Matthew TwoSix:ThreeNine

A few weeks ago, we celebrated Day of the Seafarer with a week of activities.  One of the places we invited churches and families to come alongside us was by baking treats for the seafarers and port community. Throughout the week we were blessed with an incredible amount of cookies, brownies, and other delectable treats.  Some of which were put out at Anchor House for all who visited the center to enjoy.  Others were packaged up and brought to ships for the seafarers to enjoy. Many were accompanied by a note or card of encouragement and prayer.  I hope the seafarers enjoyed the baked goods they received. Being on a ship for 4-10 months at a time, I would miss the treat of homemade cakes, cookies, and other yummy treats. I am sure some of the cooks on the ships make treats for the crew.  And I am confident they are very skilled in their culinary skills. However, I think there is nothing quite like a homemade cookie.  I’m not sure, but I think the...

At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a little child to Him, and placed the child among them. And He said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me." - Matthew 18:1‭-‬5 NIV This past Sunday was simply life-giving at Westside Christian Church. The energy and excitement were palatable. My daughter couldn't wait to get to church. She was excited to worship with her friends and have fun together afterwards.   With the VBS takeover, the church was packed! Sure there were a few seats open, but there was a line of people standing in the back. It is safe to say it was "standing room only". Fitting with the story of Zacchaeus that Pastor Russ shared.   Jes...