August 2025 sermon series: Faith & Journey
August 31: Part 5: We are Called to Share
2 Corinthians 5: 11-21

Jacob Perez, preaching

In 2 Corinthians 5, the Apostle Paul reminds us that in Christ we have been made new creations. The old ways of division, self-interest, and fear have passed away, and something entirely new has begun. This transformation is not just a personal blessing; it is also a calling.

God has reconciled us to God's self through Christ and has given us the ministry of reconciliation. That means we are not only recipients of grace, we are also its messengers.

This Sunday, we will explore what it means to be "ambassadors for Christ" in a world that is often fractured and distrustful. Evangelism, in the way of Jesus, is not about winning arguments or imposing beliefs. It is about embodying the good news through lives of love, justice, and welcome. We will reflect on how sharing our faith is less about delivering a sales pitch and more about inviting others into a relationship with God, with community, and with hope itself.

The message of reconciliation is desperately needed in our neighborhoods, workplaces, and families. We carry it not because we are perfect, but because we have experienced God's reconciling love firsthand. Together, we will consider practical and compassionate ways to live out this calling so that others can see, hear, and feel the presence of Christ through us.

Join us for our final week of our series, "Faith & Journey," as we discover how God can use our everyday lives, words, and actions to extend the invitation: "Come and see what love has done.”

The way we worship is the way we live.

Worship is the work of the people, bringing together our fullest selves in a communal act of love and gratitude.  Each voice is important; each person is valued as the Spirit draws out our authentic gifts and talents, shared in the ever-widening circle of God’s people.  We hope you’ll join us this week as we gather to worship the God of extravagant welcome.