FPC Bellingham Podcast

Message by Kerrie Bauer, recorded live May 18, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Greg Hart.Living Water FlowsJesus is our living water and in powerful ways he shows us how it flows between us to bring new life. Note that John points out that Jesus was “tired out” from the journey. Imagine yourself in a hot and dry climate, coming upon a lone man sitting beside a well, visibly tired. How does it speak to you to consider Jesus as tired?What does it mean to hear Jesus ask for a drink?Read John 4:1-42. Notice the questions asked. Who asks questions and who is afraid to ask questions? What do the questions reveal about the asker? What does the silence reveal about those who do not ask questions?How does the Samaritan woman experience Jesus' insight into her life? How does she respond?How does living water flow between people in this text?John 4:1-101 Now when Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard, “Jesus is making and baptizing more disciples than John” 2 (although it was not Jesus himself but his disciples who baptized), 3 he left Judea and started back to Galilee. 4 But he had to go through Samaria. 5 So he came to a Samaritan city called Sychar, near the plot of ground that Jacob had given to his son Joseph. 6 Jacob's well was there, and Jesus, tired out by his journey, was sitting by the well. It was about noon.7 A Samaritan woman came to draw water, and Jesus said to her, “Give me a drink.” 8 (His disciples had gone to the city to buy food.) 9 The Samaritan woman said to him, “How is it that you, a Jew, ask a drink of me, a woman of Samaria?” (Jews do not share things in common with Samaritans.) 10 Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water.”John 4:13-1513 Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, 14 but those who drink of the water that I will give them will never be thirsty. The water that I will give will become in them a spring of water gushing up to eternal life.” 15 The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water, so that I may never be thirsty or have to keep coming here to draw water.”

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live May 11, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham.Gospel AweJohn's Prologue is a stunningly beautiful synopsis of the gospel, stand in awe and welcome the grace of this amazing passage.Read John 1:1-18. What strikes you about this incredible text?What is the connection between life and light in these verses?How do these two elements—life and light—manifest in the life of a believer?How does this "true Light" differ from other sources of light? What does this light represent for humanity?What do you think it means when it says, "He was in the world, and though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him"?How does this verse highlight the mystery and significance of the incarnation of Christ?What impact does the Word becoming flesh have on our relationship with God?How does the fullness of grace and truth in Jesus compare to the law given through Moses?How does the understanding of Jesus as the Word becoming flesh shape your personal faith?John 1:1-181 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being 4 in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overtake it.6 There was a man sent from God whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. 8 He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. 9 The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.10 He was in the world, and the world came into being through him, yet the world did not know him. 11 He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. 12 But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, 13 who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God.14 And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father's only son, full of grace and truth. 15 (John testified to him and cried out, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me ranks ahead of me because he was before me.' ”) 16 From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. 17 The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God. It is the only Son, himself God, who is close to the Father's heart, who has made him known.

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live May 4, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Lynn Schumann.Passover and CommunionJesus was Jewish and Passover is connected to Easter and Communion, welcome Jewish Jesus.What was the importance of Passover to the Jewish people?Jesus died during the Passover festival, what does that signify?How does Jesus liberate us?What does communion have to do with Passover?Luke 22:7-237 Then came the day of Unleavened Bread, on which the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed. 8 So Jesus sent Peter and John, saying, “Go and prepare the Passover meal for us that we may eat it.” 9 They asked him, “Where do you want us to make preparations for it?” 10 “Listen,” he said to them, “when you have entered the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you; follow him into the house he enters 11 and say to the owner of the house, ‘The teacher asks you, “Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?” ' 12 He will show you a large room upstairs, already furnished. Make preparations for us there.” 13 So they went and found everything as he had told them, and they prepared the Passover meal.14 When the hour came, he took his place at the table, and the apostles with him. 15 He said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer, 16 for I tell you, I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” 17 Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves, 18 for I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” 19 Then he took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” 20 And he did the same with the cup after supper, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood. 21 But see, the one who betrays me is with me, and his hand is on the table. 22 For the Son of Man is going as it has been determined, but woe to that one by whom he is betrayed!” 23 Then they began to ask one another which one of them it could be who would do this.

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live April 27, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Tanya Biersdorff.Seen and KnownZacchaeus is Seen and Welcomed and he responds with grace.Follow Jesus by seeing and welcoming others.What does the passage reveal about Zacchaeus's character and his position in society?Why do you think the crowd grumbled when Jesus decided to stay at Zacchaeus's house?What can we learn from Zacchaeus's willingness to make immediate changes in his life (promising to give half of his possessions to the poor and pay back four times what he took)?How is repentance portrayed in Zacchaeus's actions?How does Jesus's acceptance of Zacchaeus challenge our views of who is worthy of grace and salvation? Are there people in your life who you might be tempted to dismiss but whom Jesus would seek out?Luke 19:1-101 He entered Jericho and was passing through it. 2 A man was there named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was rich. 3 He was trying to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was short in stature. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree to see him, because he was going to pass that way. 5 When Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.” 6 So he hurried down and was happy to welcome him. 7 All who saw it began to grumble and said, “He has gone to be the guest of one who is a sinner.” 8 Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, “Look, half of my possessions, Lord, I will give to the poor, and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will pay back four times as much.” 9 Then Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because he, too, is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man came to seek out and to save the lost.”

