7 10 83 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 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/5af8f5d731be1e6c9bc4086cc096e7bd.jpg 3d8cc755e1b80a3fd3d19ab6ad1e1138 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/200f4c4a373d0b286fa9640b0dd0fb06.mp4 8e8e9d47dc85d571ab02744cdc7aadca 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 The Kingdom Report: Holding Firm to the Unchanging Truth of the Gospel Today’s Scripture asks a simple but searching question: "Who has believed our report?" (Isaiah 53:1) That question echoes through the centuries and confronts us today with renewed urgency. • Every generation hears competing reports: Reports from the world (1 John 2:15-17) Reports from experience (Proverbs 3:5-6) Reports from fear (2 Timothy 1:7) Reports from disappointment (Romans 5:3-5) And in the midst of these voices, GOD has a report too—His Kingdom Report. The question is not whether other reports exist—the question is, which one we will trust with our lives and our futures. As Joshua challenged Israel: "Choose this day whom you will serve" (Joshua 24:15). We live in an age of information overload and competing truth claims. Many believers find themselves caught between: Cultural voices that challenge biblical authority (Colossians 2:8) Personal disappointments that test our faith (James 1:2-4) Religious traditions that sometimes obscure the fullness of the Gospel (Mark 7:6-9) Experiences that don't always align with what we believe (2 Cor 5:7) This creates confusion about what God's report actually says—especially regarding healing, His Kingdom, and His unchanging character. When we lose clarity about God's report, we lose our anchor in turbulent times. Psalm 11:3 asks, "If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?" ? What is the Cost of Disbelieving God's Report? When we fail to believe God's report—or substitute it with partial truths—we experience significant consequences: We limit what God can do in and through us (Mark 6:5-6) We settle for less than the fullness Christ purchased (Eph 3:17-19) We create theological systems that explain away portions of Scripture (2 Tim 4:3-4) We miss experiencing the Kingdom that Jesus declared is "at hand" (Matthew 4:17) Jesus Himself warned about the danger of traditions that nullify God's word Mark 7:13: Do you really think God will honor your traditions passed down to others, making up rules that nullify God’s Word? And you’re doing many other similar things. The cost is too high to accept anything less than the full Kingdom Report. Radio Station: It’s time to stop getting mad at the radio. It’s time to change the frequency. Jesus: "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel." (Mark 1:15) God's Kingdom Report is rooted in His immutable character. Hillsong song: My God can never fail He's been proved time and again Trust Him, you'll see He's got all the power you need One of the more challenged reports Christians struggle with is the message of healing. We sing “Great is Thy Faithfulness” As James 1:17 declares, there is "no shadow of turning with Him" ("never subject to change"). Heb 13:8 affirms that "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." God's name is Jehovah Rapha: "I am the Lord who heals you" (Exodus 15:26). He does not heal one generation and stop in another (Malachi 3:6) He does not forgive sins today and withhold grace tomorrow (Lamentations 3:22-23) His character does not shift with culture, opinion, or controversy (Numbers 23:19) That is why genuine faith is not based on trends—it is anchored in Who God is. Heb 11:6 "Without faith it is impossible to please Him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who seek Him." When Jesus appeared, He did not redefine God—He revealed Him - perfectly. "Have I been with you all this time, Philip, and yet you still don't know who I am? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father!" (John 14:9) Matt 4:23-24: "Jesus went about teaching, preaching the good news of the Kingdom, and healing every sickness and disease among the people." Healing was not a side issue. It was an integral part of the Kingdom message. And Jesus said plainly: "The Kingdom of God is at hand." Not someday. Not only in eternity. But near—accessible—present. As Luke 17:21 records Jesus saying, "The Kngdom of God is in your midst." When we fully embrace God's Kingdom Report, we receive: Healing as Part of the Kingdom Promise Psalm 103:3: "He forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases." () Isaiah 53:4-5: "Surely He took up our pain and (He) bore our suffering... …and by His wounds we are healed." When we talk about forgiveness, no one