“First Steps,” by Rev. Dr. Shane Green, February 3, 2025″

February 3, 2025

Discipleship is at the heart of our walk with Christ.  In February, often associated with love—think Valentine’s Day—it is fitting to reflect on the greatest love ever shown—the love of Jesus, who calls us to follow Him.  Discipleship is not only about acknowledging Christ as Savior but committing to Him as Lord. It is a journey of love, obedience, and sacrifice.  

Consider the life of Saint Augustine, a man whose journey to Christ was marked by a deep transformation by love.  Augustine initially resisted God’s call, preferring the pleasures of the world.  But after encountering the scriptures in a garden, his heart was pierced, and he surrendered his life to Christ.  He went on to write Confessions, a testimony of God’s redeeming love and the call to follow Him wholeheartedly.  Augustine’s story reminds us that discipleship begins with a heart captivated by the love of Jesus.

This week consider God’s love for you.  Stop for a moment and allow God to reveal all the ways He loves you.  Jesus is the incarnational face of His love for you.  I appreciate the way Romans describes that deep and profound love:   â€œYou see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.  Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:6-8).

This Week’s Readings:

We are reading the Bible in just a little over a year!  We are reading Joshua. You may join anytime.  Just mark your Bible on the chapter you started and keep up with the weekly readings.

Things to Pray About:

  • Pray for world peace and harmony.
  • Pray for those less fortunate.
  • Pray for safety and comfort for those who are hurting.
  • Pray for personal commitment during worship.
  • Pray for our absent members and those who are homebound.
  • Pray for comfort for those who mourn.
  • Pray for guidance and wisdom for our church, local, and world leaders.
  • Pray for healing and forgiveness to restore families.
  • Pray for continued strengthening of faith in our community.
  • Pray for a faith that transcends understanding.
  • Pray for spiritual maturity.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6

“First Steps,” by Rev. Dr. Shane Green, January 20, 2025″

January 20, 2025

A Collect is a short, structured prayer that is used in liturgical worship.  It serves to “collect” the prayers and intentions of the congregation into a single, focused prayer.  It is typically recited near the beginning of the worship service because it can set the tone for the theme of the day or emphasize what is being celebrated in the service.  

Sometimes, I recite a collect at the beginning of a day or week.  Just as the collect sets the stage for the service, I want the collect to set the stage for the day or week.  For this reason, give this collect an opportunity to set the stage for you:

Almighty God, whose Son our Savior Jesus Christ is the light of the world: Grant that your people, illumined by your Word and Sacraments, may shine with the radiance of Christ’s glory, that he may be known, worshipped, and obeyed to the ends of the earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

This Week’s Readings:

We are reading the Bible in just a little over a year!  We are now reading Deuteronomy. You may join anytime.  Just mark your Bible on the chapter you started and keep up with the weekly readings.


Things to Pray About:

  • Pray for the continued hope and renewal that the New Year brings.
  • Pray for world peace and harmony.
  • Pray for those less fortunate.
  • Pray for safety and comfort for those who are hurting.
  • Pray for personal commitment during worship.
  • Pray for our absent members and those who are homebound.
  • Pray for comfort for those who mourn.
  • Pray for guidance and wisdom for our church, local, and world leaders.
  • Pray for healing and forgiveness to restore families.
  • Pray for continued strengthening of faith in our community.
  • Pray for a faith that transcends understanding.
  • Pray for spiritual maturity.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6

“First Steps,” by Rev. Dr. Shane Green, January 6, 2025

January 6, 2025 

Everyone needs a fresh start!  As one year ends and another begins, we are reminded of the natural rhythm of life: the old must pass away to make room for the new. The turning of the calendar invites reflection on the past while sparking hope for what lies ahead. It is a moment of transition, a powerful metaphor for the spiritual practice of forgiveness. Just as we release the year that has ended, with its joys and pains, to step into the unknown promise of the new, so too must we release the burdens of anger, resentment, and regret to embrace the freedom God offers us in forgiveness.

Forgiveness is an act of letting go. It is not forgetting or condoning wrongs but choosing not to let them define our future. Much like clearing out old clutter to make space for a fresh start, forgiveness allows us to move beyond the weight of past offenses. Holding onto bitterness and grievances may feel like a form of self-protection, but in truth, it binds us to the very pain we long to escape. When we forgive, we release both ourselves and others, allowing God to work renewal in our hearts.

