do they really mean? The Trinitarian name did not fall from heaven, but was first used to describe how God encountered followers of Jesus Christ. What do these words mean for us today?
	I Believe in God the Holy Spirit, Brian Hughes, 06/17/2007 The center of God's divine activity is the incarnate Son of God, Jesus the Christ. Yet just as the Son performed the work of the Father who sent him, so the Spirit performs the work of the Son. In carrying on Jesus' earthly ministry, the Spirit's ongoing work is to reveal truth, give life and strengthen faith. [John 14:22-27;Acts 2:1-4;John 16:5-11]
	I Believe in God the Son, Mike McQuaid, 06/10/2007 Unlike any other widely followed religious leader in history, Jesus Christ made a unique claim. He declared Himself God. Not a god, not god-like, but God incarnate - the Creator of the universe in human flesh. Intellectually, that's disturbing. Spiritually, that's the most liberating thing that could ever happen to humankind. [Mark 1:9-13;Romans 3:21-26]
	I Believe in God the Father, Brian Hughes, 06/03/2007 The Apostle's Creed was developed between the second and ninth centuries. It is the most popular creed used in worship by Western Christians. Its central doctrines are those of the Trinity and God the Creator. But why was it written and where did it come from? [Genesis 1:1-3;Mark 14:32-36]

Pentecost 2007	05/27/2007 - 05/27/2007

Pentecost 2007
	Believe … do greater works, Mike McQuaid, 05/27/2007 Affirming one's faith in Jesus Christ is not about checking off one more item on one's (or one's child's) spiritual "To Do" list. Instead, it's one of many steps in a lifelong journey of exploring to whom or what we can entrust our souls for eternity. Jesus says that when we respond to His love and forgiveness by entrusting our lives into His hands, He sends us into the world to do "even greater works" than people saw Him do. On this Pentecost Sunday, will you trust the Spirit of God to move you to demonstrate your faith in Christ through your good works toward others? [Acts 2:1-21;John 14:8-17]

Just Walk Across the Room	04/29/2007 - 05/20/2007

Ten Thousand Steps. Roughly that's the distance you will travel from sunrise to sunset, each and every day of your life. It adds up to about 115,000 miles in a lifetime - or more than four times around this big blue planet of ours. With that said, just one question: Are you using your steps wisely? Assume the average distance across most rooms is twenty feet - about ten steps. The question we hope to answer is this: What if ten steps - just one-thousandth of your daily average - could actually impact eternity? If so, it might change the way you walk. This series will bring personal evangelism into the twenty-first century. Your journey may not be dramatic, but it can have a life-changing impact for someone standing just a few steps away from you.
	Grander Vision Living, Brian Hughes, 05/20/2007 Jesus desperately wanted three career fishermen, as well as the fine people of St. John Lutheran Church, to understand that this life is all about people. In Grander Vision Living, we are talking about making people such a priority that we will take a Walk Across a Room, having a radical inclusiveness for people - even those who look different, talk different, act different and so on. We are invited to bring all into Christ's presence. [Luke 5:1-11]
	The Power of Story, Brian Hughes, 05/13/2007 Words. Humble words. Wise words. Gentle words. Grace-filled words. If your closest friends or the family members who actually live underneath the same roof as you were polled anonymously about this, would they say that in the course of normal, everyday life, you can be counted on to speak words of encouragement and grace? What is your story? What is the story of God in your life? And can you get them both told together well? [John 5:19-26]
	Living in 3D, Brian Hughes, 05/06/2007 God gave His one and only Son to reach lost people. For those who really and truly desire to become more like Christ in their lives, a mark of discipleship is that you become most like Him when you are part of His work making the Lost become Found. 3D Living is a framework for operating successfully and effectively as God's means for reaching the Lost: it means to Develop Friendships, Discover Stories, and Discern Next Steps. [Luke 15:1-10]
	The Single Greatest Gift, Brian Hughes, 04/29/2007 The single greatest gift Christ-followers can give people around them is an introduction to the God who created them, who loves them, and who has a purpose for their life. Nothing beats it - not monetary gains, not job opportunities, not recognition or accolades. And when you boil it down, this is what Just Walk Across the Room is all about: watching for ways to give this greatest gift to someone living far from God. [John 4:4-9;John 4:21-30]

