The biggest problems in churches are relational problems. In short, love grows cold. It’s why people judge fellow church members harshly and finally say, I’m not feeling “connected” to you, and you are not enough for me, and I’m tired of you, and I’ve grown beyond you. But Jesus is our teacher on what love looks like. Our text for Sunday morning opens with these words, “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” In John 15:12-27, Jesus instructs His disciples regarding the kind of relationships God has given and how to navigate them. He addresses our position and connection with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, using the graphic imagery of the vine, the vinedresser and our relationship with the unfruitful branches which are taken away. He explains our relationship with our Father in prayer, and our relationships with one another in love. Over and over again, John reminds His disciples of the central nature of obedience, abiding in the Word of God and love – all of which are inextricably connected.

The afternoon teaching will focus on matters of family life.

Prayer will be held at the Burkes

Calendar announcement: Wednesday Prayer Night, Jan 1, will be held at the church and we will have a time of sharing, prayer and snacks.