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Examining Faith Through the Nobleman’s Journey: A Biblical Insight

Sermon Summaries, Signs / By NewSeasonAdmin

In a riveting account that speaks volumes about faith and desperation, we encounter a story that unfolds the layers of belief before even witnessing a miracle. The tale of a nobleman and his intense yearning to witness Jesus’ healing touch on his dying child serves as an illustrative message for all who seek divine intervention in times of profound discomfort. The Quest BeginsThe nobleman had not laid eyes on Jesus but was fueled by stories of miraculous doings. His journey was one devoid of convenience and comfort, exemplifying a faith that precedes sight. There were barriers – a distance to travel, and a societal hierarchy to humble himself beneath. It echoes the divine truth that trust in God doesn’t guarantee ease; it often requires us to step out of our comfort zones, face fears, and subdue pride. Seeking Signs and WondersJesus, aware of the human inclination towards signs and wonders, challenges this mindset, urging faith that rests on His word alone. The narrative underscores the principle that while miracles strengthen faith, they are not its foundation. This nobleman, despite feeling resistance from Jesus, did not waver but reaffirmed his plea: “Come down before my child dies.” The Proof is in the BeliefWhat followed was a profound lesson in trust. Jesus declared the son’s wellness without offering any evidence. Here, the nobleman’s response illustrates the crux of faith—a confident walk back home, without proof, anchored solely in Jesus’ assurance. In contrast to a desperate dash, his composed journey home reflected a serene certainty in Jesus’ promise. The Visible Response to the Invisible WordFaith manifests in actions – whether it be the lifting of hands in worship or the tenacity to seek prayer in a congregation. These physical expressions represent an inner trust in God’s word. Yet, God responds not to our outward gestures, but to our inward faith. The Efficacy of God’s WordThe episode concludes with a validation of the nobleman’s faith. Upon meeting his servants, he confirmed his son’s recovery coincided with Jesus’ proclamation. Such alignment between divine word and reality reinforces that the word of God is alive, stirring our spirits and inviting us to inhabit a realm of belief where signs follow faith, not precede it. Challenges to Our Modern FaithToday, we grapple with distractions and doubts, questioning whether God still moves powerfully in our lives. But just like the nobleman, we are called to an intensity and focus in our pursuit of God, looking beyond the need for constant signs to a steadfast faith in His omnipotence. Closing ThoughtsIn essence, the healing of the official’s son is a testament to God’s grace, which responds to sincere faith in His word. We may express our devotion through tears, dance, or uplifted hands, but ultimately, it’s the internal adherence to God’s word that beckons His response. As believers, we are invited to forsake the fear of human judgment, surrender in His presence, and embrace a faith that believes fervently in the Word – for it is this faith that truly moves mountains. Let us stand together, fixate our hearts on Him, and bask in His presence, shedding aside the concerns of those around us, for in God’s presence, we find the true source of all our needs.

Exploring the Miracles of Jesus in the Book of John

Sermon Summaries, Signs / By NewSeasonAdmin

The Gospel of John stands as a profound testimony to the life and miracles of Jesus Christ. These documented wonders aren’t just historical accounts; they provide us insight into our relationship with the divine, and offer guidance for our spiritual journey. The Purpose of John’s Writings John explicitly states his reason for writing these narratives: “that you may believe Jesus is the Christ, so they receive the whole point of the book of John” (John 20:31). This isn’t merely an intellectual endeavor; it’s about moving beyond the knowledge of Christ to trusting and relying upon Him for eternal life—a life of quality, not just duration. Eternal Life Defined The essence of eternal life, according to John, isn’t about attaining heaven in the afterlife alone. It’s about knowing God intimately—recognizing, perceiving, becoming acquainted with Him here and now. It’s about understanding the very nature of God and Jesus, whom He sent. Going Beyond Surface Level Faith As we delve into the Gospel of John over the coming weeks, let’s carry the intention of not just gaining head knowledge but allowing these truths to penetrate our hearts and spirits. Our objective is to deepen our relationship with God since there’s always room to grow closer, regardless of where we stand. Christ-Likeness as Our Journey The destination of our spiritual journey is Christ-likeness—emulating His perceptions, knowledge, reactions, and actions. The signs and miracles recorded in John serve as markers guiding us toward this destination. They are not merely events but signals pointing us to live as Christ did. Jesus’ First Miracle: Turning Water into Wine Diving into John 2, we observe Jesus performing His initial public miracle, turning water into wine at a wedding feast. This act was more than a mere display of power; it symbolized the transformative work of Christ—from purification rituals to the joy of salvation. Our Role in Miracles It’s essential to recognize that while Jesus could perform miracles without aid, He involves us in the process. We are called to cooperate with Him, for it is through our actions combined with His power that transformation occurs. Full Commitment to Christ Jesus wants us completely invested—”filled to the brim”—in our faith and endeavors. It’s a call to not settle for halfway measures but to be all in. As we fill our vessels with water, He turns them into the wine of joy, meaning, and purpose. Everyday Involvement Remarkably, Jesus cares about our daily lives, big and small matters alike. Even mundane occurrences like traffic or paperwork take on new meaning when seen through the lens of gratitude and as part of His plan. In summary, understanding the signs captured in the Book of John encourages us to realize our part in the grand narrative of salvation. It calls us to wake up every day expecting Jesus to be actively involved in every aspect of our lives, working through us to achieve miraculous transformations.

