Today’s message, "When You Give," reflects on Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 6, emphasizing the importance of the heart’s motive in giving. It warns against seeking human recognition and encourages a sincere, personal approach to generosity. Practical steps include addressing selfishness, cultivating gratitude, and embracing tithing and offerings as acts of faith that advance God’s kingdom. The message ultimately highlights that true giving reflects our relationship with God and empowers the church to fulfill its mission.

In today's message, Pastor Rich continued the "Set Apart" mini-series, focusing on prayer from Matthew 6. He emphasized that prayer, fasting, and giving are vital to spiritual growth. In our time we highlighted prayer as heartfelt communication with God, built on trust and reliance—not just routine words. We outlined key elements of effective prayer, including honoring God, submitting to His will, seeking provision, extending forgiveness, and asking for protection. We’re encouraged making prayer a daily habit and engaging with God continually.

In week 1 of our new series, "Set Apart," we take a deep dive into the spiritual discipline of fasting, drawn from Matthew 6. Highlighting Jesus’ call to give, pray, and fast, we explore fasting as a powerful yet often neglected practice. While feasting is common, fasting is rare—only 17% of American Christians practice it. In this message, we unpack its biblical roots, clarify its purpose as a spiritual pursuit (not a diet or social media detox), and offer practical steps for starting a 21-day fast on January 6. Through personal stories and encouragement, this message inspires the congregation to embrace fasting as a pathway to spiritual renewal, a deeper connection with God, and answered prayer.

In concluding the Christmas series "The Nativity Experience," Pastor Rich highlights that true peace can only be found in Jesus, contrasting the popular notion of "Peace on Earth" with the reality that Jesus provides "On Earth Peace." This message explains that peace is a divine gift and introduces four major disruptors of peace: unavoidable circumstances, unbearable people, unexplainable problems, and uncontrollable worry. To activate God's peace, he emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus' lordship, inviting Him into every situation, and keeping one's focus on Him. Ultimately, genuine peace, resting in the midst of life's chaos, is attainable through faith in Jesus.

In today’s message, Pastor Rich highlights the shepherds’ humble yet vital role in the Christmas story, drawing a powerful connection to Jesus, the Good Shepherd, who came to lead and save humanity. He reminds us that what seems insignificant on earth is deeply valued in heaven and calls us to align our lives with God’s priorities. The message concludes with an inspiring challenge: to share the transformative power of Christ and stay open to His guidance, knowing we are all part of God’s greater story.

In today’s message, Pastor Rich reflects on Mary’s vital role in the Christmas story as part of "The Nativity Experience" series. He highlights that God chose Mary for her humility, purity, and unwavering trust in the supernatural. Mary, a humble woman from an unlikely place, faithfully honored God’s ways. Pastor Rich inspires the congregation to embrace humility, give thanks to God in advance for answered prayers, and persevere through challenges. He reminds us that true faith is shown through trust and obedience, even in the face of uncertainty. Above all, he offers reassurance that Jesus is always with us, turning the impossible into the possible.

In our new series, The Nativity Experience, we’ll explore the characters of the Christmas story, uncovering powerful truths they lived out during challenging times—far from the picture-perfect scenes on Christmas cards. Together we’ll discover how these lessons still apply today.