![[Sunday] Matthew 2 - Richer](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5852f18a20099e30cd2c01dc/1784816819405-X0EACOP9OFGLSXG0ZWFE/richer+26+4.jpg)
[Sunday] Matthew 2 - Richer
Virtually every life transforming event recorded in Scripture includes a journey, a process the people involved go through that leads to insight, transformation and new life for all willing to engage that journey. The journey always includes elements of sacrifice, worship, trust and faith. Christmas is about Jesus making the journey from heaven to earth, for the Magi it was the journey from wisdom to humility. For us, it is a journey to wonder and new life.
Virtually every life transforming event recorded in Scripture includes a journey, a process the people involved go through that leads to insight, transformation and new life for all willing to engage that journey. The journey always includes elements of sacrifice, worship, trust and faith. Christmas is about Jesus making the journey from heaven to earth, for the Magi it was the journey from wisdom to humility. For us, it is a journey to wonder and new life.
What Had happened at Grace this week.
![[Sunday] Psalm 2 - Richer](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5852f18a20099e30cd2c01dc/1784218631473-DUSDA0KBZIGO4K6GS0XJ/richer+26+3.jpg)
![Finial Night of Bible Club 26’ [photos]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5852f18a20099e30cd2c01dc/1784230069965-TAA50AIKX6AR94C3JGW4/PXL_20260715_232145859.jpg)
![Red, White and BBQ [Photos]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5852f18a20099e30cd2c01dc/1784229609362-PXACZYO9MUNOB9HMD859/IMG_9883.jpeg)
![[Sunday] Joshua 1:9 - Richer](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5852f18a20099e30cd2c01dc/1783630211466-J80H4FTFVVRMMYJ9V1G8/richer+26+2a.jpg)
![Red, White, And BBQ July 12th [Tons of Fun]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5852f18a20099e30cd2c01dc/1781874374517-KQLIDD18LRNMB4C7U8A8/Announcments+grace+%283%29.png)
[Sunday] Psalm 2 - Richer
Psalm 1 provides a blueprint for spiritual life, and helps us see how Jesus grew into His Messianic role. Psalm 2 broadens from individual growth to God's MESSIANIC PLAN for the world and takes in the entire sweep of history. This Sunday we are in an Advent state of mind. Next Sunday we celebrate Christmas in July through the eyes of the Magi.
Psalm 1 provides a blueprint for spiritual life, and helps us see how Jesus grew into His Messianic role. Psalm 2 broadens from individual growth to God's MESSIANIC PLAN for the world and takes in the entire sweep of history. This Sunday we are in an Advent state of mind. Next Sunday we celebrate Christmas in July through the eyes of the Magi.
What Had happened at Grace this week.
The Chosen Study Episode 7-8 - Summer Bible Club Study
We explored Episode 7-8 of The Chosen
This is our last class on The Chosen this year
The Chosen Season 1 Episode 7-8
This is our last class on The Chosen this year.
Finial Night of Bible Club 26’ [photos]
We closed out our final Bible Club of the year on Wednesday, and wow... what an amazing year it has been!
We closed out our final Bible Club of the year on Wednesday, and wow... what an amazing year it has been! 🎉
We went all out for the finale. Betsy blew everyone away with some super fun science experiments, and the kids got to taste passion fruit for their tropical fruit treat. After getting creative with some fish art projects, we ended the day with absolute chaos, throwing over a thousand water balloons at each other (and the parents!).
Huge thanks to everyone who helped make this entire year so fantastic.
Red, White and BBQ [Photos]
Wow, what a great turnout for Red, White, and BBQ!
Wow, what a great turnout for Red, White, and BBQ! Big thanks to Jerry for smoking up some amazing chicken and pork, and for providing the brisket for our raffle. Shoutout to the winners—hope you enjoy it!
Thanks to everyone who came through and brought food. The games this year were next level. The sponge water-transfer game was a blast, and the tug-of-war was hysterical, I love how many people randomly jumped in to help! It seriously warms my heart to see everyone hanging out, talking, and laughing together.
[Sunday] Joshua 1:9 - Richer
Be strong and courageous" isn't God telling you to try harder. It's an invitation to rest in the victory He has already won.
"Be strong and courageous" isn't God telling you to try harder. It's an invitation to rest in the victory He has already won.
Questions for the Week: Joshua 1:9
In what areas of your life (parenting, career, relationships) do you feel the exhausting pressure that everything depends entirely on your performance?
Read Joshua 1:1-9: Joshua was facing an impossible, terrifying transition with the death of Moses and a flooded river ahead of him. Have you ever faced a life transition that felt impossible, and how did God's presence carry you through it?
