6 10 83 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/2151f9290c7bcbfe0de3cdae96c5ebd4.jpg 0c494f4191b77ab61b2bf65dc8ec6876 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/e21515a4e4e4572b732470613677e6c0.mp4 abda8be1c104c691c499d03bb97192f5 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound A Holy Calling 2025 2 Timothy 1:6-9 It is fun to explain to our international church family just how important college football is here in the Southern United States. “It’s not a matter of life or death, it is much more important than that”  Usually, we align ourselves with one school – one team – and then we stick with it, good years and bad years. When people ask me, as they often do in the south, who I pull for in college football, I let them know I am a lifelong Georgia fan. I tell them I was “literally born a Georgia Bulldog.” My mother and father went to school there, I grew up in Athens, and most of all, my dad was on the UGA football broadcast team when I was a wee young’un. You can’t argue with that, can you? Much MUCH more importantly, you and I, whether in the sanctuary or as a part of our online church family, are part of a bigger team with a much higher calling. What is Our Mission? What is Our Purpose? Nehemiah 2:17-18: “Then I said to them, “You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace.” I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me. They replied, “Let us start rebuilding.” So they began this good work.” “Thankful people recognize the mission they have to fulfill and they rise and build.” Why are we thankful? vs 9: “He has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began.” You have a holy calling on your life - and it already was there when you first opened your newborn eyes. Even before time began. Things to focus on today: share in suffering for the gospel, relying on the power of God. He has saved us and called us with a holy calling not according to our works according to his own purpose and grace, given to us in Christ Jesus before time began. The change we want to see in our lives – our families – our community – our nation – starts with a new hope in our hearts. The change literally has to flow through us. “I would have been without hope if I had not believed that I would see the loving-kindness of the Lord in the land of the living.” This quote is from Psalm 27:13 and speaks to the importance of faith and hope - even in difficult times. It expresses the idea that without belief in God's ultimate goodness and a future in the "land of the living," a person would despair and lose hope. The verse encourages perseverance, strength, and courage in the face of adversity by focusing on a confident expectation of God's faithfulness. 2 Tim 1:12 (Paul) “The confidence of my calling enables me to overcome every difficulty without shame” If you’re still breathing – you’re still in this “It is not over” (We walk by faith) If you truly live by faith you believe that the battle is the Lord’s Faith Sees – Faith Believes – Faith Steps Out Psalm 27:14: Here’s what I’ve learned through it all: Don’t give up; don’t be impatient; be entwined as one with the Lord. Be brave and courageous, and never lose hope. Yes, keep on waiting—for he will never disappoint you! In today’s lesson, Paul wrote to Timothy, “I’m writing to encourage you to fan into a flame and rekindle the fire of the spiritual gift God imparted to you when I laid my hands upon you. For God will never give you the spirit of fear, but the Holy Spirit who gives you mighty power, love, and self-control.” Spurgeon: “Every living saint has (their) charge to keep, (their) talent over which they are a steward. A measure of a gift is in all of us, needing to be stirred up.” 2 Tim 1:6: “Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you…” Methodist Hymnal: A Charge to Keep I Have • “A charge to keep I have, a God to glorify” • “To serve the present age, my calling to fulfill…” Eph 2:10: "We are his workmanship" As we close out 2025, if we are determined to still to “rise and build,” we must do it through God’s Power at work within us. (2 Tim 1:9) “God saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace. He gave us this grace in King Jesus before all time and ages…” “Not according to our works” – which reminds me (reminds most of us, no doubt,) of Eph 2:8: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Spurgeon: “Again, in order to shut out everything like boasting, the whole is spoken of as a gift. Do notice that, "purpose and grace which He gave us" — not "which He sold us," "offered us," but "which He gave us." “God saved us and chose us to be his holy people. We did nothing to deserve this, but God planned it because he is so kind. Even before time began God planned for Christ Jesus to show kindness to us.” As a Believer: • You are Saved • You have a Holy Calling …and it is a gift of God We are to be Christian soldiers – putting on the gospel armor – holy instruments of God’s reconciliation. Are we up to the challenge? This is a tough season Jesus said (John 16:33) “I have told you these things so that you can have peace in me. In this world you will have troubles. But be brave! I have defeated the world!” In our scripture today, Paul says we are to “share in suffering for the gospel, relying on the power of God.” “fan into a flame and rekindle the fire of the spiritual gift God imparted to you” This is our time to get strengthened and equipped Psalm 90:12: Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Now is the time to feed our faith and starve our doubts Embrace our total salvation by grace through faith God gives the believer “the Holy Spirit who gives (us) mighty power, love, and self-control.” The Living Word speaks to you and me in this hour just like it has in every hour and in every age – if we will listen and apply it AMP: [For it is He] Who delivered and saved us and called us with a calling in itself holy and leading to holiness [to a life of consecration, a vocation of holiness]; [He did it] not because of anything of merit that we have done, but because of and to further His own purpose and grace (unmerited favor) which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began [eternal ages ago]. omnipotence: the quality of having unlimited or very great power. universal power We serve an Omnipotent, Almighty God Rev 19:6 - Then I heard what seemed to be the thunderous voice of a great multitude, like the sound of a massive waterfall and mighty peals of thunder, crying out: “Hallelujah! For the Lord our God, the Almighty, reigns!” As a Believer: • You are Saved • You have a Holy Calling …and it is a gift of God They replied, “’Let us start rebuilding.’ So they began this good work.” 2 Tim 1:2: I pray for a greater release of God’s grace, love, and total well-being to flow into your life from God our Father and from our Lord Jesus Christ! Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource A Holy Calling 神圣的呼召 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/23/2025 Description An account of the resource 2 Timothy 1:9: He has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began. 提 摩 太 後 書 1:9: 神 救 了 我 们 ， 以 圣 召 召 我 们 ， 不 是 按 我 们 的 行 为 ， 乃 是 按 他 的 旨 意 和 恩 典 ； 这 恩 典 是 万 古 之 先 ， 在 基 督 耶 稣 里 赐 给 我 们 的 ， (page 1929) 2 Timothy 1:6,7: That is why I want you to remember the gift God gave you. God gave you that gift when I laid my hands on you. Now I want you to use that gift and let it grow more and more, like a small flame grows into a fire. 7 The Spirit God gave us does not make us afraid. His Spirit is a source of power and love and self-control. 提 摩 太 後 書 1:6,7:为 此 我 提 醒 你 ， 使 你 将 神 藉 我 按 手 所 给 你 的 恩 赐 再 如 火 挑 旺 起 来 。因 为 神 赐 给 我 们 ， 不 是 胆 怯 的 心 ， 乃 是 刚 强 、 仁 爱 、 谨 守 的 心 。 (pg 1929) Psalm 27:14: "Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!" 詩 篇 27:14: 要 等 候 耶 和 华 ！ 当 壮 胆 ， 坚 固 你 的 心 ！ 我 再 说 ， 要 等 候 耶 和 华 ！(page 905) Ephesians 2:10: For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them 以 弗 所 書 2:10: 我 们 原 是 他 的 工 作 ， 在 基 督 耶 稣 里 造 成 的 ， 为 要 叫 我 们 行 善 ， 就 是 神 所 预 备 叫 我 们 行 的 。 (page 1895) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/da653b15691bf3f4feb95d23a387d561.png 207ddfe723698df3273efb4fc392b299 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/85e9bb8f609fd94ec0e2531551dae706.mp4 de377d1db648b97602b1a3130bd89add Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Staying Full of God: Guarding the Heart from Spiritual Dulling Romans 1:21 There's a small glass jar in my prayer area that holds a candle. When the candle was new, the flame burned bright - warm, clean, steady. But over time, something began to happen. Not suddenly... but slowly. A thin film of soot began to coat the glass. At first, you could hardly notice it. The flame was still there - still burning - but its light didn't shine through the way it used to. As the days went by, the glass grew darker. Nothing was wrong with the flame itself... but the film around it kept thickening - dimming the glow, muting the warmth, obscuring the brightness. One day, I finally wiped the glass clean. And immediately - without adding wax, or oxygen, or fuel - the flame looked brighter. Nothing new had been added. Nothing had changed about the flame. The only thing that changed... was removing what had built up around it. "Most believers don't lose the flame - they lose the clarity." "You may carry the Spirit, but does the Spirit carry you?" Not because the Spirit left... but because the heart grew coated - slowly - over time. And that is exactly what Romans 1:21 describes: "For though they knew God, they did not glorify him as God or show gratitude. Instead, their thinking became worthless, and their senseless hearts were darkened." This is a message for those with hungry hearts today. Hungry for more. Hungry for a closer walk with God. Advent Week One is HOPE. Let our Hope be in a greater revelation of Jesus today. Jesus said: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” (Matt 5:6) > Let’s break this down by each of its parts… 1. (For though they knew God )“They did not glorify Him as God” To glorify God means to magnify Him — to make Him bigger in our hearts than anything else. Whatever you focus on, you magnify. Heb 10:38: “ …but my righteous one shall live by faith, and if he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him.” “Faith is the positive response to what God has already given you by grace.” When we stop glorifying (magnifying) God: - problems grow larger - fears grow louder - emotions sit on the throne But when we deliberately magnify Him: - faith rises - clarity returns - His presence fills our awareness Psalm 35:27: “Let the LORD be magnified who hath pleasure in the prosperity of His servant.” Start each day by exalting God before examining circumstances. Psalm 145:18: The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. 