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live April 20, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham.Easter SundayNothing, nothing, nothing is too wonderful for the Lord and Resurrection is the pinnacle of that reality.How does the resurrection of Jesus play into the narrative of this passage?What is the reaction of the disciples when they first see Jesus, how does Jesus address the disciples' fears and doubts?What strikes you about Jesus asking them if they had something to eat ?What does Jesus mean in verse 47 when He says, “repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in His name to all nations”?Why is the giving of the Holy Spirit important for the disciples?What does the disciples' initial doubt and Jesus' response teach us about dealing with doubt in our faith?In what ways can the message of forgiveness and repentance in verse 47 shape how we live and share the gospel today?Luke 24:36-4936 While they were talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 37 They were startled and terrified and thought that they were seeing a ghost. 38 He said to them, “Why are you frightened, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? 39 Look at my hands and my feet; see that it is I myself. Touch me and see, for a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.” 40 And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. 41 Yet for all their joy they were still disbelieving and wondering, and he said to them, “Have you anything here to eat?” 42 They gave him a piece of broiled fish, 43 and he took it and ate in their presence.44 Then he said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you—that everything written about me in the law of Moses, the prophets, and the psalms must be fulfilled.” 45 Then he opened their minds to understand the scriptures, 46 and he said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Messiah is to suffer and to rise from the dead on the third day 47 and that repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 And see, I am sending upon you what my Father promised, so stay here in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live April 13, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Ozzie Lewis.Kingdom RegretsDon't let life get in the way of Kingdom joy, embrace kingdom life above all.Why do you think humility is so important in the Kingdom of God?What does this passage reveal about God's heart for the marginalized and those who cannot repay us?In practical terms, what might it look like to “invite” those who cannot repay us in our churches, neighborhoods, or communities?What do the excuses of the invited guests (v. 18-20) reveal about their priorities? Why do they choose not to attend the banquet?How does the invitation to the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame demonstrate the inclusiveness of God's kingdom?How does the parable of the great banquet illustrate the nature of God's grace and invitation?What "excuses" might we make today that prevent us from fully responding to God's call?Are there areas where you tend to make excuses (like the invited guests in the parable) for not fully committing to God's call on your life? What are they, and how can you overcome them?Luke 14:7-237 When he noticed how the guests chose the places of honor, he told them a parable. 8 “When you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet, do not sit down at the place of honor, in case someone more distinguished than you has been invited by your host, 9 and the host who invited both of you may come and say to you, ‘Give this person your place,' and then in disgrace you would start to take the lowest place. 10 But when you are invited, go and sit down at the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he may say to you, ‘Friend, move up higher'; then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at the table with you. 11 For all who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”12 He said also to the one who had invited him, “When you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers and sisters or your relatives or rich neighbors, in case they may invite you in return, and you would be repaid. 13 But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. 14 And you will be blessed because they cannot repay you, for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”15 One of the dinner guests, on hearing this, said to him, “Blessed is anyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!” 16 Then Jesus said to him, “Someone gave a great dinner and invited many. 17 At the time for the dinner he sent his slave to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is ready now.' 18 But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a piece of land, and I must go out and see it; please accept my regrets.' 19 Another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I am going to try them out; please accept my regrets.' 20 Another said, ‘I have just been married, and therefore I cannot come.' 21 So the slave returned and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and said to his slave, ‘Go out at once into the streets and lanes of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame.' 22 And the slave said, ‘Sir, what you ordered has been done, and there is still room.' 23 Then the master said to the slave, ‘Go out into the roads and lanes, and compel people to come in, so that my house may be filled.

In this special episode during Holy Week, Pastor Doug talks with Bill Palmer and reflects on Jesus' experience within the darkness of the crucifixion. Bill shares candidly about his experience living with a diagnosis of acute leukemia and how he is experiencing God's love and peace in the midst of it.

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live April 6, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Ann Hinz.MercyJesus calls us to live lives of mercy, live like the Samaritan.Why does the lawyer try to justify himself by asking, "And who is my neighbor?" What might this question tell us about his heart or motives?What qualities does the Good Samaritan demonstrate that the priest and Levite fail to show?What does the Samaritan's compassion and care for the wounded man tell us about the kind of love Jesus is calling His followers to embody?When Jesus asks, “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” how does the lawyer answer, and why does he not say “Samaritan”?What does this passage teach us about loving others beyond our own social, ethnic, or cultural boundaries?What are some practical ways you can show mercy and compassion to those around you?What does the parable teach about mercy, and why is mercy a central theme in the life and ministry of Jesus?Luke 10:25-3725 An expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he said, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 26 He said to him, “What is written in the law? What do you read there?” 27 He answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind and your neighbor as yourself.” 28 And he said to him, “You have given the right answer; do this, and you will live.”29 But wanting to vindicate himself, he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” 30 Jesus replied, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho and fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him, beat him, and took off, leaving him half dead. 31 Now by chance a priest was going down that road, and when he saw him he passed by on the other side. 32 So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan while traveling came upon him, and when he saw him he was moved with compassion. 34 He went to him and bandaged his wounds, treating them with oil and wine. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35 The next day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said, ‘Take care of him, and when I come back I will repay you whatever more you spend.' 36 Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?” 37 He said, “The one who showed him mercy.” Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live March 30, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Diane Tate.New Skins for New WineJesus is the new wine that challenges norms and is not welcomed by the old guard. Take Jesus seriously and nothing else.Why do you think Jesus chose Levi (a tax collector) to be one of His disciples?Why do the Pharisees and teachers of the law criticize Jesus for eating with tax collectors and sinners?How does the idea of Jesus being a "physician" for sinners challenge our understanding of who can come to Jesus?How does the imagery of a wedding feast help us understand the nature of Jesus' ministry and His presence with His followers?What does the statement, "No one after drinking old wine wants the new, for they say, 'The old is better,'" reveal about human resistance to change?In what ways do you, or might you, identify with the Pharisees' attitudes toward sinners and outcasts?How can you move past this mindset?Are there areas of your life that feel like “old wineskins” that might need to be transformed to receive something new from God?Luke 5:27-3927 After this he went out and saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at the tax-collection station, and he said to him, “Follow me.” 28 And he got up, left everything, and followed him.29 Then Levi gave a great banquet for him in his house, and there was a large crowd of tax collectors and others reclining at the table with them. 30 The Pharisees and their scribes were complaining to his disciples, saying, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” 31 Jesus answered them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician but those who are sick; 32 I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.”33 Then they said to him, “John's disciples, like the disciples of the Pharisees, frequently fast and pray, but your disciples eat and drink.” 34 Jesus said to them, “You cannot make wedding attendants fast while the bridegroom is with them, can you? 35 The days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast in those days.” 36 He also told them a parable: “No one tears a piece from a new garment and sews it on an old garment; otherwise, not only will one tear the new garment, but the piece from the new will not match the old garment. 37 Similarly, no one puts new wine into old wineskins; otherwise, the new wine will burst the skins and will spill out, and the skins will be ruined. 38 But new wine must be put into fresh wineskins. 39 And no one after drinking old wine desires new wine but says, ‘The old is good.' ”