It’s exhausting to constantly try to bend God's will to match what we want—whether in our jobs, marriages, or politics. Jesus did the exact opposite in the Garden of Gethsemane ("Not my will, but yours be done"). When is it hardest for you to stop fighting and trust God’s plan?
God gives Joshua the victory. How does it take the pressure off you to know that God doesn't need you to be a "perfect professional" to do His work in someone else's life?
What Had happened at Grace this week.
Church Family in need of Van Because of Fire.
Family in need after van fire.
The past couple of weeks have been quite a whirlwind for Emily and Fabrice!
Two weeks ago, they welcomed their fourth child into the world, mom and baby are both doing wonderful and healthy.
However, this past week brought an unexpected trial when their family van caught fire and was completely destroyed.
We would love to rally around the family to help them purchase a replacement vehicle. If you feel led to give, please send your donation to the church and designate it for "The Van Fund."
Christmas Boxes - Backpacks!
Collecting Backpacks for Christmas Boxes in July!
BACKPACKS for the Month of July!
We are wanting to bless even more children in Hait this Christmas. We are doubling our goal to 400 gift boxes!
Let’s start early so we can meet this awesome goal.
Each month we will focus on a type of a gift, but feel free to bless the children with whatever gift will fit in a plastic shoebox. OR—each box costs about $25.00, so if you would like to donate money, we will use it to purchase items for you.
Amazon has many gift ideas and are more reasonable when you put the word “bulk” in the search line, such as “Soccer balls bulk”.
Here are the goals for the next 7 months:
May - Soccer balls
June - Baby dolls (8” or under), necklaces & bracelets
July - Backpacks
August - Pencil cases, toothbrushes, toothpaste
September - Bar soap, hairbrushes, double ball hair ties
October - Toys-card games, jump ropes, little cars, coloring books (without words), etc., hard candy
November - Anything goes that fits in the box!
PACKING DAY NOVEMBER 21ST
Tropical Trek Bible Club 26
It was a wonderful week for the kids! They engaged their senses with a blindfolded smell-guessing activity and expanded their palates by sampling mangoes for their tropical fruit feature. They also learned about the story of Paul’s conversion on the road to Damascus.
It was a wonderful week for the kids! They engaged their senses with a blindfolded smell-guessing activity and expanded their palates by sampling mangoes for their tropical fruit feature. They also learned about the story of Paul’s conversion on the road to Damascus.
Red, White, And BBQ July 12th [Tons of Fun]
Let’s celebrate our country’s 250th anniversary together with good food, good friends, and good fun!
Get ready to keep the patriotic celebrations going! Join us for an afternoon of incredible food, hilarious games, and community fun at our Red, White, and Barbecue gathering. We’re beating the heat by hosting the main event indoors, with plenty of epic outdoor water games to cool off!
When: Sunday, July 12th
Time: 4:30 PM
Where: The ACC Building (and the back lawn!)
Cost: Free! (A freewill offering will be available, plus bring some cash for our awesome fundraisers!)
🍖 The Feast: A Guided Potluck
Come hungry! We are providing the main courses, including Jerry’s famous pulled pork and pulled chicken, plus hot dogs for the kids. For dessert, we’ll be slicing into a massive cake and serving up some homemade ice cream!
How you can help: We are hosting a "Guided Potluck" for our side dishes! We need your best potato salads, coleslaws, baked beans, and fruit.
🎯 Games, Shenanigans, & Raffle
Brisket Raffle: Jerry is smoking a gorgeous brisket, and we are raffling off TWO halves!
Best Hat Contest: Wear your wildest, most patriotic headwear!
All-American Trivia: Test your knowledge of US history, sports, and pop culture.
The Grand Finale Water Battle: We’re heading to the back lawn for bucket relays, sponge tosses, and a massive water balloon battle! (Parents: Be warned, the kids WILL get wet!)
Richer: Finding Meaning in our Favorite Verse (Teaching Series)
There are many Bible verses that are so loved by the church. Over the centuries, these verses have been encouraging and equipping the church in its walking with the Lord. So let's dive deep into these beloved verses to gain an even richer love and understanding.
There are many Bible verses that are so loved by the church. Over the centuries, these verses have been encouraging and equipping the church in its walking with the Lord. So let's dive deep into these beloved verses to gain an even richer love and understanding.
