tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82831633913509847552024-03-16T11:50:27.362-07:00Radical Grace Adventures!Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.comBlogger288125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-62225126553968286192024-03-04T10:36:00.000-08:002024-03-04T10:36:42.866-08:00God's gifts are here!<p><span style="font-size: medium;">My wife was out of town last weekend on the annual CLC women's retreat. She had a great time in Springdale Utah, and she came back refreshed after being around a great group of women. While she was away, I thought I would plan my own little adventure. I wanted to take my boys down to the hot springs on the Colorado river. This is a super fun hike, and it has enough scrambling to make it really interesting. However, that was not to be. Instead, we faced a crazy windstorm! The only adventuring I was able to fit in was a short bike ride to the neighborhood park. We were able to burn off a little energy, and we laughed a lot as we pretended to get blown away. We were able to get back to the house after a couple hours and before the wind and dust really picked up. Looking back, it may have been a little ambitious to try and fit in a hike anyway. I had four worship services to prepare for, and there was also a funeral at church, where we said goodbye to a beloved member. It actually worked out to spend my time present with the people around me. There was no need to go out and get sandblasted by the storm.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj52NFki0Q70dpC22BCH6tFaBnJze4jKG-z-KbTUnZQrJTFZHmTwgwIO0YGBElJHYFJDgU_cvXgpoo5x-vm68n5uqi-bsXdzgYyhZrD5xsuDSCGWQGOsbE48sC1q5EzuD-YgvLydgIpwTZ6v0ijPX8rkGD9IUYVOwvie-T85T30_c3HC_f0Y_WpjgjLWjg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="808" data-original-width="1540" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj52NFki0Q70dpC22BCH6tFaBnJze4jKG-z-KbTUnZQrJTFZHmTwgwIO0YGBElJHYFJDgU_cvXgpoo5x-vm68n5uqi-bsXdzgYyhZrD5xsuDSCGWQGOsbE48sC1q5EzuD-YgvLydgIpwTZ6v0ijPX8rkGD9IUYVOwvie-T85T30_c3HC_f0Y_WpjgjLWjg=w400-h210" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love to be outside... but last weekend was a little much!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Our sermon series at Community Lutheran is taking a deeper look at the gifts that Jesus brings. God is always providing us with blessings, but there are times we choose to be upset with what we have. I could have been mad where my adventure fell through. My wife could have chosen to be upset as well. (The wind was pretty bad on her retreat too, and she did not get as much outdoor time as she had hoped.) Instead, we all chose to make the best of things. Kira came back refreshed. I had a great weekend. God's blessings surround us.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4PA_0787dkzp5wZzqU9qiAbGJv1tePNLFMZhqleSxjEGIdDIL7h6rH4H2mMvzc1a_t6Pe3pd25vmekQNxIygH0xoBr-VRTf5aptOIN4NKNLVUnPHFlVe1vCREuWEVoSYNRWOJjvOoMEYG0aPSjd3Dg929LcEHZDoQc_jdcdt03KOKOeeorLJD0LWbooM" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4PA_0787dkzp5wZzqU9qiAbGJv1tePNLFMZhqleSxjEGIdDIL7h6rH4H2mMvzc1a_t6Pe3pd25vmekQNxIygH0xoBr-VRTf5aptOIN4NKNLVUnPHFlVe1vCREuWEVoSYNRWOJjvOoMEYG0aPSjd3Dg929LcEHZDoQc_jdcdt03KOKOeeorLJD0LWbooM" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Today I hope you can all look for God's gifts in your lives. Take time to watch for God when your plans change. Look for new blessings when you find yourself on an unexpected road. Jesus is there. He is leading you to abundance and new life. Let's open our hearts and experience God's Love.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Peace,</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Pastor Brian</span></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-15592580559139945802024-02-22T12:09:00.000-08:002024-02-22T12:09:54.458-08:00Finding our way<p>Earlier this week, I went for a hike in Red Rock. I typically don't go hiking by myself, but I had a free morning, and I made the last minute decision to go exploring. Since I did not have my kids with me, I tried a route that took a little more effort. I started at the First Creek trail and went boulder hopping up the canyon. </p><p>A few years ago, I would not have considered this a super tricky hike. You can't really get lost, and I had seen in the area before. However, I quickly realized I couldn't take anything for granted. There is no trail, and hikers have to decide which rocks to climb over and how to get around different obstacles. When I was not being careful, I found myself at steep drop offs or climbing dangerously over wet and slimy rock. I constantly had to be on the lookout for little signs that would help me to decide which way to go. There was a route through the canyon, but I needed to pay attention. If I lost my focus, there could be serious consequences. </p><p>In our sermon series at church, we are looking at the gifts that Jesus brings. This week we are going focus on the fact that Jesus brings us direction. There are times in life that we choose to go the wrong way. We wind up with our backs to the wall, and it can feel like we have made such a mess that there is no way out. Jesus comes to tell us that we are never too far gone. We can always find our way back. We simply have to let go of our plans and trust that God is doing something bigger. We also have to look for the signs. God is making a way.</p><p>After a couple hours of hiking, I looked back at my progress. A few years ago, I would not have wanted to turn around without reaching a peak. However, on this day I realized that I didn't have to get to the top. I had fun enjoying the day, and it was important for me to get back to see my family. I also learned that I missed sharing these moments with my kids. They bring a lot of frustration, anger, and tears, but it is nice to be able to share the moment together. All in all, it was a good day, but I let go of my plans. I enjoyed the time, and I returned to the things that mattered most. </p><p>Today I hope you spend a little time listening for God. I hope you look to God for direction and open your heart to the path God may be showing you!</p><div style="text-align: left;"><img alt="Open photo" class="x1rg5ohu x5yr21d xl1xv1r xh8yej3" src="https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.15752-9/429032721_1678442629352531_2721881652173564905_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=510075&_nc_ohc=qSltP4M9vkYAX_C6zKa&_nc_ad=z-m&_nc_cid=0&_nc_ht=scontent.xx&oh=03_AdS4YT-rsWokW9G1Ds39dci8exvCDPoA1QTAnCAAoTjRfw&oe=65FF01A2" /></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Open photo" class="x1rg5ohu x5yr21d xl1xv1r xh8yej3" src="https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.15752-9/426836770_711267847782240_5959138953110320327_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_p206x206&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=510075&_nc_ohc=Lh-rdu0ngRwAX9ou87y&_nc_ad=z-m&_nc_cid=0&_nc_ht=scontent.xx&oh=03_AdRCMnWvbCVTMzQ5KfKcM-RN3cNK4yTd1Yng3IV7lrMr-w&oe=65FF2561" /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Open photo" class="x1rg5ohu x5yr21d xl1xv1r xh8yej3" src="https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.15752-9/426807382_388138613923133_5914631818889151805_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_p206x206&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=510075&_nc_ohc=_7oICCKesjkAX9moPXL&_nc_ad=z-m&_nc_cid=0&_nc_ht=scontent.xx&oh=03_AdT1lbnlkaVM1o8vqJPZccaeGWV-KVdMthkitbDc3yUOIA&oe=65FEFCB3" /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Open photo" class="x1lliihq x193iq5w x5yr21d xh8yej3" src="https://scontent-lax3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.15752-9/429107159_771149681107437_154823403627071636_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_p206x206&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=510075&_nc_ohc=hXZJHAQkobAAX8j8ofJ&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-2.xx&oh=03_AdT-zLRlMKOXop8upeIO6uU_0jXvbxw_-14-UlroZapCHg&oe=65FF18A8" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-height: 200px; max-width: 100%;" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The guys who matter most! :)</td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p>Blessings!</p><p>Brian Ward</p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-63018732684443193242024-02-07T13:29:00.000-08:002024-02-07T13:29:42.874-08:00The Transformative Power of Faith<p><span style="font-size: medium;">This past week I spent a lot of time with my older son as he worked to memorize his multiplication tables. I remember doing the same thing when I was in third grade. I used to sit with my mom at our dining room table and practice flash cards over and over. I did ok at figuring out the right answer, but I was never the fastest kid when in came to memorizing these facts. I found it hard to focus and rather frustrating. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhxNtBwrnKhnMGZrwyLqSmIS6p0Xn9ynwK5dBC-saUGL1byN4_QGJdcf_FesXqq2BtgXD4zLp6t79Y5mqveXzL5G_6qZyZzv9a9b22rnH-MDzU1zGplV11YA_n9iipKceWAi3NsJchYJ0yHHItdK_vW7OFzi8S_VAG5Cv2g6rkUN-NLxdfdNC9dc5BF3kk" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1181" data-original-width="646" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhxNtBwrnKhnMGZrwyLqSmIS6p0Xn9ynwK5dBC-saUGL1byN4_QGJdcf_FesXqq2BtgXD4zLp6t79Y5mqveXzL5G_6qZyZzv9a9b22rnH-MDzU1zGplV11YA_n9iipKceWAi3NsJchYJ0yHHItdK_vW7OFzi8S_VAG5Cv2g6rkUN-NLxdfdNC9dc5BF3kk" width="131" /></a></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Now that I am helping my own third grader, I realize that it was probably much more frustrating for my mom than it was for me. At least that's the way I feel right now with my own son. I know he is capable of doing the work, but he would much rather be outside playing in the rain or wrestling his little brother. He doesn't see the importance of math, and he gets super frustrated when he can't complete the problems in time. Part of my role is simply to help him understand that he can do this. He doesn't have to give up, or feel bad. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">It also makes me think of so many of the stories of Jesus. Jesus was always able to see the truth and meaning of a situation. He understood that God was present, and he worked to convey this to his followers. However, so many of his disciples would become frustrated with the world or with Jesus himself. They didn't believe in themselves, and they didn't trust in God's Word. Over and over, Jesus had find new ways to bring God's love into their lives.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Working with my son is exhausting, but there are also wonderful moments when he "gets it." He understands that this is something he can do. He even brought home a test yesterday proud of how fast he completed the work. