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Prayer In Light of the Cross
Welcome to Lent! For a millennium and longer, Christians have used these 40 days before the great celebration of the Resurrection victory of Jesus for reflection, repentance, and a renewed focus on living in the reality of the cross of Jesus.
Repentance, at its root, is a “changing of our mind,” a turning away from everything that is not of God and turning toward the cross, embracing anew our life with Jesus through the forgiveness of our sins by grace through faith.
Have you ever heard someone describe “intimacy as “into-me-you-see”? In our Wednesday services we will consider how our Savior teaches us how to pray, the link between the blessed kingdom of heaven and the gracious will of the Father, and how our prayers draw us into a life of intimacy with God; He sees into me, and I see into Him.
Click here to view the videos and Lenten devotions
Dear Children- Holy Name! Ash Wednesday- February 18, 2026
Kingdom/Will- February 25, 2026
Bread- March 4, 2026
Forgiveness- March 11, 2026
Temptation/Evil- March 18, 2026
Kingdom, Power, Glory- March 25, 2026
Diamond Vision
Jesus –and what He means to us – is like a many faceted diamond. In one sense, He means the same for each of us….but in another, who He is and what He offers to us is different for each one of us depending on what we are going through in our lives. Further, even as we individually live our lives in the constant change of circumstances and struggles, He is there for us every day exactly as we need Him to be, a multi-faceted diamond! Perhaps this is why the Bible has four different books that narrate Jesus life – to begin to show us this many-faceted diamond that IS Jesus! Perhaps this is why, in the first chapter of the book of Romans alone, the word Gospel – Good News – is used seven times concerning Jesus! Jesus is Good News for each of us in every facet of our lives!
In the next few weeks, we will explore Jesus in “Diamond Vision,” looking to understand a little better the many faceted ways that His love would touch our lives and the lives of all in the multifaceted realities of our lives. This is Good News!...to receive and to give away! Where/how do you need a Savior in your life?
Click here to view the videos and Lenten devotions
Falling Plates February 22, 2026
Freedom Within- March 1, 2026
Paper Hats- March 8, 2026
Flow- March 15, 2026
The Search- March 22, 2026
Immanuel: God IS With Us!
What do you do when God seems far away?...or when you feel really alone and you wonder if –or how – He is there with you?...or when you can’t figure Him out, especially given what you are going through?...or when...well, you get the picture. The name given in prophecy to Jesus – recalled by the angel Gabriel with Joseph – was Immanuel. Immanuel means God with us. Jesus is God with us! You want to know God and what it means that He is with you?...Jesus is where to look...for His voice, His heart, His touch, His wisdom, His power IN OUR LIVES. In Jesus is the answer to our questions and to our longings...Come and see!
January 11, 2026- Hearing His Voice
Jesus said, “my sheep hear my voice and I know them...” Jesus is with us, right now in our lives. He is Immanuel – God with us! But what is His voice saying to us?...to you? Come and hear!
January 18, 2026- Knowing His Heart
What does Jesus think of me?...What does Jesus think of me when....? Jesus is Immanuel – God with us always! So, what is His heart toward me in every moment?
January 25, 2026- Feeling His Touch
Throughout the Gospels Jesus touched people. What does this say to us about Jesus being with us in our lives? How is He touching me right now?
February 1, 2026- Seeing With His Eyes
Is the glass half full or half empty? Mindset/worldview is so powerful in our lives, is it not? It makes a world of difference in how we see things and how we live our lives. What is the vision of Jesus as Immanuel – God with us? How does He see me? How does He see what I am going through? How does He see others? What does it meant that He would give us this vision for our eyes?
February 8, 2026- Living In His Power
We all need power from somewhere in our lives. We look for this power in so many places and ways but finally, all these fall short – do they not? If Jesus is God with us – and He is - what does it mean to know and live in His power right now? One thing we can be sure, this power will never dimmish or disappoint!