Reading Plan
7/5/26 - Psalm 23
Psalm 23
1 John 3:16-24
John 10:9-18
7/12/26 - Joshua 1:9
Joshua 1:1-9
2 Timothy 1:6-14
Luke 12:27-34
7/19/26 - Psalm 2
7/26/26 - Matthew 2 - Christmas
-
October 12th 25’
Gen 1 In the begging God created the heavens and the earthGen 1:1-5, 24 -2:3
Collisions 3:5-11
John 2:11-18
October 19th 25’
Matthew 28:19 Great ComissionPsalm 73:1-8, 23-26
Acts 1:6-11
Matthew 28:16-20
-
July 3rd 22
John 3:16John 2-3
July 10th 22
1 Peter 3:151 Peter 3
July 17th 22
2 Corinthians 12:92 Corinthians 12
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![[Sunday] Genesis 1:1-2 - Richer](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5852f18a20099e30cd2c01dc/1760064484336-IMB2NY369HX96ONEYLFQ/richer25+1a.jpg)
![[Sunday] 2 Corinthians 12:9 - Richer](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5852f18a20099e30cd2c01dc/1657807734734-ZH74IVJBK5BKP54Y4QUD/Richer+3a.jpg)
![[Sunday] 1 Peter 3:15 - Richer](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5852f18a20099e30cd2c01dc/1657246717732-K83UQ4BAKWX1LPMRWXGP/Richer+2a.jpg)
![[Sunday] John 3:16 - Richer](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5852f18a20099e30cd2c01dc/1656620271292-5FF8I7Q1N6N12UXJWUG1/Richer+1a.jpg)
[Sunday] Psalm 23: The Lord is - Richer
Psalm 23 is a beautiful song of trust, declaring true freedom, daily provision, and a grace that aggressively pursues us in every season of life.
Psalm 23 is a beautiful song of trust, declaring true freedom, daily provision, and a grace that aggressively pursues us in every season of life.
Questions for the Week: Psalm 23 - The Lord is
Read Psalm 23: It is usually read at funerals, but it helps us trust God every single day. Which part of Psalm 23 brings you the most comfort on a normal, average day?
The Israelites had manna from heaven but still complained that they lacked meat, even wishing to go back to slavery. Where in your life do you struggle with a scarcity mindset, believing that God hasn't given you enough?
When faced with the "presence of our enemies" or dark valleys, our instinct is to fight, defend ourselves, or take control. How does the image of Jesus calmly setting a table for you in the middle of chaos change how you handle conflict?
The Hebrew word for "follow" (as in "goodness and mercy shall follow me") means to aggressively pursue or chase down. How does it feel to know that God is actively chasing you with grace, rather than you having to constantly pursue Him?
What Had happened at Grace this week.
Summery Kids Bible Club Week 4!
We just wrapped up Week 4 of our Summer Kids' Bible Club!
"We just wrapped up Week 4 of our Summer Kids' Bible Club! We explored the resurrection of Jesus and the gift of life He offers us. The kids had a blast with our games, especially the one where they climbed out from under the tarp. As always, our tropical fruit tasting was a hit—this week we tried guava!
![Vicar Claubert’s Family Welcomes at House warming Party [Photos]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5852f18a20099e30cd2c01dc/1783087135773-2A4Y3NCMD7H705TEG6XO/IMG_2084.jpeg)
Vicar Claubert’s Family Welcomes at House warming Party [Photos]
It was wonderful to have about 60 people from Grace come together on Sunday, June 28th, to help warm the Varcas family’s new home.
"It was wonderful to have about 60 people from Grace come together on Sunday, June 28th, to help warm the Varcas family’s new home. They were so touched and grateful for all the home essentials they received. Thank you all for making them feel so welcome in our community. A special highlight of the day was Violene singing for us all!"
Guys Night At Lefty’s in July 26
"Had such a great time meeting up with everyone at Lefty’s in PSL. We were a rowdy crew for sure, but that just added to the fun! Lots of laughs trying to read Paul’s mind and great conversation all around. Can’t wait for next month!"
"Had such a great time meeting up with everyone at Lefty’s in PSL. We were a rowdy crew for sure, but that just added to the fun! Lots of laughs trying to read Paul’s mind and great conversation all around. Can’t wait for next month!"
The Great Divorce Conclusion Overview - Thursday Bible Study
Our Bible study concluded C.S. Lewis's The Great Divorce, exploring how our present-day choices regarding forgiveness, attachments, and community shape our eternal reality, contrasting the misery of Hell (a self-imposed prison locked from the inside) with the joyful, solid reality of Heaven.
Great Divorce Conclusion overview
This is our 9th class on The Book
This is an AI Recap of the class.
Some things may be incorrect.