argues that Jesus forgave only some sins. No. We know He forgave all. Scripture reveals that Jesus bore our sins and also our sicknesses. Jesus revealed the Father’s heart toward us: Matt 8:16-17 confirms this: "When evening came, many who were demon-possessed were brought to him, and he drove out the spirits with a word and healed all the sick. This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: 'He took up our infirmities and bore our diseases.'" When we fully embrace God's Kingdom Report, we receive His grace Religion asks: Have you done enough? (Ephesians 2:8-9) Have you believed hard enough? Are you worthy? (Titus 3:5) The Gospel answers simply: "Jesus qualifies us." 1 Cor 1:30: "It is because of Him that you are in Christ Jesus...our righteousness, holiness, and redemption." 1 Peter 2:24: "He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed." 2 Cor 5:21: "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." "Now is the time of God's favor. Now is the day of salvation." (2 Corinthians 6:2) Believe His report today (Hebrews 11:1) “Now faith is….” Give yourself permission to open your heart again—even if you've been disappointed before (Isaiah 43:18-19) “Forget the former things…” We Should Be Living in Alignment with God's Report ? How do we practically align ourselves with God's Kingdom Report? “repent and believe in the gospel." Renew our commitment to believing the full Gospel Mark 1:15: "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel." "Faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ." (Romans 10:17) Submit ourselves to God's Kingdom Way of Living Matthew 3:2: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." To "repent for the kingdom of heaven" means to undergo a fundamental change of mind and heart. Romans 12:2: "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind." Let your words and thoughts align with God's Our Alignment scripture: "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my Strength and my Redeemer." (Psalm 19:14) "Death and life are in the power of the tongue." (Proverbs 18:21) We Should Pray BOLDLY like the early church Acts 4:29-30: "So now, Lord, listen to their threats to harm us. Empower us, as your servants, to speak the word of God freely and courageously. Stretch out your hand of power through us to heal, and to move in signs and wonders by the name of Your Holy Son, Jesus!" Jesus promised: "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." (Mark 11:24) Expect resistance but stand firm Jesus: "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake." (Matthew 5:10) "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33) Truth often challenges what people are comfortable believing. When we speak plainly about Scripture, we should not be surprised if some resist. That does not mean we are wrong. It means we are standing with Christ. "If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you." (John 15:18) So whose report will we believe? We do not deny reality. We do not ignore suffering. But we choose to anchor our faith in God's unchanging truth. We hold firm—not angrily, not defensively—but confidently Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). Prayer: Lord, we choose to believe Your report. We trust Your heart. We rest in Your grace. Where there is need, we ask for Your healing. Where there is fear, we receive Your peace. And where there is resistance, give us steady faith. We place our hope 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 Kingdom Report 天国消息 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 02/01/2026 Description An account of the resource Isaiah 53:1: Who hath believed our report? And to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed? 以 賽 亞 書 53:1: 我们所传的[a]有谁信呢？耶和华的膀臂向谁显露呢？ (page 1201) Hebrews 13:8: Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." 希 伯 來 書 13:8: 耶稣基督昨日、今日、一直到永远， 是一样的。(page 1957) Matthew 4:23: Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. 馬 太 福 音 4:23: 耶稣走遍加利利地区，在各会堂里讲教，传播上帝王国的福音，为人们治愈各种疾病。(page 1562) 1 Peter 2:24 - "He himself bore our sins" in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; "by his wounds you have been healed." 彼 得 前 書 2:24: 基督在十字架上的身体负载着我们的罪孽，为了让我们死于我们的罪孽，而为义而生。他的创伤，使你们得到治愈 (1968) Mark 1:15: “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe the gospel.” 馬 可 福 音 1:15: 他说∶“时刻到了。上帝的王国临近了。 悔改吧，要相信上帝的福音！” (pg 1617) Isaiah 53:4-5: Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering... and by his wounds we are healed. 以 賽 亞 書 53:4,5: 他诚然担当我们的忧患，背负我们的痛苦，我们却以为他受责罚，被神击打苦待了。 哪知他为我们的过犯受害，为我们的罪孽压伤。