July 5, 2020

 We are told to take our worries and cares to God in prayer. We are told that God always answers our prayers. But what happens when God says "NO" to our prayers? 

God spoke to Moses from a burning bush. He spoke to Paul as he traveled along the road to Damascus. He spoke with Joan of Arc and the prophet Samuel. But does God still speak to us today? And does God still answer prayers today? 

 It is all well and good to say that we should pray, but just how do we go about it? And just what should we pray? Fortunately, Jesus, himself, gives us the answer. 

Does praying really accomplish anything? Can it make a difference in a world torn apart by violence and selfishness? Is prayer really important? Rev. Williams embarks on a 4 week study of prayer by asking "What Happens When We Pray?"

The disciples were waiting and hoping, and then it happened. The Holy Spirit had arrived. And holy cow, what a difference that made. 

 Jesus promised the coming of the Holy Spirit, but when would it arrive? And what were the disciples to do while they waited? Drawing on the story in the Book of Acts, Rev. Williams explores lessons in waiting from the early church.

 Pentecost took the world by storm, but it should not have been a surprise. Jesus had promised its coming while they were enjoying the Last Supper. He also promised that we would do amazing things because of it. 

 We call Jesus the "Lord of Love," but why? One look at the scars he cartries answers that question. Behold his hands, feet, and side. Behold a love that never dies. 

 There are so many things that seperate and divide us--race, politics, religion, socio-economic status, and nobody seems to be able to bridge the gap. Drawing on the book of Ephesians (2:11-22), Rev. Williams helps us see that there is one, and only one, who can bridge the gap; the Lord of Peace.

 There are many people holding the title of "Lord" in this world, but only one can claim the title of Lord of Life, and we are blessed because of it. 

Jesus is celebrated as risen Lord, eternal Savior, and much more. Just what role does he play in our life and why is it important? Using the hymn, "Crown Him with Many Crowns" as our guide, Rev. Williams embarks on a journey to explore just who this matchless King is, and why he matters so much.

It was the shortest sermon ever preached and it changed the world. In a world that is scared and isolated, we need to hear this sermon again.

 The cries of the crowd then are the same as our cries today. "Hosanna, Hosanna" "Save us Lord. Save us now." 

 Jesus said we were to love others as He loved us, but how can we do that when often we can't even get along? How do we love someone we don't like? And just what is love, anyway? The answer is easier (and tougher) than you think. 

The current health crisis has left us all feeling like we are walking through a deep, dark valley. Can an ancient Psalm help us find our way through the fear? You bet it can.