“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you… 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” — Philippians 1:3,5
As we have been studying Philippians together as a church, this one word at the beginning of the letter really captured my heart: partnership.
(more…)Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church
Lately, I’ve noticed something surprising: when you ask someone how their day is really going, people open up. Not every time. Maybe not dramatically. But often enough to stop you in your tracks.
It’s just one question.
“How are you doing?” or “How’s your day been?”
(more…)Posted in A Word from the Pastor by Tony D'Amico
One little verse tucked away in the Old Testament has been rolling around in my heart lately:
“…Hushai the Arkite was the king’s friend.”— 1 Chronicles 27:33b
Isn’t that description beautiful? Not a big title. No grand exploits mentioned. Just “the king’s friend.” And not just any king. But King David, the man after God’s own heart. Out of all the military leaders, advisors, and warriors surrounding David, Scripture makes a point to name Hushai for one thing: friendship.
Let’s be honest—we all need a Hushai in our lives. Someone who shows up not because they need anything. But, simply because they care. A friend who stands with you in the palace and the wilderness. One who brings joy and tells the truth. Also, one who reminds you of who you are when you start to forget.
David knew the pain of betrayal (remember Ahithophel?). However, he also knew the strength of real friendship. Hushai stuck by him when others turned away (2 Samuel 15). Additionally, his loyalty helped preserve the kingdom.
Friendship is not a bonus—it’s a lifeline. In Proverbs 17:17, we read: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” And the greatest friend of all? Of course, it’s always Jesus.
Jesus said, “I no longer call you servants… instead, I have called you friends” (John 15:15). He doesn’t just save us. On the contrary, He walks with us and listens to us. Along with that, He rejoices and weeps with us. That’s the kind of friend He is. And He invites us to be that kind of friend to others.
So, let me ask you something. “Who’s your Hushai? And who are you being a Hushai to?”
Let’s be intentional today. Text a friend. Invite someone for coffee. Open up. Listen well. Laugh hard. Cry if you need to. Pray together. Don’t do life alone.
Without question, we were made for friendship. Even kings need them. And so do we.
Your friend,
Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church
I love how Paul calls Titus a true son in the faith — a common faith (Titus 1:4).
Believers, we indeed share a common faith in our Lord Jesus, in His personhood. We also share a common belief in His finished work on the cross. Additionally, we share a common faith in our hope for eternal life — the return of our King to set all things right.
Without a doubt, our common faith unifies us, breaks down barriers, and distinguishes us from the world. Our mutual faith always sets us apart. Jesus is our connecting thread, which makes us unified and together. Despite our differences, we share faith.
(more…)Posted in A Word from the Pastor by Caleb Yetton
“So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.” — 1 Thessalonians 2:8
Last July, several of us went to Faithcamp in Alamosa, Colorado. It was a fantastic four-day conference, and we definitely had an encouraging time. Very tired, we started the nine-hour car trip back to Utah early on Sunday morning.
(more…)Posted in A Word from the Pastor by The Rock Church