What can transform a neighborhood? Well-manicured lawns? Block parties? Well run Homeowners Association? As we commit to hearting our hood, we must remember that the only thing that can transform a neighborhood is the message and hope of Jesus. It is the Gospel of Jesus alone, under the Spirit alone, that has the power to transform a neighborhood. This message has been entrusted to you.
Before you begin to Heart your Hood, you must understand a basic truth, it does not start with you. If you believe that loving your neighbor means pouring out your heart for your hood, you will quickly be discouraged when you become busy, worn out, and uninterested. Ezekiel 47 teaches us that it is God’s heart that flows through you into your hood.
In our world, names like Musk, Bezos, and Buffet matter. In the kingdom of Jesus, their names are not worth the ink, but the name of a poor man (Lazarus) is important because Jesus has made him an heir of Abraham. Join us as we follow Jesus who knows your name.
We are stewards – not owners. How we steward what God owns reveals the heart of a disciple of Jesus. Join us as we follow Jesus who is the way to true wealth.
Through the parable of the prodigal son, Jesus anticipates our sinful nature that is always asking, “What about me?” I’ve been attending this church for a long time – what about me? I’ve been struggling with an illness – what about me? The older brother could not see his younger brother because he was asking the question – what about me? Join us as we follow Jesus who seeks the lost AND sustains our relationship with Him.
Heaven’s joy erupts when the lost are found. Legalistic grumbling despises mercy and refuses to join the party. Join us as we follow Jesus who seeks the lost.
The one who calls us to bear our cross first bears ours. His grace is not cheap grace. The high cost of His grace produces a life of costly discipleship. Join us as we follow Jesus who makes us salty - in a good way.
In a world scrambling for status, Jesus overturns the seating chart and hosts a table of grace for the least. Pride seeks the highest seat, uses people, and invites only the useful. Jesus takes the lowest place, lifts the humble, and feeds without thought of repayment. Join us as we walk together with Jesus in humility and hospitality.
The story of Exodus is the story God’s deliverance for every believer. Life follows the path from Bondage, to Lament, to Deliverance, to Praise. Ultimately, all of life leads in one direction, the glory of God and the praise of Jesus Christ. (Revelation 7:9-17)
What is your faith story? What obstacles has God overcome to deliver you? Your suffering tells the story of God’s grace and your trials can become a testimony of His unfailing mercy. How might your story be a powerful way to share His story?