因他受的刑罚我们得平安，因他受的鞭伤我们得医治 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/a782cf71188e32fecb7d4333824ef7d4.jpg 456da5281799a0c2ebdb1594d5882f7f https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/67e6f12ab4cad631dcce0eb419f89296.mp4 8b284c2ccabd8510d5bdddc3b42ca17f 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 When Knowledge is Not Enough From Delay to Obedient Movement Weekends pass by so fast… Last Monday morning started early for me – and soon my mind was filled with things I knew I needed to do Actions I had been delaying – some for quite a while. Most of us have reminders on our phones. A reminder to call someone. A reminder to finish something. A reminder to start something we already know needs to be done. And the interesting thing is… having the reminder doesn’t actually change anything. You can know exactly what needs to be done and still swipe it away… “I’ll get to that later.” Knowing is important. But knowing alone doesn’t move anything forward. That’s why Scripture doesn’t just call us to believe — it invites us to walk. You probably have people in your life that always say, “I know” (even when they don’t) And today we’re talking about the moment when knowing isn’t enough… and grace invites us to move. What we “know” – what we believe – should propel us forward into actions Most of us don’t struggle with knowing what to do. We struggle with doing it now. It’s not rebellion. It’s not unbelief. It’s delay. We know the conversation we need to have. We know the habit we need to change. We know the step we need to take. “I’ll do it later.” “When things settle down.” “When I feel more ready.” But over time, delay becomes heavy. Not because God is angry— - but because our hearts know we’re living out of alignment. This precious earthly, physical life we have is not forever. James 4:14: What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. When we come to the end, do we want to hear the words, “Well done, though good and faithful servant?” “Well done” indicates we did something with this short life of ours. Delay Is Rarely About Information Scripture says: “Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn’t do it, sins.” (James 4:17) That sounds strong—but James isn’t condemning. He’s diagnosing. He’s encouraging us to re-align with our true purpose. The issue isn’t lack of knowledge. It’s lack of movement. And often the reason we delay is not fear of failure— it’s fear of what obedience will cost. Jesus told His disciples, “The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Delay can sometimes be disguised as “Wisdom” We call it: “Being cautious” - “Waiting on the Lord” - “Not rushing ahead” …and sometimes that is wisdom. But sometimes… it’s just hesitation but wearing a spiritual name. Paul says: “As you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him.” (Colossians 2:6) Notice: He doesn’t say analyze in Him or plan endlessly in Him. He says: walk. Walking requires movement—even if the steps are small. One of the dangers of misunderstanding grace is thinking: “If it’s grace, then nothing is required.” But grace doesn’t eliminate obedience. Grace removes fear from our obedience. Paul also writes: “Now is the time of God’s favor.” (2 Corinthians 6:2) Grace creates momentum. Delay creates stagnation. And stagnation is where joy quietly drains away. Obedience Is Often Simpler Than We Imagine We think obedience means: • Big changes - Dramatic leaps - Perfect timing …But often it’s just: • Making the call Taking the walk Saying the truth Starting the thing Jesus said: “everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them will be like a sensible man who built his house on the rock.” (Matt 7:24) Small steps taken today are more powerful than big intentions postponed indefinitely. It’s not that our delays are producing punishment. We’re just sadly missing out on the bigger blessings GOD has waiting for us on the other side of our obedience. Delay Keeps Us Living in the Past or the Future Delay says: “One day I’ll change.” “Someday I’ll act.” “Eventually I’ll obey.” But faith always lives in the present. That’s why Scripture keeps saying: “Today” “Now” “At hand” Because obedience only exists in the now. Can you reflect on a past moment in your life when you did answer the call? When you stepped up and stepped out? How did that feel? This message is an invitation. It’s an opportunity to move to life’s next level by a simple step of faith. Faith in a faithful GOD. We trust in GOD’s faithfulness. If you are a loving parent, you always had your children’s best interest at heart “If you, being evil…” ? What is the one thing you already know God has been nudging you toward? Not five things. Not everything. Just one. Action taken today — no matter how small — breaks the power of