New Mercies Part 4

New Mercies, Sermon Summaries / By NewSeasonAdmin

Embracing the Journey: Cultivating Spiritual Habits for Growth Life is a journey, and for those of us walking with Christ, it’s about understanding that our destination isn’t a physical place like heaven, but rather becoming more like Christ. This series has been all about embracing that journey, recognizing that it’s filled with twists, turns, obstacles, and moments of doubt. But just like a long drive to the ocean can be worth the hours spent on the road when you finally breathe in that salty air, our spiritual journey is more than worth the effort. The Big Idea: Spiritual Habits Fuel Change and Growth Cultivating spiritual habits fuels change and growth. It’s not about simply changing our behaviour on the surface; it’s about allowing God to transform our hearts from the inside out. True transformation leads to a natural change in behaviour because when your heart changes, your actions follow suit. Why Behavior Modification Doesn’t Work Behaviour modification relies on external rewards or consequences to make us act a certain way. But this often fails because it doesn’t address the heart of the matter—our hearts. God is interested in transforming our hearts, which in turn transforms our lives. The Role of Spiritual Habits Just like learning a sport requires practice and coaching, our spiritual life also needs training and guidance. We need to develop spiritual habits that will help us grow and become more like Christ. These habits are not about earning God’s love; they’re about responding to His love and living out our faith in practical ways. Examples of Spiritual Habits: Prayer: More than asking for things, prayer is a two-way conversation with God. Word: Engaging with the Bible helps us hear from God and aligns our prayers with His will. Praise and Gratitude: Choosing to focus on the good and being thankful, even when it’s hard. Community: Being part of a church family where we can grow together. Service: Serving others is a key part of growing in our faith. Generosity: Living a life marked by giving freely of our time, talents, and resources. The Impact of Our Habits Our daily habits reveal more about us than what we say we believe. They shape who we are and how we live. If we want to see real change in our lives, it starts with the small choices we make every day. What Habit Do You Need to Cultivate? As we wrap up, think about the spiritual habits you need to cultivate. Maybe it’s committing to regular prayer, diving deeper into scripture, or finding ways to serve in your community. Whatever it is, take that step today. Remember, it’s not about perfection; it’s about progress. And as we develop these habits, we’ll find that they not only change us but also have a positive impact on every area of our lives. So let’s ask ourselves: What spiritual habit do I need to cultivate to fuel change and growth in my life? Let’s embrace the journey with Christ, one habit at a time.