February 15, 2026- Transfiguration Sunday
This is the Sunday that this series is all pulled together. On the mountain we see that GOD is with us!...But then He leads us back down...to live in Him here. What does this mean for you and for me?
Christmas Prophecies Kept/Christmas Promises Fulfilled
Fingerprings: there are no two alike. EAch one is “one of a kind.” It is as if the Creator God put His signature - His handprint - on the unique creation of each one of us as only He can, like an artist signing a canvas. And He has done the same with Christmas. He has put His handpring- His seal of authenticity - on the birth of Jesus as our Savior at Christmas.
How? Through the primises made over thousands of years and kept at Christmas… which in tern point to promises which will certainly be kept in due time.
Who but God could have done this?
Where? Nowhere But Bethlehem!- December 3, 2025
Who? No One But The Son of God!- December 10, 2025
Why? To Be Our Savior- December 17, 2025
We Still Need - We Still Long for - Christmas!
Within each of us lies a quiet longing— for peace, joy, hope, and love. At Christmas, these longings seem to bubble up to the surface, reminding us of what life was meant to be. In worship, we find these gifts anew in Jesus, the Christ of Christmas.
This season, let your heart be open to receive them again. And as you do, invite others to share in the wonder— so that together we may discover the “more” that God gives through His Son.
Come and worship. Recieve the gifts of Christmas!
We Can Know Hope… Even Now!- November 30, 2025
We Can Know Peace… Even Now!- December 7. 2025
We Can Know Joy… Even Now!- December 14. 2025
We Can Know Joy… Even Now!- December 21. 2025
The Light Still Shines (Holy Moments)-Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025
Joy to the World- Christmas Day- December 25, 2025
God’s Mercies: Brand New Every Morning- December 28, 2025
The Wisemen- January 4, 2026
Catapult
I am so excited for the Fall preaching series as we will be focusing on Christian Stewardship. What is Stewardship? Stewardship is defined as "the free and joyous activity of the child of God and God's family, the church, in managing all of life and life's resources for God's purposes". (“What do you have that you have not been given?” I Cor. 10:31)
The emphasis here is that all aspects of life—time, abilities, and treasure—are gifts from God, and Christians, who have been “born again” into a relationship with this God who lovingly gives us all things, are now freed to use all things joyfully for the glory of God and for the good of others.
Why “Catapult?” Really, for two reasons. As you probably heard by now, I will be retiring sometime after February, 2026. Having had the joy to partner in ministry with you for over 20 years, it is my great hope and confident expectation that the ministry of St. Matthew thrives and grows mightily into the future as you partner with a new lead pastor. And intentional, joyful, generous, Spirit-led and Biblically guided Stewardship is the powerful “Catapult” into the future mission and ministry of St. Matthew! I pray that we can take huge steps in this together for the sake of the mission God has given us together here at St. Matthew!
But there is a second reason. It’s personal to me but I think it applies to each of us. It came to me as I was wrestling with what my future should look like in this “interesting” time of my life. As I contemplated the future, it struck me that the one thing that will “catapult” me into what I should do or be is to be renewed in living in the gift of Christian Stewardship. That is, what does it mean in my life to use everything God has given me in service to Him...for in this is the place of freedom and blessing in Jesus! This is also my prayer for you as well!
Foundation- October 5, 2025
First, We Give Ourselves: A Matter of the Heart- October 12, 2025
Money Matters: Giving to a Purpose- October 19, 2025
Money Matters: How Much- October 26, 2025
Tik-Tok- November 2, 2025
Gifted- November 9, 2025
Money Matters… And More! Do You See It? - November 16, 2025
Celebration!- November 23, 2025
The Truth About Everything
A Journey Through Ephesians
(And What It Means For You!)
“What’s it all about, Alphie?
Is it just for the moment we live?
What’s it all about when you sort it out, Alfie?
Are we meant to take more than we give?
(lyrics from the song, “Alphie”)
What is it all about? What does it all mean? What’s the big picture?..What’s the truth about EVERYTHING?...And how do I fit into it?
