Palm Sunday

Pastor Ryan

5 minute read

 

The world will end. It won’t be today…probably.

I  get asked often about prophecy and the end times. Signs around the world relate to the Bible. In the midst of tumultuous times, like today, you can find yourself pondering the signs of Jesus’ return.

Think of what Biblical Prophecies have said in Scripture.

As Jesus and His disciples approached Jerusalem, the prophecy of the humble King riding on a donkey was fulfilled. That’s why we celebrate Palm Sunday. Today, as you witness wars, political unrest, and natural disasters, you probably can’t help but wonder – What does it all mean? Is this the end of the world? What are the signs of when that will happen?

In Matthew, His disciples ask those very questions, and I want to break down the answer that He gives them, found in Matthew 24:

1. People will Praise and People will Doubt
Just as the crowds welcomed Jesus with shouts of praise, there were others who doubted and questioned His identity. Today, some proclaim Him as Savior while others dismiss Him as merely a man. In the midst of differing opinions, one truth remains – Jesus is the King.

2. People will Believe and People will Mock
In this dichotomy of belief and mockery, the message of Jesus continues to ring true. While some embrace Him as the Son of God, others ridicule His teachings. Yet, regardless of opposition, the truth of His kingship endures.

3. Signs of Deception
Jesus warned of false messiahs and prophets who would deceive many. In our time, amidst the noise of conflicting voices, discernment is crucial. Do not be deceived. Be very familiar with God’s truth in scripture and, the enemy will have a difficult time deceiving you.

4. Signs of Wars, Famine, and Persecution
The prevalence of wars, famines, and persecution serves as harbingers of the end times. Yet, amidst these trials, Jesus reassures us of His presence and sovereignty. As followers of Christ, we are called to stand firm in faith, even in the face of adversity.

5. Signs of Lawlessness and Revival
In a world marked by increasing lawlessness, the promise of revival shines brightly. The Good News of the Kingdom will be proclaimed to all nations, ushering in a time of spiritual awakening. Let us eagerly anticipate the fulfillment of this promise.

6. Signs of the Heavens and Noah’s Day
As we witness celestial phenomena and reflect on the days of Noah, we are reminded of the imminent return of our King. Just as Noah diligently prepared for the flood, we are called to be watchful and ready for the coming of the Son of Man.

As you navigate the signs of our King’s imminent return, heed His words: “Keep watch! For you do not know the day your Lord is coming.” I pray that you will be found faithful, ready to welcome our King with open arms.

Galatians- Grace & Peace

Pastor Ryan

5 minute read

 

Have you ever backslidden?

The sin you gave up and belongs in your past can often try to creep right back. Scripture is clear– you are free from that sin! So why doesn’t it feel like it some days?

The book of Galatians has the answer you need today.

As a believer, you are called to embrace the truth of God’s grace and the enduring peace that grows from knowing Christ and Christ crucified. In his letter to the churches in Galatia, the Apostle Paul greets them with a powerful declaration– one of grace and peace. This is no ordinary peace. It can only be received through Jesus. This is what you need to know about the grace that sets you free from all sin, especially the kind that tries to creep back into your life.

1. Embracing God’s Grace
A good definition of grace is simply this: “Grace is ‘that which God does for mankind through His Son, which mankind cannot earn, does not deserve, and will never merit.’”

The essence of grace, captured in the Greek word “caris,” speaks of unmerited favor and divine blessings freely bestowed upon us by God. Through Christ, we are justified, forgiven, redeemed, and set free from the bondage of sin. Paul’s admonition reminds us that we are justified freely by His grace, emphasizing the gift of salvation that comes through Jesus Christ alone.