2. For though they knew God, they did not glorify him as God or show gratitude. The second step downward is ingratitude. (not being grateful) Gratitude is the retaining wall that keeps revelation from leaking out of the heart. Ingratitude: - Shrinks our awareness of grace - Feeds disappointment Thanksgiving: - Sensitizes the heart - Anchors joy 1 Thess 5:18: In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. When we thank God IN everything, and our hearts stay tender toward Him. 3. “They became vain in their imaginations” “they entertained corrupt and foolish thoughts about what God was like.” Once God is no longer magnified and gratitude fades, the mind begins to drift. “Vain imaginations” means: - letting thoughts go unchecked - meditating on worst-case scenarios - picturing defeat instead of promise We don’t have to surrender to this fate – we were called to fight it - victoriously 2 Cor 10:5: We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ… Andrew Wommack says “The imagination is ‘the womb of the heart’ — whatever you dwell on in-ternally is birthed ex-ternally.” “out of the abundance of the heart” If I turn on the DVD player to watch “Platoon” and instead it’s some lame movie called “The Notebook” – what went wrong? What movie are we replaying in our minds? Replace mental movies of fear with pictures of God’s faithfulness. 4. “Their foolish heart was darkened” “This left them with nothing but misguided hearts, steeped in moral darkness.” The final step is not intellectual darkness — it is heart darkness. A darkened heart: - loses spiritual sensitivity - stops recognizing God’s voice - feels far from God 1 Sam 16:7: Man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart. When God looks into our hearts, what does He find? Jesus said ( Matt 6:21 ) “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” A heart that was set on serving God and hearing His voice can slowly drift away by the distractions of this world. Heb 2:1: So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it. But here’s the hope: If decline has four steps, restoration has four steps in reverse: 1. Glorify Him 2. Give Thanks 3. Sanctify Imagination 4. Heart Enlightened This is how we stay full of God. Maybe you haven’t rebelled. Maybe you haven’t drifted morally. …But maybe you’ve gone dim inside. Today, God invites you to: - glorify Him again - give thanks again - renew your minds (imagination) again - let your heart brighten again You don’t need a breakthrough — you need a return to awareness. Prayer Lord, I magnify You above every distraction, fear, and circumstance. Thank You for Your goodness, Your presence, Your faithfulness in my life. Purify my imagination and align it with Your promises. Enlighten my heart again. Keep me full of You — tender, awake, aware, and responsive. Amen. Hosea 6:3: Let us acknowledge the LORD; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth.” Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource FULL 充满 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/30/2025 Description An account of the resource Romans 1:21: For though they knew God, they did not glorify him as God or show gratitude. Instead, their thinking became worthless, and their senseless hearts were darkened." 羅 馬 書 1:21: 因 为 ， 他 们 虽 然 知 道 神 ， 却 不 当 作 神 荣 耀 他 ， 也 不 感 谢 他 。 他 们 的 思 念 变 为 虚 妄 ， 无 知 的 心 就 昏 暗 了 。(page 1822) Psalm 145:18: The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth." 詩 篇 145:18: 凡 求 告 耶 和 华 的 ， 就 是 诚 心 求 告 他 的 ， 耶 和 华 便 与 他 们 相 近 。 (page 1028) 1 Thessalonians 5:18: In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 帖 撒 羅 尼 迦 前 書 5:18: 凡 事 谢 恩 ； 因 为 这 是 神 在 基 督 耶 稣 里 向 你 们 所 定 的 旨 意 。 (page 1918) 2 Corinthians 10:5: We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ..." 歌 林 多 後 書 10:5: 摧毁一切抬高自己、对抗上帝知识的高傲障碍。我们要俘虏每一种思想，使它们降服于基督。(page 1880) Matthew 6:21: For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." 馬 太 福 音 6:21: 你们的财宝在哪里，你们的心也会在那里。 (page 1567) Heb 2:1: So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it. 希 伯 來 書 2:1: 因此，我们必须更加注意我们所听到的那些事情（真理）(page 1940) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/bad55c55ffdf831ed014357cb9069f45.jpg d082be24548083b8b1732cfbd55ef9bc https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/737c143be9e2db04c828578b769af81e.mp4 3b76870d0c731217dbc97cfea05d7ef3 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Finding True Peace: Advent Week 2 "We've got work to do to put right what has gone wrong, to heal what is broken, to mend the relationships, and to prepare for the company that will come." Peace. It's what we all long for, isn't it? That freedom from disturbance, that tranquility, that wholeness the Bible calls 'shalom.' As Augustine so beautifully put it: "Thou hast made us for thyself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in thee." Without peace, our souls cannot truly rest. Colin Hay captures this internal turmoil in his song "Storm in My Heart": "I used to wonder as I lie on my bed Can I hear thunder or am I confused By what lies ahead? And I got storm in my heart Tearing me apart Storm in my heart" That storm - that restlessness - is what brings many of us here today. We're searching for something our world simply cannot provide. We desperately seek peace in our lives, don't we? We try everything - relationships, achievements, possessions, even religious activities. …Yet so many of us still find ourselves coming up short, still feeling that storm raging within. “storm in my heart - tearing me apart” Why? Because we're often building our peace on shifting foundations: - our house upon the sand • Where there is guilt - there can be no peace Where there is shame - there can be no peace Where there is double-mindedness - there can be no peace “all other ground is sinking sand” ? Is our identity built upon the finished work of the cross? We must understand the crucial difference between conviction and condemnation. One leads us toward God; the other drives us away. Some people have learned to control others through guilt and shame, or maybe they have been controlled by these themselves. Guilt and shame are powerful forces. And in that environment, true peace becomes impossible. Romans 5:1,2: Our faith in Jesus transfers God’s righteousness to us and he now declares us flawless in his eyes. This means we can now enjoy true and lasting peace with God, all because of what our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One, has done for us. Our faith guarantees us permanent access into this marvelous kindness that has given us a perfect relationship with God. What incredible joy bursts forth within us as we keep on celebrating our hope of experiencing God’s glory! Peace. There are many different definitions for peace – but it all goes back to Shalom. One of God’s names is Jehovah Shalom - "the Lord is peace" “Shalom” - Wholeness. A wholeness we cannot create on our own. Sometimes when my world feels like it is spinning, I will just say “Peace.” (anxious) Without Divine Peace anchoring our souls, each day becomes a struggle. Our hearts remain unfixed, unstable. We find ourselves asking: "Are we saved one day and lost the next?" This uncertainty creates a spiritual restlessness that affects every aspect of our lives. As James writes, "A double-minded person is unstable in all they do." This instability manifests in anxiety, broken relationships, and a disconnect from our true purpose. People ask: "Have you made your peace with God?" - knowing deep down that without this fundamental peace, nothing else will satisfy. But here's the good news of Advent - Romans 5:1-2 tells us: "Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us." Notice the source of this peace - it's "because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us." That sounds like Grace to me! As Ephesians 2:8 reminds us: "For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God's gift." This peace isn't something we achieve; it's something we receive. "Our faith in Jesus transfers God's righteousness to us and He now declares us flawless in his eyes. This means we can now enjoy true and lasting peace with God, all because of what our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One, has done for us." Romans 8:1-2 assures us: "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, for the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death." Only Jesus can speak to the storm in your heart and say, "Peace, be still." When we embrace this Divine Peace that comes through Christ, everything changes. We find ourselves blessed as described in Psalm 32 and quoted in Romans 4: "Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord will never count against them." This Divine Peace brings: Freedom from guilt and shame Confidence in our relationship with God Stability in life's storms A heart that is fixed, not double-minded The ability to rest in God's presence and