Our guide are the words God gave to Paul to write to the Christians in the city of Ephesus – and to us. I am so excited that we are going to focus on this ENTIRE BOOK as God shows us the “truth about everything.” The key? Throughout the book, it is the hidden revealed -the heavenly realms! - and how it ties into what is seen. The setting? The city of Ephesus. It was a major trade center in the Roman Empire who boasted one of the ancient seven wonders of the world in the pagan temple dedicated to the Roman goddess Dianna, the goddess of fertility, among other things. Paul had witnessed there for three years and now was writing to these new Christians to show them once again the big picture – the truth about everything – and what it meant for them.
How about you? Where are you at with this question? Maybe you have no idea of what it’s all about; maybe you thought you knew but now are not so sure; maybe there’s more to the answer than you think; But no matter where you’re at, God, the Holy Spirit, has something He wants to speak to your heart during this series. Why? He wants you to know for sure...and what it means for your life!
August 17, 2025 Panorama
August 24, 2025 What About Me…? Peace!
August 31, 2025 Mystery: God’s Amazing Grace
September 7, 2025 Life Together
September 14, 2025 Remix
September 21, 2025 Wisdom Applied
September 28, 2025 Masterpiece in Progres: Fully Equipped
Kingdom Stories
Have you ever heard the saying, “A picture is worth a thousand words?” One could use a thousand words to describe something that is beyond words...and in just one moment of seeing it, you would have a greater understanding than all the words in the world could give you. This is why Jesus often used stories – pictures put into words – to describe for us how the kingdom of God works. Come and listen with us to the stories of Jesus about the Kingdom of God!
June 22, 2025- Insight
We kicked off our new sermon series Kingdom Stories by diving into the Parable of the Sower—a story Jesus used to reveal the deeper truths of God’s Kingdom. The message reminded us that God’s grace is both personal and powerful, reaching each of us in unique ways through the “seed” of His Word. Just as a farmer scatters seed generously, Jesus spreads the good news of God’s love to all—regardless of how it’s received. Some hearts are ready to grow, others are rocky, thorny, or hardened. Yet God’s Spirit keeps working, always reaching, always transforming.
We were also encouraged to reflect on the kind of “soil” we are in different parts of our lives and to step into the dual role of both receiver and sower. Whether it’s through words of encouragement, acts of service, or sharing our faith, each of us is called to sow seeds of hope and grace. Even if the growth isn’t visible right away, we can trust that God is moving beneath the surface. The secret of the Kingdom is simple yet profound—God’s presence is with us, His grace is abundant, and He is always at work in ways we often cannot see.
June 29, 2029- Vision
This week’s sermon invited us to look deeply at how the Kingdom of God operates—often hidden from plain sight, yet filled with unstoppable potential. Through parables like the mustard seed, we were reminded that God’s kingdom does not begin with spectacle or earthly power but with small acts of grace, quiet faith, and simple obedience. Like a tiny seed that becomes a sheltering tree, God’s work grows in ways we don’t expect, transforming lives and communities beyond what we can imagine.
The message encouraged us to recognize the places where God is already at work—in our families, friendships, and daily encounters—and to trust that growth sometimes involves discomfort and surrendering our plans to God’s larger vision. We heard how ordinary believers, like Stephen and Philip in Scripture, made an extraordinary impact by stepping out in faith and service.
July 6, 2025 The Two Kingdoms
July 6, Message
July 13, 2025 Wisdom
We invited us to reflect on the deep, universal search for fulfillment. From the gold rush to Solomon’s wealth, we chase what we think will satisfy—but so often find it comes up short. Jesus tells us there’s a better way: the kingdom of heaven is the only treasure worth giving everything for. It’s not earned. It’s given. It’s grace. And it changes everything.