Short Summary of the Whole Class
On July 2, 2026, the class held its final discussion on C.S. Lewis's The Great Divorce before a summer break, with plans to reconvene on July 30, 2026, to study the book of Philippians. The session was dedicated to reflecting on the book’s major themes, interpreting the "Grey Town" as a metaphor for our current world, filled with loneliness and unforgiveness. We discussed how free will, earthly attachments, and preconceived notions can prevent us from embracing God's kingdom. Participants shared that the book served as a mirror for recognizing personal flaws and the necessity of radical forgiveness, as taught in the Lord's Prayer. The group concluded that true spiritual growth is a process, found in tangible community and the difficult but freeing surrender of sin, which transforms us from isolated "ghosts" into "solid" citizens of Heaven.
Detailed Class Summary
Here is a breakdown of the topics we discussed during our class on July 2, 2026.
Housekeeping and Future Plans
The class began with some housekeeping announcements. It was noted that this would be the last Thursday class until July 30, 2026, when the group will reconvene. The instructor, Cris, mentioned he would be traveling to Phoenix and Las Vegas during the break. After some discussion, the group decided that upon their return, they would begin a new study on the book of Philippians.
Section Summary: The class announced a summer hiatus, with the final meeting being on July 2, 2026. The group will resume on July 30, 2026, and will begin studying the book of Philippians.
Opening Reflections: The Book as a Modern Parable
Cris opened the main discussion by framing it as a final reflection on C.S. Lewis's The Great Divorce. He shared that the book reinforced a key concept for him, rooted in the Lord’s Prayer: "Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven." He explained that Christianity isn’t just about securing a spot in a "good place" after death, but about actively participating in making our current world reflect the values and reality of heaven.
This led to the perspective that the "Grey Town" in the book isn't just a depiction of Hell, but a powerful allegory for our current world. In our society, there is a relentless pressure to always want more and achieve more, which can drive people away from God, creating a spiritual "Grey Town" characterized by dissatisfaction. The choices the characters, or "ghosts," make are symbolic of decisions we make in our daily lives—whether we choose to live in the fullness of God’s forgiveness or cling to our own brokenness.
Section Summary: The discussion began by linking the book's core message to the Lord's Prayer, emphasizing that our faith is about bringing Heaven's reality to Earth now. The book's "Grey Town" was interpreted as a metaphor for modern life, where societal pressures for constant improvement create a spiritual emptiness that distances people from God.
Bible Scripture: The Lord's Prayer, specifically "Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven."
Free Will, Sin, and Recognizing Our Flaws
A class member pointed out that a major focus of the book is free will. The ghosts from the grey town consistently had the choice to stay in heaven or return to their misery. They could choose to let go of their defining sin or remain attached to it. Cris expanded on this, noting that many of the sins depicted were good things taken to an extreme. For example, a mother’s love for her son or an artist’s passion for his craft became idols that blocked them from God.
This discussion highlighted how the book makes us aware of our own faults, as we can see parts of ourselves in the "ghosts." This self-recognition is the first step toward change. Stories were shared illustrating how people are often trapped by negative labels and past experiences. For instance, a man from Jamaica whose negative perception of white people was changed by a single act of kindness, and a "Little Brother" who believed he was "stupid" because his father constantly told him so, becoming a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Section Summary: The group discussed the central theme of free will, where each character's destiny is their own choice. Sin is often a good thing elevated above God, becoming an idol. The book acts as a mirror, helping us recognize our own flaws, and personal stories were shared about how ingrained prejudices and negative self-perceptions can be overcome.
Stories Mentioned:
* The mother's possessive love for her son.
* The artist more concerned with his reputation than with experiencing the light.
* A man from Jamaica whose prejudice was overcome by a tourist's kindness.
* A boy in the Big Brothers program who internalized his father's negative label of being "stupid."
The Tangible Reality of Heaven vs. The "Easy" Emptiness of Hell
One participant expressed a concern that the book makes Heaven seem unappealingly difficult, with imagery of grass too hard to walk on. This might discourage a reader, making the journey seem like "a mess."
Other members countered that this difficulty is purposeful. The "grey town" was deceptively easy—a place where you could have anything you imagined, leading to isolation and emptiness. In contrast, Heaven is "solid" and has a "price of admission": the difficult but necessary act of surrendering one's self. The journey towards spiritual maturity was compared to a new Christian's walk, moving from the "milk" to the "meat" of the word. Faith isn't instant perfection but a continuous process. This journey of self-confrontation was compared to literary works like Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress, and Alice in Wonderland—all dream-like journeys forcing a choice upon "waking up." This was connected to John 3:19-21, which states that people love darkness because their deeds are evil and they fear exposure by the light.
Section Summary: A critique was raised that Heaven seems harsh, but the response was that its "solidity" contrasts with the easy emptiness of Hell. This difficulty represents the real, sometimes painful, process of spiritual growth, moving from "milk" to "meat." The story was compared to allegorical works like A Christmas Carol and linked to the biblical idea that people who love darkness avoid the light.