Holy Week and Easter 2007	04/01/2007 - 04/22/2007

Messages from Holy Week and the Easter Season, 2007.
	Breakfast by the Beach, Brian Hughes, 04/22/2007 The risen Christ is free and moving. He doesn't recognize the separation that we tend to make between "secular" and "religious". He intrudes, comes to where you are, speaks to you, and reveals himself to you. Pay attention tomorrow when you are sitting at your desk, or washing the clothes, or sweeping the floor, or reading a book. Jesus is loose and he is looking for you. [John 21:1-19]
	From Fear to Faith, Mike McQuaid, 04/15/2007 John's Gospel ends in a series of three resurrection stories. Our Gospel text today comprises the second and third resurrection appearances. In this two-act drama we learn these key truths: 1) The disciples of Jesus reacted to his crucifixion with fear, cowering behind locked doors; 2) Jesus seeks out those fearful disciples right after his resurrection. He comes to them, appears before them, and empowers them to do his work. From Fear to Faithful Action. [John 20:19-31]
	Easter 2007, Part I, Mike McQuaid, 04/08/2007 Easter 2007, Part I [Luke 24:1-11]
	Easter 2007, Part II, Brian Hughes, 04/08/2007 Easter 2007, Part II [Luke 24:1-11]
	Good Friday 2007, Suzanne Sewell, 04/06/2007 Good Friday 2007 [John 18:1-11]
	Maundy Thursday 2007, Brian Hughes, 04/05/2007 Maundy Thursday 2007 [John 13: 27-35]
	Palm Sunday 2007, Mike McQuaid, 04/01/2007 On Palm Sunday, we remember people using palm leaves to praise Jesus as king; and yet by the end of the week we will hear that many of the same people abandoned, betrayed, or denied Jesus in the moment of his death. With our own palms we praise Jesus today; and yet we will use those same palms to hurt people later this week. What can we learn from how Jesus used his palms? [Luke 22:1-13]

Life: God's Teaching Moments	02/21/2007 - 03/25/2007

Around and around we go. Job, paying bills, fixing the car, kids, yard work, relationship stresses - it all seems a variation on the theme until something dramatic spills into our lives. Many times we can't stop the dramas from happening, but we can choose to learn from them. The word "disciple" means "learner". That's what this series is all about - making an intentional choice to pay attention to those times in life when God is trying to teach us something, and in the process, learning as we go forward into the next day. We will discover how Jesus taught his disciples to grow from their experiences, and we'll see how we can learn the same way.
	Going the Distance, Brian Hughes, 03/25/2007 Friedrich Nietzsche wrote, "The essential thing in 'heaven and earth' is ... that there should also be a long obedience in the same direction." Repent and Believe are easy to learn, but knowing these two in our heads is just the beginning. Life, God's Teaching Moments, is a tool we can carry forward every day of our earthly existence. [Psalm 73:1-10;Psalm 73:23-28;Mark 1:14-15]
	Time to Move, Brian Hughes, 03/18/2007 Action comes out of confidence. It's a faith issue. Sometimes our lives are shaped by inactivity. But there comes a point where our confidence is expressed in how we live. It is visible, it is seen, it is public. Jesus has always been much more than just talk. [Matthew 7:24-29]
	Changing Your Strategy, Brian Hughes, 03/11/2007 You've made a choice to learn from Life. Jesus' first command to us is to repent. Repentance is not about judgment. It's about change. That can be scary, but in Jesus' presence, it's time to stop worrying. It's time to be honest with ourselves. [Matthew 6:25-34;Numbers 13:2;Numbers 13:17-18]
	It's Your Turn, Brian Hughes, 03/04/2007 You're walking along what you think is a straight path when suddenly out of nowhere an unplanned situation forces you to a screeching halt. You're at an intersection. You can decide to move along a familiar path, pretending nothing happened or you can make a choice to learn from Life. Which direction will you choose? [Mark 1:14-15;Jeremiah 29:11]
	Rules of the Game, Brian Hughes, 02/25/2007 You want your life filled with a sense of purpose and direction, where you know you are doing exactly that God made you to do. You're just not sure how to go about it. Jesus invites you to learn from him, finding meaning in your daily experiences. His teachings are where we start. [Matthew 11:25-30;Mark 1:14-15]
	Ash Wednesday, 2007, Brian Hughes, 02/21/2007 Ash Wednesday, 2007. [Matthew 5:6-7; Psalm 51]

