Clickable Time Stamps
03:40 Family Sharing and Song Service – Zach and Aubree Wilson Family
27:50 Praise Reports – Elder Zach Wilson
39:19 Welcome and Call to Worship – Elder Larry Cain
53:30 Special Music – “Draw Me Nearer” – Margaret Fountain
68:58 Special Music – “Grace Alone” – Margaret Fountain
72:54 Sermon – “Answer The Call” – Priest Chris Campbell

Summary

In a heartfelt reflection, Priest Chris Campbell expresses gratitude for the support and prayers shared during challenging times, particularly for a member of the congregation named Pam. Chris delves into personal fears, particularly the fear of public speaking and self-image, which he relates to his recent involvement in a musical called “Corianton.” The sermon message shifts to a biblical discussion centered around Matthew 14, where Jesus walks on water amidst a storm, drawing parallels to personal storms in life. Chris emphasizes that faith can help individuals face their fears and embrace life’s challenges, asserting that God calls ordinary people to extraordinary experiences. The message serves as a reminder that, despite life’s tempests, trusting in Jesus leads to growth, resilience, and profound spiritual experiences.

Highlights

1. A Spirit of Love: The atmosphere is filled with love and support, highlighting the importance of community.
2. Facing Fears: Chris shares their personal struggle with self-image and public speaking, relating it to their upcoming role in a musical.
3. Biblical Reflection: The message transitions into a biblical narrative about Jesus walking on water, which serves as a metaphor for facing life’s storms.
4. Call to Action: Emphasizes that God calls individuals to step out of their comfort zones, even amidst fear.
5. Faith and Trials: Chris discusses how trials and fears can lead to personal growth and deeper faith.
6. The Power of Trust: Trusting in God’s plan is portrayed as essential for overcoming life’s challenges.
7. Community Support: The importance of prayers and support from others is underscored as a source of strength.

Key Insights

1. The Nature of Fear: Fear often stems from self-doubt and the perception of how others view us. Public speaking triggers intense anxiety for many, but recognizing this fear is the first step toward overcoming it. Chris’s experience illustrates that confronting personal fears can lead to unexpected opportunities, such as the lead role in the musical.
2. God’s Call: The message emphasizes that God calls each person to fulfill unique purposes, often requiring them to step outside their comfort zones. The act of getting into the boat symbolizes the willingness to follow God’s direction, despite the potential for storms ahead.
3. Storms as Growth Opportunities: Chris draws on the biblical story as a metaphor for life’s challenges, suggesting that storms are not merely obstacles but opportunities for growth. This perspective encourages individuals to view trials as necessary experiences that can lead to spiritual maturity.
4. Faith in Action: The act of Peter walking on water exemplifies the power of faith in action. It illustrates that, while humans may not be capable of extraordinary feats alone, faith in God empowers them to achieve the seemingly impossible. This insight reinforces the idea that believers can tap into divine strength in their lives.
5. Understanding Loss: Chris touches on the profound pain of personal loss, questioning the necessity of suffering in life. This reflection encourages listeners to grapple with their own experiences of grief, allowing space for healing while recognizing that God can work through pain for greater purposes.
6. Endurance Through Trials: The biblical references highlight the theme of endurance. The trials of faith are described as precious, contributing to a person’s character and spiritual resilience. Chris’s message is that enduring hardships can lead to a fulfilled and purposeful life.
7. Trusting God’s Plan: Ultimately, Chris conveys a message of hope, encouraging listeners to trust in God’s plan, even during tumultuous times. This trust fosters a sense of direction and purpose, guiding individuals through life’s uncertainties and challenges.

Conclusion

Chris’s reflections intertwine personal experiences with biblical narratives, creating a profound exploration of fear, faith, and the human experience. By sharing his journey, Chris encourages others to embrace their challenges and trust in God’s calling, reminding them that even in the midst of life’s storms, there is hope for growth and transformation. This heartfelt message serves as an inspiration for anyone grappling with their own fears or facing difficult circumstances, urging them to step out in faith and trust the divine plan that unfolds in their lives.