Jason Mull

There are some moments that just make a pastor’s heart swell with gratitude—and Sunday was one of them. Watching our Rocky Valley kids and adults side-by-side, working hard to bring the parade float to life, reminded me once again what it looks like when the church moves. From painting and building, to decorating, organizing, and then walking the route with bright smiles and joyful hearts—every piece of it was a holy labor. And what a response from our community! The smiles, the waves, the...

Isaiah opens this powerful prophecy with a word that changes everything: “Nevertheless.” “Nevertheless the gloom will not be upon her who is distressed…” (Isaiah 9:1). God acknowledges the darkness Israel was walking through, but He also declares that darkness would not have the final word. “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, upon them a light has shined”  (v. 2). What a promise to a weary people—light is coming even...

There’s a noticeable shift every year. The moment Thanksgiving leftovers are packed away, the noise begins to rise. Ads grow louder. Shopping carts grow fuller. Black Friday turns into Cyber Monday, which turns into weeks of scrolling, clicking, comparing, and buying. Our culture tells us that this season is all about anticipation —but most of what we are told to anticipate can be boxed, wrapped, and returned. Yet the very heart of this season was never about the anticipation of gifts. It was...