2. Experiencing Divine Peace
Paul continues with a heartfelt wish for peace, drawing from the Hebrew concept of “shalom,” which encompasses wholeness, well-being, and inner tranquility. It translates roughly to “nothing missing, nothing broken.” This peace, which can only be rooted in your relationship with God, transcends earthly limits and offers eternal security. Jesus Himself promises a peace that surpasses human understanding, assuring us that He grants peace not as the world gives but as a divine gift. Scripture says in Romans 5:

“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”

3. Living in the Reality of Grace and Peace
To live fully in God’s grace means to understand and accept His unconditional love for you. This is often harder than it sounds, as it’s human nature for you and I to justify ourselves with actions, rather than faith. Salvation is not earned. It is received as a gift of grace. Similarly, embracing peace involves trusting God’s sovereignty and resting in His promises, knowing that He will see you through every trial and challenge.

4. Standing Firm in the Gospel of Grace
Paul warns against abandoning the gospel of grace for a distorted version influenced by human ideologies. He emphasizes that our calling is to live in the grace of Christ, rejecting any false teachings that undermine the sufficiency of Christ’s work on the cross. The doctrine of ‘sola gratia’ reaffirms that salvation is solely by grace through faith, underscoring our dependence on God’s unmerited favor for our redemption.

Galatians is where we will spend the next few weeks as a church. Remember, God’s abundant grace and enduring peace come from His unmerited favor. Embrace the peace that surpasses understanding and the transformative power of the gospel, and bear witness to His glory in your life today.

 

It’s Time to Dream Again- Living Pure Before God

Pastor Ryan

5 minute read

 

Something of yours is in danger.

For many of you, marriage is an incredibly wonderful gift from God. I’m blessed with my incredible wife, Ellie. Our marriages, both yours and mine, are under attack from an enemy who hates the blessings marriage brings. In a world saturated with impurity and moral ambiguity, the call to live pure before God stands as a beacon of hope and holiness. As believers, you are tasked with navigating the attacks of a mortal enemy while maintaining a strong commitment to purity in heart, mind, and action. I want you to be aware of the enemy’s plans and be equipped on how to combat them. Here’s what you need to know.

1). Pay Attention to What You Hear

The words you hear have the power to shape your thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors. Proverbs 4:20-23 urges you to “pay attention to what [you] hear” and to guard your heart diligently, for from it flows the wellspring of life. Today’s culture is inundated with messages that promote something deadly to your marriage: moral compromise. You must filter what you allow into your mind and conversely, your marriage. Choose instead to meditate on that which is true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and of good report (Philippians 4:8). By being intentional about the content you expose yourself to, you can safeguard your heart and maintain the purity necessary for a healthy marriage. One of the most critical channels of communication is now in the world of texting. Beware of these personal interactions:

  • Make sure personal interactions and texting are professional
  • When dealing with someone whom you may be attracted to or who may be attracted to you, be wise, be in the public eye, and be courteous.
  • Stop conversations if they turn too personal, intimate, or inappropriate.
  • Share with your spouse about whom you are texting with and what you are talking about.

2). Pay Attention to What You Think About

Your way of living will always follow your way of thinking. Proverbs 23:7 says that “as [a person] thinks in his heart, so is he.” Think about that for a second. It is essential to be focused on the thoughts you entertain, ensuring they align with God’s truth. The thoughts you think about your spouse will be followed by your actions. How do you change those thoughts? Through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and accountability with fellow believers, you can renew your mind and guard against the influence of impure thoughts, especially against your spouse.

3). Pay Attention to Where Your Path Takes You

Proverbs 4:25-27 encourages you to “let your eyes look straight ahead” and to “ponder the path of your feet” to ensure that you stay on the path of righteousness. You must be vigilant in avoiding places, situations, and relationships that could lead you astray or compromise the purity of your relationship.

4). Pay Attention to Your Spouse When You Are Married

Hebrews 13:4 emphasizes the sanctity of marriage and the importance of keeping the marriage bed undefiled. This entails prioritizing your spouse’s needs, fostering open communication, and guarding against anything that could undermine the intimacy and trust within the marital relationship. By investing in your marriage and cultivating a spirit of mutual respect and devotion, you honor God’s design for marriage and experience the fullness of His blessings within your relationship.

By paying attention to what you hear, think about, and where your paths lead you, you can uphold God’s standards of righteousness and experience the abundant life He promises. Whether single or married, commit to a lifestyle of purity that glorifies God and reflects His holiness to the world.

