April 29, 2026 Midweek News
Our lives are flooded with messages telling us how to live the good life, from the latest social media blueprints to updated yearly cycles of products that nudge us to buy more. As we talked about Jesus the gate and the good shepherd last Sunday, we reflected on how this push from our culture acts like thieves and bandits that overshadow the deeper moral conversations our hearts need to discern.
Jesus reminds us how he calls us by name and leads us forward, providing a voice we can actually trust. John Wesley encouraged us to tune our ears to this voice by practicing works of piety—like prayer and scripture—and works of mercy—like doing good to those in need and avoiding harm.
This week our church is showing up at Habitat for Humanity, and the Canyon Community Dinner. Some are gathering at Flathead Camp next week to help clean up for the summer season. Others of you attended the Valley Neighbors dinner last week or give your time to the food bank and other ministries on a regular basis. These disciplines help us live the life Jesus promised, one that is more abundant than anything this world could offer.
Join me in this prayer this week: Shepherd of our souls, thank you for knowing our names and leading us even when we feel lost or afraid. Help us to trust your lead instead of the cycle of material things. Guide our feet toward works of mercy and our hearts toward works of piety, so that we may grow in your love and truly serve our neighbors in Amen.
Easter Blessings,
Pastor Jared