July 20, 2025- Grace
This week’s sermon, The Parable of Grace and the Kingdom of Heaven, is a powerful reminder that God’s ways are not our ways—especially when it comes to grace. Through the parable of the workers in the vineyard, we were challenged to rethink our assumptions about fairness, effort, and reward. In God’s kingdom, grace is not earned but freely given—whether you’ve followed Him for decades or just arrived today.
We also revisited the story of the rich young ruler, a striking example of how relying on our own goodness or achievements can blind us to our need for grace. His story reminds us that no amount of rule-following or moral effort can substitute for a humble, trusting heart before God.
July 28, 2025 and August 3, 2025 Guest Pastors
August 10, 2025- Kingdom Celebration
Kingdom Celebration
Easter Changes Everything
April 27, 2025- Not Alone, Ever!
May 4, 2025- A Clearing of the Eyes
May 11, 2025 Uncommon Love
May 18, 2025- Peace
May 25, 2025- Galilee
June 1, 2025- Eyes Up
What happens after the resurrection? This Sunday, we continue our Easter series with a powerful message that reminds us: the story doesn’t end at the empty tomb—it launches from it. In Acts 1:1–11, Jesus ascends into heaven before His disciples’ very eyes, not to leave them behind, but to empower them to carry His mission forward. The call? "Eyes up!" Look beyond the moment. Look beyond the ordinary. Look to what God is doing now and what’s still to come.
June 8, 2025- Wind and Fire
What happens when the risen Christ sends His Spirit? Everything changes—again. This Sunday, we launch the next message in our Easter Changes Everything series with “Wind & Fire”, a powerful look at the day of Pentecost. In Acts 2:1–24, 36–41, the Holy Spirit rushes in like a mighty wind, igniting hearts and emboldening the first believers to speak with clarity, courage, and conviction. And in John 7:37–39, Jesus promises streams of living water for all who believe—pointing directly to the Spirit we now receive.
Forgiving Challenge
Forgiving Challenge is a 40-day journey that will lead you to more freedom than you ever thought possible.
Even though the offer of freedom is available to all, many still live in bondage. The key to unlocking your freedom is the forgiveness that Jesus has already won for you. His forgiveness not only assures you of eternal life with Him but offers you an opportunity to live with purpose today.
Bring all of your sin, your guilt, and your same to Jesus and experience this gift of grace in your life.
A forgiven person is a forgiving person So come. Be free.
Introduction and 5 Phases of Freedom- March 9, 2025
Sin- March 16, 2025
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Confession- March 23, 2025
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Absolution- March 30, 2025
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Restoration- April 6, 2025
Sanctification- April 13, 2025
Follow Jesus
We are all looking for something more. How about you? Jesus said, “Come, follow me.” Here is answer to our quest. Here is where the “something more” is to be found. But what does it mean to become a follower of Jesus? What does it look like? What is my first step?...And the step after that? If Jesus is the One who gives me life the way it was meant to be, if He brings to me what all of humankind is looking for, how can I walk in it with Him? What does it mean to, “Follow Me.” This is the focus of our series beginning February 9th. You won’t want to miss this!
What Must I Do To Be Saved- February 9, 2025
Staying Close- February 16, 2025
Never Walk Alone- February 23, 2025
On Mission Together- March 2, 2025
Exploring Jesus
“Asking Questions Wondering If There Is Something More”
“We Are All Looking” - January 12, 2025
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“The Great Invitation”- January 19, 2025
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“Why Jesus?” - January 26, 2025
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“The Continuing Story” - February 2, 2025
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Christmas, Then, Now and Forever
Christmas is here! Christmas is here! The greatest most wonderful time of the year! And it is, for it is a time when the whole world again awakens to our longing for peace, love, hope, and joy....when we again awaken to our longing that these things are real and can be experienced and that somehow Christmas is the key. In this Christmas series, we embrace and experience anew the hope, peace, love and joy found in Jesus, who is Immanuel, God with us. How about you? Could you use a little more of these in your life?...Christmas Changes Everything! Come and see!