Called By God

Pastor Ryan

5 minute read

What are you called to do?

If you’re human, you’ve asked that question of yourself. Do you have a purpose, a divine calling? Regardless of your age, educational background, career path, or financial situation, there comes a time when you grapple with feelings of brokenness, frustration, or emptiness, asking yourself, “What am I called to do?”

Understanding your calling unveils more than just your life’s passion. Purpose and passion are two separate things, although they intersect quite often. No, your calling is much more. It comes from your Father in heaven. The Bible is replete with stories of God’s call to people. From God’s call to Abraham, where they dined together, to the burning bush that summoned Moses at the ripe age of 80, these stories prove God’s calling can happen at any stage of your life. You might wonder, “Will God call me in such a dramatic way?” Let me assure you, even if it doesn’t involve blinding light or talking animals, your calling is just as significant.

I remember my own calling experience. I was a few years into my career, aiming to climb the corporate ladder in Atlanta, Georgia. Yet, my perspective shifted during a mission trip to Guatemala. In those moments of solitude, God spoke to me for the first time, setting me on a course that would forever change my life. While there were no blinding lights or dramatic encounters, my heart resonated with a newfound sense of purpose. I realized that my job didn’t define me; my role was to know God and serve Him. That day, I signed a metaphorical dotted line and surrendered my life to God’s purpose. It was a transformative moment that sculpted my life forever. So I want you to understand what God’s calling for your life truly means:

1). Called – God’s Specific Assignment

Your calling represents God’s unique purpose for your life. You are handpicked, chosen by Him, and created for His divine plan. Remember, you are not an accident; God designed you to be here. He made you, formed you, and He will help you. Understanding that you are deeply loved by God changes the game.

2). Planned and Prepared

God’s calling is meticulously planned and prepared for you. Just as He knew Jeremiah before he was formed in the womb and sanctified, He knows you and has a specific purpose for your life. Your calling is a gift from God, unique to your existence, transcending any career or job changes.

3). Tested Yet Persistent

God’s calling for you will be tested. Joseph’s dreams stirred envy among his brothers, leading to adversity. Despite the trials and tribulations, he persisted. Similarly, your calling requires persistence, not perfection. Even Paul, once a blasphemer and persecutor, found his calling in Christ’s service. God can redeem even your darkest moments and weave them into His plan.

4). Enabled by God

As you walk in your calling, God will enable you. We pray that God enables you to live a life worthy of His call. His grace empowers you to accomplish all the good things that are prompted by your faith. Trust that the One who calls you is faithful and will provide the strength to fulfill His purpose.

Listen to this.

Embrace your calling with open arms, for God has a destiny designed just for you. Many of you know about my brother, whose life was tragically cut short. It is because of that heartbreaking loss that I can tell you with certainty that your calling can impact the world, leaving an indelible mark on others. Tragedies may alter your circumstances, but they cannot change your calling. As you journey onward, remember that you are deeply loved, chosen, planned for, tested, and enabled by the Creator of the universe. Your calling is your masterpiece, your gift to the world.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

Two Chairs

Bob Beaudine

5 minute read

 

As Zig Ziglar famously put it, “Money isn’t the most important thing, but it is… like oxygen.” Money matters, no doubt, but have you ever considered where it truly comes from? It’s not some magical paper that materializes out of thin air. It flows from a wellspring deep within you – your ideas, your thoughts, and your actions.

Think of it this way. Most people trade their time for money, a fair exchange in the grand scheme of life. But what if there was a way to accelerate this process, to turn your ideas into a currency that flows effortlessly into your life?

The real catalyst here is how you think. Your thoughts are the root cause of your financial situation. If you’re stuck in a cycle of lack, it’s likely because of your thinking patterns. The good news is that you have the power to change this.

Consider how you begin your day. Do you start it with clarity and intention, or is it a mad rush into the chaos of life? Imagine having a simple ritual, like sitting in two chairs where you begin a conversation with God. Just you and him. I wrote a book about this, “2 Chairs,” in which I share my experience about getting to know God. I’ve learned it’s not about being in control, but about finding that sacred space where you can choose your response to the worries and cares of this life from Heaven’s perspective.