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhcZ5ClZJEOkGClzuKqigmIGzI12JWHbMl_IwUAMgiZWk5TmsL5aGIOmxIqYumeuaVHE-LSdOHEtMdJwrYA1sYyjTapldJCSop7walkW3IR9NJpsoCL8pk0ueZJpzyOIFnEekzFl8BlZ53oYhbQH4b-rnuY0FdovC_O7JNVLGrHO8fewishqUDS1RKhZAU" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="850" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhcZ5ClZJEOkGClzuKqigmIGzI12JWHbMl_IwUAMgiZWk5TmsL5aGIOmxIqYumeuaVHE-LSdOHEtMdJwrYA1sYyjTapldJCSop7walkW3IR9NJpsoCL8pk0ueZJpzyOIFnEekzFl8BlZ53oYhbQH4b-rnuY0FdovC_O7JNVLGrHO8fewishqUDS1RKhZAU" width="320" /></a></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">As you take time to look at your life today, I wonder what is frustrating you. Where are you lacking faith? Do you believe that you are a beloved child of God? Perhaps you need to take a moment to listen for Christ's voice. Maybe you need a moment to consider how deeply God believes in you. I hope you are all able to open your hearts to God's Word today. I hope you are all able to feel God's love.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Blessings,</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Pastor Brian</span></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-10204219522941882352024-01-25T11:44:00.000-08:002024-01-25T11:44:14.088-08:00Choosing to Change<div class="separator"></div><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> What does spiritual change look like in your life?</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Over the past few weeks in worship, we have been in a sermon series entitled: <i>Change my Heart O God</i>. There are times when change is inevitable. We can fight against it all we want, but life is going to move forward. At other times, the choice is left up to us. We have to be the ones who open our hearts and respond. Either way, change can come with a lot of difficulties. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I know as a parent I feel like I spend a ton of time just getting my kids to accept change. Last Monday, I had the day off with my two boys. The school district had an inservice day, and I was off too. That part worked out great. I love all the moments I have with my kids, but sometimes it takes so much energy just to get them moving. They didn't even want to get out of their pajamas. By the time they we found their shoes, got dressed, and brushed their teeth, I felt burnt out. They wanted to fight me every step of the way. To make matters worse, it was also raining that day. I started to wonder if I should have just let them stay in their pajamas and watch TV. Perhaps that would have been easier, but I knew they needed something a little more. We wound up finding our rain jackets and jumping on our bikes to take a ride on the trail. It turned out to be a beautiful experience. My kids laughed as they splashed though the puddles. They opened their mouths to catch raindrops, and we went and explored the Pitman wash. We had a ton of fun. I wouldn't want to trade those moments, but sometimes I wish it didn't have to be such a battle.</span><span style="text-align: center;"> </span><span style="text-align: center;"> </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><p style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span></span></p><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">That may be a silly example, but there are plenty of times we refuse to do the work of change. We don't feel a need to search our hearts to grow. We would rather find excuses instead of reasons to change. However, we learn in the Bible that Christ is always asking us to grow. We are called into this incredible love He offers, and we are asked to be transformed by the Spirit.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgUoo5TcH_lgJgGDSj2khkxJ-OBN598OMkxXUi5t6ThfcbDM5ON2tiEaSaPuz1-F08kXg_n58_-ukzfuMoljaPBSGM10nztfeyoYdXy29osP-NDdYyvYL4DyZeQtFMoFaaqqoAB1S6u4GxdtdZp9f8XQo6h9YbfsmB6lHbofyi8Hws1tNMipnItJuWb6XY" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img alt="" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="1024" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgUoo5TcH_lgJgGDSj2khkxJ-OBN598OMkxXUi5t6ThfcbDM5ON2tiEaSaPuz1-F08kXg_n58_-ukzfuMoljaPBSGM10nztfeyoYdXy29osP-NDdYyvYL4DyZeQtFMoFaaqqoAB1S6u4GxdtdZp9f8XQo6h9YbfsmB6lHbofyi8Hws1tNMipnItJuWb6XY" width="320" /></span></a></div><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Today I hope you can all search your hearts and listen for the Spirit. You may feel like change is impossible. You may feel like God doesn't care about you, or that you may not be worth it. However, God's Love promises to conquer all of this. God always wants us to grow and find new life. My prayer is for the Holy Spirit to lead you on that journey.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Blessings,</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Brian Ward</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-21917936979850916402024-01-11T09:49:00.000-08:002024-01-11T09:49:57.969-08:00Experiencing Change<p><span style="font-size: medium;">We live in a world full of change. No one knows what adventures or difficulties await us this year. There are going to be joys and there are going to be great sorrows. The only thing we can really be assured of is <i>change</i>. Sometimes we welcome the changes that come our way, but there are also times that we will try to resist life's curveballs.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">As I write this, we are less that two weeks into 2024, and I have already been surprised by the new year. I have watched new leaders step up in youth group. I found some extra time to spend with my family, and I got to go on a hike with some friends. On the other hand, I have also been to the Emergency Room after my five year old slammed his face into the sidewalk, and other family members are facing long and sudden hospital visits.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgb88a2bWOMMaNNH5FUzRSM74ACMAHLi3yednlASW4m8KlWcJPiBr-wxXMtCks8wFVGGC628iSGIo4TChHy7ItFfBwZaibAn8hVVgWWGNHrXO41hSMyp5XGQC1LVcUC8KUi7-uFkS3zjiaMLvl36tAo50m2V50gayfTdyy5iz7My7oPHnTEaTCIdDPsthk" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgb88a2bWOMMaNNH5FUzRSM74ACMAHLi3yednlASW4m8KlWcJPiBr-wxXMtCks8wFVGGC628iSGIo4TChHy7ItFfBwZaibAn8hVVgWWGNHrXO41hSMyp5XGQC1LVcUC8KUi7-uFkS3zjiaMLvl36tAo50m2V50gayfTdyy5iz7My7oPHnTEaTCIdDPsthk" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Throughout the month of January, Community Lutheran is diving into a sermon series all about change. God promises to love us, but when our lives get flipped upside down, we can forget this fact. Last week, we spoke about a person in the Bible named Naomi. This woman lost all the men in her life who were supposed to provide for her. She found herself in a different country surrounded by pain and sorrow. The only person to stand by her was a young woman named Ruth. Ruth was not from Israel, and she did not grow up worshiping the the same God. However, these two women found hope together. They had a faith that was bigger then what their eyes could see.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">God is still working in our world today, but sometimes I let the small stuff get to me. Life is going to have difficulties, and there will be setbacks. Sometimes I will just lose it, because my kids won't go to bed on-time. However, none of this has to be a big deal compared to all the blessings before me. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Today I hope you can all take a little bit of time to reflect on how God is working in you. I hope you can realize that your life is bigger than the twists and turns we may face. God has a plan for you, and you are constantly being transformed by the power of the Holy Sprit.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Peace,</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Brian Ward</span></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-71183332323956753572023-12-28T10:08:00.000-08:002023-12-28T10:08:03.976-08:00Living in Christmas Joy<p><span style="font-size: medium;">What a whirlwind! The past few weeks were pretty busy at CLC. We gathered for worship, the youth had a month filled with activities and caroling, and there were a number of service projects. It sometimes felt a bit chaotic, but it was also a Spirit-filled season. I felt so blessed to see people sharing God's love and peace. I hope you were able to feel the joy of Christmas this year, and I hope you are still able to experience the Good News that God is with us.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span class="text Matt-2-1" style="background-color: white; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Matthew 2:1-2</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><span class="text Matt-2-1" style="background-color: white; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial;">After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial;"> </span><span class="text Matt-2-2" id="en-NIV-23172" style="background-color: white; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial;">and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”</span></i></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span class="text Matt-2-2" style="background-color: white; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhrIDThrk1UbV5qcBKdpvYdA7FGwCN56pOpWrPj7vcOvHIOXnGIt8VHPpYyc3qSSXdUfwaV5CBQo1R91cHAD6uEZb_1oxVARLPg63lb-u1C4a2nu1W_5WbNW2rasu1QwDhXkxmumQwvT9KPpQNChuxPs82BhF2DjVu9e_eX1GcHkNoGXBP1c5TSUsJKzHM" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhrIDThrk1UbV5qcBKdpvYdA7FGwCN56pOpWrPj7vcOvHIOXnGIt8VHPpYyc3qSSXdUfwaV5CBQo1R91cHAD6uEZb_1oxVARLPg63lb-u1C4a2nu1W_5WbNW2rasu1QwDhXkxmumQwvT9KPpQNChuxPs82BhF2DjVu9e_eX1GcHkNoGXBP1c5TSUsJKzHM" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">There is a story in the Bible about mysterious travelers from the east who wanted to experience the joy of Christmas. For them, the story wasn't over after the baby was born. Today, when we are putting away all the decorations and feeling like the magic is over, God is still with us. The Spirit never leaves, even if we feel a little lost. One of my own kids had a bit of a meltdown on Christmas Day when he was going to bed. Perhaps he just had too much sugar, but he was also really upset the excitement was finally ending. We had to reassure him that although time moves on, we don't have to lose the magic. In the Bible, people were still looking for finding hope long after Jesus was born and even after Jesus died. The Good News is open to all the people who can keep an open heart.