Bible Scriptures:
* **John 3:19-21**: "People loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil..."
* The concept of needing "milk of the word" before "meat," alluding to **1 Corinthians 3:2** and **Hebrews 5:12-14**.
Stories Mentioned:
* ***A Christmas Carol*** by Charles Dickens
* ***Pilgrim’s Progress*** by John Bunyan
* ***Alice in Wonderland*** by Lewis Carroll
Hell Locked from the Inside and the Power of Community
The discussion shifted to the idea that Hell is a place "locked from the inside." Cris explained that people choose Hell because they love their darkness—their grudges, pride, and self-pity—more than the light of God, which would expose and heal them. This led to a conversation about the necessity of forgiveness and community. If Heaven includes people we despise, our inability to forgive them now reveals an unwillingness to accept Heaven's reality.
The danger of demanding strict adherence and creating division was described as the fastest way to kill a church, mirroring how the residents of Grey Town move farther apart into deeper loneliness. To illustrate the power of community, the "Rat Park" experiment was mentioned, where rats in a vibrant community chose plain water over morphine-laced water, suggesting connection is an antidote to self-destructive habits. Our church aims to foster this community to combat loneliness.
Section Summary: The group explored the concept of Hell as a self-imposed prison chosen by those who refuse God's light. This highlighted the importance of forgiveness and community, as unforgiveness is incompatible with Heaven. Demanding perfection leads to isolation, the essence of the Grey Town. In contrast, a healthy community, like in the "Rat Park" experiment, can help people overcome destructive behaviors.
Stories Mentioned:
* The "Rat Park" experiment from the 1970s.
* ***Dante's Inferno*** was contrasted with Lewis's idea of Heaven.
* The character of Scrooge from *A Christmas Carol* and his isolating house.
Transformation and Encouraging Growth
A key difference between Heaven's "solid people" and the "ghosts" is how they handle misery. The solid people are compassionate but are not blackmailed by the ghosts' self-pity. They sit with them and gently encourage them to let go of what holds them back. This is exemplified by the ghost with the lizard of lust on his shoulder. He is encouraged to let an angel kill it. The act is painful, but the lizard is transformed into a magnificent steed, and the man becomes solid. This shows that surrendering sin, though difficult, brings sudden and glorious transformation.
This imagery of transformation led to a brief discussion of different faith traditions, such as the Baptist declaration of being "saved" and the Lutheran balance of law and gospel. The ultimate call is to practice forgiveness in all aspects of life—from minor annoyances like a neighbor mowing late to deep hurts. By forgiving, we align with God's will, move out of the "Grey Town," and experience a more heavenly life now.
Section Summary: The "solid people" model compassionate encouragement without enabling self-pity. The story of the man with the lizard illustrates that surrendering sin, though hard, leads to glorious transformation. This call to change connects to our need to practice radical forgiveness in daily life, fulfilling the Lord's Prayer and moving from the "Grey Town" to a heavenly reality.
Bible Scripture: The Lord’s Prayer, specifically "Forgive us our sins, as we forgive others."
Stories Mentioned:
* The man with the lizard on his shoulder.
* Hypothetical examples of forgiving daily frustrations (late-night mowing, slow self-checkout lines).
Final Medium-Length Summary
In our final session on C.S. Lewis's The Great Divorce on July 2, 2026, our church group engaged in a deep reflection on the book's allegorical portrayal of Heaven, Hell, and the human condition. We saw the "Grey Town" not just as an afterlife, but as a metaphor for our modern world, defined by loneliness, constant striving, and unforgiveness. The discussion heavily emphasized that Hell is "locked from the inside"—a state of being chosen by those who, as described in John 3, love darkness more than light because they refuse to let go of earthly attachments and sins.
We affirmed that true faith is found not in demanding perfection, which leads to isolation, but in building a supportive community that helps us overcome our self-destructive tendencies. The central theme of free will was a major point of discussion, alongside the necessity of practicing radical forgiveness, as taught in the Lord's Prayer. While the "hardness" of Heaven represents the challenging but necessary surrender of self, the book's ultimate message is one of hope. As modeled by the "bright spirits" and the story of the man with the lizard, letting go of our sins leads to a glorious and liberating transformation, allowing us to move from being an isolated "ghost" to a "solid" citizen of God's kingdom, here and now.
Main Points
The class will take a summer break and resume on July 30, 2026, to study the Book of Philippians.
The Great Divorce is an allegory for our present spiritual choices and our modern world, not just the afterlife.
The "Grey Town" represents a state of loneliness, dissatisfaction, and unforgiveness driven by worldly pressures.