Now, ponder this scenario. What if there was a 1% chance that God Himself would meet you at those “2 chairs” tomorrow morning? Would you go? The truth is, you don’t need a divine appointment; the power to transform your life is already within you.

Life is about that one unexpected idea, one crucial thought, or one transformative friend who can alter your path entirely. Are you actively seeking these game-changers?

It’s time to let go of control where it’s not needed. Surrender to the flow of life, trust your instincts, and watch how you influence the world around you. As Fred Rogers wisely said, “There is something of yourself that you leave at every meeting with another person. A gift.”

Today, take these action steps to unlock the power within:

  1. Assess if you’re trading time or ideas for money. Consider how you can shift towards the latter.
  2. Seek that one thought, one idea, or one connection that can change your trajectory.
  3. Commit to your “2 chairs” morning ritual, even without a divine appointment.
  4. Identify areas in your life where you can let go of unnecessary control.
  5. Realize the incredible power you possess to impact the lives of those around you.

You are a powerhouse of potential. Your thoughts, your ideas, and your actions have the capacity to create abundance not just for you but for the world. Tap into this power within you and watch how your life transforms.

Digging Deep and Reaching High

Pastor Brendon

7 minute read

 

Hello, Create Church family! I’m Pastor Brendon from Fusion Church in New Jersey, and I am thrilled to be back with you all today to dive into a subject that’s close to both God’s and my heart:

Spiritual growth.

Let’s begin with Scripture:

“Listen! A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants, so that they did not bear grain. Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up, grew and produced a crop, some multiplying thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times.” Then Jesus said, “Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear.”
Mark 4:3–9 (NIV)

Jesus’s parable of the farmer sowing his seed holds the secret to spiritual growth. In order to have growth, you have to have deep roots. Jesus tells us that some seed falls along the path, some on rocky places, some among thorns, and some on good soil. Each type of soil represents different conditions for growth, mirroring the various seasons we experience in our faith journeys.

1) What Does Your Ground Look Like?

In Mark 4:14–20 (NIV), Jesus goes on to explain the symbolism behind the parable. Some are like the seed along the path, where the Word is sown but quickly snatched away. Others receive the Word with joy but have no deep roots, falling away when faced with trouble. Some hear the word but let worries and desires choke it out. Finally, there are those like the seed sown on good soil who hear the word, accept it, and produce a fruitful crop.

Consider, what does the soil of your life look like? Are you sometimes like shallow soil, sprouting quickly but withering away when trials come? Or perhaps you’ve faced thorny ground, where concerns and worldly desires threaten your spiritual growth? The goal is to cultivate fertile soil through discipleship, allowing deep roots to take hold.

Colossians 2:7 (NLT) encourages you to let your roots grow deep into Christ. When you build your life on Him, your faith becomes stronger, and you begin to overflow with thankfulness.

What Soil Do You Feel You Have in Your Life?

Shallow soil – Quick growth but no deep roots (burnout).
Soil with thorns – Choked by worldly issues and sin.
Fertile soil – Producing a crop through discipleship.

2) The Size of Your Tool = The Size of Your Hole

In your journey of spiritual growth, the size of your tool often equals the size of your hole. Just as a farmer uses different tools for different types of soil, you should equip yourself accordingly.

Consider the various spiritual disciplines (from Richard J Foster) as tools:

  • Meditation
  • Prayer
  • Fasting
  • Study
  • Simplicity
  • Solitude
  • Submission
  • Service
  • Confession
  • Worship
  • Guidance
  • Celebration

Each tool serves a unique purpose and helps you cultivate different aspects of your spiritual life. It’s essential to choose the right tool for the condition of your soil.

3) Fasting and Prayer Are Super Tools

In Matthew 17:21, Jesus declares that some challenges can only be overcome through prayer and fasting. Throughout history, fasting and prayer have been powerful spiritual tools for deepening your personal connection with God. There’s no substitute.