delay. “Small beginnings can lead to big futures.” Zech 4:10: “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.” Movement Restores Alignment When we act on what we already know: • peace returns - clarity increases - joy follows movement Not because we earned anything— but because we came back into alignment with grace. Today’s message is very simple, because chances are, you already know what you need to do next. It is closing the gap between who were are now and who we are called to be. Prayer Lord, You have been faithful to show us the next step. Forgive us for delaying out of fear, comfort, or distraction. Give us the courage to act—not in striving, but in trust. Teach us to walk in You, one step at a time. Amen. This sermon is not about doing more. It’s about doing the next right thing— - with Jesus, from grace, without delay. If you’re here today and you know there’s something God has been nudging you toward — not something you don’t know, but something you haven’t acted on yet — - then this moment is for you. Jesus: “Take up your bed and walk” So, let’s just get out of bed. “Awake” Just open your heart and say, “Lord, I’m ready to take the next step.” Not tomorrow. Not when it feels easier. But today. As 2 Cor 4:13 says: “I believed, therefore I spoke.” (listen) “You don’t have to have the whole picture figured out. God isn’t asking you to finish — He’s asking you to start. If you’ll take the step He’s already been nudging you toward, God will take care of what comes next.| Knowing isn’t enough — but His grace will empower our movement.” If that’s you, quietly respond to God right now — - because grace isn’t just here to forgive… it’s here to move us forward. Lord, we receive Your grace for this moment. Give us courage for the next step, and peace to trust You with the rest. “Fill me with the grace, wisdom and courage to do Your will in all things.” amen. Arise and take the first step. 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 When Knowledge is Not Enough 仅知道仍旧不够 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 02/08/2026 Description An account of the resource James 4:13-17: Listen, those of you who are boasting, “Today or tomorrow we’ll go to another city and spend some time and go into business and make heaps of profit!” But you don’t have a clue what tomorrow may bring. For your fleeting life is but a warm breath of air that is visible in the cold only for a moment and then vanishes! Instead you should say, “Our tomorrows are in the Lord’s hands and if he is willing we will live life to its fullest and do this or that.” But here you are, boasting in your ignorance, for to be presumptuous about what you’ll do tomorrow is evil! So if you know of an opportunity to do the right thing today, yet you refrain from doing it, you’re guilty of sin. 雅 各 書 4:13-17: 你们一些人说∶“今天或明天，我们要到某个城市去。我们要在那里住上一年，做生意，赚大钱。”听着！想想这点： 你们甚至不知道明天会发生什么！你们不过是雾，出现片刻便逝去了。 所以，你们应该说∶“如果主愿意，我们就可以活着，做这事，做那事。” 但是，现在你们却骄傲、自夸。这样的夸耀都是不对的！ 如果一个人知道如何去行善，却不去那么做，他就是在犯罪。(page 1963) Matt 26:41: “Stay awake and pray that you may not come into the time of trial; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” 馬 太 福 音 26:41: “清醒吧，祈祷吧，免受诱惑。虽然你们的心灵愿意，但是你们的肉体却是软弱的。” (page 1609) Matthew 7:24:"Everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them will be like a sensible man who built his house on the rock." 馬 太 福 音 7:24: 所 以 ， 凡 听 见 我 这 话 就 去 行 的 ， 好 比 一 个 聪 明 人 ， 把 房 子 盖 在 磐 石 上 ；。(page 1568) Zechariah 4:10: Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin. 撒迦利亚书 4:10: 谁敢藐视这微不足道的日子？(page 1539) 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/641582adb5d8f32dc73dfd5ec6b91e92.jpg 53f133d5dc3f5c7dd873834249da5770 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/122df65716b63c093ea90c2a0f85e576.mp4 4b47cfa5f6052323279fc7b691bfc301 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 Throne of Grace / Table of Grace Times of Refreshing from the Lord’s Presence Acts 3:11–19 Acts 3:19 Repent and turn back to God, so that your sins will be removed, and that times of refreshing may come from the Lord’s presence. Let me ask you something personal: What would “times of refreshing” feel like for you right now? What are you carrying? What has drained you this week? What has worn you down physically, emotionally, or spiritually? ( ) If we’re honest, some weeks our energy and emotions are all over the place. We love the Lord — and still feel tired. We trust God — and still feel stretched. This week as I prayed, one thought came strongly to my heart: What would we do without a fresh start? Lamentations 3:22–23 The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases… His mercies are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. Every morning is proof that God hasn’t given up on you. Growth is not very comfortable. “Comfort is a casualty of growth.” But God never withdraws His mercy when you’re growing. He refreshes you in it. And maybe today what you need most is not a lecture. Maybe you need refreshing? Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Notice — it doesn’t say crawl in fear. It says come boldly. Why? Because of grace. Not because you performed well this week. Not because you fixed everything. Not because you were flawless. …but because Jesus reconciled you. Col 1:22: He has brought you into His presence, holy and blameless, without a single fault. There is nothing between you and God. Nothing. The same grace that saved you is the same grace that keeps you. (back to today’s story…) In Acts 3, a crippled man sat at the gate asking for coins. He expected survival. God planned restoration. Peter said: “Silver and gold have I none, but what I have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” And the man was healed. The crowd was stunned. Peter immediately redirected them: “Why do you stare at us? This wasn’t our power.” vs 16 says: “Faith in Jesus’ name has healed this man.” The miracle wasn’t about Peter. It was about Jesus. And then Peter says: “Repent and turn to God… that times of refreshing may come.” Repentance here is not shame. It is turning toward the source of refreshing. Healing Flows From GOD’s Holy Presence Before healing is an event, it is an atmosphere.  Doesn’t the hearing of God’s Word create an atmosphere of faith? (when it is received with meekness?) 1 Thess 2:13: And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe. Psalm 107:20: By the power of his own word, he healed you and saved you from destruction. It is the presence of God restoring what has been drained. James 5 says: “The prayer of faith will save the sick… and if they have committed sins, they will be forgiven.” Notice how healing and forgiveness sit side by side. We never question whether Jesus forgives completely. Why question whether He heals compassionately? Psalm 103:3: “He forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.” Healing is not a reward for the worthy. It is a gift paid for us by Jesus and His substitutionary life and death The Divine Exchange We don’t come to Jesus after fixing ourselves. We come with the broken pieces. We cast our cares on Him. We bring our pain. We bring our anxiety. We bring our diagnosis. We bring our exhaustion. And we exchange it for grace. That is the Throne of Grace. That is the Table of Grace. Acts 3:19 again: “Times of refreshing may come from the Lord’s presence.” Not from effort. Not from performance. Not from striving. From His presence. If you need healing today — physical, emotional, or spiritual — don’t strain. Don’t try harder. Just turn your heart toward Jesus. Lift your eyes. Come boldly. Behold Him The same Jesus who healed then has not changed. There is no shadow of turning with Him. Prayer: Lord Jesus, We come boldly to Your throne of grace. Not because we deserve it — but because You invited us. Where there is sickness, bring healing. Where there is heaviness, bring refreshing. Where there is fear, bring peace. We receive from You. Not by striving — but by trusting. Let times of refreshing flow from Your presence. Amen. Before we move into prayer for healing, I want to bring back one passage we read — James 5. It says: Are there any sick among you? Then ask the elders of the church to come and pray over the sick and anoint them with oil in the name of our Lord. And the prayer of faith will heal the sick and the Lord will raise them up, and if they have committed sins they will be forgiven. Notice what it does not say. It does not say: • “Fix yourself first.” • “Qualify yourself.” • “Make sure your faith is perfect.” It simply says: “Come. Call. Receive.” James connects healing and forgiveness not to shame us, but to remind us that there is nothing between us and God. The same grace that forgives is the grace that heals. So if you need healing today — this is not a moment to analyze yourself. It’s a moment to come boldly. To the Throne of Grace. To the Table of Grace. And to receive. 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 Throne of Grace 恩典的寶座 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 02/15/2026 Description An account of the resource Acts 3:19,20: And now you must repent and turn back to God so that your sins will be removed, and so that times of refreshing will stream from the Lord’s presence. 使 徒 行 傳 3:19,20: 因此，悔改吧，重归上帝吧，让你们的罪过得以勾销， 这样，精神上安宁的日子就会从主那里降临给你们； 这样，他才会差谴耶稣，即他为你们挑选的基督。