Free will is central: characters choose their own eternal destiny by either clinging to or surrendering their sins.
Sin is often a good thing (like love or art) that has been distorted into an "ultimate thing."
Heaven is depicted as "hard" or "solid" because it is more real, requiring us to become more real through surrender and growth (moving from "milk" to "meat").
Hell is "locked from the inside"; it is a choice made by those who refuse to let go of their darkness.
Community is a powerful tool against loneliness and self-destructive behaviors.
A forgiving heart is essential, as holding grudges is incompatible with the communal reality of Heaven.
Surrendering our sins to God, though difficult, leads to glorious and immediate transformation.
Scriptures and Stories Mentioned
Bible Scriptures:
The Lord's Prayer: Specifically the lines, "Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven" and "Forgive us our sins, as we forgive others."
John 3:19-21: "This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil..."
1 Corinthians 3:2 and Hebrews 5:12-14: Alluded to in the discussion of moving from the "milk" to the "meat" of the word.
Stories and Analogies:
The Man with the Lizard: The character with a lizard of lust on his shoulder who must allow an angel to kill it, after which it is transformed into a magnificent horse.
The Mother's Love: The story of the mother whose possessive love for her son becomes an idol.
The Artist: The artist who is more concerned with his reputation and painting the light than in experiencing it.
A man from Jamaica: His prejudice against white people was changed by a tourist giving him a dollar.
A boy in the Big Brothers program: He believed he was stupid because his father constantly told him so.
The "Rat Park" experiment: Rats in a community setting overcame morphine addiction, highlighting the power of connection.
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens: Compared to The Great Divorce as a story of redemption from a "Greytown" of despair to light and joy.
Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan: Mentioned as another allegorical journey of spiritual struggle and redemption.
Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll: Used as an example of a dream-like journey that leads to self-discovery.
Dante's Inferno: The sign "Abandon all hope, ye who enter here" was contrasted with Lewis's ideas.
Hypothetical modern-day stories: Practicing forgiveness for a neighbor mowing late or for a person slow at self-checkout.
The Chosen Study Episode 5 - Summer Bible Club Study
We explored Episode 5 of The Chosen (“The Wedding at Cana”), examining themes of calling, community, faith, and Jesus’s patient leadership through the cultural and scriptural lens of the Gospel of John.
The Chosen Season 1 Episode 5
This is our 4rd class on The Chosen
This is an AI Recap of the class.
Some things may be incorrect.
Short Summary of the Whole Class
On July 1, 2026 at 6:06:24 PM, our class discussed The Chosen, Season 1, Episode 5 (“The Wedding at Cana”), focusing on how the show illuminates first-century culture and discipleship. We explored themes of calling imperfect people, the honor/shame dynamics of a wedding crisis, and Jesus's patient, compassionate leadership. Key topics included the prophetic language of John the Baptist, the characterization of Thomas as meticulous and doubting, Mary’s pivotal role in prompting Jesus's first miracle, and how the episode weaves biblical themes from the Gospel of John and the Old Testament into relatable character arcs.
Section-by-Section Summary
1) Opening: Episode Focus and Unlikely Beginnings
We began by welcoming everyone and setting the focus on Episode 5 of The Chosen: “The Wedding at Cana.” The leader praised how the series visually and narratively explains the culture of the time, helping modern viewers grasp biblical stories and the everyday realities and social tensions that make the text more intelligible.
Discussion highlights included the humor and humanity in the episode, from awkward first meetings among disciples to the observation that Jesus isn’t choosing “the best” by worldly standards but gathering ruffians and misfits. This resonates with the Gospels’ portrayal of His followers.
Peter’s early mindset was noted as longing for importance, expecting a militant messiah, and seeking power and recognition. It was also noted that Jesus was portrayed as accessible, even "building a ramp so that people could get up to him," and the Greek word for craftsman and carpenter being the same added a layer to his background as a stonemason in the show.
Short Summary of Section:
We introduced Episode 5, affirming The Chosen’s value in portraying first-century culture and how it captures the messy, humble beginnings of discipleship as Jesus calls imperfect people.
Stories/Bible Verses Mentioned:
Story: Early interactions among the disciples forming an uneasy, diverse group.
2) John the Baptist, Nicodemus, and Prophetic Witness
A clip was referenced showing Nicodemus speaking with John the Baptist in prison, touching on the phrase “make straight the way,” echoing Roman imperial processions where roads were prepared for Caesar. John’s prophetic language (“Prepare the way of the Lord”) resonates within Roman occupation, highlighting how people were used by ruling powers.