From Moses and Esther to Daniel and Nehemiah, you can see how fasting played a pivotal role in their journeys of faith. Every single one of them has been recorded as practicing prayer and fasting. Even Jesus and the Apostle Paul turned to fasting to prepare for ministry and receive divine wisdom.

Reflect on your spiritual soil. What does it resemble, and where do you want it to be?
Develop a plan to dig deep and cultivate the right soil for your spiritual growth in 2024.
As you journey with your fellow Create Church members toward spiritual growth, remember that deep roots enable us to reach greater heights in your faith. Commit to dig deep, reach high, and continue growing in your relationship with God.

It’s Time to Dream Again

Pastor Ryan

7 minute read

 

I want to let you in on a secret about being a pastor.

I’m called not just to teach you but to train you.

I firmly believe that one of the most crucial callings for church leaders, backed up by Scripture, is to empower people to carry out the work of the Kingdom. Leaders are called to do more than just shepherding; pastoring is about equipping, nurturing, and fostering a true knowledge of what ministry is.

Empower People to Do the Work of Ministry
The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, provides clear roles of church leaders:

“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:11-13, NIV)

This is known as the “5-Fold Ministry.” Church leaders are appointed by Christ to equip the members for the work of ministry. This work goes beyond the physical walls of the church; it extends into our communities, workplaces, and homes. Empowering individuals to engage actively in this work is essential.

The Pastor Who Empowered Me
Years ago, I had the privilege of being a part of Covenant Church, where I had the opportunity to serve Mike Hayes. In him, I saw the empowerment that comes from true leadership. He didn’t see himself solely as a spiritual authority figure but as an equipper, helping others discover and use their gifts and callings. Numerous churches have been planted out of Covenant, mainly because Mike knows how to train and equip leaders.

One significant day, while I was contemplating the idea of planting a church, I approached Pastor Mike for guidance. Instead of offering a simple directive, he did something truly remarkable – he asked me questions. He inquired about my vision, strengths, and passions. He recognized potential in me and firmly believed that God could use me to make a difference. Pastor Mike didn’t just empower me with words; he empowered me with trust, support, and an unshakable belief in my ability to fulfill God’s calling.

Practical Steps for Empowerment
Empowering individuals within your congregation requires a deliberate approach that extends beyond encouragement. Here are some practical steps:

1. Identify and nurture their gifts: Take the time to discover the strengths and talents of your church members. Encourage them to explore and develop these gifts through involvement in various ministries.

2. Cultivate a culture of discipleship: Foster an environment of growth and transformation through discipleship. Provide resources, mentorship, and opportunities for spiritual development within your church community.

3. Delegate responsibilities: Trust your congregation with different roles and responsibilities. Allow them to take ownership of projects and ministries. This not only lightens your load but also facilitates their spiritual growth.

4. Celebrate their successes: Recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of your church members. Their victories are a testament to the empowerment you’ve provided, and they serve as inspiration for others to step into their God-given roles.

I really want you to know this – empowering people to carry out the work of the Kingdom is not just a task for church leaders; it’s a divine calling. That’s why this weekend we did 7 on 7, where people from within our church were given the opportunity to use their gifts to bring the truth of God’s word. I encourage each of you to watch it here.

Favor and Blessings

Pastor Ryan

6 minute read

 

I believe God has something big in store for you in 2024.

How do I know? Because of His favor for you.

From the moment you receive God’s grace and salvation, you are drawn to His favor. The stories of those who sought the favor of the Lord show that they were blessed. Conversely, tales of those who sought the favor of people and their consequent suffering serve as stark warnings. The Bible is filled with stories of both blessings and curses. It’s through God’s favor that these big things that God has planned will happen.

How do you access this blessing? Have you ever wondered if you could be blessed? When and why does God bestow specific blessings? What can you do to receive one? On this journey, let’s explore the profound Power of a Blessing.

The Power of a Blessing

1. The Blessing of the Lord Brings Strength

In Psalm 1, you find a powerful depiction of the strength that comes with God’s blessing. Those who delight in His law and meditate on it day and night are like trees planted by rivers of water, bearing fruit and prospering. The righteous, blessed by God, find unwavering strength.

