We pulled the Christmas decorations last weekend, and I found a strand of Christmas lights knotted in the usual jumble. No matter how carefully I pack them away, they still twist themselves into a knot. It made me think about how life feels at times—busy, messy, and not nearly as tidy as I’d like.

Christmas meets us right there. Jesus didn’t wait for us to sort ourselves out. He stepped into our tangled world with light that doesn’t fade. His presence brings clarity, peace, and a reminder that nothing in our lives is too knotted for him to handle.

If things feel a little twisted or heavy this season, you’re not alone. Take a moment today to name one knot you’re handing over to him. If you’re comfortable, share it so we can encourage you along the way.

“Almost no one likes a show-off, but almost everyone likes to show off at least a little.”

This quote from Psychology Today captures the tension we feel about making others aware of our accomplishments. We don’t want to listen to someone go on and on about their achievements, but at the same time, we get excited to share good news about our own. Whether it’s finishing a tough task, winning an award, or being recognised by a mentor, we want others to notice our wins!

But here’s the question: are Christians supposed to brag? Does that break the rules of following Christ?

No. Yes. Maybe?

When my son was in elementary school, he had a fantastic teacher who taught well and modelled integrity. One of her classroom rules was that bragging was wrong. Really wrong. So wrong that, for years, my son considered “brag” to be one of the worst four-letter words. No joke. We couldn’t even say it around him without tears streaming down his face. Fast forward a few years to a student-led conference where the students were told to brag about themselves to their parents.

Oh boy, there were tears that day.

How do you help a 10-year-old flip the script in his head so he doesn’t think he’s condemned to a Christless eternity for being proud of a good grade on a book report?

The reality is that many of us still wrestle with the same tension. Talking about ourselves can feel unchristian, even self-centred. If we’re recognised for something, we may feel pressure to quickly deflect the compliment and change the subject. But avoiding the spotlight completely isn’t the answer either.

The problem comes when we swing too far in either direction. Sometimes we talk about our accomplishments to elevate ourselves or put others down. Other times, we refuse to accept any credit at all—pretending we had no part, which is really just a backwards form of bragging. Neither approach is healthy or honest.

So what’s better? It begins with identity.

If our identity is in Christ, then we can rejoice that the saviour of the world has given us gifts, talents, and interests to use for his glory. When those gifts make a difference in someone’s life, it’s not sinful to talk about it. In fact, as Christians, we should grow more comfortable sharing the good things God is doing in and through us.

That doesn’t mean we place our worth in our accomplishments, but it does mean we can acknowledge them without guilt. Sometimes we get to work hard, apply what we’ve learned, and be part of something that brings us joy. That’s worth celebrating.

A helpful question to ask is: What went well here because of my involvement? This keeps us grounded. It lets us see how our gifts contributed without overinflating our importance or dismissing our role entirely.

You don’t risk a Christless eternity by talking about your promotion at work, and you’re not selfish for being excited about something good in your life. Knowing who you are in Christ allows you to share wins with joy, receive compliments with grace, and keep perspective.

“Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:31)

As I write this post, I feel the weariness of life. Long hours of work, family stress, and despairing over news feeds that make me long for Christ’s return; that remind me of a spiritual battle that is raging day after day across the globe. “I can’t bear it! How do I continue forward?”, I said to myself as I lay in bed in the late hours. Maybe this week, or in the past you’ve shared that experience, a disillusionment that rocks your very world.

In 2 Corinthians 4:7-12 Paul writes,

“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may also be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.”

See Paul was no foreigner to these things. He worked long and hard. He endured many things from beatings, stonings, imprisonment, and shipwreck. And, like you and I, was fragile and limited. But he did not break, he did not lose hope, nor was he destroyed. Why? Because inside himself, inside his ordinary, easily chipped and cracked self was a treasure; the treasure you and I also carry, the light and promise of the gospel, a glue that holds us together, that reminds us we will share in Christ’s resurrection, and that the present challenges we face are a temporary stop gap until the glorious moment we see him face to face. And Christ in his wisdom uses our weakness to reveal his strength. If we had it all together where would our need be of Christ? If we were unfazed how would our hearts long for a saviour? But because we have this light in us, in the face of suffering we move towards dependance on the one who has conquered death, the one who is all powerful, doing more than we could ever imagine. And it’s this glory in our weakness that makes us the perfect medium to tell people of what the Lord has done. And he, by his Spirit, will strengthen and lift you. Take heart, he who is in you is greater than all the suffering in the world.

Therefore, do not be discouraged by your weakness, but know that Christ has chosen you in your weakness so that his life in you may be revealed in you. Do not fear what the world may take because your treasure in Christ is imperishable and it belongs to you forever. And pray, that his Spirit strengthens you in all things, he will sustain you.

I pray this week, that he would strengthen you, that his peace would rule in your minds and heart, and that you would delight in his presence, in the shadow of his wing. May God supply all your needs and shape your desires to be like his own.

In my personal devotions, I have been working my way through the Old Testament, and recently I reached the book of Jeremiah. Jeremiah is known as the weeping prophet. His ministry was rough. He was called to prophesy to the southern kingdom of Judah at the end of its reign before God exiled them to Babylon, and his ministry was anything but outwardly fruitful. He was mocked, belittled, slandered, and had his life threatened on multiple occasions—simply for speaking God’s truth to the leaders and priests.