(page 1768) Matt 26:41: “Stay awake and pray that you may not come into the time of trial; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” 馬 太 福 音 26:41: “清醒吧，祈祷吧，免受诱惑。虽然你们的心灵愿意，但是你们的肉体却是软弱的。” (page 1609) Lamentations 3:22,23: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases... His mercies are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. 耶利米哀歌 3:22,23: 我 们 不 致 消 灭 ， 是 出 於 耶 和 华 诸 般 的 慈 爱 ； 是 因 他 的 怜 悯 不 致 断 绝 。 每 早 晨 ， 这 都 是 新 的 ； 你 的 诚 实 极 其 广 大 ！(page 1341) Matt 8:17: This fulfilled the word of the Lord through the prophet Isaiah, who said, “He took our sicknesses and removed our diseases.” 马太福音 8:17: 这是要应验以赛亚先知的话：“祂担当了我们的软弱，背负了我们的疾病。” (page 1570) James 5:14,15: Are any of you sick? You should call for the elders of the church to come and pray over you, anointing you with oil in the name of the Lord. Such a prayer offered in faith will heal the sick, and the Lord will make you well. And if you have committed any sins, you will be forgiven. 雅各书 5:14,15: 你們中間有人患病嗎？他就應該請教會的長老來，讓他們奉主的名為他抹油祈禱。 出於信心的祈禱，可以使病人康復，主必叫他起來；他若犯了罪，也必蒙赦免。(page 1964) 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/5c7b60082122ef395d8df2cc2a86fa97.jpeg 372e83bded2423cbb9bb0bf91d606bc3 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/cb0510cff773865337df231cbe24ba63.mp4 be27db3972304b226e0eee64c369ec71 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 The Rediscovered Gift Matthew 16:25 I’ve been pondering my own mortality lately. Not in a morbid way. In a clarifying way. There is something about remembering that your life is temporary that makes everything more intentional. Psalm 90:12: So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. TPT: Help us to remember that our days are numbered, and help us to interpret our lives correctly. Set your wisdom deeply in our hearts so that we may accept your correction. “Every day above ground is a good day!” Every morning is proof that God hasn’t given up on you. But some day… we’ll run out of new mornings And when that day comes, the question won’t be: “How comfortable was I?” The question will be: What remains? What did my life produce? Who did it shape? What did it multiply? (we call that a “legacy”) Jesus says in the Gospel of Matthew 16:25: “For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for My sake will find it.” That is a paradox. ( ) Our lives are a gift. But it is a gift that must be given away in order to keep. If you clutch it, you lose it. If you surrender it, you find it. Emerson: “The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” A selfish existence is never really a satisfying life. It is an unfulfilling chase. Chasing comfort. Chasing recognition. Security. Status. Approval. (like Jesus said) You can gain the whole world, but if you lose your soul in the process — what have you gained? Not everything that feels good is right. Not everything that is right feels easy. We have to choose Alignment over approval. Growth is not very comfortable. “Comfort is a casualty of growth.” Legacy requires discomfort. You cannot create generational impact while protecting personal convenience. Question: Does leaving a legacy resonate in your heart? Prov 13:22 “A good person leaves an inheritance to their children’s children.” That inheritance is not just money. It is mindset. It is an attitude and approach toward life and life’s challenges. It is faith. It is courage. It is alignment. A Legacy is not accidental. It is built. And it costs something. Matt 23:11: “he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.” ( ) To change our lives, we have to change our minds. (True or true?) Philippians 2:5: “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus…” And what did Jesus do? He emptied Himself. Not of power. Not of identity. He emptied Himself of any self-centered glory. He took the form of a servant. “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus…” (real change comes from the inside out) Luke 9:24: "Whoever tries to save his life shall lose it." The ego seeks control and safety. But a life lived only to protect itself never fully lives. Letting go reduces fear, and restores freedom. “whoever loses their life for My sake will find it.” For us, today, consider: It is about releasing the smaller version of ourselves. The ego-driven version. The comfort-addicted version. The fearful version. Because the “you” that God is pulling you toward requires stepping away from the usual, the norm, the comfort zone. This message is not about shrinking. It is about leadership. When Jesus says, “Disown your life,” He is not calling you to disappear. He may be calling you to rise. “Rise Up, Kingdom Leaders!” To shake off mediocrity. To shake off inherited limitations. To shake off passivity. “But I’m just… ME.” 2 Peter 1:3: “His divine power has given us everything needed for life and godliness…” You are not lacking. You may still be under-activated. It may be time to rediscover your gift. Your Buried Treasure. 