2. The Blessing of the Lord Brings Wealth

Proverbs 10:22 reveals that the blessing of the Lord makes one rich without adding sorrow. True wealth is not just about material possessions; it encompasses abundant life, peace, and contentment.

3. The Blessing of the Lord Brings Protection

Psalm 5 is a beautiful reminder of the protection that God’s blessing provides. Those who trust in Him find refuge. God defends the righteous and surrounds them with His favor as a shield.

4. The Blessing of the Lord is Eternal

In Genesis 12, God’s promise to Abram exemplifies the eternal nature of His blessing. Through Abram, all the families of the earth would be blessed. This promise finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice provides eternal blessings.

5. The Blessing of the Lord should be Honored

The story of Esau and Jacob illustrates the value of a blessing. Esau, in a moment of weakness, despised his birthright, trading it for a meal. In contrast, King David, despite being pursued by King Saul, refused to harm God’s anointed. Honoring blessings is a sign of spiritual maturity.

6. The Blessing of the Lord is Granted by Receiving Jesus Christ

Ephesians 1:3 reminds you that God has blessed you with every spiritual blessing through Jesus Christ. In Christ, you find redemption, grace, and the promise of the Holy Spirit. His sacrifice on the cross ensures that you partake in God’s blessings.

7. The Blessing of the Lord is to Be Passed on to Others

In Matthew 28, Jesus commissions His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations. He encourages you to baptize and teach, sharing the blessings of the gospel. The blessing you receive from God is meant to be shared, multiplying its impact.

Just as God’s blessings have touched the lives of countless individuals throughout history, you too have the privilege of passing on these blessings. It is through Jesus Christ that you access this divine favor, and it is through your faith and obedience that you walk in its abundance. So, as you journey through life, let the Power of a Blessing guide you. Delight in God’s law, trust in His promises, and honor His blessings. As you do, you become a vessel of His favor, bringing hope, joy, and transformation to a world in need.

Christmas at Create- Not So Silent Night

Pastor Ryan

6 minute read

 

We sing every Christmas about a silent night.

Silence can be beautiful and reverent, but it can also be a response to fear. Have you ever felt a push to suppress your beliefs? In a society increasingly urging silence, especially about faith, you might feel cornered into not sharing what you believe. This echoes a historical pattern where when God’s prophets spoke out, they faced ignorance, mockery, or outright persecution. There was also the silence – the over 400 years without God’s voice.

The Tale of Zechariah and Elizabeth

Luke’s Gospel records the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth. They were righteous, devout followers of God but childless due to Elizabeth’s inability to conceive. When an angel appeared to Zechariah with the news of Elizabeth bearing a son, John, who would herald the coming of the Lord, Zechariah’s disbelief led to his temporary muteness. This story is a poignant reminder of the power of faith and the impact of doubt.

The Miracle of John’s Birth

John’s birth was a moment of immense joy and celebration. Elizabeth’s steadfast faith led her to name him John, defying social expectations. This act of faith was vindicated when Zechariah, regaining his speech, praised God. His words were a testament to God’s mercy and the fulfillment of divine promises.

When it was time for Elizabeth’s baby to be born, she gave birth to a son. And when her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had been very merciful to her, everyone rejoiced with her. When the baby was eight days old, they all came for the circumcision ceremony. They wanted to name him Zechariah, after his father. But Elizabeth said, “No! His name is John!” “What?” they exclaimed. “There is no one in all your family by that name.” So they used gestures to ask the baby’s father what he wanted to name him. He motioned for a writing tablet, and to everyone’s surprise, he wrote, “His name is John.” Instantly Zechariah could speak again, and he began praising God.
Luke 1:57-64

The Blessings of Jesus

Jesus brought us redemption, mercy, and deliverance. Redemption, our salvation from sin; mercy, our receipt of compassion instead of punishment; and deliverance, our rescue from evil, are gifts you can embrace.