All of these things were running through my mind as I began reading Jeremiah. But as I started chapter 1, I was reminded of God’s description of what Jeremiah’s ministry would look like. In Jeremiah 1:10, God says to Jeremiah:

“Behold, I have put my words in your mouth.
See, I have set you this day over nations and over kingdoms,
to pluck up and to break down,
to destroy and to overthrow,
to build and to plant.”

While this was God’s specific call to Jeremiah’s ministry to disobedient Judah, it made me think about how God sometimes works in our lives. Sometimes, in order for God to shape us into the likeness of Christ, he first has to remove some things from our lives. And in doing so, we may go through difficult or painful seasons.

In my human nature, when faced with hardship, I often ask the question, “Why? Why is this happening to me?” I want to understand the purpose behind the trial. But as I read about Jeremiah’s ministry, I’m reminded that perhaps God is doing in my life what he called Jeremiah to do. Is it possible that God is plucking up and breaking down, destroying and overthrowing, something in my life so that he can then build and plant?

Scripture often uses the image of refining—God refining his people as a metalsmith refines silver or gold. The purpose is to purify the metal before shaping it into something beautiful. The psalmists and prophets describe God in this way, refining us for his purposes. But the refining process requires fire. To refine silver or gold, it must be held over intense heat to burn away the impurities. Only then can it be pure enough to work with.

So, are you going through something right now? As we face trials and hardships, let’s trust in God’s purpose. We may be in the fire, but he is watching and waiting for the right moment to bring us out—once we have been refined—because ultimately his desire is to build and to plant.

Have you ever sat down to pray and nothing came. It’s not that you’re angry with God - just tired. Your thoughts wander. You try again. A few words stumbled out, but they didn’t feel like they went anywhere. So, you give up and start scrolling on your phone.

We’ve all been there.

If you’ve ever felt like your prayers are just echoing into space, you’re not alone. Even believer face moments when prayer feels dry, dull, or utterly pointless. We know we should pray. We may even want to. But sometimes, it just feels empty.

And that can leave us wondering: What’s wrong with me? Why isn’t this working?

The Bible doesn’t gloss over this experience. In Psalm 13, David prays, “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?” That’s raw pain as he feels unheard - And maybe even abandoned. The prophet Habakkuk begins with a similar cry: “O Lord, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not hear?”

These aren’t rebellious outbursts—they’re faithful prayers spoken from a tired heart. And God included them in Scripture to show us something important: prayer isn’t about impressing God with eloquent words. It’s about bringing our whole selves to him, even when we feel like we have nothing to give.

If you are struggling with prayer, may I offer the following encouragement:

1. Keep Showing Up

Prayer isn’t always profound. Sometimes it’s just being with God. Sit quietly. Say nothing. He’s not looking for performance—he’s offering presence.

Like any relationship, some conversations will be rich, and some will just be sitting together in silence. But showing up still matters.

2. Let Scripture Lead You

When words won’t come, borrow them. The Psalms are full of honest, heartfelt cries to God—some joyful, some angry, some deeply confused.

Try reading Psalm 42 or 86 aloud as your prayer. God’s Word gives voice to things we can’t always articulate on our own.

3. Be Careful with Your Word Count

You don’t need to fill the space. A short, honest cry—“Help me, Lord,” or “I need you”—is more than enough. Jesus even warned against piling up empty phrases (Matthew 6:7).

God hears what’s behind the words. He knows your heart.

4. Let Others Pray for You

Don’t carry your prayer burden alone. Ask a trusted friend, your DG group, or a pastor to pray with you or for you. Sometimes borrowed faith carries us when ours is running low.

You’re not weak for asking—it’s part of being the body of Christ.

The good news of the gospel is this: Jesus intercedes for you (Hebrews 7:25), and the Spirit helps you in your weakness (Romans 8:26). Even when you don’t know what to say, your prayers aren’t wasted.

Prayer is the cry of a child to a Father who already knows, already sees, and already loves.

If prayer feels hard today, don’t panic. Don’t give up.

He is near. Closer than your next breath.

What’s helped you stay connected to God when prayer has felt hard? We’d love to hear from you!

There’s a sobering line tucked into Psalm 106 that hits closer to home than we might like:

“But they soon forgot his works; they did not wait for his counsel.” (Psalm 106:13, ESV)

Israel had just witnessed the power of God—miracles in Egypt, escape through the Red Sea, provision in the desert. And still… they forgot. Not after decades. Soon.

They forgot what he had done.
They stopped waiting for his voice.
They ran after what they craved.

This isn’t just a story about a group of people long ago. It’s a cautionary tale for us.

We might not build golden calves or wander through literal wilderness, but we’re just as capable of forgetting God—especially when life gets busy, when we feel uncertain, or when we’re tempted to chase what looks easier or more immediate.

Author and missionary Elizabeth Elliot once reflected on this Psalm in her journal:

“Solemn warning indeed… God forbid that we should ever forget His works, and haste ahead of Him.”

Elizabeth Elliot is best known for her remarkable story of faith, obedience, and forgiveness. In 1956, her husband Jim and four other missionaries were killed while attempting to make contact with the Waorani people (then known as the Auca) in Ecuador. Just two years later, Elizabeth returned to live among the very people who had taken her husband’s life, sharing the gospel with grace and courage. She would go on to write more than twenty books that have shaped generations of Christians. But before all of that—before the tragedy, before the calling—there was a quiet desire shared between Jim and Elizabeth: that nothing, not even their love for each other, would take the place God should have in their hearts.