Another discussion examined the powerful exchange where John the Baptist confronts Nicodemus with prophetic questions from Proverbs 30:4 about the One who gathers the wind and establishes the earth, pressing the issue of God’s Son. The pushback—“God doesn’t have a son except Israel”—exposed the tension over sonship.
This was connected to the Gospel of John's central claims about Jesus' identity as the Light, calling people to awaken. John 1:1-14 was read aloud and discussed, focusing on the Word, creation, life, light, witness, and the right to become children of God by receiving the Son.
Short Summary of Section:
We connected John the Baptist’s call to “prepare the way” with Roman practices and explored his prophetic witness to Nicodemus, which presses the question of Jesus's divine identity and sonship, calling hearers from darkness into light.
Stories/Bible Verses Mentioned:
John the Baptist’s call: Isaiah 40:3; echoed in John 1:23; Mark 1:2–3; Matthew 3:3; Luke 3:4
Jesus's Identity and Sonship: John 1:1–14
Prophetic Questions: Proverbs 30:4 ("What is his name, and what is his son’s name?")
Scene: Nicodemus and John in prison (The Chosen depiction)
3) Peter’s Call and Eden’s Faith: Echoes of Elisha
A clip was focused on where Simon (Peter) explains his call to follow Jesus to his wife, Eden, with a conviction that signals genuine change.
This was connected to the calling of Elisha in 1 Kings 19:19–21, who leaves his wealth, slaughters his oxen, and follows Elijah. This prefigures the way of the Messiah: a turn from kings and war to prophetic humility and transformative obedience.
Eden’s discernment and trust were seen as symbolizing the church’s faith—recognizing authentic repentance and supporting costly discipleship. Her name suggests a vision of the church as a foretaste of restored Eden.
Short Summary of Section:
We saw Peter’s call mirrored in Elisha’s, noted Eden’s faith as a model for the church, and reflected on how true calling reorients a life from power to Messiah-shaped obedience.
Stories/Bible Verses Mentioned:
Elijah's Call of Elisha: 1 Kings 19:19–21
Peter's Call: Luke 5:1–11 (Miraculous catch of fish)
John's Testimony: John 1:29 (“Behold, the Lamb of God”)
Story: Peter's confession and call; Eden’s supportive faith.
4) The Wedding at Cana: Honor, Humility, and Mary's Faith
The discussion highlighted the honor/shame dynamics at ancient weddings—running out of wine was a community crisis, not a simple inconvenience. The show contrasted a wealthy family’s perfectionism with the bride’s family’s acceptance of beauty in brokenness (e.g., decorating a crooked "kupa" canopy with flowers).
It was noted that Jesus attended the wedding solely because of his mother. We discussed the callback to an earlier scene where a young Jesus tells Mary, "If not now, then when?" which she uses to prompt him. Mary's request was private and faith-filled ("They have no wine," and "Do whatever he tells you"), born of a genuine need to save the family from dishonor.
The group praised the visual portrayal of the look between Mary and Jesus, conveying her faith and his empathetic response. Mary’s calm trust anticipated Jesus’ provision.
Short Summary of Section:
We discussed Mary’s pivotal role, her faith-filled prompt to Jesus, and how the wedding’s honor/shame culture illuminated the significance of Jesus’ compassionate, private miracle.
Stories/Bible Verses Mentioned:
The Wedding at Cana: John 2:1–11
Mary at Cana: John 2:1–5
Story: Wedding preparations, social tensions, and the beautifying of the crooked "kupa."
5) Thomas’s Character: Meticulous Doubt and a New Calling
Group observations noted Thomas as a meticulous, calculative, and consistently doubting wine server, concerned about logistics. This was seen as setting up his well-known "doubting" theme.
Jesus performs the miracle discreetly while Thomas is away. This was significant because Thomas, who needs to measure everything, couldn't explain the miracle away and was left simply amazed.
When Thomas expresses confusion, Jesus responds with kindness, affirming, "It's good to ask. It's good to measure," then tells him, "I'll give you a different way to measure this time." This was seen as Jesus compassionately calling Thomas from his nature of doubt, just as he called Peter to a new way of fishing.
The thematic connection was made to the post-resurrection story in John 20, showing a narrative thread in John's Gospel of signs, belief, and skepticism.
Short Summary of Section:
We examined Thomas’s portrayal as a careful, questioning planner, and admired how Jesus met him with kindness, validating his nature while calling him to a new kind of faith beyond measurement.
Stories/Bible Verses Mentioned:
Thomas’s doubt post-resurrection: John 20:24–29
Wedding at Cana: John 2:1–11
Story: Context of Cana miracle with Thomas present in The Chosen (narrative adaptation)
6) Jesus's Leadership: Patience, Humility, and Service
The discussion reflected on how Jesus leads people who think in “old ways” with patient redirection rather than rebuke, often using parables or gentle instruction. He avoids sarcasm and harshness, declining self-promotion to keep focus on the Father’s purpose.
