ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS November 2, 2025 There is a florist on Louetta Road that has a sign outside that reads: God Bless America Help Wanted I’m pretty sure we are to read those as two separate statements, but since I’ve understood the phrase, “God Bless America” as a sort of prayerful request that recognizes that such blessings emerge from people who live as those who are blessed, it sort
ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS November 1, 2025 According to the Prophet Isaiah, “It will be said: ‘Survey, survey; build a road! Remove barriers from my people’s road’” (57:14). I have never personally built a road, yet my guess is that without the proper knowledge or tools, such a task would be challenging, maybe impossible. There are many roads associated with the journey of faith—the road to Calvary; the streets paved
ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS October 31, 2025 As peculiar as it may seem, I can’t help but feel a slight sadness when Halloween arrives. My spouse is an exceptional decorator, creating a festive atmosphere for various holidays. However, Halloween holds a unique charm for me. Most of the decorations are silly, a few are a bit strange, and for the most part, there is nothing gory. But I really do
ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS October 30, 2025 Last night at youth group, as I was walking out with both youth and some adult sponsors, I shouted, “Thanks everyone!” My smart watch heard what I said, and it responded, “You’re welcome!” I had to laugh, because the youth and adult were all engaged in conversation, and I don’t think any of them heard me. But my watch, that had done absolutely
ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS October 29, 2025 I might be naive or overconfident or totally off my rocker, but I believe Cypress Creek Christian Church has been forming itself for a moment like this. Let me be clear—when I speak of “forming itself,” I am wanting us to acknowledge and celebrate the many accomplishments of those who came before us, including Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilkerson, the founding minister of Cypress
ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS October 28, 2025 The author and speaker, Beth Moore, wrote about what it means to follow Jesus, specifically pointing out an important distinction one should make. She wrote, “Following the commands of Christ is not just about behavior. Behavior modification is not an end in itself in the New Testament. Transformation is about knowing the truth and the truth setting you free.” Most folks would probably
ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS October 27, 2025 For strength and passion and resilience—these three I pray for this day. Holy One, I am not seeking strength for the purpose of bullying; I am not seeking passion to be an angry zealot; I am not seeking resilience simply to survive. I am praying for strength and passion and resilience that I might be faithful to the ways of Jesus in all
ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS October 25, 2025 Tomorrow, we will conclude the worship series focusing on our Core Values, and specifically how they can help take us into 2026 and beyond. Each week, I have attempted to reference a rather traditional Christian idea (fellowship, hospitality, service, discipleship, and worship), yet add an edge to it. What I mean is that we too often become overly comfortable with an extraordinarily important
ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS October 24, 2025 The things that sportscasters say never cease to amaze me. There are words that resonate for decades, like the 1980 Lake Placid Winter Olympic Games when ABC sportscaster Al Michaels said, “Do you believe in miracles? Yes!” And then there is the sportscaster who said the other day, “They only gave 110%, when they needed to give 120%.” What!?! I’m sure the implication
ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS October 23, 2025 Where will Cypress Creek Christian Church be in twenty years? I am not a soothsayer of all things, not even church things. And my faith, unlike others, does not necessarily believe that if you say something in faith, then God will make it come true. At the same time, I’m certain a church will go nowhere if it doesn’t paint a picture of