love As 2 Peter 1:2 promises: "May God give you more and more grace and peace as you grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord." This peace grows as our relationship with Christ deepens. So, what should we do to establish or re-establish the divine peace that is already ours through Jesus? Here are some practical steps: **Pray consistently**: Jesus taught that we "should always pray and never give up." 1 Thessalonians 5:17 tells us to "pray without ceasing." TPT puts it this way: "Make your life a prayer." Not fancy prayers, but open-hearted honesty with God. **Practice thanksgiving**: (“in everything give thanks”) Philippians 4:6 instructs: "Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking Him with a thankful heart." The Amplified version adds: "Do not be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything [every circumstance and situation] by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, continue to make your specific requests known to God." **Draw near to God**: James 4:8 promises: "Move your heart closer and closer to God, and he will come even closer to you. But make sure you cleanse your life, you sinners, and keep your heart pure and stop doubting." **Grow in faith**: Hebrews 11:6 reminds us: "Without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." **Embrace your new identity**: Eph 4:24 "take on an entirely new way of life - a God-fashioned life, a life renewed from the inside and working itself into your conduct as God accurately reproduces his character in you." These practices don't earn us peace; they help us experience the Divine Peace Christ has already secured for us. As we continue this Advent journey, remember that the Prince of Peace came to bring you what you cannot find elsewhere. If you are seeking refuge from the storm, if you are seeking peace today, there is only one true answer. His name is Jesus. Ephesians 2:14: "For He Himself is our peace” Our reconciling “Peace” is Jesus! ...By dying as our sacrifice, he has broken down every wall Isaiah 53:5: But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. “The punishment that He received has brought peace to us.” “ … we can now enjoy true and lasting peace with God, all because of what our Lord Jesus… has done for us.” Our answer to the storm is a new heart - a heart at peace with God through faith in Jesus Christ. Peter reminds us to continue growing in the fruit of the Spirit: "For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins." So today, let us not forget - instead, let us remember our so great a salvation - and in so doing, live in God's peace. "Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us." This Advent season, will you accept His peace? Will you allow the Prince of Peace to calm the storm in your heart? You can take that step of faith today. Luke 12:32: Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the Kingdom. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource PEACE 和平 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 12/07/2025 Description An account of the resource Romans 5:1,2: 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. 羅 馬 書 5:1,2: 并通过基督，使一切，不论是天上的还是地上的都与自己再和好。上帝通过基督洒在十字架上的血缔造了和平。(page 1827) Col 1:20 - …and through him God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross. 歌 羅 西 書 1:20: 并通过基督，使一切，不论是天上的还是地上的都与自己再和好。上帝通过基督洒在十字架上的血缔造了和平。 (page 1909) 2 Peter 1: 2: May God give you more and more grace and peace as you grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord. 彼 得 後 書 1:2: 愿你们借了解上帝和耶稣我们的主，领受到更丰富的恩典与和平。(page 1972) Romans 8:1,2: Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, for the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 羅 馬 書 8:1,2: -所以现在，在耶稣基督之中的人们不被定罪， 因为在耶稣基督之中，带来生命的圣灵的法，已把我从那导致罪和死亡的律法中解脱出来了。(page 1831) Col 3:15 – “ …let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.” 歌罗西书 3:15 要让基督的平安掌管你们的心，你们就是为此而蒙召成为一个身体。 要常存感恩的心。(page 1911) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/4448bb697a2c85df62105c7cb62d211c.jpg c2a9b5334def4320c818714858ef166a https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/f1ca1a374c9b710ab6756ea2ae17cbf0.mp4 9e82fafb611c37814f5cb395f8ca3601 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound ADVENT WEEK 3 - JOY: The Return of Joy When the Heart Flows Again "Long before you see spring... you hear it. When winter begins to loosen its grip, the very first sign is not the melting snow or the budding trees - it's the sound. A single birdsong on a cold morning. A crack of ice along the riverbank. A quiet drip of melting snow from a rooftop. Movement. Life. Sound. These tiny sounds are not the fullness of spring - but they are the announcement that spring is coming. And the Holy Spirit whispers: "Joy is the sound of the heart thawing." Not loud excitement. Not forced happiness. But the first movement of life inside a heart that is flowing again. This is Advent Week 3 - JOY - and today we listen for the sound of signs of an early spring in the soul. Psalm 16:11 tells us, "You make known to me the path of life; in Your Presence there is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore." And James 1:2-3 reminds us that joy can emerge even in trials: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance." We've previously talked about the danger of a hardened heart. A heart that freezes... cannot feel joy. Even if joy is present - it cannot be sensed. Many of us live in this winter season of the soul. Our hearts grow cold through disappointment, through busyness, through the weight of our burdens. Some of you may feel this today - a numbness where joy once flowed freely. Romans 1:21 describes this condition: For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. When we stop glorifying God, when we stop being thankful, when our imagination drifts away from the truth... the heart grows dim. “survival mode” Psalm 51:8 speaks to this when David prays, "Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones that you have broken rejoice." David understood that sometimes our joy is broken, crushed under the weight of sin or sorrow. This is the spiritual winter we may find ourselves in - not because God has withdrawn His joy, but because our hearts have lost their capacity to feel it. And in this frozen state, we often make a critical mistake - we try to manufacture joy through our own efforts, through positivity, through circumstances. We strive and strain to create what can only be received. Prayer of St Francis – Make me an instrument of Thy JOY A joyless Christianity is a contradiction. It becomes heavy religion rather than vibrant relationship. Without joy, our witness grows dim. Without joy, our strength diminishes. Without joy, our hearts grow weary. Nehemiah 8:10 reminds us that "the joy of the Lord is your strength." When joy departs, our spiritual strength goes with it. Many believers live in this weakened state - faithful in practice but missing the vitality that should characterize those who know the living God. Isaiah 35:10 paints a picture of what we're missing: "Those the Lord has rescued will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away." And even the world will notice when we lack joy. They see our duty but not our delight. They hear our words but don't witness our wonder. A frozen heart cannot flow with the living water Jesus promised in John 7:38: "Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water." Philippians 4:4 calls us to "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" This is not a suggestion - but a command - because joy is essential to our spiritual health and witness. Weeks ago we began this series with the truth that transformation does not come by trying - but by beholding. Because whatever we behold... we become. …we magnify. David understood this when he wrote: "In Your presence is fullness of joy." Joy is not something we create - it is what rises when our eyes are lifted from ourselves and fixed again on Jesus. Hebrews 12:2 instructs us to fix "our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." This is why the angel's announcement at the birth of Christ began with: "I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people." (Luke 2:10) Where Jesus enters... joy begins to flow. Jesus came with a promise: "He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted." (Luke 4:18) A healed heart becomes a feeling heart. A tender heart. A responsive heart. And when the heart softens - joy returns. Romans 15:13 offers this powerful promise: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Not because circumstances improved. Not because life became easy. But because the heart thawed. Isaiah 52:9 says, "Break forth into JOY." Joy is the warmth that comes when the ice breaks. Joy is evidence that Jesus has touched a deep place within you. Where there is flow, there is joy. Joy is not the result of human positivity. Joy is the overflow of divine life moving freely within us. 1 Peter 1:8-9 describes this supernatural joy: "Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls." Psalm 126:5-6 promises, "Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy. Those who go out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them." Joy is not the goal - it is the symptom of a heart where Jesus is flowing again. Some of you may have rediscovered this in recent weeks. The moment you stopped striving and started beholding... Peace came. Clarity came. …And Joy began to return Joy is the echo of a heart looking at Jesus. Andrew Wommack teaches that joy is not something we pursue - it is something we maintain by staying aware of God. (beholding) Psalm 51:12 becomes our prayer: "Restore unto me the JOY of Thy salvation." When we restore awareness - by glorifying Him... by thanking Him... by beholding Him... the heart brightens. And joy returns. Habakkuk 3:17-18 shows us how to implement this even