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Personally, there were times this season when I felt too busy to look for the signs of God's work. I had to prepare worship services, lead events, and try to keep my own house in working order. However, it was nice to take a few moments and stop and listen. My kids would ask about the story of Christmas. They wanted to know the meaning of the candles. They wanted to show me every toy and point out every light and siren. They were filled with joy this season, and they just wanted to share it with all the people in their lives. </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">We all need to make room for the joy of Christmas. Some of us are too busy to really notice all the blessings of the season. Others are feeling pretty lonely this time of year, but I believe that God is sharing signs of hope with all of us. </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">December 25 may be behind us, but Christmas is still here. God is still with us, and God's love is still changing lives. It is up to us to take the time to notice. Like the wise men who saw the star, we can also look for the signs of God in our lives. We can take time to wonder over all the good things God does.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Blessings,</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Pastor Brian</span></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-83858028971908171052023-12-07T13:48:00.000-08:002023-12-07T13:48:41.844-08:00A candle for peace<p><span style="font-size: medium;">This week didn't feel very peaceful in Las Vegas. There was another mass shooting, and I was heartbroken to learn that this wasn't even the first shooting of the week. The people of San Antonio and Austin were also recovering from their own acts of senseless violence. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiTc2oL-q8EFX4NeOQYJnLU02ngNCAeiOSK5vzRBU_nxADlVwnSRDdjnRDT5D-w00O_xIZzaldeNTf_VY_w-xyubZbX_vBNLd7JZHVWp_g69WGERXCbr1LPPIVf69yJ8lQ2SL9msyRjwP0jXtB4t5RzXVF2V4f43oGhFSnCYocQ3zPGs7FxSE64l_NTC0A" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiTc2oL-q8EFX4NeOQYJnLU02ngNCAeiOSK5vzRBU_nxADlVwnSRDdjnRDT5D-w00O_xIZzaldeNTf_VY_w-xyubZbX_vBNLd7JZHVWp_g69WGERXCbr1LPPIVf69yJ8lQ2SL9msyRjwP0jXtB4t5RzXVF2V4f43oGhFSnCYocQ3zPGs7FxSE64l_NTC0A" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />It sometimes feels pretty depressing to look at the state of the world. I met with the church's youth group on Wednesday night after the shooting. We talked about how to find hope, and we asked if it was realistic to pray for peace. To some of them, these horrifying moments feel almost normal. They even expect tragedy to show up in their lives. Everyday a new pain or evil makes the headlines, and it feels like there is no way to bring about change. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">It's true that we don't have all the answers. As a pastor, I wish I could offer so much more. However, we can all share a little bit of love today. We can still gather together. The youth group still took time to light candles and offer our prayers. We still found value in coming together to stand for the love of Jesus. Personally, this is what makes the church so important. We come back, time and again, with the hope of Christ. We do what we can to believe in peace, because we find the light of Jesus in our neighbors. Our world is filled with all kinds of fears and doubts. As Christians, we never bury our heads in the sand to the evil in the world, but I hope you can also find truth in God's words.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhTcgpYNU5Ew-n5VVbmVKbsq6BXr0q5PheXXfVXknM1LLtar8dzhSid5ZsFZscv5-RE6Ik0GiraWIA3nN97_UMI0IzKNEHxCLE7M6spnmBPyO01Mog12C8r9wrwvdoFBBINbLwmD2vcI9z--1qQU3XmsQeefP7a3rdB-ACECfhulVXiLHE1JPr-tYXn4j8" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img alt="" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1376" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhTcgpYNU5Ew-n5VVbmVKbsq6BXr0q5PheXXfVXknM1LLtar8dzhSid5ZsFZscv5-RE6Ik0GiraWIA3nN97_UMI0IzKNEHxCLE7M6spnmBPyO01Mog12C8r9wrwvdoFBBINbLwmD2vcI9z--1qQU3XmsQeefP7a3rdB-ACECfhulVXiLHE1JPr-tYXn4j8" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">We follow a Savior who brings new life to the world. We follow a King who gave up everything for us so that we could find peace. This weekend we are going to light the second candle on the Advent wreath. This candle represents Peace. Although you may not feel very peaceful in our world today, this is a time for us to lift each other up. This is a time to share a little extra love and grace with the people in your life. Don't be afraid to show the love you have. Open your heart... God's light is shining!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Blessings!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Brian Ward</span></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-12038376597649405472023-11-22T17:34:00.000-08:002023-11-22T17:34:47.440-08:00Thanksgiving!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjGxLLQx8yoH2WQuLTcn8m9upozwRF1HeJ_oFJQV6iHkLZWtlvsyESGQIft7n8rPm6mSwOuA0ub2acIm3xLkau5kZ5vpKKaXd8Oul11LrgBtkVwIa6oE8bkN0bbDctnyDHSvgDyd69d_xyjmqqcPUnssjiW8oBKd73KxXrcEBX00fnem7VHORnsfnVMIeA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="496" data-original-width="950" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjGxLLQx8yoH2WQuLTcn8m9upozwRF1HeJ_oFJQV6iHkLZWtlvsyESGQIft7n8rPm6mSwOuA0ub2acIm3xLkau5kZ5vpKKaXd8Oul11LrgBtkVwIa6oE8bkN0bbDctnyDHSvgDyd69d_xyjmqqcPUnssjiW8oBKd73KxXrcEBX00fnem7VHORnsfnVMIeA=w400-h209" width="400" /></a></div><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I love this time of year!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">We are entering into a wonderful season. Last Sunday my boys and I set up our outdoor Christmas Lights. They could barely contain their excitement! Next, we started shopping for the Thanksgiving groceries, and the oven has been running nonstop as we bake cookies, pies, and other goodies. Throughout this season we want to cherish our blessings. My kids are even looking for ways they can show generosity to others. We talk about living lives of gratitude, and I feel a certain hope in the air. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Scientists have shown that people who live gracious lives tend to live longer, happier, and healthier. However, I do not always surround myself with this kind of hope. It is easy to be more concerned about all the things I do not have. I worry about not having enough time, money, or stuff generally. There is a constant drive to get more. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In the Gospels Jesus tells his followers not to worry:</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: medium;"><span class="text Matt-6-25" style="background-color: white; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial;"><span class="woj">Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial;"> </span><span class="text Matt-6-26" id="en-NIV-23309" style="background-color: white; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial;"><span class="woj">Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial;"> </span><span class="text Matt-6-27" id="en-NIV-23310" style="background-color: white; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial;"><span class="woj">Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? </span></span></span></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span class="text Matt-6-27" style="background-color: white; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial;"><span class="woj"><i><span style="font-size: medium;"><span class="text Matt-6-33" id="en-NIV-23316"><span class="woj">But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.</span></span> <span class="text Matt-6-34" id="en-NIV-23317"><span class="woj">Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.</span></span></span></i></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span class="text Matt-6-27" style="background-color: white; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial;"><span class="woj"><span class="text Matt-6-34"><span class="woj"><i><span style="font-size: medium;">Matthew 6:25-34</span></i></span></span></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">We are called to live as people of grace. We offer love to others, because we see the love in our own lives. Today I hope we can all take a little bit of time to appreciate the love that is already here. It may be hard. I know some people are going through a season of great difficulty, but God is still present. How do you notice the love of grace of Christ? How can you share a little bit of this love with others?</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Blessings!</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Brian Ward</span></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-5557878830309708752023-11-01T13:01:00.002-07:002023-11-01T13:01:41.738-07:00Surrender<div class="separator"><p style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p></div><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Last week was a bit of a whirlwind here at CLC. It all started with Trunk or Treat on Thursday. This is always a super fun night, and this year was no exception. We welcomed hundreds of people from the community to our church, and everyone had a blast joining in the festivities and eating lots of candy. After 8:00pm most of the people went home, but our youth group continued the celebration with a lock-in and a trip to Disneyland! This always makes for a super long day, but I was blessed to see the abundance of God.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I saw new relationships form and children and youth find a safe place to celebrate together as a church. I saw youth deepening their relationships to one another and learning more about the love of Christ. I believe God provides opportunities for each of these blessings everyday, but we are often too wrapped up in our own world to embrace them. Sometimes we do not want to invest in a new relationship, and we can be scared of meeting someone new. However, if we surrender our preconceived notions, and we let go of our desire to make things happen our way, then Christ always brings new blessings. There may be exhausting and difficult moments, but God is there.