Desperate Households	01/14/2007 - 02/18/2007

Countless books and studies have been written and numerous courses have been taught on the formation of strong families. Despite all that effort, many of us are still wondering, "How do I raise normal kids these days?" While we may think we're in new territory in our post-modern world, even a causal glance at scripture tells us the question is as old as Adam and Eve. Lots of families in the Bible were a Real Mess! What can we learn from their mistakes and, even more importantly, what can we learn about God's Grace and Faithfulness toward these families regardless of their ancient blunders and missteps? This series will be a practical introduction to Family Transitions through the eyes of Scripture. Even if your kids are raised and on their own, don't miss this opportunity to gain a renewed appreciation of how we can raise healthy, Christ-following children.
	The Future of the Family, Brian Hughes, 02/18/2007 We must conclude that the family as we know it will not be found in heaven. We live and breathe and give birth to the next generation, living as faithfully as we can until "the world to come" arrives. On that day God will finally heal all conflict in relationships. Male and female will be redeemed. [Matthew 22:23-33]
	Yours, Mine and Ours - A Family by Choice, Pastor Brian Hughes, 02/11/2007 Blended families bring together a myriad of expectations. The story of Ruth is a witness of God's blessing upon faithful followers who find one another later in life. Ruth's family eventually produces the Davidic dynasty, which in turn leads down through the generations to Jesus Christ, the Messiah. [Ruth 1:11-18]
	The Importance of Fathers, Mike McQuaid, 02/04/2007 Ignored by her father, Dinah starts hanging around with the wrong crowd. She becomes a seriously "at risk" child. Once the worst happens, someone has to pick up the broken pieces. Many of our young dads, if statistics are any indication, have come from families that don't understand the powerful role fathers play in their child's development. [Genesis 34:1-5]
	But Mom Always Liked You Best, Brian Hughes, 01/28/2007 Birth order can have a profound impact on a family's expectations. In our Bible story this morning, it's a theme we see between Jacob and Esau as well as Leah and Rachel; Jacob's anger at Esau's birth placement plays itself out on Leah and her children, continuing the unhealthy pattern. [Genesis 25:24-34]
	Kids Will Be Kids, Mike McQuaid, 01/21/2007 Cain and Abel - a solid example of conflict developing in families with distant parents. When parents step out of their role, one of the kids becomes the "identified patient" amid the trauma. This is not to suggest "it's all the parent's fault," but to help us understand that Cain and Abel's conflicts were rooted in something much deeper than their career choices. [Genesis 4:1-12]
	So What’s a "Normal" Family?, Brian Hughes, 01/14/2007 In the physical world, boundaries are easy to see; fences, signs, walls, moats with alligators, or manicured lawns in front of houses set way back from the street. In the spiritual world, boundaries are just as real, but often harder to see. God designed a world where we inhabit our own souls and we are responsible for the things that define "us." But often our family or past relationships confuse us about where our lives end and someone else's begins. [Genesis 2:19-25]

Post-Christmas 2006	12/31/2006 - 01/07/2007

Post-Christmas 2006 Messages.
	Epiphany: The Baptism of Jesus, Mike McQuaid, 01/07/2007 Epiphany: The baptism of Jesus. [Luke 3:21-22]
	What Will We Learn This Year?, Brian Hughes, 12/31/2006 What will we learn this year? How (not) to ruin your spiritual life in 2007. [Luke 2:41-52]

Advent 2006 - Come and Worship the King	12/03/2006 - 12/24/2006

What is Christian Worship? On that special Christmas night shepherds came down off the hills to worship. Wise men traveled hundreds of miles, bringing gifts to honor of the newborn King. Mary broke into worshipful song after her late night angelic visitor. John the Baptist led a multitude of seekers in prayer and confession as they awaited the coming Messiah. Two thousand years later, how do we worship the one born in Bethlehem?
	When's He Coming Back?, Mike McQuaid, 12/24/2006 Is this the year Jesus returns? What happens until he does? [Luke 21:7-8;Luke 21:29-36]
	High School Drama, Kayleigh McQuaid and Colby Andersson, 12/24/2006 High school drama.
	Running to Worship, Brian Hughes, 12/24/2006 Where is the Holy Family? Where is Jesus tonight? In an orphanage in Tanzania. [Luke 2:8-20]
	What's Up with All the Presents?, Brian Hughes, 12/17/2006 The Magi bowed down and presented gifts to the newborn Jesus. We bring all sorts of things into worship. Be they hopes or fears from all the years, now is the time to leave them here. [Matthew 2:1-12]
	Why So Much Singing?, Brian Hughes, 12/10/2006 Some folks love to sing. Others prefer to listen and enjoy the moment. Some stand there and don't get it. Statistically, only about 7% of Americans can read and sing along to music. So why is there so much of it and what role does singing play in worship? [Luke 1:39-56]
	What is Christian Worship?, Mike McQuaid, 12/03/2006 Unchurched visitors or newer Christians can experience worship as a weird and alien moment. Long ago John the Baptist fervently helped prepare hearts and minds to worship Jesus. After all these centuries, not much has changed. Do we even know what it means to worship Jesus? [Matthew 3:1-6]