in difficult circumstances: "… yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior." Advent joy is not loud. It is not emotional hype. It is the quiet confidence that: "Christ is with me. Christ is in me. Christ is moving within me." Psalm 30:5 promises: "For His anger lasts only a short time. But His favor is for life. Crying may last for a night, but joy comes with the new day." This is the joy that carried Mary. This is the joy that sustained Joseph. This is the joy that made unborn Baby John leap. This is the joy that filled the shepherds. This is the joy that Simeon felt when he held the child. The joy of "God is here." Emmanuel (will YOU choose to BELIEVE Today?) Maybe joy has felt distant for a while. Maybe winter has lingered too long in your soul. Maybe your heart has been frozen, or numb, or just plain tired. But today... listen. There is a sound. A small movement. A flicker. A whisper. The sound of spring. The sound of joy returning. Not because everything is perfect - but because Christ is present. John 15:11 captures Jesus' promise: "I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete." And Isaiah 61:3 reminds us that God gives us "the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair." And when Christ comes, winter loses its hold, the river begins to move, and joy rises naturally. The tests and challenges of this current season may have you feeling weak... …but the joy of the Lord can once again be your strength. **Prayer** "Lord Jesus, restore the flow of joy in my heart. Let every frozen place thaw in Your presence. Let every silent place begin to sing again. Open my eyes to behold You. Open my heart to feel You. Open my spirit to flow with You. Fill me with the deep, steady, unshakeable joy that comes only from Your life within me. Amen." Because of you, I know the path of life, as I taste the fullness of joy in your presence. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource The Return of JOY 《喜乐的归回》 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 12/14/2025 Description An account of the resource Psalm 16:11: You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. 詩 篇 16:11: 你 必 将 生 命 的 道 路 指 示 我 。 在 你 面 前 有 满 足 的 喜 乐 ； 在 你 右 手 中 有 永 远 的 福 乐 。 (page 892) Romans 15:13: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. 羅 馬 書 15:13: 但 愿 使 人 有 盼 望 的 神 ， 因 信 将 诸 般 的 喜 乐 、 平 安 充 满 你 们 的 心 ， 使 你 们 藉 着 圣 灵 的 能 力 大 有 盼 望 。(page 1843) Nehemiah 8:10: …for the joy of the Lord is your strength. 尼 希 米 記 8:10: ...因 靠 耶 和 华 而 得 的 喜 乐 是 你 们 的 力 量 。 (page 802) John 15:11: I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. 約 翰 福 音 15:11: 这 些 事 我 已 经 对 你 们 说 了 ， 是 要 叫 我 的 喜 乐 存 在 你 们 心 里 ， 并 叫 你 们 的 喜 乐 可 以 满 足 。 (page 1749) Isaiah 61:3: To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the LORD has planted for his own glory. 以赛亚书 61:3: 以华冠取代锡安哀伤者头上的灰尘，以喜乐的膏油取代他们的哀伤，以颂赞的外袍取代他们的沮丧。他们将被称为耶和华所栽种的公义橡树，以彰显祂的荣耀。 (page 1213) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/4130cc3e584029764f8c49b6e58c2e76.jpg b33e544c6ccff6d912203d4be6944af8 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/35c76e4b3789fc0e2da92ef982c3cc2a.mp4 eaa1f8678bb0e135bfd04dc685e74e87 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound The Love Connection: Advent Week Four Experiencing Christ's Pursuing Love Last week, during Drive-Thru Prayer, we were standing outside, praying for people as they passed by. At one point, I said to Tracy, "We're getting a lot of wavers today." Not too many people were stopping... but at least many waved. And as I stood there, it struck me - despite the distance, a connection was being made. Not because of words. Not because of explanations. But because people could sense sincerity. They could feel that someone genuinely cared. Then I realized something profound: Love doesn't always require proximity - it requires presence. When the arms of this church reach beyond our walls, we are offering to the world what we ourselves have already discovered: The Love of Christ. "Everyone you know is fighting a battle" - everyone. My church family... we all struggle to fully comprehend and experience God's love in our daily lives. Many people see Christians and might imagine that we're probably nice people - but they still miss the true connection. They remain at a distance, essentially just waving rather than pulling over, hesitant to take that leap of faith that would allow God to minister to them personally. Ephesians 3:19 reminds us: "May you experience the love of Christ..." Not just hearing about it through words, but truly experiencing it. Because only then will you KNOW its transformative power. We often believe intellectually in Christ's love without allowing ourselves to be enveloped by it. We keep God at arm's length, thinking we need to fix ourselves first before approaching Him. This scripture doesn’t just say believe in the love of Christ. It says: “May you know the love of Christ…” Because knowing (experiencing) His love …changes everything. This message is not about the love we have to give – it is about the love we have received. “Love came down at Christmas” Titus 3:4-7: But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. When our eyes are opened to the love Jesus has for us, we can reach out to Him in faith — for forgiveness, for healing, for restoration. Love becomes the bridge. And this is exactly what Jesus does for all of us. John 12:36: “In Him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 12:36: “Believe in the light while you have the light, so that you may become children of light.” Jesus does not wait for us to fix ourselves before He comes near. He reaches out to us just as we are — because He is our only hope of moving beyond our current state. That’s the heart of the gospel. And that’s why Advent matters. Advent Week 4 is about LOVE — not sentimental love, but God’s faithful, pursuing love, revealed in the coming of Christ. Love that moves toward us. Isn’t that exactly what happens in Holy Communion? Paul tells us: “When you partake of the bread and the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.” (1 Corinthians 11:26) That means every time we receive Communion, we are declaring — - not just remembering. We declare – we proclaim to ourselves, (our hearts) to the powers and principalities, to our own bodies and circumstances: We proclaim that Jesus’ finished work applies to me. Not trying to be forgiven — forgiven. Not hoping to be righteous — righteous. Not waiting to be healed — healed. Not wishing for restoration — restored. Holy Communion is the Love of Christ made tangible. (Means of Grace) When you partake of Communion, you’re not earning anything. You’re acknowledging and receiving by faith… • His broken body for healing and wholeness • His shed blood for forgiveness and right standing • His life for every place of lack Holy Communion becomes a moment (sacrament) where love meets need. Not because you deserve it — but because He loves you. This is Divine Reconciliation Remember the Mission It is our mission as a church: To share the love of Christ by making a connection — connecting with people at their genuine point of need. That’s what Jesus does for us. …And that’s what He invites us to do for others. • Sometimes it’s a prayer. • it’s an invitation to come to church it can be simply a Drive-Thru Prayer wave. …and sometimes it’s bread and a cup. …But every time, it’s love reaching out. Advent reminds us: Love has come. Love is present. Love is reaching toward you today. You don’t have to clean yourself up first. You don’t have to figure it all out. You don’t have to close the distance. Just receive. Because the love of Christ is already reaching for you. Prayer Lord Jesus, thank You for loving us where we are. Thank You for reaching us when we could not reach You. As we receive the bread and the cup, help us to receive Your love again — deeply, personally, fully. And teach us to carry that love beyond these walls, into the world You came to save. Amen. Jesus said: (John 8:12) "I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of Life." Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource The LOVE Connection 愛的關係 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 12/21/2025 Description An account of the resource Eph 3:19: May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God. 以 弗 所 書 3:19: 基督的爱比任何人所能知道的都要伟大。但是，我祈祷你们能够知道那种爱，这样，你们才能彻底被上帝的丰富所充满 (page 1897) John1:4,5: In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. 约翰福音 1:4,5: 祂里面有生命，这生命是人类的光。 光照进黑暗里，黑暗不能胜过光。(page 1716) John 12:36: While you have the light, believe in the light, so that you may become children of light. 约翰福音 12:36: 所以你们当趁着有光的时候信从光，好成为光明的儿女。 (page 1744) John 8:12: "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." 約 翰 福 音 8:12: 耶稣又对他们说∶“我是世界之光，跟随我的人绝不会走在黑暗之中，他将获得生命之光。” (page 1733) Titus 3:4-7: But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. 提 多 書 3:4-7: 但是当我们的救主－上帝显示他对人类的爱时， 他拯救了我们，不是因为我们的行为，而是靠他的怜悯、重生的洗礼和使我们更新的圣灵。 