Overcoming Procrastination: Embracing Change and Taking Responsibility

New Mercies, Sermon Summaries / By NewSeasonAdmin

Introduction: In our journey with God, we often face unexpected twists, turns, and obstacles. These challenges are opportunities for growth and for Christ to be formed in us. However, one common hindrance to our progress is procrastination. Procrastination is not simply a time management issue, but rather an emotional regulation problem. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind procrastination and how we can overcome it by embracing change and taking responsibility. Understanding Procrastination: Procrastination is the act of delaying tasks or responsibilities for another time. It is often driven by negative emotions such as fear of failure or success, perfectionism, negativity, self-doubt, and misaligned goals. These emotions create a barrier that prevents us from taking action and completing the tasks at hand. Procrastination as Emotional Regulation: Procrastination is not a result of laziness but rather a way of regulating negative emotions associated with the task. We delay because we do not want to experience the discomfort or fear that comes with facing the task. It is crucial to recognize that procrastination is an emotional response rather than a lack of time management skills. Embracing Change: Change is an inevitable part of our journey with God. As we mature spiritually, God calls us to take on new responsibilities. Just as children need to grow and take on adult responsibilities, we too must embrace the responsibilities that come with spiritual growth. Avoiding responsibilities leads to dysfunction and hinders our ability to fulfill our purpose. Taking Responsibility: Taking responsibility means acknowledging that every task, no matter how small, is an opportunity for growth and development. It is about recognizing that our calling is to do the task at hand with excellence, trusting in God’s empowerment and anointing. By taking responsibility, we tap into the power of God and overcome the negative emotions that hinder our progress. Facing Battles and Overcoming Fear: Battles and challenges are part of our journey. They reveal our true character and provide opportunities for growth. Just as David faced Goliath, we must face our own battles with courage and trust in God’s presence and empowerment. Avoiding battles or procrastinating only prolongs our growth and limits our potential. Conclusion: Procrastination is a common struggle that can hinder our spiritual growth and progress. By understanding the emotional regulation aspect of procrastination, we can overcome it by embracing change and taking responsibility. Let us face our battles with courage, trusting in God’s empowerment and anointing. As we do so, we will experience personal growth, fulfill our purpose, and see Christ formed in us.

The Process of Sanctification in Christian Life

New Mercies, Sermon Summaries / By NewSeasonAdmin

The Process of Sanctification in Christian Life Sanctification, is the act or process of acquiring sanctity or being made or becoming holy. It’s a journey that every believer embarks on post their salvation, and it’s a lifelong process. This article explores the concept of sanctification, its significance, and how it impacts the Christian life based on a recent sermon. The Christian life is not about instant transformation. It’s not about quick fixes or shortcuts. It’s a process that involves change at the core of who we are – our beliefs, desires, and motivations. Understanding Sanctification Sanctification is not about behavior management or modifying one’s actions. It’s about a change of heart, a transformation at the core of who we are. It’s not about acting a certain way or adhering to a set of rules. It’s about being transformed from the inside out by the Holy Spirit. This process is not instant. It takes time, effort, and intentionality. It’s not about trying to become something overnight. It’s about allowing the Holy Spirit to gradually mold us into the image of Christ. The Role of the Believer in Sanctification While God plays a significant role in sanctification, the believer also has a part to play. The Bible encourages us to present ourselves as a living sacrifice to God. This means dedicating ourselves to God, expressing a desire to please Him and to worship Him. Believers are encouraged to participate in this process by renewing their minds, embracing new ideas and attitudes that align with God’s will. This transformation happens when we immerse ourselves in God’s word and let it shape our thoughts and actions. Facing Challenges in the Process of Sanctification The process of sanctification is not without its challenges. Life as a Christian is filled with twists and turns. It’s not always easy to follow Christ, especially when things don’t go as planned. However, every challenge we face is an opportunity for growth. God uses these experiences to shape us, to draw us closer to Him, and to mold us into the image of Christ. Instead of viewing these challenges as obstacles, we can see them as opportunities to grow in our faith and deepen our relationship with God. In conclusion, sanctification is a life-long process that involves both God and the believer. It’s about being transformed from the inside out, allowing the Holy Spirit to change us at our core. As we face the challenges that come with this journey, we can take comfort in knowing that God is using these experiences to shape us into the image of Christ. Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him,c and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him Matthew 3:13-16 ESV

