are as a people. What makes America great? What is the true nature and character of our country? There are many different views, but most are united in this: something is not quite right with us. We are not now our best selves. Some say that we need to go back to a time when we were great. Others say we need to keep moving, growing, and going forward to become a better version of ourselves.

NT Wright uses this image. When you visit a friend who has been ill or unwell for a long time, you go away saying, “They are just a shadow of their former self.” The Bible, however, says that we are just a shadow of our future selves.

God has a plan for you and for us altogether. Something better. Something more. Our Christian hope isn’t that we will go backward but forward. This is the new life in Christ that Paul talks about.

If anyone is in Christ, they are a new creation. Behold, the old is passing away. The new person is emerging.—1 Corinthians 5:17

So, put away all falsehood. Speak the truth with your neighbor. Be connected and united with one another. Clothe yourself with a new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.—Ephesians 2:25 and 24

The way forward in these difficult times isn’t nostalgia but hope, hope for a new, promised, and better future. You were meant for something more. More compassion. More mercy. More grace. More patience. More forgiveness. More justice. More love. The world needs more of these things. The world, and our country, need more and better from all of us.

The only way forward in these troubling times is the transformation of our character. Character matters! So, join me in worship to learn how your intentions and daily discipline can change your life and change the world.

This Eastertide, let Jesus make a difference in your life so that you can make a difference in the world. I’ll see you in church AND on the streets. Remember, you were made to shine!

 Pastor Jim

Character Matters: A Study in Biblical Virtues and Practices

If you’ve ever thought that you were meant for something more, that there’s a better version of your life that you’d like to live, then the Bible was written for you. In it you’ll find God’s vision and values for a beautiful, whole, and purposeful life. Join Pastor Jim during the season of Eastertide to learn the habits of the heart and the practices of everyday life that will make you more the person you’ve always wanted to be. Learn to follow Jesus to the best version of you. Character matters!

April 27, 2025
Earth Day
Remember Your Reflection!
Genesis 1:26-28
Psalm 8:1, 3-9

May 4, 2025
The Transformation of Character
Mark 10:17-31

May 11, 2025
Mother’s Day
Be Compassionate
Mark 6:30-44

May 18, 2025
Finding Delight: Be Merciful and Gracious
Luke 6:27-36

May 25, 2025
Memorial Day Weekend
The Key to Unity—Be Slow to Anger (or Count to 5)
Romans 2:1-10
Matthew 5:21-26