As we approach August, we think of kids going back to school. Please pray for North Park University, North Park Seminary, and Tim Sales with Intervarsity Christian Fellowship. “North Park University’s history and heritage reach back to a Minneapolis church basement in 1891, where classes in language and business gave Swedish immigrants, the skills needed…
January 2024 Message From Pastor Mike: “First of All, Prayer” In Paul’s first letter to Timothy, he encouraged his friend to engage in what we might consider a New Year’s resolution: “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people” (1 Timothy 2:1). As we begin this…
I’m not a doctor who can prescribe medication for your body, but as a pastor, I hope you will take seri-ously my prescription for your spiritual health. Whether you are feeling rundown, overwhelmed, anxious, hopeful, content or at peace, let me encourage you to spend more time in God’s word where you will find help…
We live in a time of great anxiety, fear and confusion, so let me invite you to dedicate a few minutes each day this month to following the wisdom of Philippians 4:6. This verse instructs us: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests…
Each Sunday as I introduce the offering, I read a short passage of scripture about giving or about God’s generosity toward us. I do this for two reasons. First, the Bible has a lot to say about how we manage and use financial resources, and we should be motivated to give by God’s word. Second,…
As we head into the summer months, I hope you will find time to get outside and feel the sun’s warmth, to visit with family members near or far, and to enjoy fresh vegetables from a local garden. Summer offers unique blessings and opportunities, and I hope you will be able to experience some of…
Before moving forward it’s usually wise to take a look back. Recalling what you have faced in the past before stepping into the future may save you from repeating a mistake or may help you accomplish something you once failed to achieve. By looking to the past, we gain wisdom for the future. That’s the…
Matthew’s Gospel contains an often over-looked detail about Jesus’ resurrection. After describing the wonderful events of that first Easter morning, Matthew tells us how those who had orchestrated the crucifixion reacted when Jesus’ tomb was found empty. The religious leaders who had opposed Jesus and called for His death wanted to cover-up His resurrection, so…
This time of year always feels like a mixture of anticipation, eagerness and impatience. Winter is al-most over, but spring hasn’t yet arrived. Daylight is increasing, but leaves and flowers aren’t quite ready to grow. Easter is coming, but we aren’t there yet. This is a season of patient waiting, of watchful anticipation. In liturgical…
We are a praying people and a praying church. We believe in the power of prayer, which means we be-lieve that God hears us and unleashes His power to change lives in response to our prayers. It takes faith to be-lieve this, but God has told us that prayer makes a difference in His world…
