We all face valleys—times of darkness, uncertainty, and fear. But what if we could walk through them with confidence? In Week 4 of our journey through Psalm 23, Small Groups Director Sarah de Jong leads a conversation with Pastor Scott McKee and Pastoral Resident Sarah Horton about what it means to trust the Good Shepherd in our hardest seasons. How does His presence change the way we experience suffering? Why does this verse shift from talking about God to talking to Him? This discussion explor...
Mar 27, 2025•15 min•Ep. 1
What guides you—truly? This week, Kelsey Jenney invites us into a powerful reflection on Psalm 23:3—“He guides me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.” Drawing from her experiences in ministry, spiritual direction, and a life-shaping trip through Israel, Kelsey explores our deep desire to be guided, the many competing voices in our lives, and the gentle, faithful way God leads us into right relationships, justice, generosity, and joy. With humor, honesty, and heartfelt wisdom, she help...
Mar 23, 2025•30 min•Ep. 1
We all follow something—but are we being led by the Good Shepherd? In Week 3 of our journey through Psalm 23, Small Groups Director Sarah de Jong explores with Pastor Scott McKee and guest Kelsey Jenney the meaning of walking in “paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.” How does God guide us in a world full of competing voices? What does it mean to be truly led by Him? This conversation delves into spiritual direction, discerning God’s voice, and the daily choice to trust His leading. May th...
Mar 20, 2025•16 min•Ep. 1
True rest is found only in the presence of the Good Shepherd. This week, Rev. Terence Gray unpacks Psalm 23:2-3, showing how, like sheep, we struggle with restlessness—held captive by fear, conflict, distractions, and unmet needs. Yet, Jesus, our Shepherd, leads us to green pastures and quiet waters, providing exactly what we need at the right time. When we chase after greener pastures on our own, we find they don’t satisfy—but when we stay close to Him, we lack nothing. Where are you searching ...
Mar 16, 2025•25 min•Ep. 1
We long for rest, but do we truly embrace it? In Week 2 of our journey through Psalm 23, Small Groups Director Sarah de Jong guides a discussion with Scott and Terence on how God makes us lie down in green pastures and leads us beside still waters. Why is rest something we often resist? And how does the Good Shepherd restore our souls? Together, they explore the tension between contentment and comparison, the nature of true rest, and the invitation to trust in God’s provision. This conversation ...
Mar 13, 2025•17 min•Ep. 1
When Jesus is our shepherd, our every need is met. This week, Mark Ordus unpacks Psalm 23:1—“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing”—and explores how we can truly live in that reality. Through stories, humor, and biblical wisdom, he reminds us that just as a shepherd protects, feeds, heals, rescues, and guides his sheep, Jesus does the same for us. When we seek first His kingdom, we find that in Him, we already have everything we truly need.
Mar 09, 2025•21 min•Ep. 1
Psalm 23 is one of the most familiar passages in Scripture, but what happens when we slow down and truly let it shape us? In this episode, Small Groups Director Sarah de Jong moderates a conversation with Pastors Scott McKee and Terence Gray as they kick off a seven-week deep dive into 'The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.' What does it mean to trust in Jesus as our Good Shepherd? How does His presence change the way we navigate fear, anxiety, and the uncertainties of life? Join us as we u...
Mar 06, 2025•19 min•Ep. 1
As we prepare our hearts for Lent, Dr. Scott McKee explores the profound significance of Jesus as the sacrificial Lamb of God. Looking at the deep Old Testament roots of sacrifice—including the Day of Atonement and Passover—Pastor Scott reveals how Jesus fulfills these ancient practices in a way that is final and eternal. Through powerful imagery, including the role of the scapegoat and the blood of the Passover lamb, we see how Jesus carries the weight of our sin and offers us true freedom. As ...
Mar 02, 2025•27 min•Ep. 1
In the final message of the "I Never Said That" series, Dr. Scott McKee examines the popular phrase, "Hate the sin, love the sinner," and reveals how, despite its widespread use, it isn’t found in the Bible. Drawing from Jesus' parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector in Luke 18, Pastor Scott challenges us to confront our own sin rather than focusing on the faults of others. This message explores the nature of sin—how it distorts God’s intended goodness—and emphasizes the freeing power of c...
Feb 23, 2025•25 min•Ep. 1
In this continuation of the "I Never Said That" series, Dr. Scott McKee unpacks the commonly misquoted phrase, "Money is the root of all evil," revealing the truth from 1 Timothy 6:10: "The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil." Exploring what the Bible truly says about wealth, greed, and contentment, Dr. McKee highlights the dangers of loving money and how it can trap us, regardless of our income level. Through personal stories and deep scriptural insights, he challenges us to confront ...
