The New Life Community Church Podcast

Make Room (pt3) | Forever

The essence of Christianity is not merely about receiving gifts—but about cultivating a profound, personal relationship with God, who truly embodies generosity and love. At Christmas, we often make room for Jesus in our hearts and lives, but we limit this to just the seasonal celebration. However, God desires not just a temporary or part-time relationship, but one that lasts throughout the entire year, nurturing our connection with Him in all seasons of life.

Make Room (pt2) | For Others

Even when there are numerous obstacles and challenges standing in the way of bringing others to Jesus, we must strive to live with an unwavering and unstoppable faith. It is essential to never give up on our mission. Never stop seeking opportunities to share His love and message. Instead, we should continually make room to reach those who need Him most.

 

Recorded: Sunday, December 8, 2024

Make Room (pt1) | For Jesus

It's the most wonderful time of the year...and the busiest! While most of us will successfully "make room" for Christmas this December, the bigger question is if we will "make room" for Jesus. As we navigate the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, how can we tether our hearts to and celebrations to Jesus. In this message we are challenged to engage in a practice that has centered Christians at Christmastime for hundreds of years.

Dining With Jesus (pt4) | Eucharist

Remember, the invitation to the table in the Kingdom of God is open to all, but it's up to you to decide whether to embrace the love and grace offered. It's a personal choice that can lead to a meaningful relationship and ongoing communion with God.

Dining With Jesus (pt3) | Awkward

Jesus, known for his love of dining with people, often turned these meals into opportunities for deeper connections and teaching moments. One such instance occurred during a dinner with Pharisee Simon, where we are reminded that there are only two types of people - forgiven and unforgiven.  If you have experienced forgiveness you will be filled with gratitude and love.  If you haven't, it's not too late to call on the name of the Lord.

Dining With Jesus (pt2) | Martha

Even Jesus' friends, who were deeply connected to Him, can sometimes miss what is most important in life. Martha was one of Jesus' closest friends, known for her hospitality, generosity, and her commitment to serving others. However, in the midst of her busy preparations, she became caught up in her own agenda and responsibilities, ultimately missing the best and most essential thing that was right in front of her. Let us be mindful and not to get distracted by our own ambitions and tasks, but instead focus on what truly matters.

Dining With Jesus (pt1) | Zacchaeus

Like Zacchaeus, we all can struggle with feeling small, insignificant, and overlooked in our daily lives. However, Jesus desires to set us free from these feelings of inadequacy. We must be open to embracing his invitation to dine and be willing to follow him into the abundant life He has lovingly planned for each of us.

The Church, Culture, and Politics (pt4) | Flawed Leaders

When faced with less than ideal options, voting gives us the power to pick the best available. As Christians, how can we develop a set of principles that will guide our voting and political decisions when neither candidate fully embodies our values?  Jesus calls us the salt of the earth.  Perhaps we should consider the opportunity we have to preserve society, slow its decay, and lessen evil.

The Church, Culture, and Politics (pt3) | Dual Citizenship

In the famous words of Jesus, "Render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s, and unto God what is God’s." This deeply thought-provoking statement raises the question of how we are to navigate the complex relationship between our faith and the realm of politics. As Christians, we find ourselves holding a dual citizenship of heaven and earth.  This unique position presents us with the challenge of maintaining proper allegiance to both our divine calling and the social order, requiring careful consideration and discernment in our daily lives and choices.

The Church, Culture, and Politics (pt2) | Factions

In a polarized world, it's important to resist being boxed in by stereotypes and assumptions. Jesus demonstrated a love that went beyond societal divisions, and He urged His followers to do the same. We are encouraged to live beyond labels and factions and embrace our identity as children of God.