Their journals show a deep commitment to walking closely with God, especially in the hidden moments of waiting, listening, and remembering. Their story reminds us that spiritual forgetfulness isn’t always loud or dramatic—it’s often slow, and subtle. Which makes remembering all the more vital.

For ancient Israel, the anchor was the exodus—God delivering them from slavery with power and mercy. The prophets kept calling the people back to that moment: Don’t forget who you are. Don’t forget who he is.

For Christians, the anchor is the cross. That’s where Jesus bore our sin and gave us new life. And like Israel, we need to keep returning to that place of rescue—not to dwell in the past, but to live with gratitude and confidence in the present.

Remembering God’s faithfulness is a habit, not a feeling. It’s something we do deliberately:

• We rehearse his goodness.
• We tell the stories again.
• We reflect on what he’s already done, especially when we’re waiting on what’s next.

Because when we forget, our hearts drift. But when we remember, we’re reoriented—back to grace, back to trust, back to hope.

If you’re someone who follows Jesus, take a moment today to think on his faithfulness. Don’t just rush through your day—recall what he’s done. Let it strengthen your soul.

And if you’re still asking questions or feeling unsure, you’re not alone. Maybe start here: What would it mean if God really had acted in history to rescue and redeem? What if remembering him isn’t about guilt, but about grace?

The truth is—God has acted. And he still is.
Let’s not forget it.

We’ve all been there. A friend says something you know doesn’t align with Scripture—maybe about identity, forgiveness, or a big life decision—and your instinct is to say, “Well… that’s sin.” You’re not trying to be harsh. You just want them to know the truth. But as soon as those words land, the conversation is over.

The truth matters. But how we speak it matters, too.

Author Tim Keller suggests that every culture holds a mix of beliefs—some that align with biblical truth (he calls these “A” beliefs), and others that push against it (“B” beliefs). Instead of launching into a direct confrontation with a B belief, Keller suggests we float it on top of an A belief—something the person already accepts or senses to be true.

Why “float”? Because some truths—like the reality of sin—feel too heavy to carry on their own. But if you place a heavy rock named sin on the raft of something familiar and already trusted, they stay afloat. They can be heard without sinking the whole conversation.

This isn’t about watering down the gospel. It’s about keeping the conversation open long enough for grace to be heard.

We often forget that many people already feel the weight of brokenness. They live with guilt, regret, shame—even if they wouldn’t use those words. They’re aware that something’s off, that we aren’t as whole or good or kind as we wish we were. That’s your raft. You can gently ask, “Where do you think that feeling comes from?” or “What do you think it says about the world—or about us?” That’s the starting place. Not with a declaration, but with a question.

From there, you can begin to float the deeper truth: that the Bible names this brokenness as sin. Not just making mistakes or disappointing ourselves, but a deeper kind of disconnection—from the God who made us and loves us. And that this condition isn’t something we can fix on our own.

And then—only then—you can speak about grace. About how God doesn’t leave us in that brokenness. How Jesus came not to make bad people better, but to bring dead people to life. That grace makes no sense unless we understand the weight of sin. But sin feels unbearable unless we’ve already glimpsed the possibility of grace.

If we lead with accusation, people walk away. But if we lead with shared experience, honest questions, and humble clarity, they just might stay long enough to hear the good news.

So yes, truth matters. But so does tone. And timing. And trust.

Let’s speak boldly—but let’s also speak wisely. Let’s ask God for the courage to name what’s broken, and the gentleness to show where hope begins.

Takeaway:
Next time you feel the urge to declare what’s wrong, pause. Is there something the person already believes or feels that can carry the truth you need to share? Start there—and float the gospel on top.

How do we find freedom from lies and cycles of sin?

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits. (Proverbs 18:21)
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (2 Corinthians 5:17)

In 1968, researchers Rosenthal and Jacobson conducted a study where teachers were led to believe that certain students (randomly chosen) were more gifted than others. Even though there was no actual difference in ability, those students performed better—simply because they were treated differently. There’s something powerful about believing what’s been spoken over you.

But human words are fallible. God’s Word, however, is infallible—and he doesn’t merely “speak potential” over us. God declares truth, and then by the Spirit, God brings it to pass.

Take Gideon. He was hiding in fear when an angel of the Lord appeared and called him a mighty warrior (Judges 6:12). That wasn’t flattery. Gideon didn’t feel brave—and he wasn’t brave. But God wasn’t calling out some hidden strength within him. He was declaring what He would accomplish through Gideon, by His power. That’s how God works. He takes the weak, the fearful, and the broken—and by His grace, He transforms them for His glory.

In the same way, God sees you as you are in Christ. A part of my own story of finding freedom from addiction was learning to believe what God says about me: that I am a new creation, set free, made for good works. As I read the Word and came to trust those promises, I began to speak them out. Not because my words had power, but because God's Word is living and active. I wanted my thoughts and words to line up with what God had already said.

Even now, God is inviting you to come alive to who you already are in Christ.

So how do we walk in that truth?

Read God’s Word: You can’t speak truth if you don’t know it. Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly.

Repent: Ask God to show you the lies you’ve believed, and turn from them. Repentance is part of real freedom.

Pray: Invite the Holy Spirit to help you walk in your identity as a child of God. Being a new creation means God is doing something new in you. He is creating good things by his Spirit. Pray to see yourself as Jesus sees you.