Feb 16, 2025•27 min•Ep. 1
In the latest "I Never Said That" message, Rev. Terence Gray explores the popular phrase "Ask Jesus into your heart," revealing that while common in Christian culture, it’s not a biblical command. Instead, scripture emphasizes repentance and belief in the gospel as the true response to Jesus. Drawing from Revelation 3:20 and Acts 3:19, Pastor Terence unpacks how salvation isn’t about inviting Jesus into our hearts but about turning from sin and placing our full trust in His finished work. With p...
Feb 09, 2025•29 min•Ep. 1
Dr. Scott McKee continues the "I Never Said That" series by challenging the common saying, "God won’t give you more than you can handle." While often used to provide comfort, this phrase is not found in the Bible. Instead, scripture reveals that God allows people to face trials far beyond their own strength—so they will rely on Him. Drawing from Paul’s letters and personal experiences, Pastor Scott reminds us that suffering is not always manageable, but it can always be meaningful. Through our d...
Feb 02, 2025•26 min•Ep. 1
Rev. Terence Gray kicks off the new series, "I Never Said That," by addressing the popular misconception that "God only helps those who help themselves." Drawing from scripture, he highlights how God extends His grace to the helpless and opposes the proud. Through examples like the healing of the leper and Paul’s “thorn in the flesh,” Pastor Terence reminds us that God’s power is made perfect in our weakness. We are invited to surrender control, lay down our pride, and trust the God who absorbed...
Jan 26, 2025•22 min•Ep. 1
Rev. Terence Gray closes the "Good Plans" series with a message on seeking and doing God's will. Reflecting on Matthew 7 and the inspiring life of George Müller, Pastor Gray emphasizes that doing God's will involves progressive steps of faith and occasional leaps, rooted in trust and dependence on Him. He challenges us to examine our motives, place our full weight on God, and live lives marked by obedience and faith. With practical insights and encouragement, this sermon reminds us that God’s pl...
Jan 19, 2025•27 min•Ep. 1
Rev. Nicole Unice continues the "Good Plans" series with a message on discovering God's will, addressing the common question, "What does God want for my life?" Drawing from Romans 12, Proverbs 3, and James 1, she offers practical insights on aligning our lives with God's purpose. Through foundational commitments, intentional reflection, and seeking God's guidance in daily decisions, she encourages us to trust in His mercy and remain open to His leading, even amidst uncertainty. With wisdom, pray...
Jan 12, 2025•29 min•Ep. 1
Rev. Terence Gray kicks off the new year with the sermon series "Good Plans: Defining, Discovering, and Doing the Will of God" by exploring how we can understand and embrace God’s will. Using scripture and practical examples, Pastor Terence unpacks the two aspects of God’s will—His commands and decrees—and reminds us that God’s plans always lead to restoration, joy, and victory. Even when life feels bitter or uncertain, God is crafting something beautiful for His people. Through faith and trust,...
Jan 05, 2025•24 min•Ep. 1
On the last Sunday of the year, Dr. Scott McKee reflects on the practice of patiently enduring problems, an often-overlooked discipline that can shape our character and deepen our faith. Drawing from James 1:2-4, this message explores how trials, whether big or small, can become opportunities for spiritual growth when viewed through the lens of faith. Pastor Scott shares personal insights from his health journey, emphasizing how God's grace sustains us even in hardship. This message invites us t...
Dec 29, 2024•21 min•Ep. 1
In this Christmas Eve message, Dr. Scott McKee invites us to rediscover the wonder of Christmas through the eyes of the shepherds, who were astonished by the news of Jesus' birth. Drawing from the awe and amazement in Luke 2, Pastor Scott explores how wonder opens the door to hope, faith, and possibility in a dark world. Reflecting on how Jesus, the Light of the World, entered humanity in humility and mystery, this sermon reminds us to live with wide-eyed wonder, embracing miracles all around us...
Dec 24, 2024•22 min•Ep. 1
In this week’s message, Rev. Terence Gray continues the "I've Got Questions" series by exploring the question, “What shall we name Him?” Drawing from Matthew 1:18–25, Pastor Terence reflects on the power of names, how they shape our identity, and how Jesus' name—meaning salvation—reveals His purpose and destiny. This message reminds us that while the world may label us with names that burden or harm, Jesus offers us a new name as children of God. Through the story of Jesus’ birth, we’re invited ...
Dec 22, 2024•27 min•Ep. 1
Rev. Nicole Unice invites us into the journey of the Magi as they ask the question, “Where is He?” in their search for the newborn King. In this powerful Advent message, Nicole reminds us that our own journeys are filled with questions—where is God in our mess, doubts, or disappointments? Yet Jesus, born into the brokenness of the world, is not distant but present, standing and knocking, inviting us into a deeper relationship with Him. As we refocus our hearts on worship, we rediscover the truth...