Come, Walk With Us - In His Steps	11/05/2006 - 11/26/2006

Here we have, in one verse, the summation of what God expects of us as followers of Jesus. It is a three-sided relationship: Up (Faith): Walk humbly with your God; In (Love): Love mercy; and Out (Hope): Do justice. It is also how we understand what it means to grow as a disciple of Jesus Christ.
	What is True?, Mike McQuaid, 11/26/2006 In a value-neutral, non-judgmental, permissive society where we like to believe that there is no higher standard of judgment than our own consciences, this is the Sunday we are reminded that we shall be judged. God's ways are not our ways. [Matthew 25:31-46]
	Thanksgiving Eve 2006, Brian Hughes, 11/22/2006 Thanksgiving is deeply rooted in our historical experience as citizens of this country. But Thanksgiving is even more profound than that, for it says something about how we will live our lives. Tonight we will discover a concrete way in which we can share thanks with the children of Tanzania.
	Out With It, Brian Hughes, 11/19/2006 If the words 'evangelism' or 'invite' send chills down your spine, join the club. Many Christians feel the same way. Jesus had a reason for coming to us and it wasn't to build churches. Our work is to bring Lost people into the safe haven of community with God and with his followers. We are invited to make a connection with a person whom God has already prepared. [Micah 6:8;Matthew 28:16-20]
	In Christ, Brian Hughes, 11/12/2006 God was relational with humans from the very start, and he means for us to be relational with each other. The theme of relationship runs through scripture from beginning to end - it's the reason God planned for our redemption and promises us that we can be with him forever. [Micah 6:8;Ephesians 2:11-20]
	God Calls, We Answer, Brian Hughes, 11/05/2006 When you consider the Up (Faith) relationship, keep in mind that you are not the instigator of the relationship. You do not have to work to keep the relationship alive. Every time you pray, you are simply responding to God's call to your heart. [Micah 6:8;Luke 6:12-20]

The Balanced Life	09/24/2006 - 10/29/2006

Scripture reveals the pattern of life that God created for us. We can see it in the lives of Adam and Eve before the Fall and we see it lived out on a daily basis by Jesus. This pattern is crucial to living a Balanced Life - a life lived as God intended. What comes to mind is a pendulum, swinging in a natural rhythm to and fro.
	A Passionate Life, Brian Hughes, 10/29/2006 Throughout the early 1500's, Martin Luther was in deep anguish about his life's ministry. Sometimes he was completely and utterly convinced he was renewing the Church in ways God intended. Other times he fell into deep despair, flooded with doubt about what he was doing. Such is the life of a disciple of Jesus Christ, finding balance between assurance and skepticism. [Romans 5:1-8]
	The Language of Letting Go, Brian Hughes, 10/22/2006 Codependency has probably trailed humanity through the B.C. years right up to "those generally wretched times of the twentieth century." People have worried themselves sick about other people. They have tried to help in ways that didn't help. They have worn sackcloth because they thought they didn't deserve silk. These and many more habits are self defeating. Time for a change. [Luke 18:9-14]
	Me, Myself and ... You, Brian Hughes, 10/15/2006 People - you can't live with them and you can't live without them. Sometimes they can make you crazy. Other times life would lose all meaning if we were completely on our own. Somewhere between self-absorption and self-fusion we can find a life. [Matthew 20:20-27]
	The Gift of Work, Mike McQuaid, 10/08/2006 Work is important. The very first command that God gives humans is to "be fruitful and multiply." Does this mean we are to be workaholics? In a word, no. Working our brains out is not what God meant in Genesis. [Matthew 11:25-30]
	Nearer My Couch to Thee, Brian Hughes, 10/01/2006 Maybe you've tried all the diets and exercise plans. Maybe you're thinking either they don't work or you can't stick with them. Feel like giving up? You're given only one body in this life. It is *the* most basic form of stewardship to learn how God would have you care for it. [Genesis 1:26-31]
	Adrenaline and Stress: How long will you last?, Brian Hughes, 09/24/2006 God intended a balanced life, but so few of us give it more than a mental acknowledgement. There are profound biochemical and physical impacts on the human body when we just keep pushing. God frees us to live a very different lifestyle. [Matthew 8:18-27]