The beauty of forgiveness lies in the freedom it brings. No longer shackled by bitterness or regret, we can experience the abundant life Christ promised. Ephesians 4:31-32 urges us to “get rid of all bitterness, rage, and anger… Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Just as the old year cannot follow us into the new, the chains of unforgiveness cannot hold us back when we choose to let them go. In forgiveness, we find the joy of unburdened living, free to love, grow, and hope anew.

As you stand at the threshold of a new year, consider what you might need to release. Are there hurts, disappointments, or grievances that weigh you down? Bring them to God in prayer and trust in His strength to help you forgive. In doing so, you honor the transformative power of grace and step boldly into the future He has planned for you. Like the new year waiting to unfold, forgiveness offers the promise of fresh opportunities, healed relationships, and a heart at peace.



This Week’s Readings:
Monday – Deuteronomy 18
Tuesday – Deuteronomy 19
Wednesday – Deuteronomy 20
Thursday – Deuteronomy 21
Friday – Deuteronomy 22

We are reading the Bible in just a little over a year!  We are now reading Deuteronomy. You may join anytime.  Just mark your Bible on the chapter you started and keep up with the weekly readings.

This week’s readings refer to the importance of finding the truth.  It warns of untruths and those spreading false information.  While the focus is on false prophets, we can apply the teachings of Deuteronomy to our modern lives.
Things to Pray About:
Pray for the continued hope and renewal that the New Year brings.
Pray for world peace and harmony.
Pray for those less fortunate.
Pray for safety and comfort for those who are hurting.
Pray for personal commitment during worship.
Pray for our absent members and those who are homebound.
Pray for comfort for those who mourn.
Pray for guidance and wisdom for our church, local, and world leaders.
Pray for healing and forgiveness to restore families.
Pray for continued strengthening of faith in our community.
Pray for a faith that transcends understanding.
Pray for spiritual maturity.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6

“First Steps,” by Rev. Dr. Shane Green, December 30, 2024

December 30, 2024

Christmas Day celebrates the fulfillment of God’s promise to send a Savior, but the message of Christmas doesn’t end on December 25. For Christians, the birth of Jesus is not just an event to remember but a reality to live out every day. The incarnation—God becoming flesh in Jesus Christ—calls us to embody His love, grace, and truth in our daily lives. Just as God came near to humanity in the person of Jesus, we are called to be His presence in the world, reflecting His light in all we do.

The story of Christmas is one of God’s love breaking into the world in a tangible way. In John 1:14, we read, â€œThe Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” Jesus didn’t remain distant; He entered into the messiness of human life to bring hope, salvation, and restoration. As followers of Christ, we are called to do the same—to step into the brokenness of the world and bring the love of God to those around us. This isn’t limited to the holiday season; it’s a daily calling to live incarnationally, letting our actions, words, and presence reflect Christ.

Carrying the spirit of Christmas into the world requires intentionality. It means being present with others, offering kindness, and serving selflessly. It means listening to the lonely, comforting the hurting, and standing up for justice. Just as Jesus met people where they were, we are called to meet the needs of those around us. When we embody the love of Christ, we make the message of Christmas—God with us—a reality for others.

Living out the fulfillment of God’s promise also involves sharing the good news of salvation. Christmas reminds us that Jesus came to reconcile us to God, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him. This is a message too transformative to keep to ourselves. As we go about our daily lives, let us look for opportunities to share the hope and joy of Christ, not just in words but in the way we live.

The celebration of Christmas may end, but its meaning continues. As we move beyond Christmas Day, let us carry the promise of God’s love and redemption into every corner of our lives. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, may we be faithful to our calling to be Christ’s hands and feet, bringing His presence into a world in desperate need of His light. This is how we live Christmas every day.

This Week’s Readings:

We are reading the Bible in just a little over a year!  We are now reading Deuteronomy. You may join anytime.  Just mark your Bible on the chapter you started and keep up with the weekly readings.