Remember that the old has passed and the new has come. You don’t need to make it true by speaking it. It already is, so take hold of it. Put on the Lord Jesus Christ. Don’t make room for the old ways. Walk in what God has already said is true of you.

But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires. (Romans 13:14)

What Shapes the Start of Your Day?

Have you ever woken up already feeling behind? The weight of unfinished tasks, relational tensions, or the pressure to “do better” can hit before you’ve even had your coffee. It’s in those early moments—foggy-headed and soul-weary—that we often start believing lies: I’m not enough. I have to prove myself today. God must be disappointed in me.

But what if your day didn’t have to begin with guilt or pressure? What if you could start with grace?

In his letter to the Romans, Paul writes: "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1).

That’s a bold, beautiful truth. If you are in Christ, your day begins not in deficit, but in delight. You’re not trying to earn God’s love or prove your worth. You wake up already accepted, already loved, already seen.

Years ago, I shared a simple set of daily reminders in one of my earliest blog posts here at Calvary. I didn’t know then how often I’d come back to them myself. These practices still help anchor me in the gospel—and I hope they do the same for you. ^1.       

1. Begin the day remembering that Christ died for your sins. You are fully accepted by God because of Jesus. Today begins in grace.
2.  Remind yourself that God is at work in you. Every moment, every challenge is used by his Spirit to make you more like Christ.
3.  Ask for the Spirit’s help. Invite him to help you please God—and when you sin, be quick to admit it and turn back to him.
4.  Go about your day with purpose. You’re not alone; you walk with your Father.
5.  Pause when you can. Re-centre your heart in God’s favour and his ongoing work in you.
6.  End your day in grace. Acknowledge your sins, hide in Christ’s sacrifice, and rest in God’s unchanging favour.
7. Thank God for his Spirit’s work. Celebrate his grace that carried you, and trust he will finish what he started.

These rhythms are more than just habits—they’re part of being formed by the gospel each day. At Calvary, we talk about being disciples who are actively growing through Engaging with God’s Word, Evangelising those around us, Establishing our faith, and Equipping one another to serve. These reminders do just that. They help us stay rooted in the truth of the gospel and live it out in everyday life.

So here’s a question for you:
What is forming you today—fear, performance, or the grace of Jesus?

Takeaway:
Tomorrow morning, before your feet hit the floor, take 60 seconds to remind yourself of Romans 8:1. Say it out loud if you need to. Let your first thought be this: “I am in Christ. There is no condemnation. Today begins in grace.”

 You might be surprised how differently the rest of the day unfolds.
 
  ^[1] Taken and adapted from Lauterbach, M. (2012, December 8). Gospel Reminders Anyone Can Do. Retrieved December 17, 2012, from Gospel Shaped Living: http://www.gloryofgodinchrist.com/2012/12/08/gospel-reminders-anyone-can-do/
 

I lead a discipleship group of young adults in our church with Jolene, and my favourite time of our meetings is discussing everyone's questions from the reading. Our group is curious and insightful, and they ask a lot of thoughtful and thought provoking questions of the text we're studying. It's my favourite time because as a group we then get to wrestle with their question and think through what the answer could be. It's fun to flex that muscle and grapple through some tough questions of the text as we are led by the Spirit.

When I was a new believer, at 18, I was always curious about things in the Bible. I didn't have a background of Christian knowledge from Sunday school, so some Christian concepts and truths were foreign to me and I had to ask, and out of those questions I learned a lot. I always try to remember that when I am curious about something now. If I seek out the answers, I have an opportunity to learn, so I need to keep asking. And I encourage our young adults, as well as our youth and kids, to keep a similar attitude; don't shy away from asking, because in asking you have a chance to learn. And the Bible is a wonderful source of knowledge and wisdom.

In James 1:5 James tells us,
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him”

I believe there is a certain amount of relationship building that is going on in that process as well. As we seek out wisdom, what we’re ultimately gaining is a clearer picture of the one who inspired and authored the book, God. And any time we get to learn more about him, we are deepening our relationship with him.

So the next time you are reading your Bible and you come across something that leaves you wondering, ask the question, and then seek the answer. God has graciously given us many avenues to investigate such things. Ultimately we want to start with prayer, asking God to lead us to and through the truth of his word. He may lead us to ask another believer, or perhaps read a book on the topic. Maybe we need to consult a biblical commentary. Whatever the case, ask God for wisdom, and let him lead you to the answers so that you can know him more and grow in your relationship with him.

Mike Sanders

It hits at the weirdest times.

I’ll be driving, or brushing my teeth, or scrolling through photos of people I love—and suddenly, it’s there. That ache. That heavy, aching silence when I think about the ones I care about most… and the fact that they don’t know Jesus.

If you’re a believer, maybe you’ve felt it too—that gut-punch realization that some of your closest friends or family are walking through life completely unaware of the eternal reality waiting on the other side of this one. I feel the deep weight of contemplating the eternal fate of friends and family members who are outside of Christ. This is not an abstract doctrine—it is personal, painful, and urgent.

It’s hard, right? You want to share the truth, but you also don’t want to push them away. You love them deeply, and you’d do anything for them… but when it comes to faith, it gets complicated. Conversations turn awkward. Walls go up. You wonder, Am I saying too much? Am I saying enough?