Fall Launch	09/03/2006 - 09/17/2006

Fall Launch
	Who Needs It?, Brian Hughes, 09/17/2006 In Christ's vineyard, in contrast to every other vineyard we know, our degrees and seniority, our years of distinguished service, our titles - vice president, chairperson, dean, doctor, professor, honorable, reverend, whatever - are irrelevant to the overriding question: Are you immersed in and compelled by love? [Matthew 20:1-16]
	A Restoration Rubric, Mike McQuaid, 09/10/2006 Jesus gives guidelines for discipline and restoration among his followers. The community/church has the authority and the responsibility of maintaining accountability among its members. In a post-modern world, this isn't always well received, but among followers of Jesus Christ, we find it's the only way to build the kind of community He would have us be. [Matthew 18:15-20]
	The Call, Brian Hughes, 09/03/2006 The story of Moses teaches us a number of important lessons about vocation. The call of God sometimes comes when we least expect it, where we least expect it, coming to ordinary, not-too-well qualified people (like us!), enlisting us in divine work. [Exodus 3:1-15]

Summer 2006	07/16/2006 - 08/27/2006

	Lord, To Whom Shall We Go?, Brian Hughes, 08/27/2006 Whether one's a long time Christian, new to the faith or still recovering from bad past experiences of the church, there comes a time when we know in our hearts, souls - in our bones - that it is not just about the outward trappings of religion. It just makes sense, on all levels of our lives, to follow Jesus. [John 6:61-68]
	Depth of Personality, Brian Hughes, 08/20/2006 Shallow people aren't just boring or silly, they're also a wonderful anti-example of how much more is possible in this life. Though triggered by the nicks and dings of life, Proverbs reminds us that deep Wisdom (and profound growth in personhood) must be sought in the midst of life's tussles. [Proverbs 9:1-6]
	Strength for the Journey, Brian Hughes, 08/13/2006 Faithfulness always brings opposition, often in ways we can't see until it's upon us. The prophet Elijah speaks words of truth given him by God, but ends up running for his life. Along the way he finds he's not running alone, but that God has come up along side him. After a time in God's presence, he discovers strength to turn around, go back and confront the evil he fled. [1 Kings 19:2-8]
	Bread for the Soul, Mike McQuaid, 08/06/2006 Jesus points past our physical wants to the spiritual hunger that lurks within us all. We so easily confuse the two, but Jesus doesn't send us away; instead, He feeds us the "Bread of Life." [John 6:24-35]
	A Love that Surpasses Knowledge, Mike McQuaid, 07/30/2006 In the power of the Holy Spirit we "grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ." Faith is always a gift of the Spirit. Without the third person of the Trinity, we'd wander throughout life never knowing or understanding the Love of Christ. [Ephesians 3:14-21]
	A Never Ending Compassion, Mike McQuaid, 07/23/2006 Wherever he went, Jesus always drew huge crowds. People came from miles around to experience life in his presence. How is that transformation apparent today? Just look around on any Sunday. Jesus still draws crowds. [Mark 6:30-34;Mark 6:53-56]
	Innocence Lost, Mike McQuaid, 07/16/2006 A child's innocent gift of dance is twisted into something evil. Though she walks off the pages of scripture and into the fog of history, what happened to this little girl? Generation to generation, children learn patterns of behavior that effect them the rest of their lives. What are the influences working to undermine childhood today and what are possible faith-filled responses? [Mark 6:14-29]