New Mercies – Embracing the journey – Part 1

New Mercies, Sermon Summaries / By NewSeasonAdmin

A new series titled “New Mercies” will guide us over the next four weeks, delving into the timeless truths that Ecclesiastes holds for our lives. In part one, our focus took us on a reflective journey through the theme of “New Mercies.” Pastor Bojan eloquently conveyed the idea that our life in Christ is indeed a journey—complete with twists, turns, challenges, and rewards. Every follower of Christ is on a unique journey, marked by its own set of challenges and joys. Essentially, change is a part of life; it will either bring us closer to God or take us further away from Him. Delving into Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, King Solomon’s introspective view of life is revealed. Despite his favored position, Solomon experienced moments of depression and contemplation of life’s various seasons. Life comprises different seasons, each with its unique challenges and joys. Though there are good things in life, the bad things can’t be escaped. This list also shows us the need to take full advantage of the time God gives us. Just as each season in life has its own set of experiences, growth occurs through these diverse phases. Solomon’s reflections highlighted the inevitability of both positive and negative experiences, dispelling the misconception that faith guarantees a life free from difficulties. Read: Ecclesiastes 3:9-13 Change is an inevitable part of life and our walk with God. Whether positive or painful, change can either draw us closer to God or pull us further away. We must embrace the journey, recognizing that our destination is with God, and the challenges along the way are opportunities for growth and spiritual closeness. The misconception that there’s a perfect time to follow God or pursue one’s calling is challenged. Waiting for ideal circumstances may lead to missed opportunities, as perfect moments do not exist. Instead, trust God’s timing and recognize that faith often requires stepping out in imperfect conditions. God has made everything beautiful in its time, even in difficult moments. The importance of maintaining an eternal perspective is emphasized, as completeness found in God brings peace amidst constant change. Read: Romans 8:18, Ecclesiastes 3:14-15, Lamentations 3:22-23 As we reflect on this insightful message, navigating life’s changes with a perspective grounded in faith, viewing each challenge as an opportunity to draw nearer to God, we are reminded that, much like a journey with unexpected stops and turns, our spiritual journey is continually evolving. In these moments of change, we have the chance to deepen our relationship with the Divine. This new series, “New Mercies,” has set the tone for a season of introspection, growth, and a renewed commitment to trust God in every twist and turn. As we embark on this journey together, may we find peace in the midst of change, embrace each season of life, and trust in the beauty of God’s timing. May the upcoming weeks be a time of new mercies, deepened faith, and an unwavering commitment to follow Christ on this incredible journey of life. Will you take responsibility to follow God in every season of life? Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him,c and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him Matthew 3:13-16 ESV

2024 Focus: Year of Wider Faith

Sermon Summaries / By NewSeasonAdmin

In our recent sermon, we embarked on a journey into the heart of what 2024 signifies for us individually and as a church community. This year, we are called to embrace a broader faith, exploring the depths of God’s agenda for our lives. The core message revolves around the recognition that God’s ultimate goal is to establish His Kingdom on Earth. This concept is deeply rooted in principles, patterns, routines, values, and culture, as revealed from the very beginning in Genesis 1. The challenge set before us is to become disciples, willingly embracing discipline in these values and routines. Ps Bojan introduced the concept of systems governing every aspect of life, emphasising the need to change these systems to alter undesired outcomes. We must introspect on the systems guiding our lives and intentionally make changes to align with God’s agenda for an abundant and healthy life. Discipleship, discipline, and understanding the principles of the Kingdom were highlighted as key elements in achieving this alignment. Being disciplined in Kingdom principles is crucial. Understanding God’s principles, patterns, and values is essential for growth. The establishment of the Kingdom begins in individual lives. Abundant life comes from establishing the Kingdom within. 2024 is declared as the Year of Wider Faith, emphasising the importance of faith as the currency of the Kingdom. The call is not just for new revelations but a continual seeking and application of timeless Kingdom truths. Our focus is on engagement, discipleship, and mission. Read: Romans 1:17 NKJV Isaiah 54:2-3 NKJV Matthew 11:28-30 NKJV Romans 12:2 NIV As we navigate through 2024, let us embrace the challenge to deepen our faith, widen our perspectives, and align our lives with the eternal principles of God’s Kingdom. May this year be a journey of transformation, discipline, and a flourishing relationship with the Creator.

