Pride and Joy

What are you proud of? What brings you joy?

It's easy to build our pride and identity around accomplishments, careers, finances, education, abilities, or possessions. But those things can change in an instant—and the joy they provide doesn't last.

As we continue Sounding Forth 2026, Paul shows us another kind of pride and joy: people.

Paul cared so deeply for the believers in Thessalonica that their faith became his joy. His concern for them wasn't just a thought or a prayer—he acted, sending Timothy to encourage and strengthen them through a difficult season.

Jesus modeled this kind of sacrificial love for us. He laid down His life to redeem us, and now He calls us to invest our lives in others.

Who has God placed in your path? Who needs encouragement? Who has disappeared from your life or church family and needs someone to reach out? And who knows you well enough to walk alongside you through your own doubts, questions, and struggles?

People aren't projects or trophies—they are treasured friends and family. May we become a church where people are known, missed, pursued, encouraged, and loved as we follow Jesus together.