Dec 15, 2024•26 min•Ep. 1
Rev. Terence Gray delivers a heartfelt and intergenerational Christmas message, "How Will This Be?", exploring the profound truth that when we receive God's Son, we receive everything. Drawing from Mary’s journey in Luke 1 and Isaiah 9:6, Pastor Terence reminds us that the story of Christmas isn’t about how but who. Through engaging illustrations, audience interaction, and the symbolism of gifts, we’re invited to reflect on Jesus as our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Pr...
Dec 08, 2024•19 min•Ep. 1
Dr. Scott McKee kicks off the Advent season by exploring different questions of Christmas, beginning with Zechariah’s heartfelt inquiry in Luke 1: “How can I be sure?” This powerful message invites us to embrace the sacred gift of silence, using Zechariah's transformation from doubt to faith as a reflection of the season’s call to wait, wonder, and watch for signs of God’s presence. Pastor Scott reminds us that the Christmas story, like a multifaceted diamond, always reveals new beauty and depth...
Dec 01, 2024•20 min•Ep. 1
In this week’s message, Pastor Terence stepped in for Pastor Scott and shared a powerful reminder of God’s rescuing love from Exodus 14:15. Reflecting on Moses and the Israelites at the Red Sea, he emphasized that God meets us in our weakness and rescues us not because of what we’ve done, but because of who He is. Pastor Terence shared personal stories to remind us that God’s love pursues us even in our brokenness. The central truth: “Striving for love becomes senseless once you realize that lov...
Nov 24, 2024•21 min•Ep. 1
In this week's special message, guest preacher Mike Kuhn joins us for Ward Church's Global Impact Summit to reflect on Acts 8 and "The Great Pivot." Highlighting Philip's role in crossing cultural barriers to bring the gospel to Samaria and the Ethiopian eunuch, Mike challenges us to embrace the call to share Jesus' love with those on the margins of society. Drawing parallels to today's global refugee crises, he shares inspiring stories of God's work among displaced peoples. This sermon invites ...
Nov 17, 2024•33 min•Ep. 1
In this week’s sermon, Dr. Scott McKee concludes the "Up" series by exploring the practice of speaking up for our faith, as demonstrated in Luke 15:1-10. Through parables of the lost sheep and lost coin, we see God's deep joy in finding those who are spiritually lost. Pastor Scott shares personal stories and challenges us to live as people called and sent by God, to connect with others through simple acts like sharing meals, and to bless others by being authentic witnesses of Jesus' love. Join u...
Nov 10, 2024•25 min•Ep. 1
In this week’s sermon, Dr. Scott McKee dives into the theme of accountability, exploring its role in our spiritual growth and relationships. Reflecting on Colossians 3:12-17, Pastor Scott explains how accountability is a gift from God, guiding us to live in alignment with His teachings. Through stories and scriptural insights, we’re encouraged to confront our own excuses, invite trusted people into our lives for mutual support, and understand that accountability isn’t just about avoiding wrong b...
Nov 03, 2024•21 min•Ep. 1
This week's sermon explores the theme of friendship and the importance of supportive relationships in our lives. Rev. Terence Gray dives into Ecclesiastes 4, where Solomon contrasts a life lived in isolation with one shared in community. Through stories and practical insights, Pastor Terence illustrates that while it may seem easier to walk alone, true fulfillment and resilience come from walking together. Just as "a cord of three strands is not quickly broken," we are encouraged to build strong...
Oct 27, 2024•21 min•Ep. 1
This week’s sermon by Dr. Scott McKee, titled “Wise Up,” focuses on the importance of teaching and Bible reading as essential disciplines for spiritual growth. Drawing from Psalm 19, Pastor Scott explains the transformative power of Scripture in shaping our minds, emotions, and perspectives. Just as we carefully choose what we feed our bodies, we are called to be intentional about what we feed our minds. Pastor Scott encourages us to devote ourselves to God’s Word, allowing it to refresh our sou...
Oct 20, 2024•24 min•Ep. 1
In this week's sermon, Mark Ordus discusses his early days as a youth pastor and reflects on the profound impact of service on his ministry. He shares stories from his mission trips and how the innate desire to serve is wired into every person, transcending generations. Through scripture, Mark explains that this desire comes from being created in God's image, and he emphasizes how Jesus, the ultimate servant, modeled a life of humility and service. Whether serving at church, in the community, or...
Oct 13, 2024•25 min•Ep. 1
In this week’s sermon, Rev. Terence Gray explores the powerful spiritual discipline of silence and solitude as part of our ongoing series on spiritual practices. Drawing from Mark 6, he highlights how Jesus modeled a rhythm of work followed by moments of retreat and renewal. Pastor Terence challenges us to embrace the quiet, even when it feels uncomfortable, as a way to confront the noise within ourselves and draw closer to God. He reminds us that silence reveals what noise often hides, and soli...
Oct 06, 2024•29 min•Ep. 1
