Have you ever had to learn a “new normal?”

Something significant happened and caused a ripple effect in your life to the point that things could not stay the same—you had no choice but to adjust, to learn a new way forward.
 
Paul here is speaking of the greatest of all new normals, the gift Jesus gives to all who through faith, love and trust Him with their life; that “new normal” gift is this: through faith, Jesus lives in you, through you, and for you–each and every moment of your life.

“It is no longer I who live,” Paul says, “but Christ who lives in me.”

Let’s unpack this together!

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Questions for Reflection & Discussion

How does it rob God of glory when we add to faith other requirements for being made right with Him? How do people attempt to justify themselves today?

Faith is clearly crucial for our acceptance with God, but what role does it play in our lives after that point?

How should the reality of Christ’s indwelling presence affect your everyday life?

“You’re Invited!” Whether you are 7 or 70, hearing these words means the world to us…

For example, we all remember what it felt like as a kid to be invited to birthday parties… and what it felt like to not be invited. We remember in part because that feeling never really goes away. You can say not being invited to that wedding or hangout or work party doesn’t bother you, but it does (you know it’s true). Invitations matter to us.

In this week’s scripture passage Jesus extends an invitation to us all–an invitation that just might be the greatest invitation of all time. 

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Questions for Reflection & Discussion

How has doubt been a struggle in your relationship with God? Which truths from God’s Word were the most challenging to believe amid your doubts?

In Matthew 11, Jesus presents Himself as the sovereign Son. How does this depiction of Jesus challenge our culture’s understanding of Him? How does it challenge your own understanding?

In what ways do you struggle to take upon the yoke of Jesus? What can you do this week to let Him bear your burdens with you and for you?

This Sunday, join us as we dive into one of Jesus' most beloved parables: the story of the prodigal son. But instead of focusing on the wayward son, we will explore the heart of the compassionate father—a heart overflowing with unconditional love and boundless forgiveness.

Through this powerful story, we will see how the father's response to both his wayward and his faithful sons reveals the depth of God's love for us. Whether you identify with the prodigal son or the elder brother, this message will remind you of God's unwavering grace!

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Discussion Questions:
What part of the parable of the prodigal son resonated most with you, and why?

Have you ever experienced a time when you felt distant from God, similar to the prodigal son? What brought you back?

In what ways do we sometimes act like the elder brother, and how can we overcome those attitudes?

We celebrate our nation's independence and the Declaration of Independence, which highlights Americans' inalienable rights to "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."

For much of my life, I didn't give much thought to what "the pursuit of happiness" really means. If you asked people, most would probably say it means Americans have the freedom to do whatever they want. Just look around, and you'll see that in action.

However, the Declaration of Independence doesn't endorse Hedonism—the pursuit of pleasure above all else. Our founding fathers envisioned something different: the right to pursue activities that promote physical, mental, and moral well-being. They aimed for real human flourishing, and for that, I am grateful.

I believe God has provided a way for us to pursue well-being and flourishing together. Unfortunately, I think we're often going about it the wrong way in America today. True happiness is actually easier to obtain than we might think.