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live March 23, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Jan Dougherty.A Whiff of ResurrectionEven a whiff of resurrection is enough to change the world, embrace resurrection in all areas of life.Why is it significant that the women were going to anoint Jesus' body with spices?The angel specifically mentions that Jesus "has been raised." What does this statement communicate about the resurrection?What does the instruction to tell "the disciples and Peter" imply about Peter's current state or position among the disciples?What does the resurrection of Jesus mean for you personally? How does it affect your faith and hope?The women were the first to receive the message of Jesus' resurrection. In what ways does God use unexpected or unlikely people to carry out His purposes today?Have you ever experienced fear or amazement in your faith journey? How do you navigate those moments?Mark 16:1-816 When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and Salome bought spices, so that they might go and anoint him. 2 And very early on the first day of the week, when the sun had risen, they went to the tomb. 3 They had been saying to one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance to the tomb?” 4 When they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had already been rolled back. 5 As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed. 6 But he said to them, “Do not be alarmed; you are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has been raised; he is not here. Look, there is the place they laid him. 7 But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him, just as he told you.” 8 So they went out and fled from the tomb, for terror and amazement had seized them, and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live March 16, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Hunter Berard.How do you love God?We need ritual to help us remember what is most important.Jesus answers that the Sadducees do not know the power of God or scripture and such they end up being wrong. How do we make sure to know these things?What do we learn about resurrection in this text?What is remarkable about the interaction Jesus has with the next scribe?Does this summary of the law help you? How?How can we remember these central truths?Mark 12:29-3129 Jesus answered, “The first is, ‘Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is one; 30 you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' 31 The second is this, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these.”

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live March 9, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Lynn Schuman.Help My Lack of FaithThe crux of it all is faith, ask God to help your lack of faith.What do you think the argument might have been about?What are the reasons that Jesus calls them a faithless generation?The father says, if you are able. Do you ever feel that way?Jesus says, “If you are able!—All things can be done for the one who has faith.” What does he mean by that?The man responds that he does have faith, and asks Jesus to help his unfaith?Can we have faith and unfaith at the same time?Mark 9:14-2914 When they came to the disciples, they saw a great crowd around them, and some scribes arguing with them. 15 When the whole crowd saw him, they were immediately overcome with awe, and they ran forward to greet him. 16 He asked them, ‘What are you arguing about with them?' 17 Someone from the crowd answered him, ‘Teacher, I brought you my son; he has a spirit that makes him unable to speak; 18 and whenever it seizes him, it dashes him down; and he foams and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid; and I asked your disciples to cast it out, but they could not do so.' 19 He answered them, ‘You faithless generation, how much longer must I be among you? How much longer must I put up with you? Bring him to me.' 20 And they brought the boy to him. When the spirit saw him, immediately it threw the boy into convulsions, and he fell on the ground and rolled about, foaming at the mouth. 21 Jesus asked the father, ‘How long has this been happening to him?' And he said, ‘From childhood. 22 It has often cast him into the fire and into the water, to destroy him; but if you are able to do anything, have pity on us and help us.' 23 Jesus said to him, ‘If you are able!—All things can be done for the one who believes.' 24 Immediately the father of the child cried out, ‘I believe; help my unbelief!' 25 When Jesus saw that a crowd came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, ‘You spirit that keep this boy from speaking and hearing, I command you, come out of him, and never enter him again!' 26 After crying out and convulsing him terribly, it came out, and the boy was like a corpse, so that most of them said, ‘He is dead.' 27 But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he was able to stand. 28 When he had entered the house, his disciples asked him privately, ‘Why could we not cast it out?' 29 He said to them, ‘This kind can come out only through prayer.'

This year our theme for Lent is pilgrimage and reflecting on what it means to Walk the Way of Jesus.In this episode, Pastor Doug reflects on the journey he and Laurie took 8 years ago along the Camino de Santiago in Spain.FPC Lent activities

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live March 2, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Hillary Thomsen.Half Sight, Half Blind, I See, Never MindLike Peter we only see with partial understanding.What is unique about this healing story?In Caesarea Philippi what does Peter “see”?In verses 31-33 what does Peter “not see”?How is Peter like the man who was healed of his blindness?What does it mean that we may only understand partially? In human reality? In divine truth?Mark 8:27-3327 Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages of Caesarea Philippi, and on the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” 28 And they answered him, “John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.” 29 He asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Messiah.” 30 And he sternly ordered them not to tell anyone about him.31 Then he began to teach them that the Son of Man must undergo great suffering and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes and be killed and after three days rise again. 32 He said all this quite openly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. 33 But turning and looking at his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things.”

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live February 23, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Laurie Bunnell.The Cycle of Grace Begins in AcceptanceJesus begins his ministry in acceptance and moves then into fruitfulness. What do you notice in verse 1:1? How does it form the path of what is to come? What do you notice about John the Baptizer? What are the key elements of Jesus' baptism? What are the elements of what God says to Jesus? Can you hear those words said to you? The Spirit's next act is to drive Jesus into the wilderness where he was tempted. How do we receive that hard news?Mark 1:1-141 The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ.2 As it is written in the prophet Isaiah,“See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way,3 the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight,' ”4 so John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 5 And the whole Judean region and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him and were baptized by him in the River Jordan, confessing their sins. 6 Now John was clothed with camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. 7 He proclaimed, “The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the strap of his sandals. 8 I have baptized you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”9 In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove upon him. 11 And a voice came from the heavens, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.”12 And the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. 13 He was in the wilderness forty days, tested by Satan, and he was with the wild beasts, and the angels waited on him.14 Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the good news of God.