And if you're not a believer reading this, maybe you've felt the flip side of it. Maybe you've got a friend who gently talks about faith, and you feel a little confused—or even a little judged. But more than likely, what they're trying to express is just this: they care about your eternity. Deeply. It’s not about being “right”—it’s about loving you enough to long for something more for you.

This grief, though… it’s real. And honestly, it’s a kind of grief that doesn’t go away. It drives us to pray, to weep, to hope. It pushes us to keep loving well and speaking with grace. It reminds us that faith isn’t just a Sunday thing—it’s the heartbeat of everything.

But here’s what I hold onto: God saves. Not me. He is merciful. He is sovereign. And He is still drawing people to Himself in ways we can’t always see.

So don’t give up. Don’t stop loving. Don’t stop praying. The story isn’t over.

And neither is theirs.

Candi Thorpe
candi@calvaryburlington.ca

We all have a desire to make a positive impact on the world around us. As people of faith, we often talk about the importance of serving others and sharing God's love. However, it's easy to get stuck in surface-level intentions and fail to take meaningful action. Recently we learned from Exodus about the priests of Israel, and how they were set apart for the work of the Lord. The priests served as mediators to shown the people that sin could be forgiven and relationship could be restored. The result? Joyful worship!

Click here for the message.

Just as the priests in Exodus served as mediators between God and the people, Christians are called to be mediators between God and the world. Through our faith in Jesus Christ, we have direct access to God and are tasked with sharing His love, truth, and salvation with others.

Here are some ways we can bridge the gap between others and God through our actions, words, and love:

1. Embody Christ-like Character: By cultivating the virtues of the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5), we reflect the character of Christ and our transformed lives become a witness that draw others closer to God.
2. Share the Gospel: Proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ is essential in bridging the gap between others and God. We can share our faith through personal testimonies, conversations, and intentional evangelism, inviting others to experience God's love and forgiveness.
3. Practice Authentic Worship: Our genuine worship of God inspires others to draw near to Him. By worshiping in spirit and truth, both individually and corporately, we demonstrate the beauty of a relationship with God and inspire others to seek Him.
4. Serve with Compassion: Just as Jesus selflessly served others, we can show God's love by meeting the practical needs of those around us. Serving the marginalized, showing hospitality, and caring for the vulnerable demonstrate the heart of God and draw people to Him.
5. Speak Words of Life: Our words have the power to build up or tear down. Through encouraging, uplifting, and speaking truth in love, we can bring hope, healing, and restoration to others. Sharing God's Word and wisdom can lead others to a deeper understanding of Him.
6. Extend Forgiveness and Reconciliation: As mediators, we can actively pursue reconciliation and forgiveness in our relationships. By extending grace, seeking reconciliation, and modeling forgiveness, we reflect God's heart and help others experience His love.
7. Practice Prayer: Prayer is a powerful way to bridge the gap between others and God. Interceding for others, praying for their needs, and seeking God's guidance and intervention can create opportunities for divine encounters and transformation.
8. Cultivate Unity and Community: By fostering unity within the body of Christ and cultivating authentic community, we create a space where others can experience the love of God. Genuine relationships, mutual support, and fellowship demonstrate the transformative power of God's presence.
9. Demonstrate Humility and Empathy: Through humility and empathy, we can relate to others with understanding, compassion, and sensitivity. By listening, valuing others' perspectives, and showing genuine concern, we reflect the heart of Christ and draw people closer to Him.
10. Be a Light in the World: Our actions, attitudes, and choices can shine God's light in the midst of darkness. By living according to God's principles, demonstrating integrity, and standing for justice and righteousness, we become beacons of hope and draw others to God's truth.

In conclusion, as followers of Christ, we are called to be mediators between God and the world, just like the priests in Exodus. We have been given the incredible privilege and responsibility to bridge the gap between others and God through our actions, words, and love. By embodying Christ-like character, sharing the gospel, practicing authentic worship, serving with compassion, speaking words of life, extending forgiveness and reconciliation, engaging in prayer, cultivating unity and community, demonstrating humility and empathy, and being a light in the world, we can effectively bridge the gap and impact lives. Let us embrace this calling with passion and intentionality, knowing that our efforts can lead others to experience the forgiveness, restoration, and abundant life found in a relationship with God. Together, let us be mediators who make a lasting difference in the world around us, bringing hope, healing, and transformation wherever we go.
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What comes to mind when you think about prayer? Is it sitting quietly in a church pew while beautiful music floats through the air? Or is it laying face-down on your bed, eyes blurred with tears, fighting back sobs of grief while you try and make sense of what's going on?

While many things might pop into your mind, one thing is for certain: prayer is simply having a conversation with God. Prayer is the how a Christ-follower communicates emotions and desires with God, and how we spend time with God.

Many people have the desire to pray but don't know where to start. We're going to offer you a few ways you can guide your prayers in order to get the most out of your time with God. One of the types of prayers is called the ACTS prayer.

ACTS is a simple acrostic to guide how you pray and what you pray about.  ACTS stands for: Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication.

Adoration: Begin your prayer time with praise, worshipping God for who He is. This part is all about God (not what He has done for you –– we'll get to that in a second). Tell God some of the things you love and appreciate about Him.


Confession: Is there something that is weighing on your heart? Some sin that is making it impossible for you to feel at peace? Tell God about it. The Bible says that if you confess your sins, God is faithful to forgive them all!


Thanksgiving:  Next, tell God what He has done that has filled your heart with joy. This is the part where you praise God for how He has been working.