上帝通过耶稣基督，我们的救世主，慷慨地把圣灵倾注给了我们， 所以，现在我们靠上帝的恩典，在他面前是清白的，从而得以成为他的继承人，实现了我们对永生的盼望 (page 1936) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/6d80c68401bcaf2a7055ffde48722c9e.jpg 79f5c0185ff1d0f2739b5494caed9d5c https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/631d0a0c8f9ac52962e694c4aab4863b.mp4 6f369f82f029f50c7635103d32b74b39 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound From Caterpillar to Butterfly: Divine Transformation in 2026 – Ephesians 4:22-24 Being human can be such a challenge. (if you’re me, at least) We should desire improvements – real change in our lives, but often come away with less than satisfying results - despite our best efforts. Paul lamented, "Oh wretched man that I am!" Here's a fundamental truth: as long as we're human, we will depend on Divine Mercy. As we approach 2026, I wonder — are there aspects of your life you'd like to see improve in the New Year? Are there changes you're considering making, perhaps even today? The Book of Proverbs, written by King Solomon, is centered on wisdom. Its core message is simple, yet profound: "Get Wisdom." Part of wisdom is recognizing our three-part nature: Body, Mind, & Spirit. We aren't meant to neglect any part of this trinity. All three need to be in alignment. Psalm 19:14 reminds us: "May my words and thoughts please You. Lord, you are my Rock—the one who rescues me." Our words and thoughts please God when they align with His Word and His will. God's Word tells us in 3 John 1:2 that we should "prosper and be in good health." ? But is our heart—and are our words—in alignment with this promise? Do we stand in agreement with God's desire for our wellbeing? We may trust GOD – but that doesn't mean we just passively sit back. It doesn't mean we abandon common sense. We are still and always will be Body – Mind- Spirit Eph 4:23,24: Now it’s time to be made new by every revelation that’s been given to you. And to be transformed as you embrace the glorious Christ-within as your new life and live in union with him! For God has re-created you all over again in his perfect righteousness, and you now belong to him in the realm of true holiness. ? Are we “waiting on the Lord” while He’s telling us to move our feet? Today is Your Invitation —not to try harder, but to rest, as God leads us from old form into new life. Consider this example: A friend I met while living in Maine (who attended my church) claimed he was "waiting on the Lord" for his family to join him in his new life. (they were still living somewhere lese) Meanwhile, he literally spent his days hanging around the church playing guitar. What he wanted and what he was doing were clearly not in alignment, …but for quite a while, he couldn't see this disconnect in himself. Many of us may be living in similar contradiction. (in some area?) We know we have to trust God—and also do the things that are in alignment with that trust. This doesn’t minimize our faith – it actually confirms it. Without this alignment, it’s kinda like we remain caterpillars when we're meant to become butterflies. In 1909, anthropologist Arnold Vanjane wrote "The Rights of Passage" after studying rituals across dozens of human cultures. He discovered that every meaningful human transformation—whether birth, marriage, or identity change—follows the same three-part structure that mirrors a butterfly's metamorphosis. This transformation framework isn't just metaphorical; it's rooted in actual science and spiritual truth. Embracing this process can transform us from frustrated individuals pushing ourselves to improve into beings experiencing a metamorphosis of the heart that literally pulls us toward the right choices and direction. As the saying goes, "God doesn't renovate caterpillars—He resurrects butterflies." This divine transformation process follows three essential stages: **STAGE ONE: SEPARATION (The Cocoon)** This stage lays the groundwork for detachment from old patterns and beliefs that no longer serve us. 2 Corinthians 6:17: "Come out from among them and be ye separate." John 12:24 tells us, "Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit." The chrysalis stage looks like death and stillness, but it's actually hidden transformation. Life is not lost—it's being reconfigured. What looks like surrender is actually preparation for flight. **STAGE TWO: LIMINALITY (The Chrysalis)** liminal: relating to a transitional or initial stage of a process. "that liminal period when a child is old enough to begin following basic rules but is still too young to do so consistently" This is the messy middle where we actively reshape ourselves through intentional changes and practices. "Be transformed by the renewing of your minds" (Romans 12:2) — this indicates a process of deliberate effort and rewiring. 2 Cor 3:18 reminds us that, as we are beholding Jesus, "We are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory..." This is ongoing transformation—not instant arrival. Just as a butterfly cannot rush emergence, spiritual formation is organic, not forced. Transformation comes by beholding, not striving …just as a butterfly emerges naturally, it does not "try" to fly. Ephesians 4:22-24 instructs us to "Put off your old self... and put on the new self"— - much like the shedding of the cocoon. The butterfly does not carry the chrysalis with it. Yet "Some believers are alive—but still clinging to their cocoons." **STAGE THREE: REINTEGRATION (The Butterfly)** In this final stage, we emerge renewed, reflect on our journey, and embody our transformed self with gratitude. 2 Cor 5:17 declares, "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation..." Not the same creature with upgrades, but something entirely new. A caterpillar never returns to crawling once transformed. "New life doesn't remember how to live the old way." 1 Peter 1:8-9 promises, "You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you do not see him now, you trust him; and you rejoice with a glorious, inexpressible joy. The reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls." As we stand at the threshold of 2026, embracing a New Year requires releasing the old one. We must: 1. Identify the areas where we need separation from old patterns 2. Embrace the uncomfortable liminal space of transformation 3. Trust the process even when progress isn't visible 4. Allow God to complete what He has begun in us 5. Step into our new identity with confidence Remember, Ephesians 4:24 promises: "And to be transformed as you embrace the glorious Christ-within as your new life and live in union with him! For God has re-created you all over again in his perfect righteousness, and you now belong to him in the realm of true holiness." Father God, We come before You - not to strive, but to be still. We release our need to hurry, to fix, to become something by force. We quiet our hearts and rest in Your presence. In this stillness, Lord, we trust that You are at work— even when we cannot see it, even when we cannot feel it. We surrender the old ways, the old fears, the old identities that no longer belong to the life You are forming in us. Teach us to trust the hidden work. Teach us to wait without anxiety and rest without resistance. As we behold You, shape us. Change us. Not by effort, but by grace. When the time is right, Lord, bring forth what You have been forming within us. We rest in You. We remain in You. We trust You with who we are becoming. Amen. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. - Romans 13:12 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Caterpillar to Butterfly 从旧形态到新生命 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 12/28/2025 Description An account of the resource Eph 4:21-24: Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy. 以 弗 所 書 4:21-24: 如果你们听过祂的事，领受了祂的教诲，就是在祂里面的真理， 就应该与从前的生活方式一刀两断，脱去因私欲的迷惑而渐渐败坏的旧人， 洗心革面， 穿上照着上帝形象所造的新人。这新人有从真理而来的公义和圣洁。(page 1898) Psalm 19:14: Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer. 诗篇 19:14: 耶和华——我的磐石、我的救赎主啊，愿你喜悦我口中的言语、心中的意念 (page 897) 3 John 2 - Beloved friend, I pray that you are prospering in every way and that you continually enjoy good health, just as your soul is prospering. 约翰三书 2: -亲爱的弟兄，衷心地祝你凡事顺利，身体和灵魂一样健康 (page 1985) 2 Cor 3:18: So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image. 哥林多后书 3:18: 我们这些脸上不再蒙着帕子的人，可以像镜子一样反映主的荣光，渐渐变成主的样式，荣上加荣。这都是主的作为，主就是那灵。(page 1733) 2 Cor 5:17 - Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, and see, the new has come! 哥林多后书 5:17: 若有人在基督里，他就是新造的人， 旧事已过，看啊，一切都更新了。(page 1875) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/c14ff62c3957ffd32715a8dc1372e872.jpg 70a2355989f43cbea691b7950936c706 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/9fd8725cdebb69a770b575c85d0698bd.mp4 f68577650491dfe8cb69eed302173b84 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound A Return to Sanity From Old Form to New Life (Psalm 23) There are certain scripture passages and verses that form the bedrock of our Christian faith: John 3:16 Jesus teaching what came to be referred to as “the Lord’s Prayer” (Matthew 6:9-13) The opening verses of the first chapter of the Gospel of John “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us…” …and the 23rd Psalm One of my favorite and most quoted parts of that chapter is Psalm 23:3: “He restores my soul – He leads me in paths of righteousness” I want to begin this morning by saying something simple: God wants to restore us. Restoration assumes something was off. Something was not right The quest for restoration should begin the moment we realize it is needed in our lives. One of my favorite movies opens with this line: “A beginning is a very delicate time.” And today—this first Sunday of 2026—is a beginning. Not necessarily a loud one or a dramatic one. …But a delicate one. Proverbs reminds us to know the importance of the season we are in. Not every season is for speed. Some seasons are for alignment. Psalm 16:11: Thou wilt show me the path of life Let me ask you something gently… Were there moments in 2025 where you took actions that didn’t seem in line with your goals… your values… …or even your own character? Moments where later you thought, “What was I thinking?” Shakespeare once lamented, “These rebel powers that thee array…” talking about forces inside the soul that pull us off course. “these “rebel powers” in the soul replaying” (forces that doubt belong there) anger. resentment. guilt. bitterness. unforgiveness. We all know them. The TV commercial asks, “What’s in your wallet?” But maybe our deeper question should be: “What’s in your soul?” Sometimes we kinda need a setback to prepare us for a comeback. And so much of recovery — so much of restoration— can be traced back to one thing: A return to sanity. In the Twelve Steps, Step Two says this: “Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.” Sanity simply means: reasonable, sound, clear thinking. Living in alignment with reality. I submit to you: Insanity, then, isn’t madness — it’s misalignment. “He wasn’t in his right mind when he did that” “not being in your right mind” can mean all kinds of things. It doesn’t have to be addiction or something that people can see outwardly It can be anger, resentment, anxiety, unforgiveness, being judgemental Someone once said, “That rare person who truly sees their betrayal by their own wrong ideas is ready to awaken.” A wake-up call is really a return to sanity. That’s mercy. Jesus gives us a perfect picture of this in Luke 15. (Prodigal Son) Luke 15:17 says,“When he came to himself…” That’s restored sanity. TPT says, “Humiliated, the son finally realized what he was doing.” Not condemned. Not rejected. Awakened. Truth did something nothing else could do. Truth can show mercy toward you by being merciless toward everything that is harming you. “The TRUTH shall set you free” 3 John 2 says, “…even as your soul prospers.” God desires your life to flourish— but flourishing follows restoration. Our souls need to be restored to God’s divine settings so that our souls can prosper, so that our lives can flow the way they were designed to flow. …so that we can accomplish our “Divine To-Do’s” This isn’t about trying harder. It’s about returning to alignment. Proverbs 8 says this: “If you wait at wisdom’s doorway, longing to hear a word for every day, joy will break forth within you as you listen.” Listen to this line: “…the fountain of life pours into you every time you find me.” (ref: Prov 8:34) That’s not striving. That’s beholding. But Proverbs also warns us: Ignoring wisdom brings harm to your own soul. Not punishment — harm. The opposite of sanity is in-sanity. Scripture describes insanity this way: “Like a dog returning to its vomit.” This comes from Proverbs 26:11 and describes a fool who repeats their foolish mistakes … someone going back to harmful or sinful behaviors, even after knowing better … it’s going back to what once made us sick and wondering why we still feel unwell. So when we ask, “What was I thinking?” the honest answer is often: “I was thinking — but I was thinking carnally.” “To be carnally minded is death.” Carnal thinking disconnects us from reality. But Proverbs 9:10 says, “The starting point for acquiring wisdom is to be consumed with awe as you worship the Lord.” “Consumed with awe.” Isn’t that what we’ve been talking about? Isn’t that beholding? Transformation doesn’t start with effort. It starts with awe. One of the clearest signs of insanity is often revealed in the way we speak. Why would we curse ourselves? Why would we speak against our future? 1 Peter 3:10 says, “Whoever desires to love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil.” Words reveal what’s happening in the soul. …those “rebel forces” Wisdom guards the mouth because wisdom guards the soul. This year isn’t about becoming someone else. It’s about coming back to yourself — the self God intended …before fear, distraction, and misalignment set in. Psalm 23:3 doesn’t say, “He pushes my soul.” It says, “He restores my soul.” Restoration is not force. It’s return. “Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the LORD Almighty. From old form - to new life. From confusion - to clarity. From insanity - to sanity. So today, don’t rush this new beginning. It’s a delicate time. Let Him restore your soul. Father, We come before You now not to fix ourselves, not to promise improvement, but to return. We confess that at times we have lived out of alignment— thinking without awe, speaking without wisdom, moving without clarity. And yet You have not withdrawn. You have remained near. You are the One Who restores our souls. So we yield the noise within us. We release the old ways of thinking, the old fears, the old forms that no longer belong to the life You are shaping in us. We choose stillness over striving. Awe over anxiety. Wisdom over impulse. Restore our souls to Your divine settings. Bring us back to clarity. Bring us back to truth. Bring us back to ourselves as You intended us to be. As we behold You, quietly and honestly, let our thinking be healed, our words be purified, and our lives realigned. We trust You with this beginning. It is delicate — and it is held in Your hands. We rest in You. We return to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource A Return to Sanity 《回归清醒》 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 01/04/2026 Description An account of the resource Psalm 23:3: He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 詩 篇 23: 3: 他 使 我 的 灵 魂 苏 醒 ， 为 自 己 的 名 引 导 我 走 义 路 。(pg 901) Psalm 16:11: Thou wilt show me the path of life; in Thy presence is fullness of joy; at Thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. 詩 篇 16:11: 你 必 将 生 命 的 道 路 指 示 我 。 在 你 面 前 有 满 足 的 喜 乐 ； 在 你 右 手 中 有 永 远 的 福 乐 。(page 892) Romans 8:6 - The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. 羅 馬 書 8:6: 如果你们的思想受罪恶自我的控制，只能导致死亡。如果你们的思想受灵的控制，你们就会得到生命与和平。(page 1832) John 8:32: And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. 約 翰 福 音 8:32: 你 们 必 晓 得 真 理 ， 真 理 必 叫 你 们 得 以 自 由 。(page 1734) 3 John 1:2 - Beloved, I pray you to prosper concerning all things and to be in good health, just as your soul prospers. 約 翰 三 書 2: 亲 爱 的 兄 弟 阿 ， 我 愿 你 凡 事 兴 盛 ， 身 体 健 壮 ， 正 如 你 的 灵 魂 兴 盛 一 样 。 (page 1985) Prov 9:10: The starting point for acquiring wisdom is to be consumed with awe as you worship the Lord. 箴言 9:10:智慧始于敬畏耶和华，认识至圣者便是明智。 (pg 1045) Psalm 23:6: Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. 詩 篇 23: 3: 我 一 生 一 世 必 有 恩 惠 慈 爱 随 着 我 ； 我 且 要 住 在 耶 和 华 的 殿 中 ， 直 到 永 远 。(pg 901) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/c8620d8fadcd1a311f8fbe8ae897fd8c.jpeg 81c0530320f00f9188011fb91914509c https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/96d9e00a5722b5622bf635907f7db453.mp4 a21a53c0b0fd1a7b6f602093d72efe62 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2026 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Discern the SEASONS I’m listening to an audio program called “The Miracle Morning After 50” It’s based on a best-selling program called “The Miracle Morning” and designed for people who are… over 50. It’s a plan to help you make the most of your days – making new daily choices – starting from the moment you get up out of bed.. Scripture teaches us a profound truth: we need to prepare in advance for what lies ahead. There are seasons of preparation and seasons that should reflect completion. Proverbs 20:4 reminds us: "Some people are too lazy to plant seeds. So at harvest time, they look for food and find nothing." Winter time in Alabama can mean anything from one day to the next Though the weather shifts weekly, we are indeed, still in a season. From Genesis forward, God established this principle: "As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest..." We understand the four seasons of nature, but what about the other seasons Scripture reveals to us? Seedtime and harvest are both real seasons, each with distinct purposes and impacts. Ecc 3:1 declares: "To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven." Seasons change. Our responsibility is to discern our current season. “I choose purpose over impulse” (don’t let external seasons impact your spiritual season) Proverbs 4:25 instructs: "Set your gaze on the path before you. With fixed purpose, looking straight ahead, ignore life's distractions." If we continually look backward at seasons past, we'll miss the season we're in. Missing your season means losing something irretrievable. The restlessness you feel may be because you need to catch up to what should be your present season. We must be sober-minded, observant, and aware. Jesus taught this principle when He said, "Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near" (Matthew 24:32). Proverbs 10:5 warns: "A wise youth makes hay while the sun shines, but what a shame to see a lad who sleeps away his hour of opportunity." Failing to observe changing seasons can bring regret. Some regrets may be minor—easily dismissed: "I wish I had set my alarm" or "I wish I had remembered to buy milk." Other regrets cut deeper and bring lasting pain: "I wish I had told them I loved them" or "I wish I had told them I forgave them" or "I wish I hadn't spoken those words." Ignoring the changing seasons can sometimes lead to profound regret. 2 Cor 4:18 reminds us: "...we don't focus our attention on what is seen but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but the unseen realm is eternal." There are seasons to recognize in every dimension of our lives—in our natural lives and our spiritual lives. There are seasons in our society, our nation, and our world... and crucially, there are seasons in the Kingdom of God. (not “age sensitive”) Psalm 102:13 speaks of when "the set time has come." Romans 13:11 urges: "And now consider this. You know well the times you are living in. It is time for you to wake up and see what is right before your eyes: for salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed." "To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven." I firmly believe, as Scripture confirms, that we are always in some type of season—whether preparation or completion. (or somewhere in-between) You cannot experience satisfactory completion without proper preparation. In Genesis 41, God revealed to Joseph that seven years of abundance would be followed by seven years of devastating famine. Joseph advised Pharaoh to store grain during the plentiful years to prepare for the coming scarcity, which would be so severe that "the abundance in the land will not be remembered." Because Joseph discerned the season and obeyed God, not only was Egypt saved, but Genesis tells us that "all the world came to Egypt to buy grain from Joseph, because the famine was severe everywhere." Had Joseph not responded, all would have been lost. How devastating would that regret have been? God guided him to take the proper steps to prepare—to work in the proper season. Proverbs 6:6-8 instructs: "Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest." What we've covered so far is practical and natural, though it still requires wisdom. But there's certainly a spiritual dimension to our preparations as well. God's Word clearly directs us to observe the seasons and prepare—not to coast passively through our lives. Discerning the seasons requires wisdom. Proverbs 9:10 tells us, "The starting point for acquiring wisdom is to be consumed with awe as you worship the Lord." "To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven." Amos 8:11 warns: "'The days are coming,' declares the Sovereign Lord, 'when I will send a famine through the land—not a famine of food or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the Lord.'" How should we be preparing? How should we now be storing up spiritual resources? 