2 Cor 4:7: We are like common clay jars that carry this glorious treasure within, so that this immeasurable power will be seen as God’s, not ours. Leadership is not position. Leadership is responsibility. It is becoming “the one.” The one who breaks cycles. The one who raises the standard. The one who thinks generationally. The one who chooses legacy over comfort. ? What if losing your life does not mean destruction? What if it means losing: Insecurity. Small vision. Self-protection. Fear of failure. Addiction to approval. What if the life you are asked to lose is the lesser version of you? …and the life you gain is the Divine version God saw in you (that buried treasure) long before time began? (this could be your wake-up moment) If it takes years just to discover what does not work, those years are not wasted. Those years become wisdom. But at some point, pondering must turn into surrender. Buried in the genealogies of Scripture is a man named Jabez. In the First Book of Chronicles 4:10, he prays: “Oh that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain.” And God granted him what he requested. Notice what he did not ask for. He did not ask for comfort. He did not ask for ease. He asked for capacity. “Enlarge my territory.” Not so I can consume more. But so I can carry more. Not so I can be known. But so Your hand would be with me. Worldly ambition says: “Enlarge my territory so I can win.” Kingdom surrender says: “Enlarge my territory so I can serve.” That is leadership. Here is Jesus’ definition of true leadership: “he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.” (Matt 23:11) That is legacy. That is alignment. When Jesus says “lose your life,” He is not calling you to smaller living. He is calling you to surrendered expansion. You keep it by giving it away. You expand by surrendering. You lead by serving. So today, maybe the prayer is not: “Lord, make my life easier.” Maybe the prayer is: “Lord, enlarge my heart before You enlarge my territory.” “Increase my capacity to carry what You have already placed inside me.” “Let Your hand be upon my family.” “Let Your hand be upon this church.” “Let my life become a gift that multiplies.” A selfish existence is never really a life. …But a surrendered life… becomes a legacy. UPW Unleash the Treasure Within 2 Cor 4:7: But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. “The gift you once buried is not dead. It is waiting. And today… it is ready to be rediscovered.” PRAYER: Father, Today we acknowledge that our lives are a gift from You. Forgive us for clinging to comfort when You have called us to legacy. We lay down the smaller version of ourselves — the fearful, self-protective, comfort-seeking version. Teach us to lose our lives so we can truly find them. Enlarge our hearts before You enlarge our territory. Increase our capacity to serve. Strengthen our leadership. Let Your hand be upon our families and upon this church. Keep us from selfish ambition. Keep us from shrinking back. Make our lives a gift that multiplies. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Psalms 103:21: Bless and praise the Lord, you mighty warriors, ministers who serve him well and fulfill his desires. 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 Rediscovering the Treasure 重新发现宝藏 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 02/22/2026 Description An account of the resource Matt 16:24-26: Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? 馬 太 福 音 16:24-26: 于是，耶稣对门徒说：“若有人要跟从我，就当舍己，背起他的十字架来跟从我。 因为凡要救自己生命的，必丧掉生命；凡为我丧掉生命的，必得着生命。 人若赚得全世界，赔上自己的生命，有什么益处呢？人还能拿什么换生命呢？ (page 1588) Philippians 2:5: Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus… 腓立比书 2:5: 你们当以基督耶稣的心为心。(page 1904) Matthew 23:11: "He that is greatest among you shall be your servant." 马太福音 23:11: 你们中间谁为大，谁就要做你们的用人。 (page 1601) 1 Chronicles 4:10: Jabez called upon the God of Israel, saying, “Oh that you would bless me and enlarge my border, and that your hand might be with me, and that you would keep me from harm so that it might not bring me pain!” And God granted what he asked. 历代志上 4:10: 雅比斯求告以色列的神说：“甚愿你赐福于我，扩张我的境界，常与我同在，保佑我不遭患难，不受艰苦。”神就应允他所求的。 (page 660) 2 Cor 4:7: We are like common clay jars that carry this glorious treasure within, so that this immeasurable power will be seen as God's, not ours. 歌 林 多 後 書 4:7: 我们有这个宝藏，但是我们只不过就像装宝物的瓦罐。这就表明这个不寻常的大能来自上帝，而非来自我们 (page 1873) 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