Monday, July 28, 2025

Jesus and Galactus - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.


In this powerful message, we're invited to explore the cosmic significance of Christ as revealed in Colossians 1:15-28. The scripture paints a breathtaking picture of Jesus as the 'image of the invisible God' and the 'firstborn over all creation.' This isn't just abstract theology, it's a profound truth that can anchor us when our world feels like it's falling apart. Just as the Colossian church faced persecution and uncertainty, we too encounter moments when everything we thought was stable suddenly vanishes. But the message reminds us that Christ, who was there at the beginning of creation, holds all things together. He's not just willing to help us in our struggles, but supremely qualified to do so. This cosmic Christ is also intimately concerned with our daily lives, offering reconciliation and hope. As we face our own 'Galactus' moments, those overwhelming forces that threaten to devour our world, we're encouraged to turn to the One who has ultimate power over all creation.

Monday, July 21, 2025

Take Me to the River - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.


In this powerful exploration of 2 Kings 5:1-14, we delve into the story of Naaman's healing from leprosy. This narrative teaches us that help can come from unexpected places, reminding us to remain open to God's guidance through unlikely sources. We're challenged to consider how often we might overlook divine assistance simply because it doesn't fit our preconceptions. The sermon emphasizes that God doesn't abandon us in times of tragedy, offering hope and comfort to those facing difficult circumstances. Perhaps most strikingly, we're encouraged to embrace simple, consistent actions in our faith journey. Just as Naaman was instructed to wash in the Jordan seven times, we too might find transformation through seemingly mundane acts of obedience and faith. This message invites us to reflect on where we might be overlooking God's simple solutions in our own lives, urging us to trust in His methods, even when they seem too ordinary to be effective.

Monday, July 7, 2025

Should I Stay or Should I Go? - Pastor Johnnie Simpson Jr.


In our reflection on 1 Kings 19, we delve into the story of Elijah and Elisha, exploring the profound spiritual lessons that resonate with our faith journey today. This passage, rich in commissioning, correction, and selection, invites us to consider the voice of God in our own lives. Elijah, feeling isolated and overwhelmed, learns he is not alone—a reminder that God has insightful plans and support for us, often unseen. Through Elijah's commissioning to anoint new leaders and a successor, we recognize God's call for renewal and the significance of mentorship and leadership succession. Elisha's selection and decision to follow Elijah after receiving his cloak symbolize total commitment to God's calling, urging us to ask ourselves, ‘Should I stay or should I go?’ It's a decision requiring discernment and faith, prompting us to evaluate our willingness to embrace God's unpredictably leading paths. Like Elisha, we may find ourselves leaving comfort zones or sacrificing for a higher calling, trusting that God equips us for these journeys.