Rediscovering the Church	06/11/2006 - 07/09/2006

It comes as no secret that many of our neighbors don't understand "the church", maybe don't trust "the church" or want anything to do with "the church." So ... what do we tell them if they ask about "the church"? Or, maybe you're not so sure about "the church" either. It's time to take a look, time to "Rediscover the Church." The best place to start is in the beginning, in the opening moments of the Christian experience. There we discover "the church" isn't a building or an institution, but people who are doing something. It's called the Acts of the Apostles for a reason. It wasn't called the Intentions of the Apostles, the Desires of the Apostles or the Wishes of the Apostles, the Rules, Regulations and Organizational Chart of the Apostles... not even the Beliefs of the Apostles. It's called the Actions of the Apostles.
	ACTS: Encouraging Discipleship, Brian Hughes, 07/09/2006 St. Barnabas is known at "the encourager." He supported St. Paul in missionary work and was present when disciples in Antioch were called "Christians" for the first time. Encouragers don't give up. Throughout the bible, we learn it's a character trait of believers. [Acts 11:22-26]
	ACTS: All Are Welcome, Brian Hughes, 07/02/2006 In this ancient story, a "pagan" Roman Centurion named Cornelius sends for St. Peter. He doesn't know this will eventually lead to his conversion as a Christ follower. Right this moment God may be preparing someone who will send for you, asking about Faith, Hope, and Love as a Christian. What do you say or do when that time comes? [Acts 10:1-8]
	ACTS: Use Me O Lord, Mike McQuaid, 06/25/2006 St. Paul has a vision of a man begging him, "Come help us." What vision for action has God placed in your heart and mind? How do you know that it's God's vision and not something else? What can you do with that vision that God has for your life? [Acts 16:6-10]
	ACTS: Growing Hope One Life at a Time, Brian Hughes, 06/18/2006 There is something you have that God needs. God needs your mind and your body to accomplish His purpose in the world. God is spirit and He needs a physical vehicle to carry out His intentions on planet Earth. He needs you to be the hands and feet of Jesus. [Acts 3:1-8]
	ACTS: Devotion in Motion, Brian Hughes, 06/11/2006 Jesus didn't say, "Go therefore and build the church", but rather "Go therefore and make disciples." Bringing people into "the church" is not our goal. When disciples are made, church happens. Acts is how the early Christian community made that happen. [Acts 1:8-11]

Pentecost 2006	06/04/2006 - 06/04/2006

	What Can This Mean ... For Us?, Mike McQuaid, 06/04/2006 Is this Pentecost story really true? Fifty days after Jesus' death and resurrection, the people who had followed him for three years were suddenly and simultaneously speaking the same message in many different languages. What can this mean... for us? [Acts 2:1-13]

Who is this Man?	04/23/2006 - 05/28/2006

"Jesus is Risen" is the heart of the Gospel. It's a simple sentence we use to begin all Easter morning worship services. OK, given you accept this as true, how would you answer the question, "Why is that Good News?" What difference does it make that this one man, who was once dead, now lives? The central intent of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John was to give answers to this very question. Join us as we explore the responses we find in the Bible.
	What Does Jesus Intend for Us?, Brian Hughes, 05/28/2006 Jesus' prayer for His church isn't concerned with how business will be conducted. He's not interested in who will be in charge or where it will be located or the size and shape of its worship space. Jesus prays for his "church", for the People he has gathered around him. Across two thousand years those words come to us: "Holy Father, protect them in your name." [John 17:10-16]
	Who Are Jesus' Favorite People?, Mike McQuaid, 05/21/2006 "Lost people matter to God, therefore they matter to us" is our first and most important core value at St. John. Jesus constantly reminded his followers of his mission to reach those who were far from God. Who are the modern "Lost" and what does it take to find them? [Luke 15:1-7]
	How Do I Meet Jesus Today?, Brian Hughes, 05/14/2006 Have you ever been at the brink of despair? What took you there? Two disciples were heart broken at the death of Jesus, but once they recognized his presence, joy washed over and through them. Where can we find that joy today? [Luke 24:13-21;Luke 24:45-48]
	Where is Jesus Now?, Brian Hughes, 05/07/2006 What does the Easter Story teach us about Jesus? Why does Jesus' resurrection give us hope for life eternal and what are the compelling reasons to believe? Easter morning changed Christ's early followers with results that are still felt today. [Mark 16:1-7]
	Why a Cross?, Brian Hughes, 04/30/2006 What does the story surrounding the death of Christ teach us about ourselves? What does it mean that the Son of God died on a Cross for us? This is the central theological base upon which our faith rests. What does the fact of his suffering and death matter to you, to me - to us? [Mark 15:12-20]
	Who is this Man?, Brian Hughes, 04/23/2006 This is a question with eternal consequences. Jesus is either the savior of the world or a liar. He has profoundly different things to say about God, Relationships and what has Value. No wonder disciples of every age sometimes find it all more than a little frightening. [Mark 4:35-41]