Message by Rev. Tim Barton, recorded live February 16, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Tim is part of our congregation, and a long time pastor from the Portland area. He is also currently participating as a Spiritual Director in Rhythms of Grace. Today's scripture is read by Brad Day.Matthew 26:14-16 (Judas betrays Jesus) – Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver. 16 From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over.Matthew 26:36-40 (the disciples slept) – Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. Then he said to them, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Couldn't you men keep watch with me for one hour?” he asked Peter. Matthew 26:55-56 (The disciples fled) – In that hour Jesus said to the crowd, “Am I leading a rebellion, that you have come out with swords and clubs to capture me? Every day I sat in the temple courts teaching, and you did not arrest me. But this has all taken place that the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples deserted him and fled.Matthew 26:73-75 (Peter's denial) – After a little while, those standing there went up to Peter and said, “Surely you are one of them; your accent gives you away.” Then he began to call down curses, and he swore to them, “I don't know the man!” Immediately a rooster crowed. 75 Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: “Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly. Matthew 27:50, 55 (the women watched Jesus) – And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. Many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for his needs. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee's sons.Matthew 28:1, 5-8 (the women proclaimed Jesus) – After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you.” 8 So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live February 9, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Ann Hinz.Woe to Us HypocritesDo not follow the Pharisees because they do not practice what they teach. Walk your talk and live in humility and integrity.This is a hard chapter to read, what do you notice first?What were all the different ways that Pharisees were hypocrites?What instruction did Jesus give to these hypocrites?Where are you tempted to live like a Pharisee?What would it look like to live differently?Matthew 23:1-4Jesus Denounces Scribes and Pharisees23 Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, 2 “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses's seat; 3 therefore, do whatever they teach you and follow it, but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what they teach. 4 They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on the shoulders of others, but they themselves are unwilling to lift a finger to move them.Matthew 23:13-2813 “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you lock people out of the kingdom of heaven. For you do not go in yourselves, and when others are going in you stop them.15 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you cross sea and land to make a single convert, and you make the new convert twice as much a child of hell as yourselves.16 “Woe to you, blind guides who say, ‘Whoever swears by the sanctuary is bound by nothing, but whoever swears by the gold of the sanctuary is bound by the oath.' 17 You blind fools! For which is greater, the gold or the sanctuary that has made the gold sacred? 18 And you say, ‘Whoever swears by the altar is bound by nothing, but whoever swears by the gift that is on the altar is bound by the oath.' 19 How blind you are! For which is greater, the gift or the altar that makes the gift sacred? 20 So whoever swears by the altar swears by it and by everything on it, 21 and whoever swears by the sanctuary swears by it and by the one who dwells in it, 22 and whoever swears by heaven swears by the throne of God and by the one who is seated upon it.23 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint, dill, and cumin and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith. It is these you ought to have practiced without neglecting the others. 24 You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel!25 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you clean the outside of the cup and of the plate, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. 26 You blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and of the plate, so that the outside also may become clean.27 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which on the outside look beautiful but inside are full of the bones of the dead and of all kinds of uncleanness. 28 So you also on the outside look righteous to others, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live February 2, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Mikyn Sygitowicz. The Scandal of the Great Deal God is generous with everyone, and that feels unfair unless we remember that we are saved by grace. Can you empathize with the original workers? What is their beef? What is God's answer? Does that land with you? What do we learn about the Kingdom here? What should we do about it? Matthew 20:1-16 The Laborers in the Vineyard 20 “For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. 2 After agreeing with the laborers for a denarius for the day, he sent them into his vineyard. 3 When he went out about nine o'clock, he saw others standing idle in the marketplace, 4 and he said to them, ‘You also go into the vineyard, and I will pay you whatever is right.' So they went. 5 When he went out again about noon and about three o'clock, he did the same. 6 And about five o'clock he went out and found others standing around, and he said to them, ‘Why are you standing here idle all day?' 7 They said to him, ‘Because no one has hired us.' He said to them, ‘You also go into the vineyard.' 8 When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his manager, ‘Call the laborers and give them their pay, beginning with the last and then going to the first.' 9 When those hired about five o'clock came, each of them received a denarius. 10 Now when the first came, they thought they would receive more; but each of them also received a denarius. 11 And when they received it, they grumbled against the landowner, 12 saying, ‘These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.' 13 But he replied to one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong; did you not agree with me for a denarius? 14 Take what belongs to you and go; I choose to give to this last the same as I give to you. 15 Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or are you envious because I am generous?' 16 So the last will be first, and the first will be last.”

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live January 26, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Aven Bates. The Joy of the Great Deal The kingdom may appear small and contaminated, but it is valuable and worth more than anything we might own. How is the kingdom like a mustard seed? What does this say about the kingdom? In the Bible yeast is almost always symbolic of bad stuff, what does this say about the Kingdom? How would you feel if you actually discovered real treasure Describe the joy in the text. What is so valuable about the kingdom? Can you imagine it being more valuable than all you own? Matthew 13:31-33 31 He put before them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in his field; 32 it is the smallest of all the seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.” 33 He told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of flour until all of it was leavened.” Matthew 13:44-45 44 “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and reburied; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. 45 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls;

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live January 19, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by John Freal. Doing What Jesus Did His Way The Disciples are called to do what Jesus did, following his instructions, let us do likewise. What are the disciples charged to do? Where are they to do it? How are they to do it? What are the dangers? What does this text have to do with us? Matthew 10:5-20 The Mission of the Twelve 5 These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: “Do not take a road leading to gentiles, and do not enter a Samaritan town, 6 but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 As you go, proclaim the good news, ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.' 8 Cure the sick; raise the dead; cleanse those with a skin disease; cast out demons. You received without payment; give without payment. 9 Take no gold, or silver, or copper in your belts, 10 no bag for your journey, or two tunics, or sandals, or a staff, for laborers deserve their food. 11 Whatever town or village you enter, find out who in it is worthy, and stay there until you leave. 12 As you enter the house, greet it. 13 If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it, but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. 14 If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet as you leave that house or town. 15 Truly I tell you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town. Coming Persecutions 16 “I am sending you out like sheep into the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. 17 Beware of them, for they will hand you over to councils and flog you in their synagogues, 18 and you will be dragged before governors and kings because of me, as a testimony to them and the gentiles. 19 When they hand you over, do not worry about how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you at that time, 20 for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.