One year from now – Part 2

Sermon Summaries / By NewSeasonAdmin

Concluding our two-week series, “One Year from Now,” we delve into a critical aspect of personal development in this final installment – putting an end to negative self-talk. Commencing with a question: When individuals engage in that internal dialogue, what thoughts dominate their minds? What repetitive conversations take place within? Recognising the power of self-talk is vital, as it shapes perceptions and influences actions. To comprehend why we do the things we do, we can generally categorize our motivations into three key areas. Firstly, there’s a sense of obligation – doing things because we feel we have to. Secondly, there are desires or things we do because we genuinely want to. Lastly, the pursuit of acceptance, seeking validation from society, family, and friends, plays a role in our actions. Yet, beneath these motivations lies a deeper truth – we do what we do because of who we believe we are. Our actions are anchored in our identity, shaping our perspective on work, relationships, and life. It’s crucial to understand that our core identity influences everything we undertake. “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.” This profound truth underscores the principle that our thoughts determine our reality. While some may dismiss this as ‘new age’ thinking, it’s crucial to recognize its biblical foundation. Proverbs 23:7 Understanding the impact of our thoughts is paramount. How we perceive ourselves, God and the world around us significantly influences our experiences. It’s not about external factors, but about our internal narrative shaping our external reality. When confronted with challenges, we tend to ask ourselves three questions: What kind of person am I? What type of situation is this? And what would someone like me do in a situation like this? These questions reveal the direct link between our self-perception and our responses to life’s curveballs. Consider a challenging situation – your immediate response is guided by your perception of self. If you view yourself as a failure, that belief will colour your reaction. Conversely, a positive self-perception empowers you to face challenges head-on and seek solutions. 44 For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies. 45 So when I tell the truth, you just naturally don’t believe me! John 8:44-45 NLT A distorted identity sabotages your success. A distorted identity creates destructive habits. Destructive habits reinforce our distorted identity Your Christ-centered identity creates God-honouring habits. Your God-honouring habits reinforce your Christ-centered identity Every day Jesus went to the Temple to teach, and each evening he returned to spend the night on the Mount of Olives. Luke 21:37 NLT Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him. Luke 22:39 The pivotal question arises: Where do you envision yourself one year from now? Will it be a continuation of the same patterns, or do you see progress and growth? The power to change lies in altering our self-perception, understanding that our thoughts shape our actions. Instead of focusing on what you want to do, focus on who you want to become. To transform ourselves, we must change how we perceive ourselves. Henry Ford’s wisdom echoes this truth – whether you think you can or can’t, you’re right. Our thoughts dictate our abilities, successes, and failures. 21 Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, 22 throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. 23 Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. 24 Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy. Ephesians 4:21-24 NLT Acknowledging the biblical perspective, we must be aware of the enemy’s role in distorting our identity. Satan, described as the father of lies, aims to accuse and undermine our self-worth. Recognizing these lies is the first step towards breaking free from their destructive influence. Many fall into the trap of believing these lies, hindering their potential. Distorted identity sabotages success, as the wrong beliefs create destructive habits. These destructive habits, in turn, reinforce the distorted identity, creating a detrimental cycle. The journey to personal transformation begins with understanding the power of our thoughts and recognizing the source of destructive lies. By reshaping our identity through positive self-perception rooted in biblical truths, we can break free from the cycle of negative self-talk and pave the way for a year of progress and success. Remember, as a person thinks in their heart, so are they. Challenge: Consider the habits to embrace and discard in 2024. Encouragement: Focus on who you want to become rather than just what to do. Affirmation: God has declared a new identity, and through Christ, transformation is possible.

One year from now – Preparing for great things

Sermon Summaries / By NewSeasonAdmin

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, the morning of December 31st brings with it a moment of reflection. Many of us have experienced the familiar cycle of setting resolutions with enthusiasm only to find ourselves struggling to maintain them as the year progresses. The collective sentiment of frustration, exhaustion, embarrassment, and shame often accompanies unmet goals. In the midst of this, we turn to the wisdom of our recent sermon that sheds light on the pitfalls of conventional resolutions and unveils a transformative approach to welcome 2024. Reflecting on 2023 Acknowledging the challenges of 2023, the sermon resonates with the collective experience of facing adversity. Ps Bojan compassionately addresses the frustration and shame that often accompany unmet goals, fostering an atmosphere of understanding and acceptance. 15 I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate. 16 But if I know that what I am doing is wrong, this shows that I agree that the law is good. 17 So I am not the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it. 18 And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. 19 I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. 20 But if I do what I don’t want to do, I am not really the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it. 21 I have discovered this principle of life—that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. 22 I love God’s law with all my heart. 23 But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. 24 Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Romans 7:15-24 NLT Here, Apostle Paul candidly expresses his internal conflict. Paul’s admission of doing what he hates and the frustration he experiences becomes a relatable anchor point for those grappling with their own struggles. There is a common tendency to start the year with good intentions but our intentions alone are insufficient. We must have a well-thought-out strategy, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to resolutions. Real change isn’t behaviour modification. Real change is a spiritual transformation. Majority of resolutions fail because people focus on changing external behaviors without addressing the root cause — the lack of internal transformation. 24 Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? 25 Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God’s law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin. Romans 7:24-25 True change comes not from self-will but through spiritual transformation. There is a profound difference between behavior modification and genuine spiritual renewal and we must embark on the journey of inner transformation. Two Misguided Mindsets: God, then Me, and God and Not Me Relying solely on self-effort after seeking God’s guidance (God, then Me) and relinquishing all responsibility to God without personal effort (God and Not Me). Ps Bojan cautions against both extremes, advocating for a balanced approach that acknowledges God’s role while actively participating in the transformation process. A key theme emerges – the partnership model. We must view our journey as a partnership with God, stressing that real transformation occurs when we let God work through us, not in isolation. 9 For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me. 1 Corinthians 15:9-10 We are reminded of the balance of working hard while recognising the grace of God. Real change involves both human efforts and God’s transformative grace.Real change isn’t God- then you. Real change isn’t God- not you. Real change is God through you. The grace that saves you is also the grace that changes you. We must understand what aspects of our lives we can control and what we cannot, allowing God’s grace to penetrate every aspect of our existence. Spiritual Why and How: Unveiling God’s Purpose and PowerIntroducing the concepts of spiritual why and how, the sermon urges us to reflect on the reasons behind their goals (spiritual why) and emphasises the importance of recognising God’s power and strategy in achieving those goals (spiritual how). – Not by Might, Not by Power, but by My Spirit Zechariah 4:6 Transformation is not achieved through personal might or power but through the spirit of God. It underscores the necessity of relying on God’s power for lasting change. We must be careful of superficial behaviour modification, lasting change comes from allowing God to transform desires at a deeper, more profound level. Each time he said, “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. 2 Corinthians 12:9 NLT This verse highlights the power of God’s grace in moments of weakness, surrendering our weaknesses to God, and allowing His power to work through them. We must lay down our burdens and trust God. And rely on the sufficiency of God’s grace for transformation. Future Focus: 2024 and Beyond – A Balanced Perspective