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgR3OO2lsmHGnszWK16_oDqFcnWXCg3c5U5xfENYG0pcVTsRGm5CkgNJBfYjWJ_Ah6S6sEsqdTaYkIHiRi048-PfYTL8VNH7XtD7R4poGuozJOVS06nd6OZIRaJ49Q0C4i-WJ7YTJ1Ea5kJfgTytbnJ1fsIeYdD-TLGW-G8cw6S96yPiawa3v8psQRBF3o" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img alt="" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="155" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgR3OO2lsmHGnszWK16_oDqFcnWXCg3c5U5xfENYG0pcVTsRGm5CkgNJBfYjWJ_Ah6S6sEsqdTaYkIHiRi048-PfYTL8VNH7XtD7R4poGuozJOVS06nd6OZIRaJ49Q0C4i-WJ7YTJ1Ea5kJfgTytbnJ1fsIeYdD-TLGW-G8cw6S96yPiawa3v8psQRBF3o" width="181" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi27Tv3Yz3YN-Bb6Sv1MGGG_TcdDszYUTHj5BkQeWF77zR8WpZtZpG7GBAhClNP58HWE0pvF5EypiPfnAIliHIBlgFCmYk3sfpQclodb58pDScAW5Mp4t05y1mIMRCxrK3t3JyVkGJC-p1Fr_Pfp38jBOfmmwKQXqJzcJfm-IKIoYSHQy0uNE4KQDpCGAE" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img alt="" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="155" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi27Tv3Yz3YN-Bb6Sv1MGGG_TcdDszYUTHj5BkQeWF77zR8WpZtZpG7GBAhClNP58HWE0pvF5EypiPfnAIliHIBlgFCmYk3sfpQclodb58pDScAW5Mp4t05y1mIMRCxrK3t3JyVkGJC-p1Fr_Pfp38jBOfmmwKQXqJzcJfm-IKIoYSHQy0uNE4KQDpCGAE" width="181" /></span></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">We are going to be starting a new sermon series this month entitled, "I surrender." This series will take a look all the ways we get in our own way. We wind up carrying too many burdens and too much pain. We often don't realize that we are being held back by all the false idols that promise to fulfill our every need. We will be asking what our lives would look like if we let go and opened ourselves to something greater. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: medium;">“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.</span></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: medium;">Matthew 11:28–30</span></i></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Today I hope we can all take a small step toward surrender. I hope we can take a look at our burdens and start to let them go. Let's embrace a new journey with Christ!</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Peace,</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Brian</span></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-55374290199855790162023-10-19T10:34:00.002-07:002023-10-19T10:51:09.220-07:00Generosity<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> Have you ever met someone who lived with a Spirit of Generosity?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">When I was in seminary, I had a friend who could light up a room with her wonderful spirit. She welcomed all people into her dorm. She would freely give rides to others, and she was the first to notice if there was someone in need. She would not hesitate to help out another person. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">There are so many people in this world who live with a scarcity mentality. At times, we may feel like there is not enough, and we believe we have to hoard all the resources we can. From this perspective, it can appear the most competitive person always wins. The biggest, fastest, and strongest are able to take what they need. It is easy to see the people of this world as either winners, who took everything they could, or losers, who were beaten.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">However, when we come across a person who lives generously, our perspective can change. These people are not trying to take everything they can. Instead, they can be found actively giving away their blessings. They believe in abundance not fear and scarcity. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5gLV6dZpMYMKICCwshThEckZkonmh7IbzXxFyY2RaYpoanBpBJjgtrmDxv41hf3TlialwL-bDGPgise2fx-Adb-Vx1fF4naajWVDXJ_aoAlASyLz3yYllfqENdkESVyZGM94xp6R4E0zLLp33347A9OYEfD0-zNMIikjZQieW7s59Uv22RHA5MQxr-fQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img alt="" data-original-height="465" data-original-width="800" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5gLV6dZpMYMKICCwshThEckZkonmh7IbzXxFyY2RaYpoanBpBJjgtrmDxv41hf3TlialwL-bDGPgise2fx-Adb-Vx1fF4naajWVDXJ_aoAlASyLz3yYllfqENdkESVyZGM94xp6R4E0zLLp33347A9OYEfD0-zNMIikjZQieW7s59Uv22RHA5MQxr-fQ=w400-h233" width="400" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-size: medium;">This week we are finishing our sermon series on our core values at CLC. The last value we are sharing is generosity. This core values flows from all the others. We began with the value of <i>Welcome</i> then we moved to <i>Worship, Learning, Serving,</i> and finally <i>Generosity</i>. These values all build on each other, and generosity takes all the other gifts and shares them with the world. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Christ came to this world to give his life for each of us. Jesus didn't hold back. He didn't just come to serve the righteous or the worthy. Jesus came to love us just as we are. We don't have to fight for God's Love. Christ gave this love so that we could freely offer it to others. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Today I hope you can all find space to feel the free love of Jesus. I also hope you can share God's Love abundantly.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Blessings!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Brian Ward</span></p><p><br /></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-66851740293967323672023-10-05T13:02:00.000-07:002023-10-05T13:02:18.008-07:00Be curious...<p><span style="font-size: medium;">I love watching my kids grow up! They are are so eager to learn, and they have a sense curiosity and wonder about them. My only concern is that it all happens so quickly. Sometimes, I want my boys to stay little forever, but they are called to something more. Earlier this week, my five year old was sitting in the back seat of the car, and he asked how the sun worked. He wanted to know why it rose. How does it set? Why does it keep burning? A lot of questions that I can take for granted, but he wanted to know more about the world around him. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In ancient times, Jesus went out of his way to teach people who had been forgotten by much of society. He allowed women to sit and learn from him. He gave fishermen and tax collectors a place of honor, and He wanted all of them to grow. When society set up a rule saying one group was inferior to another or worth less than somebody else, Jesus showed each person that they were valued. Throughout the scriptures, God is always calling people grow. Jesus loves us just as we are, but that doesn't mean we should ever stop listening and learning. Our faith is a journey.<br /></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5jJpgUCXWOATi_8zM6XZDj4R2icERwjQqHR7mMXZKLRW7f9OOZUm5tJex15G2YV7ZOgu-m2pBljlsoklvOATe4vIyz8RkHSgZA6pzqCXtjBpW57AjLLiZDSa9y_bIG4wT1dPG8Yg8vMPjeyNaqI_UQvnV468fUqxHWFh7fuPXmFsj3peM4GV2T8YpBwM" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1127" data-original-width="1502" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5jJpgUCXWOATi_8zM6XZDj4R2icERwjQqHR7mMXZKLRW7f9OOZUm5tJex15G2YV7ZOgu-m2pBljlsoklvOATe4vIyz8RkHSgZA6pzqCXtjBpW57AjLLiZDSa9y_bIG4wT1dPG8Yg8vMPjeyNaqI_UQvnV468fUqxHWFh7fuPXmFsj3peM4GV2T8YpBwM" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">We are in a sermon series that goes back to the core values of CLC. Every church has different gifts provided by the Holy Spirit, and we all have strengths that we are able to share with the world. Our core values represent the ways our church is called. This week we are looking at our values of wisdom and learning. We are a church that wants to grow. From children's ministry to adult Bible Study, we believe there is a path for us to grow. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Today I hope you can all take time to listen for God's wisdom. Take time to be curious. There are too many people who want to pretend they already know everything. God wants us to become like little children and open our hearts to all the gifts around us.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Blessings!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Brian </span></p><p><br /></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-78361572053717954642023-09-21T13:01:00.003-07:002023-09-21T13:01:26.208-07:00Worship with a fresh perspective<p><span style="font-size: medium;">Last weekend I had the opportunity to travel to Camp Lutherwood in Utah. This trip has become a CLC tradition over the past few years. Youth and families are invited to experience the wonder of creation and the joy of community. Personally, I have really come to value the perspective this time brings. Instead of gathering in the basement of the church, the youth come together around a campfire to sing, eat s'mores, and share a message of hope. We also take time to go on some epic hikes. It's a wonderful trip... Even if some of the youth complained that I chose a hike that may have been just a little too long :) </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjDT57wsl9_We0PXRxAYjVo86DdLqOA1rWGQhch0HNstZKrsCGKTWpuz4PkCv-zc5z-5NemFm5kfjP-QOmshWHoywDPUpHI8fpgh7uriRq8FqTyAn_Edm-CtCNBC7uaEXtbw5qrbHLjnY_14LIkjz_xp0o-SvusMUVlgnf0wbu5LVB-EPhpippOeqKQiuk" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjDT57wsl9_We0PXRxAYjVo86DdLqOA1rWGQhch0HNstZKrsCGKTWpuz4PkCv-zc5z-5NemFm5kfjP-QOmshWHoywDPUpHI8fpgh7uriRq8FqTyAn_Edm-CtCNBC7uaEXtbw5qrbHLjnY_14LIkjz_xp0o-SvusMUVlgnf0wbu5LVB-EPhpippOeqKQiuk" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgDv8qznyr6yod9dpLwOCjtmnzGGguQT0SlYCR5w6aVtoL-oCM1WSMbzepa0W6Gpd7l5SWLJkyBPCgjxzSOFD1wwpPEwf1PIkYpihTvf7VGCvMFcJEgO1pJ_UJ91K-K6Zrgi0IJ8dt8Q4VODPinUoC7hKQS1Vw99RNyUUyVdkHwusv8dI3LWVp85sZ-pvQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgDv8qznyr6yod9dpLwOCjtmnzGGguQT0SlYCR5w6aVtoL-oCM1WSMbzepa0W6Gpd7l5SWLJkyBPCgjxzSOFD1wwpPEwf1PIkYpihTvf7VGCvMFcJEgO1pJ_UJ91K-K6Zrgi0IJ8dt8Q4VODPinUoC7hKQS1Vw99RNyUUyVdkHwusv8dI3LWVp85sZ-pvQ" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5zLf0hv5ITTilGgapVLh0tbPNap9kYLBgEe8ApHgPgWBQKZB-RNR4vuahpFqYa2KTcCq2BYznnFvWWFFgTmbeZHfFLEExCuWKBsJ48wsN5ZC6SWKEPfafoWHCd-LAvhQBvfX99K2aFrmnzPH-W2zXndzNI5BaCR13RZAFcvgUTdhtURyJDlpQZaAiY1Q" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1086" data-original-width="818" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5zLf0hv5ITTilGgapVLh0tbPNap9kYLBgEe8ApHgPgWBQKZB-RNR4vuahpFqYa2KTcCq2BYznnFvWWFFgTmbeZHfFLEExCuWKBsJ48wsN5ZC6SWKEPfafoWHCd-LAvhQBvfX99K2aFrmnzPH-W2zXndzNI5BaCR13RZAFcvgUTdhtURyJDlpQZaAiY1Q" width="181" /></a></div></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">One of my favorite parts of the weekend was sitting outside together in the evening. The deer would walk by, and the stars would come out. After being surrounded by city lights, it's easy to forget how bright the stars can be. Every night we would look up to see the Milky Way, and even though the temperature dropped down to 38 degrees, we didn't want to leave the moment. We sat together, huddled in our jackets and sleeping bags, and we embraced the beauty of the world around us. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNkQiiAUDF7N9LGHpR4z0rkw_GOSlauIOp44RZ1uf3TubP2AJMF2iap2d5Ug0T-Ip8IQgDzV8KdcY9CSmqBOYWKNvGpR3TewHAdPBYFXCq2J99FJ6E6rBCAuPb6OunDXfOUrxuJnDV8lPHIfYfSm2QbVIQuKI9lkLtgt2LMmM1A6Xt2gVUZIVgMOdL_Yw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="796" data-original-width="600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNkQiiAUDF7N9LGHpR4z0rkw_GOSlauIOp44RZ1uf3TubP2AJMF2iap2d5Ug0T-Ip8IQgDzV8KdcY9CSmqBOYWKNvGpR3TewHAdPBYFXCq2J99FJ6E6rBCAuPb6OunDXfOUrxuJnDV8lPHIfYfSm2QbVIQuKI9lkLtgt2LMmM1A6Xt2gVUZIVgMOdL_Yw" width="181" /></a></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">There are so many different ways to worship. We can sing. We can read scripture. We can stand on top of a mountain or sit around a campfire. The important part of all of this is that we take time to come together and we cherish the blessings we have. There is so much to give thanks for in our lives, but sometimes we are too busy or tired to remember this. Worship is all about pushing ourselves to experience God's Grace in fresh new ways. When we come together as a community, and God shows up. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Today I hope you can spend some time intentionally in worship. I hope you can find a community and open yourselves up to the work of the Spirit.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Blessings,</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Brian Ward</span></p><p><br /></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-87241144645769764672023-09-07T12:07:00.001-07:002023-09-07T12:07:07.226-07:00Gathered in Joy<p><span style="font-size: medium;">Last Wednesday we kicked off family night at CLC. It was wonderful to see preschool kids join together with older youth to play games, sing songs, and build new relationships. Even though there is quite a difference between a 20 year old and a 3 year old, I see a lot of blessings when they all come together. Kids and adults are all welcome to be who they are, and they can find there own ways to serve and experience God's Love. I believe God's Grace is best experienced when we come together. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhM5sE7x-IRbe2hDftePIAzVsswvP0hX6ibmmDyL3UbS6zj1PHFtpX6W3BKFnJHSIgKqunXmcrG-U7iZcAD0aFA77Ejf5WMC6pwnFKn519eubh5A52JmUM7pr5QeSfvY00qvOvN3QHnc_8pPPxtr9TzYemJj0BOJcDdwJg8w4AyEpd-DOMU8Nx_3_HDS5s" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="2000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhM5sE7x-IRbe2hDftePIAzVsswvP0hX6ibmmDyL3UbS6zj1PHFtpX6W3BKFnJHSIgKqunXmcrG-U7iZcAD0aFA77Ejf5WMC6pwnFKn519eubh5A52JmUM7pr5QeSfvY00qvOvN3QHnc_8pPPxtr9TzYemJj0BOJcDdwJg8w4AyEpd-DOMU8Nx_3_HDS5s" width="320" /></a></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In the Bible, Jesus speaks of the importance of finding a community. Pharisees were called to find a place at the table with the sinners and tax collectors. The wealthy and powerful were called to sit with the the sick and the sorrowing. Everyone has a place, and everyone is valued. In our sermon series this month, we are taking a deeper look at joy. It is easy for our hearts to be filled with anxiety, fear, and even anger. However, this series asks us to fill our hearts with joy. God values each person. I hope we can let go of the fears in our past and enter into something new.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span class="text Phil-3-14" style="background-color: white; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgSo4QVfdxCdCAReBv2YU0R76weD5kn60pkHO19esUNxcLb29uieDhcMNOtxRME5gz5AwTGtSQis4fWOVXhBnSEm95hgHMUJiHueuwQUMJrETaM-1SnXhtTYq0ZQpxQx1SpdCZRDNUf7bcj7SRKHaHIGx0XerYYDbKmk23aUAa_oLzoGFph6_yKiTpiwTE" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="840" data-original-width="1280" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgSo4QVfdxCdCAReBv2YU0R76weD5kn60pkHO19esUNxcLb29uieDhcMNOtxRME5gz5AwTGtSQis4fWOVXhBnSEm95hgHMUJiHueuwQUMJrETaM-1SnXhtTYq0ZQpxQx1SpdCZRDNUf7bcj7SRKHaHIGx0XerYYDbKmk23aUAa_oLzoGFph6_yKiTpiwTE=w386-h253" width="386" /></a></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The Biblical letter to the Philippians, is a book filled with joy. It tells us that whatever we are facing, we also have a new life in Christ. We are told that if we want to let go of our past difficulties, we need to find a community. We need a place where we honor one another. We need a place where we can be honest, and we need a place where we can be united and filled with God's Love.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Today I hope you can take time for some of the relationships in your life. Perhaps you can give a family member or a friend a call. Maybe you can find a new place to serve. Maybe you can just say hi to your neighbor. God is present everywhere we go, and we are a people who share God's love when we come together.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Blessings!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Brian</span></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-67108863088324030742023-08-24T11:45:00.003-07:002023-08-24T11:45:26.887-07:00A perspective of hope<p>There is so much pain in our world..</p><p>The tragedy that surrounds the wildfires in Hawaii is so great that it is difficult to comprehend. Canada is also facing it's own horrendous battle and devastating losses. There is war in Ukraine and rumors of war surround us. We are witnessing storms. People are battling homelessness, and I have friends and family that are in the hospital facing difficult illnesses.</p><p>It can be hard to find reasons to celebrate or give thanks. In our scripture passage this week, we are retuning to the book of Nehemiah. The people living in that time had every reason focus on the pain in their lives. There was talk of warfare, and their enemies were ridiculing their work. Life came with so many burdens, and it would have been very hard to let go of the harsh realities of the world. </p><p>Nehemiah tried to change the people's perspective. He gave them a reason to focus on the Good News that was also present in their lives. They read from the scriptures. They took time to appreciate all the work they had done, and they gave thanks for God's work in their lives. </p><p>I believe Christ wants each of us to look at the world with a fresh perspective. Jesus was always able to see a bigger picture. Many of us, like the early disciples, can easily get bogged down by the difficulties we face. I think God wants us to stay rooted in reality, but we also have to have faith that God's Love is always going to win.</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhDhmO9qdvD0__Cuy4AJQVi8fCFtUvXW6-ybPdNcrwcyqXGVX7T022KVHYfFsSwiL0Ddh1h0ViVtU2ZW7jEYrAuzb5glV5OHC1NRGDg-ySD3aRox5y6JHYEioNvMRUs6E5FA4_QHgzzqo3wePGYlBcH_0ZpL-SKWdL4VP608kuOk-X_vxwiuQ8MFUoThE4" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="294" data-original-width="640" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhDhmO9qdvD0__Cuy4AJQVi8fCFtUvXW6-ybPdNcrwcyqXGVX7T022KVHYfFsSwiL0Ddh1h0ViVtU2ZW7jEYrAuzb5glV5OHC1NRGDg-ySD3aRox5y6JHYEioNvMRUs6E5FA4_QHgzzqo3wePGYlBcH_0ZpL-SKWdL4VP608kuOk-X_vxwiuQ8MFUoThE4" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>Last Saturday, my youngest son celebrated his 5th birthday. It wound up being a birthday in the rain with all the weather we faced. However, my son had a blast. There was so much excitement and love that surrounded the moment, and he enjoyed every bit of it. Sometimes things do not go as planned, but if we take time to experience the blessings, God's Love surrounds us. </p><p>Today I hope each of you can take time to love. Let's not become so overwhelmed that we forget the blessings that surround us. God is present in each of our lives. Let's experience the grace and peace of Christ everyday.</p><p>Blessings,</p><p><br /></p><p>Brian Ward</p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-86693535195832238492023-08-10T10:54:00.000-07:002023-08-10T10:54:03.698-07:00Believing in the good<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Have you ever felt successful?</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Have you taken time to reflect on the work you have done?</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Perhaps you built or fixed something. Maybe you climbed to the top of a mountain or achieved a goal at work. I hope you are taking time to celebrate your accomplishments. I think it's important to strive to do our best and set goals for our own growth and improvement. </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Right now I am making lists for the fall. I am looking at camping retreats, youth and family nights, Trunk or Treat, and even Christmas events. In our sermon series, we are looking at the prophet Nehemiah. This Old Testament prophet worked hard to achieve his goals. He was a governor of Jerusalem and his city was in ruins. He needed to create a plan for change. He utilized prayer and determination to achieve all the goals he had for his city. However, it didn't take long for others to criticize him. He was doing everything he could, but people were always pointing out the problems. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj19PvjKfJCriDGsLo4GlTiHVYQg7vIoe1T5A2KqmXZMQegJ-pHyMWAcF3Bj2KX9wXS2vteHME_ceWy25j-8NEn4T40Xbqj2xhdYSkv3g_RlWO1kY8p9zxU2ng06i8aanMbGV66uPiZDmV5hPEZEi4cxIUNO-KXBocO_V0A7910oHN-cTlSDkm63TMfWl0" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj19PvjKfJCriDGsLo4GlTiHVYQg7vIoe1T5A2KqmXZMQegJ-pHyMWAcF3Bj2KX9wXS2vteHME_ceWy25j-8NEn4T40Xbqj2xhdYSkv3g_RlWO1kY8p9zxU2ng06i8aanMbGV66uPiZDmV5hPEZEi4cxIUNO-KXBocO_V0A7910oHN-cTlSDkm63TMfWl0" width="320" /></a></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">When you are reflecting on your day, do you spend more time looking at the good, or do you see the difficulties?</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Personally, I feel like it is easy to look at all the imperfections. There are always people who want to drag us down. Many times these people don't know how to deal with their own feelings of defeat, so they push it onto others. </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The book of Nehemiah tells us to focus on the good that we can create in the world. Instead of dwelling what other people think, we can share God's love. Instead of being a community that pushes others down, we can be a church that celebrates the accomplishments of others. </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Today I hope you can all reflect on God's Love. God does not see you as a failure. God sees you as full of potential. Instead of worrying about how other people may see you, let's take time to live in the hope that God provides.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Blessings!