2 Timothy 2:15 exhorts: "Study and do your best to present yourself to God approved, a workman tested by trial who has no reason to be ashamed, accurately handling and skillfully teaching the word of truth." When you squeeze an orange, what comes out? Orange juice. What comes out of you when life's pressures squeeze you hard? Are you filling your spiritual reservoir with proper nourishment? How can we hear from the Lord if we're not listening—if we're not allowing His Word to speak to our hearts? "For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven." GOD says, "Step into My New Thing." I learned something new and amazing on Friday: “Clarity follows order.” Unnecessary clutter reflects our resistance to moving on with the new season that God wants to give us. Hoarding and holding on to unnecessary clutter is an outward expression of, “My best days are behind me.” Our external environment should declare, “I am ready for the new thing that God has for me.” There is a season you have seen in your heart of what you truly believe God has wanted to do in your life. In you family. In your business. In your health. It is to time to come into alignment with that season. Answer the restlessness with a true shift. To “call things that be not as though they were.” This season God wants to take us into is not limited by what others think we should walk in. 1 Cor 1:30: For it is not from man that we draw our life but from God as we are being joined to Jesus, the Anointed One. And now he is our God-given wisdom, our virtue, our holiness, and our redemption. We must not miss our season to hear from God — and to respond to that still, small voice of the Holy Spirit. In the Spirit, GOD can shift our season in an instant – but it may take a while for our souls to catch up. (ponder) Isaiah 55:6 urges: "Seek the Lord while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near." "So turn your attention and seek the Eternal One while it is still possible; call on Him while He is nearby." This indicates there is a finite window of opportunity—a window of His Grace. As Hebrews reminds us, quoting the Psalmist: "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts." To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven. Seasons always exist. Seasons change. Seasons end. "It's better to know Him before you meet Him." “Buy your coat before the cold weather arrives.” Romans 10:9 promises: "If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Acts 4:12 declares: "And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." Romans 10:13 assures us: "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." Will you call on Jesus today? To everything there is a season. One day this door—this season—will close. Romans 13:12 urges: "Night is almost over, and day will soon appear. We must stop behaving as people do in the dark and be ready to live in the light." Stop merely reacting to external seasons and instead respond to GOD's Kingdom Season. GOD says, "Step into My New Thing." Father God, We recognize that You are the Lord of seasons. Today, we choose awareness over distraction and purpose over impulse. Where we have drifted, bring us back into alignment. Where we have delayed, give us grace to respond. We do not want to miss what You are doing in this season. We choose to seek You while You are near, to hear Your voice, and to step into the new thing You are calling us into. We commit our hearts and our future to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Discern the Seasons 分辨季节 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 01/11/2026 Description An account of the resource Ecc 3:1: To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven 传道书 3:1: 天下万物都有定期，凡事都有定时。(page 1089) Prov 10:5: A wise youth makes hay while the sun shines, but what a shame to see a lad who sleeps away his hour of opportunity. 箴言 10:5: 夏天聚敛的是智慧之子，收割时沉睡的是贻羞之子。 Romans 13:11: And now consider this. You know well the times you are living in. It is time for you to wake up and see what is right before your eyes: for salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed. 羅 馬 書 13:11: 你们知道我们处在一个重要的时代，所以我说了这番话。现在是应该从沉睡中醒来的时候了，因为现在我们的拯救比最初相信时更接近我们了。(pg 1841) Amos 8:11 - “The days are coming,” declares the Sovereign LORD, “when I will send a famine through the land— not a famine of food or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the LORD.” 阿 摩 司 書 8:11: 主 耶 和 华 说 ： 日 子 将 到 ， 我 必 命 饥 荒 降 在 地 上 。 人 饥 饿 非 因 无 饼 ， 乾 渴 非 因 无 水 ， 乃 因 不 听 耶 和 华 的 话 。(page 1495) Isaiah 55:6 - Seek the LORD while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. 以 賽 亞 書 55:6: 要趁着还可以找到耶和华的时候寻找祂， 趁祂还在附近的时候求告祂。(p 1961) Romans 10:9 - “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved” 罗马书 10:9: 你若口里承认耶稣是主，心里相信上帝使祂从死里复活，就必得救。 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/14510b5184149a2fdbe8680ebdd91608.jpg d17399bee0d1315d3ef947a378591800 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/1805208b0dd03a290526b0f9d98d9939.mp4 ce6811fcbdd4fa82c12b9c322899d97c Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2026 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound NOW IS THE TIME: Responding to the Favor That Is Already Here Sometimes a door is already open. No pushing. No knocking. Just open. But an open door still requires a response. You can walk through it - or walk past it. That's how God's grace works. He opens the door. He extends favor... And then He invites us to respond. 2 Corinthians 6:2: "For He says, 'I listened to you at the time of My favor, and the day when you needed salvation, I came to your aid.' So can't you see? Now is the time to respond to His favor! Now is the day of salvation!" There are moments in life when everything changes - not because circumstances suddenly shift, but because we respond. As we shared last week, there is a season when we should respond... Jesus spoke to the people of Jerusalem who rejected His love and cried, "If only you could recognize that this day peace is within your reach!" In today's scripture, Paul is not speaking to people far from God. He's speaking to believers. People who already know Him. People who have already heard His voice. And yet he's saying: "Can't you see?" In other words - don't miss this moment. Because salvation is not only about what God has done. It's also about when we respond. Hebrews 3:15 reminds us, "Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts." Notice what the Scripture does not say. It does not say: "When you become worthy..." "When you get everything right..." "When you finally feel ready..." It says: "I listened to you at the time of My favor." Favor is not something we earn. Favor is something God offers. Grace is already moving. Help is already near. God is already attentive. The only question left is not whether God is ready - - but whether we are responding. Philippians 1:6 assures us: "Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ." Ron Carpenter: "Not every touch is an instant finish, but every touch is a Divine beginning. When God starts a work, He's inviting you into deeper knowing, not shallow relief. The process shapes your faith so the miracle can be sustained. In the end, the greatest outcome isn't just what God does for you-it's how you come to know Him in a deeper way." Salvation Is Not Just an Event - It's a Response Today is not the completion - but if, by faith, we respond, it is the next step. Paul says: "Now is the day of salvation." Salvation is not only about conversion. For believers, it is about receiving again what Christ has already provided. "But to us who are being saved it is the power of God." (1 Corinthians 1:18) Salvation includes: - forgiveness - healing - restoration - wholeness - renewed life This is why Scripture repeatedly emphasizes today. Because delay hardens the heart. But response keeps the heart soft. 1 Cor 1:18 tells us: "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God... to us who are being saved, it is the mighty power of God released within us." Everything we've been learning these past weeks has been leading here: - beholding - thawing - flowing - rejoicing - loving All of it prepares us to respond now. The Danger Is Not Rejection - It's Postponement Most people don't reject God outright. They postpone. "I'll deal with this later." "I'll surrender when things settle down." "I'll respond when I feel stronger." But Scripture says: Now is the time. Mark 5:27-29 illustrates this truth: "When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, because she thought, 'If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.' Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering." Because grace has a momentum. And when the Spirit stirs the heart, He is inviting us into life. To delay is not neutral. It slowly dulls awareness. But to respond - even quietly - keeps the heart open and alive. And this is why Holy Communion matters so much today. Communion is not performance. It is response. Psalm 27:8 captures this beautifully: "My heart says of you, 'Seek his face!' Your face, Lord, I will seek." When we take the bread and the cup, we are saying: "I receive what You have already done." "I agree with Your finished work." "I respond to Your favor - now." Paul tells us that when we receive Communion, we proclaim the Lord's death until He comes. We are declaring: - forgiveness is mine - healing is available - grace is sufficient - salvation is active - now So today, there is no pressure. No striving. No fear. Just an invitation. This morning, nothing needs to be forced. Nothing needs to be proved. The door is already open. The only question is... will we respond? If your heart has been stirred... If something has softened... If you sense Grace drawing you closer... Don't rush past it. Because now is the time to respond to His favor. Now is the day of salvation. John 6:37 promises: "The one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out." Prayer: Lord Jesus, I respond to Your favor today. I receive Your grace - not someday, but now. I open my heart to Your forgiveness, Your healing, Your restoring life. I turn from self-effort and trust in Your finished work. Thank You for meeting me in this moment. I receive what You have freely given. Amen. Romans 5:17 affirms: "...much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ." Will you be open to Receive today? The Change You Seek - can you go from Resolutions to Revelation today? Holy Communion When Jesus was with His disciples in the Upper Room He told them, "I have longed to share this meal with you" (Luke 22:15) As we receive the bread and the cup today, let this be a moment of agreement with grace... in alignment with God's Perfect Plan. Taking the bread and the cup His body - broken for your healing His blood - poured out for your forgiveness Not trying. Not striving. Simply responding... Because now is the time. And now is the day of salvation. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Now is the Time 现在是时候了 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 01/18/2026 Description An account of the resource 2 Cor 6:2: For he says, “I listened to you at the time of my favor. And the day when you needed salvation, I came to your aid”.” So can’t you see? Now is the time to respond to his favor! Now is the day of salvation! 歌 林 多 後 書 6:2: 因 为 他 说 ： 在 悦 纳 的 时 候 ， 我 应 允 了 你 ； 在 拯 救 的 日 子 ， 我 搭 救 了 你 。 看 哪 ！ 现 在 正 是 悦 纳 的 时 候 ； 现 在 正 是 拯 救 的 日 子 。 (page 1875) Hebrews 3:15: Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts. 希 伯 來 書 3:15: 正如《经》里写到的：“今日，如果你们听到上帝的声音，不要固执，不要像过去那样对抗上帝。” (pg 1942) Philippians 1:6: Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. 腓 立 比 書 1:6: 我坚信，在你们中间开始这项美好事业的上帝，一定会继续这项工作，直到耶稣基督重返那天，并把它完成。(pg 1902) 1 Cor 1:18: For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 哥林多前书 1:18: 因为十字架的道理，对走向灭亡的人来说是愚笨的，但对我们这些得救的人，却是　神的大能。 (page 1848) Romans 5:17: ...much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ. 羅 馬 書 5:17: 如果因一人的过犯，死亡就借着那人做了王，那么接受上帝洪恩又得到祂所赐之义的人，岂不更要借着耶稣基督一人在生命中做王吗？ (p 1828) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/1f6d87359191e1d0fea11fcf7186ce8d.jpg da873cb12abb972d2a4782109b7b678d https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/56e30a476b09a641cb6d6fa6e6c77a79.mp4 c4959c9363ea9d895998250229840f52 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2026 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound CONTINUE Living From the Finished Work Colossians 2:6 (I believe in the power of new beginnings, but…) Every morning when you wake up, you don’t start your life over. You don’t reintroduce yourself to your family. You don’t relearn your name. You simply step back into the life you already have. You don’t earn the new day — you receive it. The sun doesn’t ask whether you’re ready. It rises because that’s what it does. And grace works the same way. You don’t wake up each morning to become a Christian all over again. You wake up to walk in what you already received. That’s why Paul says: “As you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him.” Have you ever noticed how easy it is to start something one way… and then slowly switch methods? You begin relaxed. You begin trusting. You begin hopeful. And somewhere along the way, without realizing it, you begin trying harder, managing more, and carrying weight you were never meant to carry. Paul is writing to believers when he says this — not to unbelievers. And what he’s really asking is simple: Why would you change the way you live, when the way you began was working? We should live each day with Presence, Peace & Purpose Col 2:6: In the same way you received Jesus our Lord and Messiah by faith, continue your journey of faith, progressing further into your union with him! Let’s pause there for a moment - How did you receive Christ? Not with a plan. Not with all the answers. Not with everything cleaned up. You received Him by: • trusting • opening your heart • admitting need • letting go You didn’t negotiate grace. You didn’t earn forgiveness. You didn’t prove anything. You simply received. And Paul says: “That way right there — don’t abandon it.” Heb 2:1 - We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. When you look at today’s key scripture, you recognize that it is a verse that contains a gentle caution: “As you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him.” Walking speaks of daily life. Ordinary moments. Normal pressures. Real relationships. Paul is saying: “Don’t switch systems after salvation. Don’t trust Jesus for eternity and then trust yourself for today. Don’t receive grace freely and then live under pressure.” Walking in Him means: • the same dependence you started with • the same openness • the same receiving heart Grace is not just how we enter the Christian life. Grace is how we continue. Here’s the drift most of us don’t notice: We don’t reject grace — we just somehow try to supplement it. We start saying things like: • “I should be stronger by now.” • “I should know better.” • “I shouldn’t still be struggling with this.” And suddenly the weight is back on us. But striving doesn’t make us mature — it makes us tired. …And tired hearts don’t flow well. That’s why Paul warns elsewhere: “Having begun by the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by the flesh?” Galatians 3:2,3: “Let me ask you only this: Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law or by hearing with faith? Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?” So what does this look like practically? It looks like: • bringing weakness to God instead of hiding it • trusting grace in the middle of the day, not just on Sunday • letting Christ be the daily source, not just a one-time Savior (HE is the Vine) Psalm 119:130: The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple. We need compounded interest – and compounded trust Psalm 23:1: The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want… This is not just about provision (although that is included) but it is also about identity. Jesus said in John 15:8: When your lives bear abundant fruit, you demonstrate that you are my mature disciples who glorify my Father! It’s all about abiding It’s waking up each day and saying: “Lord, I’m still receiving today.” Not dramatic. Not complicated. Just honest. Hebrews 4:10-11: For all who have entered into God’s rest have rested from their labors, just as God did after creating the world. So let us do our best to enter that rest. But if we disobey God, as the people of Israel did, we will fall. And when we live this way: our hearts stay soft - joy stays near - flow continues This week, there’s no new technique. No added burden. No spiritual upgrade required. Just this invitation: Live the way you started. The irony is: Living this way actually facilitates our spiritual growth. Grace is not static—it develops as you walk faithfully with God. As favor increases, so does responsibility, visibility, and reach. God expands your capacity so your life can serve more people for His purpose. As you received Him — with trust, humility, and open hands — - so walk in Him. Because we don’t graduate from grace. We learn how to live from it. “As you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him.” Lord, thank You for reminding us that the way in is also the way forward. Help us to stop striving where You invite us to trust. To rest in your strength Teach us to walk the same way we received — dependent, open, and at rest in You. Amen. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource CONTINUE 继续 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 01/25/2026 Description An account of the resource Colossians 2:6: So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him 歌 羅 西 書 2:6: 所以，正如你们接受了耶稣为基督和主一样，你们应该继续生活在他之中。(page 1910) Heb 2:1 - We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. 希 伯 來 書 2:1: 因此，我们必须更加重视所听的道， 以免随流漂去 (page 1940) Galatians 3:2-3: Let me ask you only this: Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law or by hearing with faith? Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh? 加 拉 太 書 3:2-3: 我只问你们一件事：你们是通过遵守律法，还是通过听到并相信福音才领受到圣灵的恩赐的呢？ 3 你们真会这么蠢吗？你们以圣灵开始了你们生活，现在想要靠自己的力量来继续它吗？ (page 1887) Psalm 119:130: The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple. 詩 篇 119:130: 你 的 言 语 一 解 开 就 发 出 亮 光 ， 使 愚 人 通 达 。(pg 1010) Hebrews 4:10,11: For all who have entered into God’s rest have rested from their labors, just as God did after creating the world. So let us do our best to enter that rest. But if we disobey God, as the people of Israel did, we will fall. 希伯来书 4:10,11: 因为那进入　神安息的人，就歇了自己的工作，好象　神歇了自己的工作一样。所以，我们要竭力进入那安息，免得有人随着那不顺从的样子就跌倒了。(pg 1943) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States