Wednesday, May 28, 2025

New City Planning - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.


In this powerful exploration of Revelation 21:1-6, we're invited to contemplate the profound concept of a 'new city' - both in our earthly lives and in God's eternal plan. The scripture paints a vivid picture of a new heaven and earth, where God dwells among His people, wiping away every tear and ending all suffering. This vision isn't just about the future; it's a call for us to be 'new city planners' in our present lives. Just as we struggle with the complexities of urban development, balancing desires for amenities against the realities of cost and change, we're challenged to build our spiritual lives with similar thoughtfulness. The message reminds us that everything good often lies on the other side of difficulty, urging us to persevere in our faith journey. It's a poignant reminder that while we may face trials now, God promises a future where all things are made new, and His presence is fully realized among us.

Monday, May 19, 2025

A Mother's Comfort - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.


In this powerful message, we're reminded of God's comforting presence, even in our darkest moments. Drawing from Isaiah 66:12-13, we explore the beautiful imagery of God as a mother comforting her child. This unexpected portrayal challenges our traditional views and expands our understanding of God's nurturing nature. The sermon emphasizes three key aspects of divine comfort: peace in the midst of chaos, personal solace, and communal support. Just as a mother's assurance brings instant relief, God's promise of peace can transform our perspective, even when our circumstances haven't changed. We're encouraged to seek God's comfort not just in good times, but especially when facing ruins in our lives, trusting that He is our provider, healer, and source of peace.

Monday, May 12, 2025

Empty Net Syndrome - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.


In this powerful exploration of John 21:1-19, we're reminded of the transformative power of faith and perseverance. The story of Jesus' appearance by the Sea of Tiberias teaches us about dealing with 'empty net syndrome' - those times when our efforts seem fruitless. Just as the disciples fished all night without success, we too face moments of apparent failure. However, the message encourages us to embrace the 'nevertheless' mindset, to keep trying even when things seem hopeless. Jesus' instruction to cast the net on the right side of the boat symbolizes the importance of being open to new approaches in our spiritual lives. This narrative beautifully illustrates how Christ meets us in our everyday struggles, offering guidance and abundance when we least expect it. The story culminates in a poignant moment of restoration between Jesus and Peter, reminding us that no matter our past mistakes, God offers us opportunities for reconciliation and renewed purpose. This message challenges us to reflect on where we might need to cast our nets differently in our own lives, and to trust in God's ability to provide abundance even in the face of apparent scarcity.

Monday, May 5, 2025

What Storms Can Show Us - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.


In this powerful message, we explore the transformative power of storms in our spiritual lives. Drawing from Acts 5:27-32, we see how the early apostles faced persecution yet remained steadfast in their faith. Their unwavering commitment to obey God rather than human authority serves as a profound example for us today. The sermon beautifully illustrates how our struggles and trials can lead to spiritual growth, much like how studying ancient storms helps predict future weather patterns. We're reminded that in life's storms, we have the opportunity to gain wisdom, strength, and a deeper appreciation for God's grace. This message challenges us to stand firm in our faith, even when faced with opposition, and to trust in the power of Jesus' name to overcome any obstacle.