Faith Lift

What if the mountain you've lived beside your whole life is the one God is inviting you to climb?In Pastor Craig's Transfiguration Sunday message, he explores Jesus' mountaintop moment with Peter, James, and John (Matthew 17:1–9) alongside a poem by Robert Frost that names a familiar spiritual temptation: knowing about the mountain without ever making the climb.As we stand on the threshold of Lent, you are invited to move from secondhand faith to firsthand encounter with God. Through Scripture, story, and reflection, consider how prayer, Scripture, and worship can become simple, faithful steps up the mountain—and how mountaintop moments don't remove you from everyday life, but send you back into it changed.

n Called to Shine, we hear Jesus' declaration: “You are the light of the world.” This message explores what it means to live out our faith visibly and faithfully in everyday life. Using the imagery of the Olympic flame and the powerful moment when Muhammad Ali lit the torch, we reflect on perseverance, purpose, and staying connected to God as the source of our light.Whether you feel strong or worn down, this sermon offers a hopeful reminder: even a small flicker can make a difference in the dark.Scripture: Matthew 5:13–20; Psalm 112

What does faith ask of us when the world feels heavy and complicated?In his message Pastor Craig reflects on 1 Corinthians 1:18–31 and the wisdom of the cross — a wisdom that does not look away from suffering, but draws near to it. In a time when pain is often debated, explained, or ignored, the cross invites us to stay close instead of turning away.This message does not offer easy answers or political solutions.Instead, it invites us into a way of being shaped by Christ — marked by presence, humility, and love.

What does Jesus really mean when he says, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of people”?Pastor Craig explores how fishing is less about results and more about formation. Drawing from Matthew 4:12–23 and Isaiah 9:1–4, we discover that following Jesus shapes us with patience, wisdom, endurance, faith, and the courage to let go of control. Like fishermen learning the waters, the church is called to pay attention to the world around us — to read the waters of our community and cast our nets where the Spirit is already moving.If you've ever felt tired, unfinished, or unsure whether your faithfulness matters, this message is for you. Jesus doesn't say, “Get to work.” He says, “Follow me.” And he promises to make something beautiful of our lives.

When Jesus was asked a simple question — “Where are you staying?” — his response changed everything: “Come and see.”Through Pastor Craig's message, we imagine Jesus not only as teacher and Savior, but as host. Drawing from Psalm 40 and John 1, we explore three moments in the Gospels when Jesus sets the table: at the beginning of his ministry, before his death, and after the resurrection.“Come and see.” “Go and prepare.” “Come and dine.”Together, these invitations shape the life of the church and the calling of every disciple. This message is a reminder that faith is not about pressure or perfection, but about welcome, preparation, and presence — and that Jesus is still inviting us to step inside, make room, and sit at the table of grace.

Baptism is more than a moment. It is a calling.Pastor Craig explore's the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River and what it reveals about our own identity and mission. Drawing on biblical imagery, modern scenes from the Jordan, and the realities of our world today, we discover that baptism is both a gift of grace and a dangerous commitment.Jesus does not come out of the water and head for comfort. He walks straight into hunger, temptation, injustice, and need. And when we are baptized, we are marked the same way—not just as beloved, but as sent.You are invited to follow Jesus out of the water and into the world, where faith becomes courage, love becomes action, and grace takes on flesh.

On Epiphany Sunday, we hear the familiar story of the magi—and the often-overlooked shadow of Herod. Christ is born, yet the world still feels unchanged. Fear still looms. Violence still threatens hope.And yet, the magi refuse to let fear stop them. They follow the light, honor Christ, and return home by another way. As this series comes to a close and a new year begins, we proclaim that our journey continues—and fear will not have the final word.

The Christmas story doesn't end in calm—it moves into danger. In Matthew 2:13–15, the Holy Family flees to Egypt, becoming refugees in order to protect their child.In Pastor Craig's message, we explore how fear can either destroy or protect—and how, when grounded in love, fear can become fuel for justice. What does it mean to follow Emmanuel, God with us, in a world where fear and injustice still remain?

On Christmas Eve, we gather in a world where fear often feels overwhelming—and dare to proclaim a deeper truth: good news is louder than fear.Drawing from Luke 2:1–20, Pastor Craig's message explores a Christmas story that is anything but silent. Angels interrupt the night with proclamation. Shepherds tremble and then run to share what they've seen. God's good news doesn't erase fear—it enters it, takes flesh, and refuses to be quiet. You are invited to consider how hope shows up not after fear is gone, but right in the middle of it—and how the church is called to carry that good news into a fearful world with courage, humility, and light. Whether Christmas feels joyful, heavy, or somewhere in between, we hope this message offers space to breathe, reflect, and receive the promise that God is with us.