Holy Week 2006	04/09/2006 - 04/16/2006

	Who Dunnit? A lie or the truth?, Mike McQuaid, 04/16/2006 After the documented events surrounding the death and burial of Jesus of Nazareth, his followers find themselves in a mystery - the huge stone blocking the tomb has been moved and his body is not in the tomb where they had laid it. What led to their claim that "Jesus is risen!" - a claim his followers still declare today, almost 2,000 years later?
	Maundy Thursday, Brian Hughes, 04/13/2006 Our Maundy Thursday service traces the connections between the traditional Jewish Seder Passover meal and the Lord's Supper as we celebrate it today. The service ends in silence, marking the beginning of Christ's journey to the cross. [Exodus 12; Matthew 26]
	The Silence of God, Brian Hughes, 04/09/2006 Today marks the beginning of Jesus' final week of earthly life. As Jesus stood before Pilate during his trial, as the powerful Roman ruler attempted to interrogate him, the gospels say that Jesus was silent. In our struggles with God, it is the silence that can put our relationship with God to the greatest test. [Mark 14:10-16]

Making Love Last a Lifetime	03/05/2006 - 04/02/2006

	Making Love Last a Lifetime: Making Love Last a Lifetime, Brian Hughes, 04/02/2006 Every day, every moment, we are called to serve the Lord, including, or perhaps especially, in marriage. Marriage is a calling, a mission, in which two people enter into a covenant with God to minister to each other. Marriage is an act of discipleship, faithfulness, service, and obedience to God. When we see marriage in this way, it offers us the possibilities of remarkable joy and satisfaction. [Ecclesiastes 4:9-12;Ephesians 5:1-2]
	Making Love Last a Lifetime: The Ministry and Meaning of Faithfulness, Mike McQuaid, 03/26/2006 The key to building a healthy intimate relationship is found in the Christian concept of agape, or sacrificial love. This type of love is primarily focused on meeting the needs of another rather than meeting our own needs. It is about serving, loving, blessing, and giving away one's self. [1 Timothy 4:4-5;Hebrews 13:4a]
	Making Love Last a Lifetime: The Habits of Unhealthy Marriages, Brian Hughes, 03/19/2006 One good habit that must be cultivated in every effective marriage is forgiveness. Two of the most important sentences to be spoken in every marriage are "I am sorry" and "I forgive you." In addition, Jesus offered two key principles that form an overarching ethic for how we ought to treat our mates, as well as everyone else: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" and "Love your neighbor as you love yourself." [Ephesians 4:25-32]
	Making Love Last a Lifetime: After the Honeymoon is Over, Mike McQuaid, 03/12/2006 In the Scripture passage, the apostle Paul wrote to the Christians at the town of Colossae, in what is now Turkey, and described how Christians ought to treat one another. He painted a powerful picture of what our Christian relationships should look like. Paul was not writing to husbands and wives in particular. However, if his advice applies to all our relationships, how much more should it apply to our relationship with our spouse, the one person whom God has specifically entrusted to our care? [Colossians 3:12-14]
	Making Love Last a Lifetime: Venus and Mars - In the Beginning, Brian Hughes, 03/05/2006 Can you imagine a world populated only by men? But God decided that was not such a good idea. Instead, God determined that the man needed a woman - a creature very much the same as him and yet mysteriously, maddeningly, wonderfully different. And so God created the new and improved model of the human being - a woman! And the two embraced and became one flesh, and marriage was born. [Genesis 2:18;Genesis 2:21-25]