</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Brian Ward</span></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-22161410940464417332023-07-26T14:51:00.001-07:002023-07-26T14:51:19.090-07:00Rise up from the ashes<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i> When was the last time you had to start over from scratch?</i></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">When I was in college, there was a big end of the year project that disappeared off of my computer. This was going to count for a huge percentage of my grade, and I became so stressed out about it that I felt sick. I can't remember if I accidentally deleted the file or if a server went down, but I was a mess! I think I spent more time trying to recover that file than it would have taken to rewrite the whole thing. I needed a long time just to acknowledge that my previous work was gone. Then I began again... It all worked out, but I was not happy about it.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Today, I still hate the idea of having to start over. I will hold to old plans that I should have let go of a long time ago, because it feels scary to start over from scratch. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Is there something that you need to let go of?</i></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Perhaps you can't imagine starting a new career, moving to a new home, or living life without a loved one that you recently lost. New beginnings are hard... However, the Bible teaches us that we are people of the resurrection. We are people that are being transformed everyday by the Holy Spirit. There are times when life is going to fall apart. In those moments, we are going to need time to grieve, but we also have to have faith. There is New Life rising up from the ashes.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjqPnOkcSVYQErTX0h22dpVfpbEmL7tV7FucGFbz-I3AA4TJsmFVlmJ36oT0ODSgys3CBasct1TBSy4VOuJmmw42cKHi4N72Qf7ii0WBKWve9xukDKz3gVo5P8oLhL0KprPqC-iWnSiE4WLjWQpw6ho7wJbnm1V1-tk2hUuCq_o2-zn-sSPCo9qAng3Qq4" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img alt="" data-original-height="536" data-original-width="800" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjqPnOkcSVYQErTX0h22dpVfpbEmL7tV7FucGFbz-I3AA4TJsmFVlmJ36oT0ODSgys3CBasct1TBSy4VOuJmmw42cKHi4N72Qf7ii0WBKWve9xukDKz3gVo5P8oLhL0KprPqC-iWnSiE4WLjWQpw6ho7wJbnm1V1-tk2hUuCq_o2-zn-sSPCo9qAng3Qq4" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">We are beginning a Sermon Series at CLC next week that is diving into the book of Nehemiah in the Bible. Nehemiah was written at a time when Israel needed to believe in a fresh start. The people had lost a terrible battle, and many of them had been dragged into slavery. They were living in a foreign country, and a generation of people had come and gone. It seemed like there was nothing left for the people of God. However, Nehemiah tells a story of faith. The people are told to believe that they can rise up and find a new path forward. </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Today, God is continues to call us into a new story. There are things we all need to let go. It is my prayer that we could all trust that God is in control. When we feel lost and uncertain about the future, believe that God is creating something new. God has not forgotten or forsaken you. Believe that you are loved!</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Blessings!</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Brian Ward</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-50407706489860657992023-07-20T10:14:00.000-07:002023-07-20T10:14:24.453-07:00Renewal and the Holy Spirit<p><span style="font-size: medium;">Last week, I returned from a vacation to Minnesota with my family. It was amazing! My kids got to spend plenty of time with their cousins and grandparents. We went fishing on a lake, and we picked black raspberries in the woods. The previous year, all our vacation plans were flipped upside down when we got Covid-19 right before we were supposed to leave. That trip wound up being cut down to a long weekend, and it made this year feel like such a blessing. We were able to cherish every drop, and we returned home feeling like we all had a new experience of love...</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg8k9af0ZPxYWQPHDqmIrKECrAw9LzQWpEIF0LGVP0IPu65BKdaWqi9pJ2XuHwOh8rAVusMhW1xZyKU_oM6MflTrEbYvi8JiDl4L2-fpegfoWi4kUZLVygF61nsTmE9DxECiqf5K6aDdQeihuXOeZbu6Y9WtRbAnnO-sT6B9_cdU6jpErqZvD_zki1QIgs" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg8k9af0ZPxYWQPHDqmIrKECrAw9LzQWpEIF0LGVP0IPu65BKdaWqi9pJ2XuHwOh8rAVusMhW1xZyKU_oM6MflTrEbYvi8JiDl4L2-fpegfoWi4kUZLVygF61nsTmE9DxECiqf5K6aDdQeihuXOeZbu6Y9WtRbAnnO-sT6B9_cdU6jpErqZvD_zki1QIgs" width="192" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhzy7sHdRzodjzlMRHb-l4nSHBzmZ5Kg7txlUw5WesptY4UT-i565V9GPdSvaWQoina7idITRJU1Y7LXY8NVnSfIvPbkAvMREvXrSw0-84OLGUZOSnnqPRpS7vhdGJc17hMgfhtW7AD50o9lCSaZHAcjgOLeiYXI3Z4JGu-ISwQq52TioDCPlrsskTKHVU" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhzy7sHdRzodjzlMRHb-l4nSHBzmZ5Kg7txlUw5WesptY4UT-i565V9GPdSvaWQoina7idITRJU1Y7LXY8NVnSfIvPbkAvMREvXrSw0-84OLGUZOSnnqPRpS7vhdGJc17hMgfhtW7AD50o9lCSaZHAcjgOLeiYXI3Z4JGu-ISwQq52TioDCPlrsskTKHVU" width="180" /></a></div><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">God's Love is an amazing gift. Christ sacrificed everything for us, and God wants you live in these blessings. Do you ever think about this kind of love? Personally, I spend way too much time looking at my own failures. I focus on all the things people don't like about me, and sometimes that can leave me feeling like God is good, but I am not...</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Philippians 1:6</span><span style="font-size: large;"> says:</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><span> </span>He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.</i></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">God wants us to be transformed by love. We are called to focus on the blessings that are given to us. As much as I love my calling as a Pastor, I also need time to get away. I need time with my family, and we need time to remind ourselves of the love that is always present. This is my hope for all of you. Even if you can't get out of town this year, I hope you can be intentional about looking for God's Blessings. You are loved. Your failures do not define you or own you. May you live in God's Love.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Blessings,</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Pastor Brian</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-81550185381883147982023-06-15T07:56:00.000-07:002023-06-15T07:56:00.127-07:00Mission and the Holy Spirit<span style="font-size: medium;">It is June in Las Vegas, and it feels like summer at CLC! I am preparing for Vacation Bible School, and I just got back from a mission trip with the youth group. It is a wonderful season, and I am truly blessed to be a part of this journey!</span><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">As much as I love this time, it is also an easy time to become overwhelmed. There are so many things on my to do list. I feel like I have been constantly recruiting volunteers, preparing lesson plans, and finding decorations and craft supplies. So when I finally left town last week to go to Long Beach, I was a little anxious about all the projects I was still working on. However, there was a time when I realized I was a part of something special. I let go of all the concerns, and I was able to trust that the Spirit was moving. As soon as we left town, the kids on the mission trip immediately started building new relationships. They spent the week working incredibly hard, and their work changed lives. Whether we were scrubbing, sorting, or painting, they saw God in these incredible moments. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhpTuP1pnufNI_SqCGapjY7ip1FYILoDDlA28oV6xCb_kuzRVDz7m8Wq_etQ_CUQ4mur63RZHXp0_WLjDgb_lGxAOXcpGm_yY-kHf-EkJ-V1ZkAsUvijDQ6xY_OD6imvq7NHllN1lj0_x68MKlQxIG8swReUzS-bYkZbEV6DZPdQp-BL3QFMT1ByqfO" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1500" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhpTuP1pnufNI_SqCGapjY7ip1FYILoDDlA28oV6xCb_kuzRVDz7m8Wq_etQ_CUQ4mur63RZHXp0_WLjDgb_lGxAOXcpGm_yY-kHf-EkJ-V1ZkAsUvijDQ6xY_OD6imvq7NHllN1lj0_x68MKlQxIG8swReUzS-bYkZbEV6DZPdQp-BL3QFMT1ByqfO" width="180" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjiY4OV7p1EHKWdmfPqjj2IlHZqF1Y9QBRpUK3AO8Z3QxfpC5RxFdQTSvSiNtkFLzdGGmAK1DwKAK29QKeCO4VaKoREnuyplPW54PnDmLH7e3aWfmWQS5H6kAuZ2HmdI2Ocw1n3sUc3hOsDqlOIuHb_S8EUe1eAH0BiTcpYy3nvHI1_mAIuetZ-WoxC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjiY4OV7p1EHKWdmfPqjj2IlHZqF1Y9QBRpUK3AO8Z3QxfpC5RxFdQTSvSiNtkFLzdGGmAK1DwKAK29QKeCO4VaKoREnuyplPW54PnDmLH7e3aWfmWQS5H6kAuZ2HmdI2Ocw1n3sUc3hOsDqlOIuHb_S8EUe1eAH0BiTcpYy3nvHI1_mAIuetZ-WoxC" width="180" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhvEBDsMaqAaxklYE7Cdnu3Ch9Aw9XYO_-4fFcM8KbzE58KeVkf1O6ntRPuVS1F5rNOwhVeABH2tVdjoEUReW_Ez8JoftC2GEE3wfHn2mtPOh8toZy5b1zjNGT7TGBJnOQKmd6QOqVyTNGk7K-WEFYiHzM7Z1SUT7WhfjufZpsNi_HTsLMfyEs8OknN" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1242" data-original-width="2208" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhvEBDsMaqAaxklYE7Cdnu3Ch9Aw9XYO_-4fFcM8KbzE58KeVkf1O6ntRPuVS1F5rNOwhVeABH2tVdjoEUReW_Ez8JoftC2GEE3wfHn2mtPOh8toZy5b1zjNGT7TGBJnOQKmd6QOqVyTNGk7K-WEFYiHzM7Z1SUT7WhfjufZpsNi_HTsLMfyEs8OknN" width="320" /></a></div></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">There are times we look for reasons to be anxious. It can be easy to get lost in all the problems, and we can feel annoyed by ordinary tasks. I love when we can take time to wait and watch for the Holy Spirit. God is present in every moment. I hope we can all make room for all that Christ doing today!</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Blessings!</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Brian<br /></span><div><div><br /></div></div></div>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-63655362829502891532023-06-01T11:27:00.000-07:002023-06-01T11:27:24.853-07:00Summer Fun!<p><span style="font-size: medium;">Are you ready for summer?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I have been scrambling over the last few weeks to prepare all the summer activities coming up at CLC. The Youth Group is packing right now for our mission trip to Long Beach, California. This is a great opportunity for the kids to serve others and build new relationships. I have always found these trips to be incredibly rewarding, and I can't wait to see what God is going to do this time. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Once the youth are back home, it will be time to dive into Vacation Bible School. This is usually our biggest event in Children's Ministry, and it reaches out to kids in our church and in the greater community. It is another opportunity to share God's Love in new and exciting ways. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I love watching God's Spirit move in and among us. However, as I prepare to lead each of these activities, I'll admit that I've been feeling more than a little stressed. I am busy securing van rentals, organizing volunteers, preparing craft projects, writing devotions, and a host of other things. It takes a lot to get these projects moving!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I was working through some of these details last weekend, when my wife asked what I wanted to do for Memorial Day. I had been so busy I hadn't really thought that much about it. We thought about going on a hike, but I didn't know if I could get away, and her back had been bothering her. However, when we woke up on Monday, the weather looked so beautiful we decided we couldn't stay home. We decided to go on a little hike with the kids up to Big Falls, near Mount Charleston. It turned out to be exactly what we all needed. The boys loved marching though the creek and sliding down the snow. The air was refreshing, and we left feeling inspired. Besides all of that, water was actually flowing over the falls. (That doesn't happen all that frequently!)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Sometimes we have to take a breath and remember that God is with us today. It is fun to prepare for the big events, but we need to take time for the blessings along the way. Today I hope you can all experience the Holy Spirit moving in your lives. I hope you all take time to cherish this!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Blessings, and here are a few pics from our hike! </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgbkhXtHGNEDfkOv3XsbFeKKrTgfbCfdiAqxfWWnhDsJOB12bNQEw3ZpYRWEmBF8xZ8oTjdqx-UyD4oo_LAhN0L3In0jHfWPiTzH7LorsLDMcAbGQkNZlcSddIclV6Z9BLRjpIQqAggOJ_2LV7izzC47d-x4RIhjekbcBE0Wb99OjMiQSUdUJAfyTDk" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgbkhXtHGNEDfkOv3XsbFeKKrTgfbCfdiAqxfWWnhDsJOB12bNQEw3ZpYRWEmBF8xZ8oTjdqx-UyD4oo_LAhN0L3In0jHfWPiTzH7LorsLDMcAbGQkNZlcSddIclV6Z9BLRjpIQqAggOJ_2LV7izzC47d-x4RIhjekbcBE0Wb99OjMiQSUdUJAfyTDk=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzcyyIJ6bnorPtCeUiiJGnukGLz9GbcFlnNPseb0XmyYTsbOlibhxPm9xyug4RhRIkBKRy10nfMEVSonkAAXg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjyy4CEh9FKYpnpgrhXA0Z1BRjNsq_KkhHuyL_BeQQYTIhhU3mZw3vTbUGmyp-JjRgOkLfPV5CzvT7CgKEXIewbZwbkCTnXb5rf-R1mZZdgHU7T5kxHDFTpiyp4rFVLPb_ZnKo5bJ1bSz8ier9-rgzMX00FX15UB0AKmkgJKKv_uBTGeDtzsWT180jN" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2040" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjyy4CEh9FKYpnpgrhXA0Z1BRjNsq_KkhHuyL_BeQQYTIhhU3mZw3vTbUGmyp-JjRgOkLfPV5CzvT7CgKEXIewbZwbkCTnXb5rf-R1mZZdgHU7T5kxHDFTpiyp4rFVLPb_ZnKo5bJ1bSz8ier9-rgzMX00FX15UB0AKmkgJKKv_uBTGeDtzsWT180jN=w241-h320" width="241" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhs9oE5cKc41Gug1m27xWTeE_97R8lU7RSoucIMNWyoBBHOsN85vgfgxgqXR0PvoRFl3CVrzWXDn2hBxVgS8JP0oYSbCNJcGVRS2PvmftNrMzuDLTiBWfJouUl9x8dP8i_pfTTQ5cCEbT6MNE63zabZi3ts6WQdRAf1bmijoqErf_AyCSc3GDfz2FsT" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhs9oE5cKc41Gug1m27xWTeE_97R8lU7RSoucIMNWyoBBHOsN85vgfgxgqXR0PvoRFl3CVrzWXDn2hBxVgS8JP0oYSbCNJcGVRS2PvmftNrMzuDLTiBWfJouUl9x8dP8i_pfTTQ5cCEbT6MNE63zabZi3ts6WQdRAf1bmijoqErf_AyCSc3GDfz2FsT=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7dJqym-SIPXiq9yhZqYkoEVQxZXEvgwlfUMUl2EiHjTc1VMdt23ITvxpQMSmwYia5o4yyKQN-WNT9C-LnUc8wmkJcynGh-iJ8_Pe0XHB3BNRQkTnWVgSW9HXo6zaRJxTJrGWaHKRpvhOiCsWDx5VZkF0ZbokW1mdRpHtiKZNBpa16c2h7_He4w7F8" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1640" data-original-width="1232" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7dJqym-SIPXiq9yhZqYkoEVQxZXEvgwlfUMUl2EiHjTc1VMdt23ITvxpQMSmwYia5o4yyKQN-WNT9C-LnUc8wmkJcynGh-iJ8_Pe0XHB3BNRQkTnWVgSW9HXo6zaRJxTJrGWaHKRpvhOiCsWDx5VZkF0ZbokW1mdRpHtiKZNBpa16c2h7_He4w7F8=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-74087617459651006932023-05-16T20:25:00.001-07:002023-05-16T20:30:20.912-07:00The Season of Easter<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Happy Easter!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiVvyUD-cjyyxkqPc5ho9JsMv19x5mMaoMO1NbO_OvIaTI3V9wT7XVm4wu50c_iTTNAQPU_UxJjcg1uA00OLMEXvOyPVvZDKlo2nqYzqi-crIyBrwVFEoUqf6cuL5tAweV3R7U5V4iAhwG2MsV2G0yJX-RMLiWGnIxjveOXkkcF9XoumZyJ-XSyU8ie" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="846" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiVvyUD-cjyyxkqPc5ho9JsMv19x5mMaoMO1NbO_OvIaTI3V9wT7XVm4wu50c_iTTNAQPU_UxJjcg1uA00OLMEXvOyPVvZDKlo2nqYzqi-crIyBrwVFEoUqf6cuL5tAweV3R7U5V4iAhwG2MsV2G0yJX-RMLiWGnIxjveOXkkcF9XoumZyJ-XSyU8ie" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">In the church, Easter does not just last one day. We celebrate the resurrection for seven weeks. Unfortunately, I think many of us have moved on. The joy of Easter is wonderful, but we have lives to live. It is really hard to keep ourselves spiritually centered on the Good News. God offers us every good gift... but sometimes it is amazing how quickly these gifts can be forgotten.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Are you still in tune with God's work?</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I know last year, my family was dealing with Covid-19 and other viruses. We were feeling kind of down after canceling our second attempt at a vacation. However, we did get away for about five days to Sequoia National Park. Recently my kids were reminiscing about that trip. They remembered hiking through the trees and swimming in the creeks. Looking back, we couldn't believe the trip was so short. We really enjoyed every moment together, and it was so important for us as a family. We really just needed to intentionally create some space to receive God's blessings. Instead of feeling frustrated that our plans kept falling apart, we made the most of the time we had. We found a way to connect to the gifts that God was providing.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I think God is calling to us everyday. Miracles are happening, and we can look to the scriptures to see all the promises God has in store for us. Christ is alive! What is it going to take for us to see this? My encouragement is for you to take a moment each day to open your heart. God is always with us. It does not matter if we are living with joy or with sorrow, God is present. Let us take a breath and remember that.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Blessings!</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Brian </span></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-19318548857824433362023-05-04T09:30:00.001-07:002023-05-04T09:30:11.677-07:00Radical Grace<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Last Monday, I stayed home with my youngest son. He did not feel too well the day before, and I wanted to keep an eye on him. Thankfully, he never got very sick, and we wound up spending the day together. It's interesting that I always feel like I am too busy for him. It always seems like there is something more important to do than play <i>puppy dog</i>... However, we had a really great day, and I am so thankful I took the time to be with him. Sometimes we need to make room for grace... We need to take advantage of moments that are not hard earned or hard fought. We all need to cherish the simple gifts that surround us everyday.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhyPoYwafoD8KOFaPq-HBSMJzmvu3BIyhbnW9oUWnlhJ8JHi6HlLagnKEM8dnzHE1xIi6GOzQy3ueQRb2NYY101ntJb7dX8HSVuISnZdTkWblyzuhSjFuxqDcGtp53TdVx6zgbiDgbB8wQmLTvDesevPXb1v8e_xpRB3jz66g6jJqnXHR4ddf0QNfZy" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="1024" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhyPoYwafoD8KOFaPq-HBSMJzmvu3BIyhbnW9oUWnlhJ8JHi6HlLagnKEM8dnzHE1xIi6GOzQy3ueQRb2NYY101ntJb7dX8HSVuISnZdTkWblyzuhSjFuxqDcGtp53TdVx6zgbiDgbB8wQmLTvDesevPXb1v8e_xpRB3jz66g6jJqnXHR4ddf0QNfZy" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: medium;">We talk about grace a lot in the church, and I think most people have a basic understanding of its meaning. They have heard a pastor or a friend talk about this free gift. However, there is more to grace than understanding a definition. True freedom is found when we let Grace into our hearts. We do not always want to make room for God's gifts in our lives. We want prove ourselves or our own importance. I think we need time to let go of the rat race we live in and experience what it means to feel loved without any preconditions...</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: medium;">Today I hope we can all take time for grace. I hope we can share and receive God's gifts in everything that we do. I hope we remember to cherish all the blessings that surround us.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: medium;">In Christ,</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: medium;">Pastor Brian</span></div><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-23901857585325864432023-04-20T14:54:00.001-07:002023-04-20T14:54:15.753-07:00REAL PEOPLE<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">REAL PEOPLE<br />INCLUSIVE GOD<br />RADICAL GRACE<br />INSPIRED GROWTH</span></div><p><span style="font-size: medium;">These eight words declare who we are as a congregation at Community Lutheran Church. Each of these phrases share a little bit of our DNA, and they are woven into everything that we do. Over the next four weeks, we will be taking a little bit of time to explore each of these, and we will ponder how they are impacting our lives. This weekend we will consider what it means to be REAL PEOPLE.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">A congregation of Real People understands that everyone is broken, but everyone is also welcome. There are times in my life that I have spent a crazy amount of time trying to show the world that I was perfect. I didn't want anyone to see my cracks or flaws. I thought that if people knew of my failures they would cast me away. However, I learned some of the best relationships and success stories in my life came from vulnerable and broken moments.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Earlier this week, I asked my kids what had happened in our living room. Toys were thrown everywhere, coloring supplies were left out, and one boy was crying. They responded by looking at me and saying, "It wasn't me! My brother did it!" They tried to pretend they were completely innocent of the whole situation. It was better to blame it all on somebody else. Honestly, I wasn't that upset by the mess itself. There was nothing in that room that we couldn't fix. My real concern was the lying... When someone is refuses to be honest and real, it is really hard to grow and learn. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg82NyWUOXOhHMYvB_9soNvs0iYZZoLGmy7pcVluZBV06OXgXlvs_eY3TyszKI2Wcn_xtCbO3LzEA5w8Su5ElBxeHOIV6ChBqB7ZgN2GxnShrjVLM5MboNTQHPtKsE0_Kyu1FECxq3hIBhth7-5ToccJBMA3H3Y_k20GJe6yhxBKkOpoI_qCgNRD6x1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img data-original-height="315" data-original-width="851" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg82NyWUOXOhHMYvB_9soNvs0iYZZoLGmy7pcVluZBV06OXgXlvs_eY3TyszKI2Wcn_xtCbO3LzEA5w8Su5ElBxeHOIV6ChBqB7ZgN2GxnShrjVLM5MboNTQHPtKsE0_Kyu1FECxq3hIBhth7-5ToccJBMA3H3Y_k20GJe6yhxBKkOpoI_qCgNRD6x1=w400-h148" width="400" /></a></div><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Today, we may not get into fights over who messed up the living room, but we still can easily become trapped in a web of lies if we refuse to look at our own failures. I hope we are all able to let go of the facades we put on, and I pray that we are able to see ourselves just as we are. We are imperfect, but can grow. God sees our true heart, and God Loves us anyway. Let's share this good news and live with hope and grace!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Blessings!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Brian</span></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-1048757339829565342023-04-05T19:11:00.000-07:002023-04-05T19:11:00.435-07:00A time to reflect<p><span style="font-size: medium;">This time of year feels like a roller coaster in the church. We celebrated Palm Sunday last week, and as I write this, we right in the middle of Holy Week and the journey to the cross. I have always found this time of year to be incredibly meaningful, but honestly, it can be difficult to take a breath and really consider the impact of what Jesus has done. Today, I am busy working on worship services, and I just finished teaching a class of First Communion students. I am also busy preparing for the Youth Mission Trip and Vacation Bible School. I love being busy with all kinds of activities, but it is also important to take a bit of time to reflect. Jesus gave his life for each of us, and His love changed the world.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Last week, while I was teaching the First Communion class, I shared a small meal with the students, and we talked about the Seder dinner that Jesus experienced with his disciples on Maundy Thursday. The kids listened, and they asked some really thoughtful questions about the Passover. They also saw the love Jesus offered in his last meal before the crucifixion. It was really powerful for me to hear the students talk about God's Love in their lives. Seeing just one kid realize that they are welcomed into the family of God is absolutely incredible. It is worth taking a bit of time to honor and celebrate.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhQboXhiIgR_pLLhYSJRZRunVSh1nbpfUlsWazZpXW_5cPz7OP1_ZWPYvsyfTOORHlWo09wB5YKo3J2OAoQaqLMhbR0QuPbomemiiWHcxeEVS03RwOZ_iSzYIapdALHp4JYLbP7gbRVcN3BQKM1QAA51C6cpzBdHEtyWHPkxyDjDjYl0iytGRN1GB4O" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="543" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhQboXhiIgR_pLLhYSJRZRunVSh1nbpfUlsWazZpXW_5cPz7OP1_ZWPYvsyfTOORHlWo09wB5YKo3J2OAoQaqLMhbR0QuPbomemiiWHcxeEVS03RwOZ_iSzYIapdALHp4JYLbP7gbRVcN3BQKM1QAA51C6cpzBdHEtyWHPkxyDjDjYl0iytGRN1GB4O" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Jesus broke bread with people who were about to abandon and betray him. His disciples did not have a perfect theological grasp on everything that He was doing. However, Jesus still found a reason to share God's Love. Although the disciples minds were elsewhere for much of their time together, Christ's Love eventually led them back to God. There will be times we do not understand what God is doing. Other times we will be unwilling to listen to the voice of God. However, Christ is still speaking to us. God is still calling. I hope we can all take a little bit of time to listen and experience the grace that Jesus shared.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Blessings,</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Brian</span></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-30346364151300934332023-03-23T12:45:00.003-07:002023-03-23T12:45:48.310-07:00At the feet of Jesus...<span style="font-size: medium;">Community Lutheran Church has been in a sermon series entitled: <i>At the Feet of Jesus</i>. We are looking at stories of different people who came into the presence of their Savior. Each of these individuals came with something different on their hearts. Some were ready to worship. Some were in search of a miracle. Others came to Jesus out of gratitude, or they wanted to learn and grow in the Spirit. However, all of these people lived by faith, and they were able to trust that Jesus was the answer to everything they had been searching for.</span><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">I think it is incredible for people to find Jesus and discover that He matters most. It reminds me that, whatever I am carrying on my heart, I can let it go and turn to Jesus. However, this week we are going to turn the tables a little bit. We are going to consider who Jesus was seeking after. The answer to this may seem obvious: He sought after God... and that is most certainly true, but Jesus also seeks after us. As much as we need to be in the presence of Jesus, Jesus wants to come to us. Jesus sees each one of us as sacred, and God knows we all have gifts we can use to serve and love others.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">There are so many times I forget to look for God's presence in my life. Each day becomes a blur filled with ordinary activities, but last week I had the opportunity to travel to Colorado with my family. We didn't hike any mountains or explore any new trails. We were there to be with family. My wife's parents opened there home to us, and we had a joyful week of love. Sure, my family is a little wild and crazy, but we were welcomed in. It can be important to seek after God in far off places, but my trip last week reminded me that we can find God in the people who surround us. We can find God, just like Jesus did, in our relationships with others. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhoj3CfZZNcRt8bt8Z7EFWAw2qSMdR6KtZFOJONyoOxgGs3vmYDX7w6aMiBWgjKTlPytDm8tSbkVuwiCPFbe44ieTJa2Lx6TaR7HB5vEQhdqC-GFkcK4pjgr3mczZ2eq-aPxkdnhrw_rd7IOYlaCQStT1UoWXXqUxz2FOiYzqzrMobn6gZLnxaPd58N" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhoj3CfZZNcRt8bt8Z7EFWAw2qSMdR6KtZFOJONyoOxgGs3vmYDX7w6aMiBWgjKTlPytDm8tSbkVuwiCPFbe44ieTJa2Lx6TaR7HB5vEQhdqC-GFkcK4pjgr3mczZ2eq-aPxkdnhrw_rd7IOYlaCQStT1UoWXXqUxz2FOiYzqzrMobn6gZLnxaPd58N" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying the simple moments!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Today I hope you can all experience a little bit of God's love today. I hope you can all learn what God is doing, and I hope you can realize that you are a blessing as well.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Peace,</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Brian Ward</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8283163391350984755.post-60396272879942056182023-03-09T11:04:00.001-08:002023-03-09T11:04:33.890-08:00Gratitude<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Can you think of a time that you have been overwhelmed with gratitude?</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">My oldest son just turned eight years old, and he has lived the last few days with an incredible amount of joy. He couldn't wait to open his presents. He immediately had to start building the lego sets, wearing his new costumes, and playing the new games with his brother. He was also excited to call his grandparents to say thank you for all the good things that they gave to him. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I think there are a few important steps to gratitude that my son lived out. First, he took time to value each and every gift. Next, he shared his gratitude with the people around him and those who gave the gift. Finally, he is enjoying life with the presents that were given to him. He is living life with in joy and gratitude.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">At Community Lutheran, we are taking time each week to consider the people who found themselves at the feet of Jesus. Each person who we have followed in this series has come to Jesus for a different reason. The wise men were inspired by Jesus, and they bowed down with awe and wonder. The family of Jarius and the hemorrhaging woman fell at Christ's feet while they prayed for healing. This week we are going to meet at woman who came to Jesus feet with an immense feeling of Gratitude. Her gratitude brought her to her knees. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Life is filled with moments to be grateful for. However, there are plenty of times I find myself too busy to really appreciate the gifts around me. Stress and anxiety can consume us, and we can forget to say thank you for some of the most beautiful gifts that God has given us. We can also forget to live a life that is filled with joy. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I recently met with a person in the hospital. He has faced a number of difficulties over the last few months, but he was also filled with gratitude. Some of the trials he faced reminded him of all the gifts he had but that he had taken for granted. He was now going to intentionally live every drop of life to the fullest.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj7A1ow9d1gU-MgGdENFI0na0fsHObYaWupueQ9IDJmHih8ITuWqcSk488-9JZLR7fFoEQNLIW6YMdiQaVbJ8jTBMbxgCCF8oC8ngcZvrOY-Am9Zn1ZEU7OeEzndmN0ntl5Cm1f54XRx747cAfVjbKoD1MHTiUj7sKZwLis5T4zdtD4LPeeaIcguCJx" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="649" data-original-width="1061" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj7A1ow9d1gU-MgGdENFI0na0fsHObYaWupueQ9IDJmHih8ITuWqcSk488-9JZLR7fFoEQNLIW6YMdiQaVbJ8jTBMbxgCCF8oC8ngcZvrOY-Am9Zn1ZEU7OeEzndmN0ntl5Cm1f54XRx747cAfVjbKoD1MHTiUj7sKZwLis5T4zdtD4LPeeaIcguCJx" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Today I hope that we all and take a bit of time to appreciate the gifts that God has given to us. I hope we can take time to say thank you to God and to the people who have blessed us. Finally, I hope we can all intentionally live each day with joy.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Blessings,</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Brian Ward</span></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Brian Wardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12946987540943013502noreply@blogger.com0