In 2025, FPC is reading the New Testament together using resources from the Bible Project⁠. In this Up Close & Personal interview, Jocelyn Meyer interviews one of the co-founders of the Bible Project - her brother in law - Tim Mackie.

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live January 12, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Mary Lynn Palmer. ⁠Join us this year as we read the New Testament together Take the Hard, Narrow Gate Following Jesus is a hard way that goes a different way than the crowd, but leads to life, go through the narrow gate. Compare and contrast the two gates. What is challenging about the narrow gate? What should we beware of? Compare and contrast the two houses? What do they have to do with the gates? What is the way of building on the solid rock? Matthew 7:13-29 The Narrow Gate 13 “Enter through the narrow gate, for the gate is wide and the road is easy that leads to destruction, and there are many who take it. 14 For the gate is narrow and the road is hard that leads to life, and there are few who find it. A Tree and Its Fruit 15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thorns or figs from thistles? 17 In the same way, every good tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus you will know them by their fruits. Concerning Self-Deception 21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. 22 On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' 23 Then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; go away from me, you who behave lawlessly.' Hearers and Doers 24 “Everyone, then, who hears these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. 25 The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall because it had been founded on rock. 26 And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not act on them will be like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27 The rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell—and great was its fall!” 28 Now when Jesus had finished saying these words, the crowds were astounded at his teaching, 29 for he taught them as one having authority and not as their scribes.

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live January 5, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Kristen Frankland. Join us this year as we read the New Testament together. OUTSIDERS TURNED INSIDERS So many ‘begats', do you notice any surprises? Do you know the history of these four women? Anything they all hold in common? What might Mary have in common with them? What does it mean that outsiders become insiders? How might you better celebrate your insider status? Matthew 1:1-16 The Genealogy of Jesus the Messiah 1 An account of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah, the son of David, the son of Abraham. 2 Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, 3 and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Aram, 4 and Aram the father of Aminadab, and Aminadab the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon, 5 and Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse, 6 and Jesse the father of King David. And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah, 7 and Solomon the father of Rehoboam, and Rehoboam the father of Abijah, and Abijah the father of Asaph, 8 and Asaph the father of Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram the father of Uzziah, 9 and Uzziah the father of Jotham, and Jotham the father of Ahaz, and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah, 10 and Hezekiah the father of Manasseh, and Manasseh the father of Amos, and Amos the father of Josiah, 11 and Josiah the father of Jechoniah and his brothers, at the time of the deportation to Babylon. 12 And after the deportation to Babylon: Jechoniah was the father of Salathiel, and Salathiel the father of Zerubbabel, 13 and Zerubbabel the father of Abiud, and Abiud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor, 14 and Azor the father of Zadok, and Zadok the father of Achim, and Achim the father of Eliud, 15 and Eliud the father of Eleazar, and Eleazar the father of Matthan, and Matthan the father of Jacob, 16 and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, who bore Jesus, who is called the Messiah.

Godly Play story told by Kerrie Bauer. Recorded live at First Presbyterian Church on December 29, 2024 for our annual Comfy Cozy service.

Special Christmas Eve message by Pastor Doug Bunnell. Recorded live at First Presbyterian Church on December 24, 2024. Scripture read by Laurie Bunnell and Linus Van Pelt. Matthew 1:18-24 Luke 2:8-20 Matthew 2:1-12 In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, magi from the east came to Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star in the east and have come to pay him homage.” When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him, and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it has been written by the prophet: ‘And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah, for from you shall come a ruler who is to shepherd my people Israel.' ” Then Herod secretly called for the magi and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared. Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage.” When they had heard the king, they set out, and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen in the east, until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.

First published on our FPC podcast in 2020, here is a re-release of Doug and Laurie reading their favorite Christmas story - The Birds' Christmas Carol by Kate Douglas Wiggin.

First published on our FPC podcast in 2020, here is a re-release of Doug and Laurie reading their favorite Christmas story - The Birds' Christmas Carol by Kate Douglas Wiggin.

First published on our FPC podcast in 2020, here is a re-release of Doug and Laurie reading their favorite Christmas story - The Birds' Christmas Carol by Kate Douglas Wiggin.

First published on our FPC podcast in 2020, here is a re-release of Doug and Laurie reading their favorite Christmas story - The Birds' Christmas Carol by Kate Douglas Wiggin.

First published on our FPC podcast in 2020, here is a re-release of Doug and Laurie reading their favorite Christmas story - The Birds' Christmas Carol by Kate Douglas Wiggin.

Message by Pastor Doug Bunnell, recorded live at First Presbyterian Church on December 22, 2024. Scripture read by Nathaniel and Jules Olson. Magi are Making a Way to Your Nativity Be people of worship by paying attention to your own life. What do you think Magi are? What did they come looking to do? What about their searching frightened Herod? What do you think of a moving and stopping star? How do the Magi act when they come in contact with Jesus? What are the benefits of taking another road home? Matthew 2:1-12 2 In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, magi from the east came to Jerusalem, 2 asking, “Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star in the east and have come to pay him homage.” 3 When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him, 4 and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. 5 They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it has been written by the prophet: 6 ‘And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah, for from you shall come a ruler who is to shepherd my people Israel.' ” 7 Then Herod secretly called for the magi and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared. 8 Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage.” 9 When they had heard the king, they set out, and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen in the east, until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. 11 On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.