Christmas Hope: Then, Now, and Forever- Sunday, December 1st
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Christmas Peace: Then, Now, and Forever- Sunday, December 8th
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Advent Arrival: Look Who’s Here- Advent Service- Wednesday, December 11, 2024
Christmas Love: Then, Now, and Forever- Sunday, December 15th
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Advent Arrival: He’s Here to Stay- Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Christmas Joy: Then, Now, and Forever- Sunday, December 22nd
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Chrismas Eve: Light Into Darkness-December 24, 2024
The Secret to Being Content
Contentment is a mystery. Seriously. When Paul says in his letter to the Philippians that he has “learned the secret of being content in any and every situation,” the Greek word for “learning the secret” is “memuēmai,” which is commonly used to describe mystery. Learning the secret is being initiated into a divine mystery that is revealed through experience. Does that make you feel like you are in the pages of an epic adventure? You are.
Join us on an eight-week journey where we will:
- dive deeper into Paul's letter to the Philippians,
-learn more about the life of Paul
-study Scripture more deeply
- and discover his secret to contentment which is centered on life with Jesus.
The Journey
Week 1 The Ancient Path September 29, 2024
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Week 2 Pray With Joy October 6, 2024
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Week 3 Proclaim the Gospel- October 13, 2024
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Week 4 Become Pure
Week 5 Participate With Christ
Week 6 Pressing On Toward Jesus
Week 7 Peace That Transcentds Understanding
Week 8 Ponder Such Things
Inside Out
Have you ever struggled with hard things and the emotions that those things can bring? Join us for our series “Inside Out” and discover what makes Riley, Riley and ponder what makes you, you. As we journey through “Inside Out-the movie” and God’s word in this series you will discover how you can survive when your world implodes and even find God’s blessing & joy in the middle of it.
What Makes Riley, Riley- September 8, 2024
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Riley Loses Herself- September 15, 2024
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Riley is Rescued- September 22, 2024
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T-Ball
Life. It sometimes seems to be moving so fast and to be so complicated. Where is this true for you? Enter the T-Ball life, where God sets the ball on the “T” and says,“just hit it”…”and I’ll do the rest.”
Life With God- Sunday, August 4, 2024
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Life Together- Sunday, August 11, 2024
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Life With Purpose- Sunday, August 18, 2024
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Life Synthesized- Sunday, August 25, 2024
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Prisoners of Hope
Prisoners of Hope. Think about these words for a moment. There are so many ways and things that we embrace that put us into unwanted prisons. But in the midst of it all, Jesus comes in His grace to embrace us with the gift of Hope…the gift of making us “prisoners of hope,” breaking the chains of whatever else would bind us. In this Summer series, each week is a stand-alone topic that examines a prison we tend to put ourselves…things like Hustle, Image, Politics, and Pragmatism…and from which Jesus would free us in His grace.
From what do you need to be set free?
Hustle- June 2, 2024
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Individualism- June 9, 2024
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Materialism- June 16, 2024
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Warrior- Jne 23, 2024
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Image- June 30, 2024
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Politics- July 7, 2024
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Instant Gratification- July 14, 2024
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Pragmatism- July 21, 2024
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Cynicism- July 28, 2024
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Celebrating Milestones
Milestones ground us anew in who we are and what we are about. Where do you need this in your life? Ascension, Pentecost, and Trinity Sundays are meant to be just such milestones, giving us this gift. So, Come and celebrate - learn and remember- and be blessed!
Ascension- May 12, 2024
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Pentecost- May 19, 2024
Trinity Sunday- May 26, 2024
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Joy
Have you ever noticed that something seems to be missing in our lives. Something that transcends and brings color to an otherwise grey world. Join us for our Series “Joy” and learn how this gift that is waiting for you can change everything!
Joy, It Fills the Soul- April 7, 2024
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Joy, It Enriches Relationship- April 14, 2024
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Joy, It Fills Us With Strength- April 21, 2024
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Joy, It Brings Peace- April 28, 2024
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Joy, it Connects Us With God- May 5, 2024
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