Fear often teaches us to pull back, to stay quiet, and to face things alone. But what if fear doesn't have to lead to isolation?In this final week of Advent, Pastor Craig reflect's on Joseph's story and the courageous love that moved him to stand in solidarity with Mary. Through Scripture, theology, and sacred art, we explore how faith does not eliminate fear—but allows us to move forward anyway, hand in hand with God and with one another. The message invites us to consider how fear can become a catalyst for connection, how love reshapes our response to uncertainty, and how God meets us not after fear has passed, but right in the middle of it.

Pastor Craig's message for the Third Sunday of Advent explores how Mary and Jeremiah stepped into God's calling even while feeling afraid and inadequate. Their stories remind us that courage/faith isn't the absence of fear — it's trusting God's presence in the midst of it. Join us as we reflect on the small, quiet acts of faith that move us forward, one trembling yes at a time.

When We're Running Out of Hope, God Is at Work: In this week's Advent message, we meet John the Baptist at one of the most vulnerable moments of his life. From a prison cell, weary and discouraged, he sends Jesus a question that echoes through every age: “Are You the One… or should we look for another?”Jesus responds not with rebuke, but with reassurance. This is a message for anyone feeling tired, discouraged, or unsure — a reminder that God is at work even when we cannot yet perceive it.

Advent 1: In a world that still feels like “the time of Herod,” we begin our Advent series entitled: "What do you fear?" This week, Pastor Craig looks at Zechariah's encounter with the angel and the promise that even in our deepest worries, God hears our prayers and breaks into our fear with hope.

This week Pastor Craig looks at one of the most surprising passages in the Gospels: Jesus reigning from a cross. As Elvis, Martin Luther King Jr., JFK, Buddy Holly, and Abraham Lincoln shaped the world and left it too soon, we ask a deeper question—What does it mean that Christ alone is the King who never falls? Drawing from Luke 23:33–43, we explore the criminal's simple prayer, “Jesus, remember me,” and the promise that followed: “Today you will be with me in Paradise.”In this message, we discover how Christ stands when every other king—and every one of us—falls. And how His grace meets us right where we are.

Discover the hope of prevenient grace—God's love that moves ahead of us, preparing the way before we even call. Through Isaiah 65 and Psalm 98, we explore how God is already renewing creation and inviting us into new beginnings. This episode includes two practical faith challenges to help you join God's grace in the real world.

In this week's message, Pastor Craig explores the prophet Haggai's call to courage — and how God's Spirit empowers us to rebuild what seems broken. Through stories of Frederick Douglass's bold step toward freedom and the faithful persistence of those who rebuilt the temple, we learn that courage isn't the absence of fear but the confidence that God is with us.Discover how God's presence still builds the house — in our hearts, our homes, and our church community.

When life feels uncertain and prayers seem unanswered, how do we keep faith alive? This All Saints Sunday, Pastor Craig explores the prophet Habakkuk's honest cry — “How long, O Lord?” — and God's invitation to live by faith even when the finish line isn't visible.Through stories of perseverance and the witness of the saints, we discover that faith under pressure isn't fragile — it's forged. This episode invites you to climb the watchtower, write the vision, wait for God's timing, reject pride, and keep walking by faith.

n the final week of our Called to More series, we explore Jesus' promise of abundant life from John 10:10. This message weaves together scripture, real-life stories, and a call to live joyfully and purposefully—today and for eternity. Discover how faith in Christ leads to a life that overflows with meaning, mission, and everlasting hope.

In Week 2 of our Called to More series, we explore what it means to be sent to serve. Through the Great Commission and words from Jeremiah and 1 Peter, we're reminded that God has a purpose for each of us—and our gifts were never meant to sit on the shelf. Discover how to live with purpose, serve with joy, and follow Jesus into a life that makes a difference.

In Week 1 of our Called to More series, we begin where all mission begins—with friendship. Jesus calls us not servants, but friends. Through John 15, Ecclesiastes 4, and Psalm 133, we explore how community is more than support—it's sacred. Discover how friendship is a holy calling, and how God uses real relationships to build the Beloved Community.

In this week's message from our Living the Call series, we reflect on what it means to lead with courage in a world that longs for justice. Drawing from Joshua 1:9, Psalm 27, and Ephesians 6:10–13, we explore the step of faith it takes to lead, the strength it takes to stand firm, and the courage it takes to resist evil and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves.

In this week's message from our Living the Call series, we explore what it means to serve with joy and humility, following the example of Jesus who knelt to wash His disciples' feet. How do we bring glad hearts and willing hands into a world in need? Join us as we reflect on John 13:14–15, Psalm 100, and the call to serve not out of duty, but from a deep place of joy.