Message by Pastor Doug Bunnell, recorded live at First Presbyterian Church on December 15, 2024. Scripture read by Cindy Palmer (and Linus van Pelt). Shepherds are People in Your Nativity Shepherds pay attention, check it out, and tell others. Do the same. What do you think an angel looks like as they always have to say do not be afraid? What is the good news the angel brings? How would this have been good news to these shepherds? What do you think the heavenly host looked and sounded like? Imagine that moment after the angels left, how did that feel? Some scholars think shepherds were young girls, does that change your picture of this event? What do you think Mary thought as she heard from the shepherds? Luke 2:8-20 The Shepherds and the Angels 8 Now in that same region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for see, I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: 11 to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven,    and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” 15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph and the child lying in the manger. 17 When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them, 19 and Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as it had been told them.

Pastor Doug talks about what we are doing together in 2025 - reading the New Testament. Listen to the podcast to learn more about this exciting journey. Join us! Learn more about The Bible Project here.

Message by Pastor Doug Bunnell, recorded live at First Presbyterian Church on December 8, 2024. Scripture read by Gini Bunnell. Joseph is a Person in Your Nativity Joseph is one of the great unseen and unheard disciples who shows up and does the right thing, whether anyone sees or not. What do you notice about the way Joseph responds to hearing that his wife-to-be is pregnant? What does that say about Joseph? What would it be like to be visited by an angel in a dream? How does Joseph respond? How would you respond? How do you think they understood conceived from the Holy Spirit? How do you? What do you notice about Joseph's character in this story? Matthew 1:18-25 18 Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. 19 Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. 20 But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.' 22 All this took place to fulfil what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: 23 ‘Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel', which means, ‘God is with us.' 24 When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his wife, 25 but had no marital relations with her until she had borne a son; and he named him Jesus.

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live November 3, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Hunter Berard. Angels are in Your Nativity Angels bring messages that we matter, we have a role, and we can trust God. Be people who live out good news. How do you think it felt for Mary to be greeted by an angel? What confuses her do you think? The message tells Mary she was favored, how do you think she received that? The message gives Mary a role in this adventure, how did that feel? Lastly the angel says that with God everything is possible. How does Mary receive that news? How do you receive it? Where do you need to hear that you matter? That you have a role? That God will help you accomplish what you need to do? Luke 1:26-38 26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, 27 to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin's name was Mary. 28 And he came to her and said, ‘Greetings, favoured one! The Lord is with you.' 29 But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. 30 The angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favour with God. 31 And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. 33 He will reign over the house of Jacob for ever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.' 34 Mary said to the angel, ‘How can this be, since I am a virgin?' 35 The angel said to her, ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. 36 And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. 37 For nothing will be impossible with God.' 38 Then Mary said, ‘Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.' Then the angel departed from her.

First Presbyterian Church will be providing an opportunity for those interested to join us in an exploration of holy habits that will allow us to better receive grace. In today's podcast, Pastor Doug provides some reflection on our upcoming Rhythms of Grace journey.  “Listen to your life. See it for the fathomless mystery it is. In the boredom and pain of it, no less than in the excitement and gladness: touch, taste, smell your way to the holy and hidden heart of it, because in the last analysis all moments are key moments, and life itself is grace.” Frederick Buechner (Now and Then: A Memoir of Vocation) Learn more on our website.

Each Thanksgiving our Sunday service is transformed as members of our congregation share a deeply personal Thanksgiving reflection. This year we are blessed by John and Gisela Anderson, Nathan Buri, and Diane Murtha. Special music by Kaden Schmidt, Susan Schmidt, Dan Schmidt, Shon Schmidt, and Jamison Drake. Discussion Questions Jesus is the one we should listen to, we view all scripture through Jesus. How do you think the disciples were feeling being included in such respected and impressive company? What do you think Peter is saying? What is the gist of God's response? How do we read scripture while listening to Jesus? How do we live listening to Jesus? How do you practice giving thanks? What helps you to be thankful? What hampers you from being thankful? Psalm 105:1-5 1 O give thanks to the Lord, call on his name, make known his deeds among the peoples. 2 Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wonderful works. 3 Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. 4 Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually. 5 Remember the wonderful works he has done, his miracles, and the judgements he has uttered, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

In this special podcast episode, Pastor Doug interviews Pastor Becca and they reflect on the theme of the fall church retreat : Story Camp.

Message by Chris Hoke, founding director of Underground Ministries, recorded live November 10, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by John Freal. God brings life, we roll away the stone and help remove the graveclothes. Why do we think Jesus waits before visiting Lazarus? What were Mary and Martha thinking as Jesus goes to the tomb? What might the symbolism of removing the stone be? Lazarus can't do it. What is the significance of the disciples helping Lazarus to remove the graveclothes? Where is resurrection needed in our life? In our community? John 11:33-44 33 When Jesus saw her weeping and the Jews who came with her also weeping, he was greatly disturbed in spirit and deeply moved. 34 He said, “Where have you laid him?” They said to him, “Lord, come and see.” 35 Jesus began to weep. 36 So the Jews said, “See how he loved him!” 37 But some of them said, “Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?” 38 Then Jesus, again greatly disturbed, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone was lying against it. 39 Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” Martha, the sister of the dead man, said to him, “Lord, already there is a stench because he has been dead four days.” 40 Jesus said to her, “Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God?” 41 So they took away the stone. And Jesus looked upward and said, “Father, I thank you for having heard me. 42 I knew that you always hear me, but I have said this for the sake of the crowd standing here, so that they may believe that you sent me.” 43 When he had said this, he cried with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” 44 The dead man came out, his hands and feet bound with strips of cloth and his face wrapped in a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Unbind him, and let him go.”