February-March 2006	02/05/2006 - 03/02/2006

	Ash Wednesday, March 2006, Mike McQuaid, 03/02/2006 Ash Wednesday, March 2006
	Transfiguration, Brian Hughes, 02/26/2006 The transfiguration of Christ on the mountain is pure worship, something at the heart of our faith. We cannot fully explain it. We can only proclaim it, relish it, enjoy it, and wonder at the sheer glory of it all. [Mark 9:2-9]
	Why Friends Matter, Brian Hughes, 02/19/2006 The show is in reruns, but we still need Friends. Where can we find people to trust and depend on? Jesus healed a paralytic, but this paralyzed man was completely dependent on his friends' compassion and efforts to bring him to Jesus. Without friends, he would never have found himself at Jesus' feet. In other words: the power of Christian community. [Mark 2:1-12]
	An Unexpected Healing, Brian Hughes, 02/12/2006 A muddy creek, a long journey, a reluctant participant, but a prophet's insight still becomes real. How and where can we be changed? Spiritual formation basics - we want Jesus, but why daily reading? How can something so simple matter so much? Naaman didn't believe in simple approaches either. [2 Kings 5:1-14]
	A Balanced Life, Mike McQuaid, 02/05/2006 From the very beginning of his ministry, Jesus demonstrated a biblical approach to life/time management: work, rest, prayer, quiet time, more work... Jesus preaches and heals, but the Gospel writer lets us peek at how Jesus could do so for the long haul. [Mark 1:29-39]

Money Matters	01/08/2006 - 01/29/2006

When we think about it, money matters, doesn't it? Think of how much of our energy every week is tied in some way to money. A recent Gallup poll that says 56% of all divorces are the result of financial tension. God desires that his children be free from financial worry. We're going to spend one month talking about biblical principles of financial freedom. We're going to talk about some very sound things to put into practice.
	Money Matters: The Law of Generous Giving, Brian Hughes, 01/29/2006 This law is so different from the other three because giving is an expression of your heart. The last three weeks we talked about principles that made sense intellectually. They were principles of the head, like paying off your high interest and short-term debt. That makes sense. That's logical. That's a principle of the head. But giving is a principle of the heart. [Luke 9:10-17]
	Money Matters: The Law of Simplicity, Brian Hughes, 01/22/2006 This week is the Law of Simplicity, which is about financial freedom. Galatians 5:1 says that it was for freedom that Jesus died on the cross and set us free. The trouble is that most of us can bind ourselves up again. We get into slavery with debt. Sometimes our possessions themselves get us back into slavery. [Luke 18:18-30]
	Money Matters: The Law of Creation, Brian Hughes, 01/15/2006 The law that we are going to speak about today is the law of creation. You have to create more than you consume or you cease to exist. [2 Kings 4:1-7]
	Money Matters: The Law of Faith, Brian Hughes, 01/08/2006 In our opening message we will explore God's first principle of Money Matters: Don't put your hope in wealth. [1 Timothy 6:17-19]

Christmas 2005	12/24/2005 - 12/24/2005

	Christmas Eve - December 2005, Brian Hughes, 12/24/2005 Christmas Eve sermon, December 2005. [Luke 2:1-14]

Praying for Christmas	11/27/2005 - 12/18/2005

	Praying for Christmas Peace, Brian Hughes, 12/18/2005 As Christians, our hearts burn for the Kingdom of Peace that Jesus offered. We find ourselves in a world bent on spiraling violence. We know ourselves called to be peacemakers, but find it difficult to stand against this world without succumbing to the temptation to become violent in our rhetoric and lives. [Luke 1:26-38;Psalm 120]
	Praying for Christmas Love, Brian Hughes, 12/11/2005 We experience authentic Christian community: vulnerability in a place of safety, especially in small groups. We learn to love more profoundly and more deeply. [Isaiah 61:1-4;Isaiah 61:8-11;Psalm 92:1-6;Psalm 92:11-15]
	Praying for Christmas Hope, Brian Hughes, 12/04/2005 We focus on Christ and become a voice of hope. We serve those in need within and beyond our community of faith, by congregational ministries and our daily vocations. [Mark 1:1-8;Psalm 31:1-8;Psalm 31:19-24]
	Praying for Christmas Faith, Mike McQuaid, 11/27/2005 We venture outside our comfort zone and let God mold and shape us into his image. We discover we want to be in a community that takes seriously the discipline of spiritual formation; moving us into deeper levels of commitment: from seeker to member to commit to core. [Mark 13:24-37;Psalm 37:1-5;Psalm 37:23-28]

November 23, 2005	11/23/2005 - 11/23/2005

	Thanksgiving Eve, Mike McQuaid, 11/23/2005 Thanksgiving Eve sermon, November 2005.