This week we will start a new series called “The Light Breaks In” that will guide us through advent. In John 1 Jesus is described as the light that breaks into the darkness, that pushes back the darkness. Each week in this series we are going to look at places in our lives and scripture where Jesus breaks in, and pushes back darkness in unexpected ways, times and places.
Jesus calls His followers to live differently — like salt that preserves and light that shines. As citizens of God’s kingdom, we are invited to influence the world around us while staying rooted in God’s truth. Jesus names what it means to surprise the world with grace, purpose, and faithfulness.
Jesus opens the Sermon on the Mount with a surprising picture of who is truly blessed. In a world chasing power, success, and comfort, Jesus reminds those who are on the margins and struggling that God is still at work in their lives. Together, we’ll discover how God’s kingdom reshapes our expectations of the good life.
Even after profound encounters with God, waiting can expose impatience, fear, and misplaced trust. The golden calf reminds us that in-between seasons will always form us toward either deeper faith or false substitutes for control and certainty.