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live November 3, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Brad Day. Listen to Jesus Jesus speaks using metaphor and simile. Read with humility and curiosity. Can you understand the disciples thinking Jesus was speaking literally? What is the danger here? If Jesus speaks using metaphor and simile, how can we know what Jesus is saying? What does this say about how we approach scripture? What is the message of the 3 feedings that the disciples are supposed to understand? How does there being extra baskets of food help us when we approach reading the Bible? Mark 9:2-10 The Transfiguration 2 Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John and led them up a high mountain apart, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, 3 and his clothes became dazzling bright, such as no one on earth could brighten them. 4 And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, who were talking with Jesus. 5 Then Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; let us set up three tents: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 6 He did not know what to say, for they were terrified. 7 Then a cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud there came a voice, “This is my Son, the Beloved; listen to him!” 8 Suddenly when they looked around, they saw no one with them any more, but only Jesus. The Coming of Elijah 9 As they were coming down the mountain, he ordered them to tell no one about what they had seen, until after the Son of Man had risen from the dead. 10 So they kept the matter to themselves, questioning what this rising from the dead could mean.

Message by Kerrie Bauer, recorded live October 27, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Ozzie, Felix, Sarah, and Andy Lewis. In the Face of Fear Through wrestling with God in the face of fear, we open ourselves to see the Face of God. Jacob was “very afraid and distressed” when he heard Esau was coming to meet him with 400 men. The Hebrew word for “distress” implies “to be narrow, bound up, be restricted.” Closed in. Trapped. When have you experienced fear of this kind? How does fear/anger play into your family relationships? What is being threatened? Have you ever “wrestled”, argued, pleaded with God in such a way that exhausted you physically, emotionally, and spiritually? Reflect on and/or describe that experience - paying attention to the physical realities of that experience. Where did you tend to be when you brought that kind of intensity before God? What was the state of your heart rate, breathing rate, your gut?Where (or in whom) have you seen the Face of God? Genesis 27, 32:7-12

Message by Kerrie Bauer, recorded live October 27, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Ozzie, Felix, Sarah, and Andy Lewis. In the Face of Fear Through wrestling with God in the face of fear, we open ourselves to see the Face of God. Jacob was “very afraid and distressed” when he heard Esau was coming to meet him with 400 men. The Hebrew word for “distress” implies “to be narrow, bound up, be restricted.” Closed in. Trapped. When have you experienced fear of this kind? How does fear/anger play into your family relationships? What is being threatened? Have you ever “wrestled”, argued, pleaded with God in such a way that exhausted you physically, emotionally, and spiritually? Reflect on and/or describe that experience - paying attention to the physical realities of that experience. Where did you tend to be when you brought that kind of intensity before God? What was the state of your heart rate, breathing rate, your gut? Where (or in whom) have you seen the Face of God? Genesis 27, 32:7-12

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live October 20, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Cameron Maddox. PEOPLE ARE NEVER THE ENEMY People are never the enemy, evil is the enemy, people are to be loved. What kind of armor helps us to stand against the wiles of the evil one? When does it feel like people are the ones we are fighting? What does it mean that our struggle is never against people? Where do you see evil at work? where might it be present, but you don't see it? What is the quality of the armor that helps us enter into combat with the evil around us? How do we stop struggling against flesh and blood? Ephesians 6:10-17 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armour of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. 15 As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. 16 With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Message by Matt McCoy - visiting pastor from Spring Church. Recorded live October 13, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Ann Hinz. Living Faith Even when there is no evidence of God, I will keep faith with the almighty. What strikes you about this amazing Psalm of Habakkuk? We have heard that the righteous will live by faith, now we see faith lived out. What strikes you about Habakkuk's faith? Habakkuk speaks about fig trees and olive branch; what would you write about? What does it mean to keep faith when things are dire? Habakkuk 3:1-2, 16-19 3:1 A prayer of the prophet Habakkuk according to Shigionoth. 2 O Lord, I have heard of your renown, and I stand in awe, O Lord, of your work. In our own time revive it; in our own time make it known; in wrath may you remember mercy. 3:16 I hear, and I tremble within; my lips quiver at the sound. Rottenness enters into my bones, and my steps tremble beneath me. I wait quietly for the day of calamity to come upon the people who attack us. 17 Though the fig tree does not blossom, and no fruit is on the vines; though the produce of the olive fails and the fields yield no food; though the flock is cut off from the fold and there is no herd in the stalls, 18 yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will exult in the God of my salvation. 19 God, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, and makes me tread upon the heights.

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live October 6, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Kristen Frankland. Listen to God and Beware Idolatry How do we notice Habakkuk listening to God? What are practices that help us to listen to God? How can we get better at listening? What is the danger of idolatry? Contrast the idol to the picture of God at the end of the chapter. What practices help us avoid the dangers of idolatry? Habakkuk 2:1-4, 18-20 1 I will stand at my watch-post, and station myself on the rampart; I will keep watch to see what he will say to me, and what he will answer concerning my complaint. 2 Then the Lord answered me and said: Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so that a runner may read it. 3 For there is still a vision for the appointed time; it speaks of the end, and does not lie. If it seems to tarry, wait for it; it will surely come, it will not delay. 4 Look at the proud! Their spirit is not right in them, but the righteous live by their faith. 18 What use is an idol once its maker has shaped it— a cast image, a teacher of lies? For its maker trusts in what has been made, though the product is only an idol that cannot speak! 19 Alas for you who say to the wood, ‘Wake up!' to silent stone, ‘Rouse yourself!' Can it teach? See, it is plated with gold and silver, and there is no breath in it at all. 20 But the Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth keep silence before him!

This episode Doug interviews Mary Lynn Palmer, a long time member of our church - who discusses in more detail her roll with the Faith Community Nurses. To learn more go to the FPC or Faith Community Nurse Network websites.

