On the whole,  Jesus’ ministry was not about rebellion or insurrection to the powers that be,  in spite of the evil that was felt by the Jewish minority population in the Roman Empire.  His gospel message did not need political overtones, because it was about a kingdom that could not be contained by nations or…

Regardless of your political position on immigration policy,  it is indisputable that God used immigration to spread his kingdom. Abram immigrated to Canaan and became Abraham. Jacob survived family by immigrating to Egypt. Ruth immigrated to Israel and became the great grandmother of King David. Jesus was a refugee in Egypt. The early church was…

Most of you know that I like superhero stories.  And every superhero has an origin story about how they came to have powers and do what they do. One common origin story these days is that something caused them to have their DNA enhanced.  It is still them, just supercharged. We are starting a new…

Did you know that we have a lot to thank God for this last year?  He was faithful to and through us last year.  Here are some highlights (in no particular order): 1.  We baptized most of the Wilondja family and Dana Demand!  Praise God. 2.  We installed AC and quiet heating in the community…

As the new year rolls around,  I know that it is going to bring all kinds of ups and downs for each of us and for the church.  There will be times of great joy,  and times of grief.  It is my prayer that alongside any other commitments that you are making for the new…

A church as a community of Christian committed to growing together.  Talking about what you are learning in church and out of church, seeking support from each other around life decisions, having a meal together (just because), these are ways in which we can build community with each other. Sharing the same set of sermons…

Merry Christmas OCC! Christmas time is almost upon us.  It makes me remember my favorite pageant I was in as a kid.  I don’t remember a lot about except for two things-  my brother accidentally put his hand through the glass of the church door (!) and the theme of the pageant, which was “big…

Christmas pageant This week is our annual Christmas program.  And we are blessed to have so many kids that this feels grand and chaotic! May we never take for granted the blessing of young hearts that are growing in God. Come and support them! Invite a friend that used to go to church. Maybe someone that…

The economy of the early church As we enter into December on Sunday and the final month of our budget year,  we have a lot to be grateful for.  God has again provided for us and our church.  While our giving has not reached the levels budgeted for,  our expenses have been less than planned for! All…

a letter about being a woman in ministry Dear Orchard, What a week! It’s hard to believe that I am closing out my final weeks with you. Sunday, November 24 will be my last sermon. In it, I plan on talking about Thanksgiving and sharing with you the many things I am thankful for. This…