The Names of God, Part 4: The Sound of Silence: When Faith Gets it Wrong.
We’ve always been told that Abraham’s silent obedience on the mountain was the ultimate act of faith. But what if his silence was actually the problem? This Sunday, we’re digging into one of the Bible’s most disturbing stories to ask: Does God want our blind submission, or does God want our holy protest? Join us as we consider the name Jehovah Jireh, not just as the God who provides a sacrifice, but as the God who provides a rescue even when our own religious understanding leads us astray. Come see why the greatest provision on the mountain wasn’t just a ram, but a God who refuses to let our misunderstandings have the final word.
This Sunday we continue in our “Names of God” sermon series by looking at a name that Jesus gives to the Holy Spirit: The Advocate. We will look at how Jesus describes the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the lives of those who follow him. We will also look at the role of the Holy Spirit in the ministry of Jesus and the early church. As we look into the scriptures we can find encouragement in knowing that the Holy Spirit is with us and guiding us into truth
The story of Hagar is filled is a difficult read, filled with dark undertones of slavery, misuse, oppression and desperation. This Sunday we continue our series on the names of God, by looking at this story of Hagar, as she becomes the only person in the Old Testament to assign a name to God, El Roi, “The God who sees me.” Together we will explore the rich meaning of this naming in the context of Hagar’s life and experiences. Why was this name so important and so powerful to Hagar? What does the wider story tell us about our relationships to others? And how does this show God’s character today?
Join us this coming Sunday for our Service and Learning Recap and Reflection gathering. Rather than dividing up around the region like we normally do on Service and Learning weekends, we’ll all be together at 22 Willow. We’ll gather in the Sanctuary for some singing together, updates from the Peace in Action Team, and some videos to both look back at our serving and learning together, and to look forward to this coming year! The children will remain in the Sanctuary, and the service will be crafted with them in mind. After the service, we’ll head right to the gym for our youth pancake breakfast fundraiser. We’re looking forward to a meaningful and inspiring morning together!
Join us for our monthly Service and Learning gatherings. Some activities require registration, and some are drop-in. Please read below for all the details.
Community Ministry, a group of people from some local churches, come together weekly to prepare and serve a meal at 22 Willow for those seeking a hot meal and a place to find community. We have the opportunity to join them on the 2nd Thursday of the month to eat with them, build relationships and support the work of creating community.
No Registration Required
Sunday, December 14, 2025:
Learning in Sanctuaryat 22 Willow (9AM)
No registration Required.
Cooking & Baking at 22 Willow for A Better Tent City (9AM)
We will prepare food in the kitchen at 22 Willow to be shared with our friends at A Better Tent City.
Christmas Cookie Decorating & School Supply Kit Assembly at 22 Willow
We will divide the group into two, and take turns decorating cookies for our friends at ABTC, and put together school supply kits for school in need in our region.