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live September 29, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Diane Tate. THE DEEP MYSTERY OF GOD AT WORK God's ways in our world are completely mysterious, and sometimes they feel at odds with our hopes for this world. Where are you bothered by the wickedness around us? How would you like God to intervene? What if God were to reveal to you that God was going to fix the US by letting the US be conquered by radical Islamic fundamentalists? How would you feel? What questions would you have? What other feelings would surface? How do we worship a God who often doesn't make sense to us? Habakkuk 1 1 The oracle that the prophet Habakkuk saw. 2 O Lord, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not listen? Or cry to you ‘Violence!' and you will not save? 3 Why do you make me see wrongdoing and look at trouble? Destruction and violence are before me; strife and contention arise. 4 So the law becomes slack and justice never prevails. The wicked surround the righteous— therefore judgement comes forth perverted. 5 Look at the nations, and see! Be astonished! Be astounded! For a work is being done in your days that you would not believe if you were told. 6 For I am rousing the Chaldeans, that fierce and impetuous nation, who march through the breadth of the earth to seize dwellings not their own. 7 Dread and fearsome are they; their justice and dignity proceed from themselves. 8 Their horses are swifter than leopards, more menacing than wolves at dusk; their horses charge. Their horsemen come from far away; they fly like an eagle swift to devour. 9 They all come for violence, with faces pressing forward; they gather captives like sand. 10 At kings they scoff, and of rulers they make sport. They laugh at every fortress, and heap up earth to take it. 11 Then they sweep by like the wind; they transgress and become guilty; their own might is their god! 12 Are you not from of old, O Lord my God, my Holy One? You shall not die. O Lord, you have marked them for judgement; and you, O Rock, have established them for punishment. 13 Your eyes are too pure to behold evil, and you cannot look on wrongdoing; why do you look on the treacherous, and are silent when the wicked swallow those more righteous than they? 14 You have made people like the fish of the sea, like crawling things that have no ruler. 15 The enemy brings all of them up with a hook; he drags them out with his net, he gathers them in his seine; so he rejoices and exults. 16 Therefore he sacrifices to his net and makes offerings to his seine; for by them his portion is lavish, and his food is rich. 17 Is he then to keep on emptying his net, and destroying nations without mercy?

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live September 22, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Ozzie Lewis. DO NOT WEED, GOD WILL It is not our job to weed or to judge. God will weed, our job is to bear good fruit. This parable Jesus explains is an allegory. What does each part of the story represent? What character in the story is left unrepresented? Is that significant? What is weeding in our day and age? Where are we not to weed? Why are we not to weed? How do we fight the temptation to pull weeds? Matthew 13:24-30 24 He put before them another parable: ‘The kingdom of heaven may be compared to someone who sowed good seed in his field; 25 but while everybody was asleep, an enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and then went away. 26 So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared as well. 27 And the slaves of the householder came and said to him, “Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? Where, then, did these weeds come from?” 28 He answered, “An enemy has done this.” The slaves said to him, “Then do you want us to go and gather them?” 29 But he replied, “No; for in gathering the weeds you would uproot the wheat along with them. 30 Let both of them grow together until the harvest; and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, Collect the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.”' Matthew 13:36-43 36 Then he left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples approached him, saying, ‘Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field.' 37 He answered, ‘The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man; 38 the field is the world, and the good seed are the children of the kingdom; the weeds are the children of the evil one, 39 and the enemy who sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels. 40 Just as the weeds are collected and burned up with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. 41 The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will collect out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all evildoers, 42 and they will throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 43 Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Let anyone with ears listen!

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live September 15, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by John Freal. DO NOT TRUST IN KINGS Do not trust in mortals that will perish, trust in God. What are the reasons given to not trust in princes? Who are the princes of our age that people trust in? What are the reasons given to trust in God? What do we learn about God in this Psalm? What does trust in God look like on a day to day basis? Psalm 146 1 Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, O my soul! 2 I will praise the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God all my life long. 3 Do not put your trust in princes, in mortals, in whom there is no help. 4 When their breath departs, they return to the earth; on that very day their plans perish. 5 Happy are those whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord their God, 6 who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them; who keeps faith for ever; 7 who executes justice for the oppressed; who gives food to the hungry. The Lord sets the prisoners free; 8 the Lord opens the eyes of the blind. The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down; the Lord loves the righteous. 9 The Lord watches over the strangers; he upholds the orphan and the widow, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin. 10 The Lord will reign for ever, your God, O Zion, for all generations. Praise the Lord! Matthew 27:15-17 15 Now at the festival the governor was accustomed to release a prisoner for the crowd, anyone whom they wanted. 16 At that time they had a notorious prisoner, called Jesus Barabbas. 17 So after they had gathered, Pilate said to them, ‘Whom do you want me to release for you, Jesus Barabbas or Jesus who is called the Messiah?'

In this episode Pastor Doug interviews Isis Marks. Isis has been member of our church for many years, and is currently being trained as a Spiritual Director. Isis shares about her life, and what it was like coming to American after spending her first 18 years in Honduras.

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live September 8, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by J.J. Blue. DO NOT FEAR Do not fear, resist the urge to flee or fight, stay and love What are the reasons to not fear? What does God promise? What can we do when we feel fear? If fear drives us to flee or fight, what would love drive us toward? Where are you most tempted to fear? Isaiah 41:1-10 1 Listen to me in silence, O coastlands; let the peoples renew their strength; let them approach, then let them speak; let us together draw near for judgement. 2 Who has roused a victor from the east, summoned him to his service? He delivers up nations to him, and tramples kings under foot; he makes them like dust with his sword, like driven stubble with his bow. 3 He pursues them and passes on safely, scarcely touching the path with his feet. 4 Who has performed and done this, calling the generations from the beginning? I, the Lord, am first, and will be with the last. 5 The coastlands have seen and are afraid, the ends of the earth tremble; they have drawn near and come. 6 Each one helps the other, saying to one another, ‘Take courage!' 7 The artisan encourages the goldsmith, and the one who smooths with the hammer encourages the one who strikes the anvil, saying of the soldering, ‘It is good'; and they fasten it with nails so that it cannot be moved. 8 But you, Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, the offspring of Abraham, my friend; 9 you whom I took from the ends of the earth, and called from its farthest corners, saying to you, ‘You are my servant, I have chosen you and not cast you off'; 10 do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.