John’s Legacy

John stood as a beacon, a prophet leading the way for Jesus. He preached salvation and the forgiveness of sins, embodying God’s mercy. Like the dawn breaking the night, John’s message guides you toward peace.

Your Role in Preparing the Way

How can you prepare for the Lord’s way? Speak about salvation, as taught in Romans: righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ is a gift of eternal life. Declare Jesus as Lord, believe in His resurrection, and embrace salvation.

You might feel pressured to mute your faith but remember Zechariah, Elizabeth, and John the Baptist. Their stories underscore the significance of faith against doubt. Share your story, shine your light, and let your voice be heard. Break the silence and speak confidently about your faith. You have a unique perspective and a powerful voice. Don’t hide it. Embrace it, and speak out.

Christmas at Create- Christmas Story

Pastor Jacob

5 minute read

 

Friends, nothing is better than watching Christmas movies while cozy in your own home.  

 

Before we get started, I want to say that Pastor Ryan sends his love and will be back with us soon. It’s an absolute honor to share with you today, and I’m grateful for the opportunity. As we approach the Christmas season, I can’t help but think of one of my all-time favorite holiday movies, “A Christmas Story.”

 

Do you recall those days when TBS would grace our screens with twenty-four hours of “A Christmas Story”? My brother and I used to stay up late, watching it over and over. It’s a classic!

 

Today, this beloved film, particularly the character of Ralphie, will reveal something that God has planted in all of our hearts. I want to speak on your unique calling and how to navigate the divine plan God has for you.

 

Proverbs 16:9 reminds you that you can make your own plans, but the Lord establishes your steps. Just as Ralphie knew he wanted that coveted Red Ryder BB gun, you must have clarity about our calling.

 

Look into the Word of God for a moment. In 1 Kings 19:19, you can witness the passing of the mantle from Elijah to Elisha. Elisha had a choice to make – whether or not to follow the call. Knowing your calling is the first significant step. What’s amazing is there are specific tasks that God has assigned to you.

 

Nevertheless, you need to be discerning about who influences you. Friends are a blessing, but they can also be distractions. Just like Peter, who rebuked Jesus in Matthew 16:21-23, well-intentioned friends might inadvertently hinder you on your journey. Jesus is an example of how to handle these friends. He didn’t cut Peter out of His life, but He did choose to  stand firm on the truth of who He was.

 

Trust in the Lord is pivotal. Sometimes, you must be willing to “burn the plow,” much like Elisha did, and wholeheartedly commit to God’s divine plan. Remember, there are no shortcuts when it comes to pursuing your calling.

 

As you continue in your calling, keep in mind that God’s path may not always align with your expectations. Be open to the unexpected twists and turns and resilient in the face of unwanted surprises, like Ralphie and his pink bunny suit. When you feel like it’s all over, remember that it’s often in moments of surrender to the Father that He reveals His most profound plans.

 

So, let’s elaborate on these stages of walking in your calling:

 

  1. 1. Knowing Your Calling: 

This is where it all begins. Seek clarity about what God has called you to do. It’s all about understanding the direction He wants you to follow. To emphasize the significance of this stage, let’s recall Jeremiah 1:5: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”

 

  1. Trusting in the Lord:

 This is where many Christians can hit a stumbling block. You might know what God is calling you to do, but the cost can be daunting. Even in the face of uncertainty, remember that God is the one who “establishes your steps.” Trust in His divine timing and plan. To illustrate the importance of trust, consider 1 Kings 19:21, which describes how Elisha burned his plowing equipment, fully committing himself to God’s calling.

 

  1. Taking Action: 

At some point, you need to take a leap of faith and step into the calling. This is where you run with perseverance, as mentioned in Isaiah 40:31: “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

 

A final thought before I wrap up, Ralphie received his BB gun when he was cuddled up on the couch, fellowshipping with his father. A good father, Ralphie’s dad had his present wrapped and ready for him, hidden and safe for when the time was right. God is a good father. His calling for you is assured. If we listen to know what calling He has for us, trust that He is faithful to fulfill it, and take action by being obedient to His instructions, our calling will come to pass.