What does it look like to love like Jesus? Not just politely, not just occasionally—but boldly. In this episode from the second sermon in our series Living the Call: Love Boldly, we explore how Jesus' radical call to love one another changes everything. This isn't a love that plays it safe—it's a love that moves, serves, forgives, and includes. Come rediscover the power of love that doesn't stop at the surface.

What is the Church really here for? In this episode, we launch our new series Living the Call by exploring Jesus' Great Commission and how making disciples isn't just part of what we do — it's why we do everything. Discover how you're being sent and shaped to change the world.

In a world that often rewards arrogance and self-promotion, Jesus turns our expectations upside down with a call to humility and radical hospitality. Drawing connections from the NFL's “Hall of Fame” to what might be called a “Humility Hall of Fame,” this message challenges us to rethink honor, status, and what it means to truly welcome others — especially those who cannot repay us.

In this week's message, Called and Kept, we hear how God's call is deeply personal and rooted in His eternal knowledge of us. From Jeremiah's story, we learn that God knew us before we were born and equips us even when we feel unworthy or unprepared. Psalm 71 reminds us that the Lord has been our refuge from the very beginning and will continue to sustain us through every season of life. Building on the themes of Ready Hearts, Living Sacrifice and Pilgrims, Not Settlers, this message invites us to trust God's call and lean on His keeping presence.

Faith is never about staying comfortable — it's about trusting God enough to move beyond the status quo. In this week's message, we explore how Abraham, Sarah, and the heroes of Hebrews 11 stepped out in faith toward a “better country,” and how Psalm 84 reminds us that our hearts are set on pilgrimage. What does it mean for us today to be pilgrims and not settlers?

In this week's message, "Ready Hearts, Living Sacrifice," we explore Jesus' call to live watchfully and without fear, grounded in His promise: “It is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom” (Luke 12:32). Discover how keeping your spiritual “lamp lit” can transform ordinary days into acts of worship, and hear two practical faith challenges to help you live with a ready heart and a life offered to God.

In this episode, we explore Jesus' teaching in Luke 12:13-21 and the powerful reminder of Psalm 107:1-9, 43: "God satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things."What does it mean to be "rich toward God"? In a world obsessed with possessions and "bigger barns," Jesus redefines what true wealth looks like. We'll talk about the difference between possessions and treasures, how God gathers and redeems us, and how to go on a treasure hunt that truly fills the soul.Discover how gratitude, generosity, and God's steadfast love lead us to the greatest treasure of all.

What happens when love is betrayed—and how far will God go to bring us back? In this episode, we explore the story of Hosea and Gomer, from Hosea Chapter 1. It is a powerful picture of God's relentless, redeeming love. Through Hosea's heartbreak and restoration, we see a glimpse of grace that points to Jesus, who redeems us fully and freely. Through Pslam 85 we are reminded that “love and faithfulness meet” in God's mercy, and why this story still speaks to every heart longing to come home.

In this episode, we explore a powerful word from the prophet Amos and a psalmist's deep-rooted trust in God. What happens when a society abandons truth and neglects justice? Amos warns of a coming famine—not of food or water, but of hearing the Word of the Lord. Yet even in the midst of spiritual drought, Psalm 52 reminds us that those who trust in God's unfailing love are like olive trees—still growing, still flourishing.Join us as we reflect on what it means to stay rooted in God during dry and difficult times. This message challenges us to listen deeply, live with integrity, and be a witness to truth in a world that often forgets what matters most.In a world running dry… come be rooted in something deeper.

In this episode of Faith and the Piano Man, we explore how our everyday stories—shared around tables and over meals—can become sacred ground. Inspired by Billy Joel's “Scenes from an Italian Restaurant,” we reflect on the Emmaus Road story from Luke 24, where two disciples discover Jesus in the breaking of bread. Drawing from Psalm 34 and Leonard Sweet's From Tablet to Table, this message invites us to recognize God's presence in the ordinary moments of our lives—and to remember that no story is too small for grace.Pull up a chair. There's room at the table for you.

In this episode of Faith and the Piano Man, we dive into Billy Joel's The River of Dreams and explore what it means to search for the sacred in the middle of life's questions, detours, and doubts. Guided by Psalm 42 and the story of the woman at the well in John 4, we discover that even when we wander, God is already walking with us—ready to offer living water and lasting hope. Whether you feel close to God or far away, this episode reminds you that your soul's longing leads you to sacred ground.

In this week's message, we turn to Vienna—Billy Joel's gentle reminder to slow down—and let it speak to the deep truth of Scripture. Through Ecclesiastes 3 and Matthew 11:28–30, we're reminded that life unfolds in seasons, and that God invites us to find rest in the midst of it all. You don't have to live at full speed to be fully loved. Vienna—and God's grace—waits for you.