Supplication: This is a word that basically means asking. When we ask God for what we need, we are requesting that God acts in some way to provide things like healing, provisions, food, shelter, friendship.... there are many things you might ask God for that can both bless you and bring glory to God's Name.


This isn't a script you must follow when you pray. Instead it is a guide for how you might form your prayers when you want to talk to God. Above all else, speak from the heart and know that God is listening to you!

If this has been helpful, leave us a comment and let us know. We'd also be honoured to pray for you if there is something weighing on your heart.

Talk with your child: If you could have someone take care of one thing for you, what would it be? 

• Water your plants?
• Feed your pets?
• Do your chores?
• Go to the dentist for you?

Have some fun: If you were in charge of a fairytale wedding, what would it be like? Where would it take place, and how would it be decorated? Who would you invite, and what songs would play? What kind of cake would they eat?

Read these passages from the Bible: 

• Ruth 4
• Matthew 6:24–36

Talk about it:
Today's story tells the story of Ruth marrying Boaz. Ruth and Naomi were sad when they left their homeland, but now there was something to be happy about! God was going to take care of them and fill them with joy. Matthew reminds us that God takes care of birds and flowers, and that He cares about us far more than those things. He doesn't just give us clothes to wear and food to eat -- he takes care of us forever.

Pray together: Dear God, thank you for showing us that you will always take care of us. Thank you for reminding us through Ruth’s story that you have an “ever after” story for each of us. Help us believe and trust in you because you sent your son, Jesus, to be the ultimate redeemer we needed! Amen.


Learn the memory verse: "The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." Psalm 121:8

CLICK HERE TO LEARN THE VERSE IN ASL

Recap:
Ruth and Naomi were sad when they left their homeland, but now there was something to be happy about! Almost all fairytales end with "happily ever after", but today's story reminds us that we truly can be filled with lasting joy because God always takes care of us. 

This month we are in a series called Ever After. Fairytales are fun and entertaining, but we are going to look at the true story of Ruth to see how God truly writes the best stories for us! Today's lesson teaches that God gives us boldness!

Talk with your child: Tell your child about something you were afraid of when you were a child, but that you are no longer fearful of. Talk with them about something(s) that scare your child and the strategies they use so they don't get too freaked out. (ie sleeping with the door open or a light on if afraid of the dark; holding your hand if they're afraid of crossing the street or using an escalator alone). Tell your child that we are all afraid of different things and we all react to them in different ways There is no right way to be brave but God promises to be with us through scary situations.

Have some fun: Play "1-2-3". Using the list below, rate each item according to how scary it would be for you. 1=not scary; 2= kinda scary but it's doable; 3=NOPE not doing it.

• Riding a roller coaster
• Catching a lizard in a cup
• Jumping into a swimming pool
• Giving a speech
• Singing on a stage
• Kissing a worm
• Parachuting from an airplane
• Meeting your favourite actor
• Being a circus acrobat

Read these passages from the Bible: 

• Ruth 3
• Psalm 42

Talk about it: 
What did Naomi tell Ruth to do? Why? In what ways was Ruth bold in this story? When you read Psalm 42, the writer seems to feel everything from hopelessness to fear. These are normal emotions that even Jesus felt before He went to the cross.

Pray together: Dear Jesus, thank you for helping Ruth to be brave so that she could be bold and ask Boaz for help Would you give us boldness when we feel afraid or we need to try something new? Thank you for the promise that you are always with us and will never leave us. Amen.

Learn the memory verse: "The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." Psalm 121:8

CLICK HERE TO LEARN THE VERSE IN ASL 

Recap:
Ruth and Naomi were facing some difficult times, and Ruth had to be both brave and bold. Whatever we are facing will not be anywhere near as hard as what Jesus went through on the cross, but we can be bold just the same because God gives us boldness.

Sometimes we don’t know what to pray.  Here is short guide you can use as you sit down in focused prayer.

1. Pray for God to make himself known to you and to those close to you.
God, you have revealed yourself to us in many ways: through giving us your Word, in sending Jesus Christ into the world, and by giving us the promised Holy Spirit to dwell with us. There are times when I feel distant from you and my prayers fall flat. I ask that you would renew my joy by revealing yourself to me afresh, and I pray that you would do the same for the ones I love. I know I am never truly alone, so renew my sense of your presence that I may dwell with you in peace.

2. Pray for those in your sphere of influence or circle of friends.
Heavenly Father, you know that my friends and co-workers carry lots of burdens and are often challenged by what life throws at them. I pray that you would give them wisdom, courage and strength to face each day. I pray for discernment for difficult decisions they must make, and that you would guide them every step of the way. May they know you more deeply and understand your will. For those who have not yet trusted Christ, I pray that you would use me in some small way to point them to forgiveness and everlasting life found in Jesus.

3. Pray that God would meet your needs.
God I thank you that you have said that you will lovingly and graciously supply all of our needs in Christ Jesus. I know this means that I will be spiritually nourished each day as I dwell with Christ and remain in His presence. I also know that you will give me everything I need because you are a kind and benevolent Father. I have some eminent needs now, Lord, and they are...[list them and be specific]. God, I know that sometimes I get 'need' and 'want' confused. So if these are not true needs I pray you would take the desire for them from me.  I ask only that you give me what I need each day so that I may find my sufficiency in You alone. And I pray I trust you while I wait.