Unwrapping Christmas Perspectives: Navigating Joys, Sorrows, and Levels of Hope

2023, Sermon Summaries / By NewSeasonAdmin

As we wrap up the year and deck the halls with festive decorations, it’s only natural to ponder the true essence of Christmas. In this blog article, we delve into various Christmas perspectives with Ps Matt Anderson of Surprise Church in Bismarck, ND, USA – from the insights gathered in our community to the disappointments and expectations that often accompany the holiday season. Join us on a journey through the levels of hope, exploring both the hazardous pitfalls and the hope that doesn’t disappoint. We embarked on a quest to understand what Christmas means to our community. The responses were as diverse as the holiday itself. From the warmth of family gatherings to the solitude that sometimes accompanies the season, Christmas emerged as a nuanced experience. It’s a time of both joy and sorrow, a realisation that sets the stage for a more profound exploration of the holiday’s true impact. While Christmas is often associated with joy and celebration, it’s essential to acknowledge that it can also bring disappointment. January, in particular, tends to be a month of post-Christmas blues. We unpack the reasons behind these disappointments, reflecting on why individuals may struggle after the festive lights dim. By understanding these dynamics, we can navigate the complexities of the holiday aftermath more empathetically. Levels of Hope: Coping Mechanisms and Christmas Connections Introducing the concept of “levels of hope,” we explore the different ways people cope with the realities of life. At the first level, there’s the dangerous attempt to escape, where dark thoughts and self-harm may arise. This level finds an unexpected connection with Joseph’s initial reaction in the Christmas story to Mary’s pregnancy, highlighting the universality of human struggles across time. Moving to the second level of hope, we discuss self-medication, a coping mechanism that involves relying on chemicals, media, or habits to numb the pain. In an era of high-stimulation culture and addictive behaviours, we ponder the impact of these choices on individuals’ mental and emotional well-being. As an alternative, we propose the radical approach of accepting emotions, labelling them as short-term experiences rather than perpetual states. Encouraging the acceptance of emotions becomes a central theme. We advise approaching emotions with curiosity, acknowledging and labelling them without judgment. Using the metaphor of waving at negative feelings as they pass by, we emphasise the impermanence of emotions and the power of allowing them to naturally ebb and flow. The Hope that Doesn’t Disappoint: As we wrap up this exploration, we emphasize the importance of placing hope in the right place. The levels of hope discussed find echoes in the Christmas story, drawing parallels between the human experience and the timeless narrative of the birth of Jesus. We tease the upcoming exploration of the hope that doesn’t disappoint, leaving room for further elaboration in the upcoming sermon series, “God Wants to Help.” In unwrapping Christmas perspectives, we find that acknowledging the complexities, disappointments, and coping mechanisms is a step toward embracing the true spirit of the season. By understanding the levels of hope and recognising the hope that doesn’t disappoint, we pave the way for a more meaningful and transformative Christmas experience.