In this week's message from Faith and the Piano Man, we turn to Billy Joel's We Didn't Start the Fire and the Scriptures to wrestle with a burning question: How do we live with faith in a chaotic world? Drawing from John 16:33 and Romans 8:18–25, we are reminded that while we didn't start the fire of brokenness around us, we are not powerless within it. In Christ, we find peace, purpose, and the promise that God is making all things new—even in the flames.

In this heartfelt message from Week 2 of Faith and the Piano Man, we reflect on Billy Joel's Just the Way You Are and the transforming truth of God's unconditional love. Through the story of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11–32) and Paul's powerful words in Romans 5:6–8, we're reminded that God's love isn't something we earn—it's a gift we receive. Even when we feel unworthy, even before we change, God says, “I love you just the way you are.”

In this opening message of our new series Faith and the Piano Man, we reflect on Billy Joel's iconic song Piano Man and explore how each of us carries a story worth hearing. Through Psalm 139 and the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19, we discover that Jesus meets us in the everyday moments—and listens to the song of our lives, even when we feel unseen. No matter where you've been or what tune your life is playing, you are known, loved, and invited to come close.

Paul skipped the usual trip to the synagogue when he traveled to Philippi. Instead, he went to a place by the river to meet people who didn't feel welcome in the traditional place of worship.Paul let the Spirit guide him to a new place and new people.

Some people are hard to say “No” to, especially if you have a relationship with them. Maybe it's the boss, or a family member with a strong personality. Perhaps the apostle Peter, after some initial resistance to the changes God was proposing, decided that he was not in a position to say “No” to the Almighty.

“Apocalypse” comes from the Greek word for “uncovering” or “revealing.” It is not meant to scare us into submission, but to use our most difficult experiences to teach us about hope — and maybe even fix a few of our worst personality traits.

In the middle of this dramatic, traumatic story of change, a little man appears, perhaps you have never noticed him if you have heard this story of Paul's conversion before. His name was Ananias. Ananias, who, on the basis of nothing but God's voice and this vision risked his life, went to the street called Straight, addressed this once bitter enemy by the term, "Brother."

The post-resurrection scene of the Gospel of John is different from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew concludes its gospel with a glorious scene in which Jesus ascends into heaven with the declaration of the great commission to his eleven disciples (Matthew 28:16-20). John retells the post-resurrection scene in a more somber tone.

In a world filled with physical, spiritual, and other forms of hunger, we crave sustenance to not only fill our stomachs but shelter us from the troubles and anxieties of life. Living out our faith sustains us. Living out God's justice fills our hearts, our minds, our souls, and even our bodies. Here, we recognize that believing in Christ means we feed others and are ourselves fed by faith. We do so with the enduring guidance and empowerment of the Holy Spirit.

The story of Zacchaeus is unique to Luke's gospel. Set in Jericho, Jesus' final stop before reaching Jerusalem, this narrative revisits several key themes Luke has explored throughout the previous eighteen chapters: journey, wealth, encounter, salvation, and sharing.

The Lukan Jesus loves teaching with parables. Several parables are unique to the Gospel of Luke; the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son are the most well-known. Many parables in Luke enrich Jesus' messages as they metaphorically illustrate the intersections of theology and ethics. In today's passage, we encounter two parables, both centered around meals

Matthew 6:11 (“give us today [epioúsios] our daily bread”), at first glance, seems to be straightforward in its petition. However, looking closely at the English translation of this verse, there is a superscription at the end inviting us to look into the footnote section. The footnote encourages us to think about exchanging the word “daily” with “tomorrow.

We are tempted to forget who we are and whose we are; Lent is a season of remembering our true selves through reflection, reconciliation, and reconnection on the journey toward the cross and the empty tomb.

We shouldn't get hung up on whether we're hearing from God, Jesus or the Holy Spirit. We can listen to the triune God through Scripture, prayer and paying attention to our conscience. And we have a partner to help us open our ears.

Adhering to the golden rule often results in some future payback, but there's no guarantee. The real treasure in the golden rule isn't getting credit for changing the world. It is keeping faith with Jesus, who calls us to follow him.

In Luke's version of Jesus calling Simon, he asks Simon to push out into the deep and let down their nets. After a long not of not catching anything, Simon says, "At your word Lord we will." Jesus is asking us to push out into the deep out f our comfort zones and lower and nets and trust him.

It is possible that Jeremiah was suffering from scopophobia: the fear of being stared at. So, Jeremiah resists God's assignment by claiming youthful inexperience. Perhaps it was his way of saying he was afraid people would stare at him, make fun of him or belittle him. Would we respond any differently?