4. Pray for God to purify your heart, soul, and mind.
Jesus there are a lot of things that are competing for my attention, and not all of them are healthy. I confess that there are times when my heart, soul, and mind are corrupted by what my eyes see and my greed wants. Purify me and renew a right attitude in me. I pray that I hunger for that which is noble,  right,  pure,  lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy.

And here's your bonus one...

Pray for protection and strength for your day today. When you are feeling weary, ask God to fill you afresh.
God, I need your protection every day. My physical life is fragile, and each breath I breathe is a gift from you. I pray you sustain my life and the life of my loved ones, not for my own glory but for yours.I don't just want you to protect my life so I can live a long life and do what I want... I truly want to live a long life so I can continue to be part of the mission to make disciples. If a long life isn't your will, then I pray that you would give me strength each day to accomplish each task you have set out for me, and that I would find joy in serving you, my God and King.

If this has been helpful, leave us a comment and let us know. We'd also be honoured to pray for you if there is something weighing on your heart. 

Finding words for prayer while navigating loss or incomprehensible situations may seem impossible. If you are struggling to put words to your pain, or you are struggling to know the right thing to say in the face of your sorrow, we invite you to turn to Scripture and to prayerfully consider how one or more of these short prayers might be helpful to you.

Voice Your Grief (Based on Psalm 31:9; Psalm 56:8)
Lord, please have mercy on me for I am heartbroken and in distress. Tears blur my vision, and I feel like my body and soul are withering away to nothing. I come to you and don't even know what to ask, but I bring my grief and my sorrow to you because you keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle and none of my tears have gone unnoticed by you. Whenever I pray to you, you always listen so please hear my prayer today. Amen.

Ask for Comfort (Based on Matthew 5:4; 6:13)
God, I'm mourning and I am asking that you send me your comfort. Wrap your arms around me and hold me close so that I can know your presence. Use me as a vessel to bring your comfort to those around me. These are difficult times so I'd ask that you would protect us from words spoken or actions done in the spur of the moment that may later cause us regret. Hold us in the palm of your hand and guard us in your peace. Amen.

Ask for Healing (Based on Psalm 147:3)
Father God, come to my aid – and please come quickly! Replace the anguish I now feel with your peace. I come before you today and ask that you heal my broken heart and bind up my wounds. Your promises have never failed, and you have always shown yourself to be a compassionate and merciful God. Show me your mercy today. Amen.

Ask for Peace (Based on John 14:1, 27; Philippians 4:7)
Jesus, you told your followers, "Do not let your hearts be troubled...Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you." I need your promised peace, God – that peace that transcends all understanding. Give me peace and a quiet mind when I lay down to sleep so that I can fully rest in You. Guard my heart and my mind each day, keeping my anxious thoughts from derailing my commitment to trust in you. Amen

Ask for Hope (Based on Psalm 27:13; 34:18; 1 Thessalonians 4:13)
Lord, your Word says you are close to the brokenhearted and that you rescue those whose spirits are crushed. I pray you will be near to me and rescue me. Help me to grieve like one who intimately knows your goodness and relentlessly holds onto hope in your plans even though I do not know them. Help me believe that things will get better and live in expectation that I will see your goodness on display. Amen.

If you'd like someone to pray for you, or you just want to talk, please reach out. We're here to help.

Goal: Hope To You
Theme: Minister
Difficulty: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (6/10)

Congrats! You've made it to the end of the Easter Experience. We are so excited to celebrate Easter with you today.

You can use today to get caught up on any days you might have missed. Pick one or two action steps that you can do today and ask God to use those small steps in big ways.

It's also not too late to reach out to those you've invited. Check in to answer any questions they might have even if they can't come to the service with you.

God is at work! Can't wait to worship Him with you.

Jump on social media and create a quick post, answering one of these questions:

• Where would you be without God in your life?
• What has Jesus done in your life?
• Who is someone at Calvary who has made an impact in your life?
• Why do you love your church?
• Why are you so excited to celebrate Easter this year?

Your post doesn’t need to be long or fancy, just a quick post to express your joy and gratitude for being in a community of believers like Calvary.

Goal: Hope in Waiting
Theme: Minister
Difficulty: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (10/10)

The agony of waiting. The disciples were told that their friend and Saviour who had died would rise again on the third day according to Scripture, yet there is still a vague feeling of being unsettled and alone.

Just because they knew the truth doesn't mean it was easy for them to wait - the disciples were real people with real emotions.

Just because we know the truth of God doesn't mean we don't struggle.

Talk to God today about your fears. Be honest about your doubts and your frustration in the times of waiting. Talk to God about the times you have felt hopeless and helpless.

The One who carried the sin of the world is strong enough to bear your pain today.

Goal: Hope To You
Theme: Devotion
Difficulty: ⭐️ (1/10)

I like to think that the disciples  were filled with hope until the last moment. Any second now, Jesus would come down from the cross and his body would be healed while the world bowed at his feet. But that was not the case.

Most of Jesus' closest friends abandoned him in his time of despair. Yet only through this sacrifice could we know forgiveness and peace.
 

Goal: Hope Through You
Theme: Generosity
Difficulty: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐️⭐️⭐️ (9/10)

Today has one of the highest difficulty ratings through the 21 days. Why? Because we’re talking about generosity. But don’t quit...keep reading and see why this day may be the most crucial day of all in the 21 days.