Things to Pray About:

  • Pray for a time of preparation during this upcoming year.
  • Pray for world peace.
  • Pray for hope, especially for those less fortunate.
  • Pray for safety and comfort for those who are hurting.
  • Pray for personal commitment during worship.
  • Pray for our absent members and those who are homebound.
  • Comfort for those who mourn.
  • Guidance and wisdom for our church, local, and world leaders.
  • Healing and forgiveness to restore families.
  • Continued strengthening of faith in our community.
  • Pray for a faith that transcends understanding.
  • Pray for spiritual maturity

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6

“First Steps,” by Rev. Dr. Shane Green, December 16, 2024

December 16, 2024

Advent is a season of waiting, and in that waiting, we often find ourselves longing for joy.  Yet, the angel’s proclamation to the shepherds on the night of Christ’s birth reminds us that joy is not something we must create or earn.  “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10).  The joy of Advent comes from the reality that God has already sent His Son into the world.  This good news is the foundation of our joy, a joy that is steadfast and unshaken by life’s circumstances.

In this season, we are invited to look for joy in unexpected places.  Just as Jesus was born in the humble setting of a manger, joy often reveals itself in simplicity and quiet moments.  Perhaps it’s in the laughter of loved ones gathered around a table, the beauty of a starry night, or the kindness of a stranger.  When we open our hearts and eyes, we can see how God’s joy permeates the world around us, even in difficult times.  Choosing to notice and embrace these moments helps us experience the fullness of Advent.

Celebrating joy is an active response to God’s gift of salvation. Take time this week to intentionally celebrate the good things in your life. Rejoice in the relationships, God’s provisions, and the opportunities God has placed before you.  Remember, joy is not reserved for perfect moments but is found in the grace and blessings we often overlook. This act of celebration mirrors the angels’ song of praise, â€œGlory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:14).

Above all, let us embrace the ultimate source of joy: Jesus Christ.  His birth is the fulfillment of God’s promise to redeem the world.  Through Him, we have salvation, hope, and the assurance of God’s presence with us.  This good news is not only worth celebrating during Advent but is the foundation for a life filled with joy.  As we reflect on this profound gift, may our hearts overflow with gratitude and a desire to share this joy with others, proclaiming that God’s love is for everyone.


This Week’s Readings:

We are reading the Bible in just a little over a year!  We are completing Numbers and beginning Deuteronomy. You may join anytime.  Just mark your Bible on the chapter you started and keep up with the weekly readings.


Things to Pray About:

  • Pray for a time of preparation during this Advent Season.
  • Pray for hope, especially for those less fortunate.
  • Pray for safety and comfort for those who are hurting.
  • Pray for personal commitment during worship.
  • Pray for our absent members and those who are homebound.
  • Comfort for those who mourn.
  • Guidance and wisdom for our church, local, and world leaders.
  • Healing and forgiveness to restore families.
  • Continued strengthening of faith in our community.
  • Pray for a faith that transcends understanding.
  • Pray for spiritual maturity

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6

“First Steps,” by Rev. Dr. Shane Green, December 9, 2024

December 9, 2024


“Peace, I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27.


Peace is a characteristic of God’s Kingdom.  Much of Jesus’ ministry was spent establishing peace.  In fact, the heavenly choir sang of peace (Luke 2).  Many mistakenly think Biblical peace is the absence of strife or trouble.  Biblical peace is not the absence of things but a profound calm in the middle of the storm.  Therefore, peace is not a removal of strife but an inner strength to endure—to rise above.


During Advent, the message of Christ draws our attention to the Prince of Peace entering the world inviting all to rest in the peace that God offers.  In the middle of the storms, God offers peace—not the absence of things—but an inner calm in the midst of it all.  This week, consider the peace of Christ.  As you are pulled in many directions by many voices competing for your attention, listen for the voice of Christ offering peace.


Give yourself to unencumbered moments, those brief flashes of communion with God.  Look for them so that God can give you peace.  O Lord, thank You for the peace that surpasses all understanding. Help us to rest in Your presence this Advent and to carry Your peace with us, sharing it with a world that so desperately needs it, Amen.



This Week’s Readings:

We are reading the Bible in just a little over a year!  We are completing Numbers and beginning Deuteronomy. You may join anytime.  Just mark your Bible on the chapter you started and keep up with the weekly readings.


Things to Pray About:

  • Pray for a time of preparation during this Advent Season.
  • Pray for hope, especially for those less fortunate.
  • Pray for personal commitment during worship.
  • Pray for our absent members and those who are homebound.
  • Comfort for those who mourn.
  • Guidance and wisdom for our church, local, and world leaders.
  • Healing and forgiveness to restore families.
  • Continued strengthening of faith in our community.
  • Pray for a faith that transcends understanding.
  • Pray for spiritual maturity.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6