First, have you noticed how generosity is right in the middle of the Easter story? Look at the most famous passage in all of the Bible, John 3:16:

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Notice how generosity is embedded in the character of God and is central to the Easter message. Now, here’s a huge “aha!” moment for you in this adventure. Generosity is central to the Easter story, but is also unlocks how deeply we receive the message. Look at what Jesus says in Luke 6:38:

Give and it will be given to you…for with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.

So let me ask you a question…Do you need more hope in your life?

If so, the best thing you can do is receive God’s free gift of grace. Then the next step? Start sharing hope generously with others. Sometimes the best way to experience hope is to bring hope to others. If you’ve ever been on a mission trip then you know how much of a blessing being a blessing can be.

So here’s your chance to put this into action. How can you bring hope with your generosity this Easter season? Here are four starter ideas:

• Make a financial donation to a non-profit making an impact in our community.
• Set up a recurring donation to the church to support our outreach and missions.
• Bless a family in need - maybe a single mom, widow, or someone who lost their job.
• Take those items you were about to sell on Facebook Marketplace and bless another family with them.

As you give hope, remember God has a way of bringing more hope to your heart.

Goal: Hope Through You
Theme: Social
Difficulty: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐️ (7/10)


Have you taken a moment yet this year to reflect on the importance of Easter and the impact the message of Easter has on your life? It’s too amazing to keep to yourself, right?

Today's challenge is all about inviting others to experience the hope of Easter in their life. So let's go ahead and share!

Step 1 - Post an Easter invite to your friends on social media. When you create your post answer these two questions: Why are you so excited to celebrate Easter? How could someone join you in celebrating with your church?

Step 2 - Remember the three people we've been praying for? Shoot them a text invite. Here are some example scripts to get you started. Remember, they might say no, and that’s okay. “No” now doesn’t mean “no” forever. Plus, if we don’t ask at all, it's for sure a “no.” Step out in faith, and trust the Lord will guide your words.

Here's how that text might go;


Keep it upbeat and relational. Don’t be afraid of a “no.” Again, this might plant a seed that will grow later. You got this!

Goal: Hope Through You
Theme: Social
Difficulty: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (6/10)


Have you ever watched a movie, then posted about it on Facebook? Or tried a new Amazon product and shared your experience? Have you posted a quick story of something that happened throughout your day?

Pretty simple, right? There’s a reason we call it social media - we use social media as a tool to connect with others and share our stories.

Today’s challenge: apply this same concept to sharing your faith story. Make a post about when you decided to follow Jesus and how that decision impacted your life (only 1-2 sentences).

I know that sharing your faith story on social media can sound intimidating. But here are 3 things to remember:

You tell stories every day. Every time you tell a friend “the craziest thing happened the other day” or “let me tell you what happened at the grocery store,” that’s storytelling. You’re already a pro!
It doesn’t have to be polished. In fact, it shouldn’t be polished. It should be your words, telling your story.
There’s no right or wrong way to do this - because there’s not a cookie-cutter approach to telling your story! Remember, it’s the story of how God started working in your life. You’re the best one to tell this story because you were the one who witnessed it firsthand!

So jump on social media and make a short post about when you decided to follow Jesus and how it impacted your life.

Not on social media? Ask God to give you an opportunity to share your story in conversation today, and when the opportunity comes, take it!

Bonus Step
Difficulty: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (8/10)

Share your faith story over a selfie video. This video should be about 45-90 seconds long. You might think that’s too short, but the goal isn’t to share every detail, but just the most important ones. You want to be sure to include where you were in life when you came to faith in Jesus. Then share what made you want to make that decision. Were you invited to church? Were you in tough life circumstances and then turned to God? Were you a child or teen when you came to Christ? Then share where you are now, and why you love living for God and going to church.

Goal: Hope Through You
Theme: Social
Difficulty: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/10)


People talk a lot about avoiding “mindless” scrolling. Today’s challenge (should you choose to accept it!) is to scroll “mindfully”. (This action step is perfect for a Monday!) Open your favorite social media app and start scrolling. As you scroll, take time to:

• Comment encouraging words
• Compliment people’s vacation photos
• Let people know “I’ve missed you! How have you been?”
• Tell people how adorable their pet photos are

And more! Remember anytime you are on social today your only goal is to encourage others. Scroll mindfully and use your scrolling to engage and bring encouragement!

P. S. Not on social media? Do this in everyday life! When you pass someone in the grocery store, compliment their hair or shoes. Co-worker gives you a call? Let them know why you appreciate them. A friend walks by with a dog? Greet the dog and ask your friend how the week’s been!  Remember that someone recently returned from a vacation and text them to ask how it went or to let them know that you’ve missed seeing them!  The possibilities are endless.

Goal: Hope To You
Theme: Devotion
Difficulty: ⭐️ (1/10)


Easter is a story of hope - Hope in the promise that we have eternal life through Jesus!

If you’ve been in church for any length of time, you’re probably nodding your head. But when’s the last time you stopped to think about the significance of that?

Today, I’d like to share with you a passage and a spoken word video that both point to the beauty of the Gospel. Read John 1:1-18,  then watch this video from Seacoast Church.

Praying that you rest in the hope of Jesus today. Can't wait to worship together today at Calvary!

P. S. If you want to share the hope of Jesus with others today, consider heading outside, and taking a picture of something that’s a “promise”- a bud, thawing snow, or a newly-planted tree. Then, share from your heart the hope that Jesus has been bringing you in this season.