This was contrasted with Simon’s ambition to leverage the wedding to gather powerful allies. Jesus’s quiet resistance showed him prioritizing the couple’s day over public strategy, redirecting Simon toward servanthood.
Jesus is shown working humbly as a craftsman, building what serves the vulnerable (like accessible latrines), and distinguishing private miracles from public ministry with the words, "My time has not yet come."
A member shared appreciation for a non-biblical scene where Jesus jokes with the disciples, delivering a "Jesus burn." This humorous, relatable side changed perceptions from a stoic figure to someone joyful.
Short Summary of Section:
We saw Jesus reshape Simon’s ambition toward humble service, modeling patient, non-rebuking leadership, and serving the vulnerable while waiting for the Father’s timing.
Stories/Bible Verses Mentioned:
Jesus's Timing: John 2:4 (“My hour has not yet come”)
Greatness as Service: Luke 22:24–27
Story: Discipleship table talk about Jesus' work as a craftsman and building accessible facilities.
7) Discipleship Growth and Concluding Thoughts
The disciples' default to "watch and learn" was contrasted with Jesus’s later commissioning of them "two by two." The class concluded that while observation is foundational, growth requires being sent, risking mistakes, and learning obedience through practice.
The instructor challenged the class to consider why John’s Gospel places the joyful wedding at Cana (turning water into wine) immediately before the cleansing of the temple in John 2.
A question was raised about why the show intentionally never depicts Jesus drinking alcohol, seen as a deliberate choice to be sensitive to certain Christian denominations.
The schedule for the next classes was announced: July 8, 2026 for episodes six and seven, and July 15, 2026 for episode eight.
Short Summary of Section:
We contrasted passive observation with active mission in discipleship and ended with a theological question about the structure of John 2, a note on the show's creative choices, and an announcement of future classes.
Stories/Bible Verses Mentioned:
Sending the Disciples: Mark 6:7; Luke 10:1–3
Juxtaposed Events in John 2: The Wedding at Cana (John 2:1-11) and The Cleansing of the Temple (John 2:13-22)
Medium-Length Summary of the Class
On July 1, 2026, our Bible study used The Chosen’s Cana episode to explore how Jesus forms disciples amid awkward starts, mixed motives, and cultural pressures. We began by appreciating the show's humanizing portrayal of Jesus and the disciples. A key discussion connected Peter’s call to the story of Elijah and Elisha, highlighting a shift from worldly power to Messiah-shaped obedience, with Peter's wife Eden modeling the church's supportive faith. We then explored the honor/shame dynamics at the wedding, recognizing that running out of wine was a social crisis and that Mary’s quiet confidence ushered in Jesus’s first sign. We examined the character of Thomas, whose need to "measure" was met with Jesus's compassionate call to a new kind of faith. The study also highlighted the prophetic confrontation between John the Baptist and Nicodemus over Jesus's identity as the Son of God. Throughout, we observed how Jesus patiently redirects ambition toward humble service, subverting expectations of status and power, and intentionally choosing unlikely people while waiting for his "hour" to come. The class concluded by reflecting on the growth from "watching" to being "sent," and the theological pairing of the Cana miracle with the temple cleansing in John 2.
Main Points
The Chosen effectively portrays first-century cultural context, Roman-Jewish tensions, and the humble, messy beginnings of discipleship.
Jesus calls imperfect, unlikely people and forms them into a community of faith, patiently redirecting their worldly ambitions toward humble service.
Peter’s call mirrors Elisha’s decisive obedience, signaling a shift from power and war to the Messiah-shaped way of service.
Honor/shame dynamics at Cana explain the crisis of running out of wine and the compassionate significance of Jesus’s first sign.
Mary’s initiative at Cana was a private act of faith that prompted Jesus’s first sign and saved a family from dishonor.
Thomas is depicted as a meticulous, doubting planner, and Jesus meets his skepticism with kindness, calling him to a faith beyond empirical measurement.
John the Baptist’s witness to Nicodemus stresses Jesus’s divine identity and sonship, calling people from darkness into light.
Discipleship matures when observation leads to being sent on active mission.
Jesus’s timing is deliberate, distinguishing private miracles from his public ministry, which had "not yet come."
Bible Scriptures Mentioned
John 1:1–14: The Word, light, witness, and becoming children of God.
John 1:23: John the Baptist: “Make straight the way of the Lord.”
John 1:29: “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.”
John 2:1–11: The Wedding at Cana; Jesus’s first sign.
John 2:4: “My hour has not yet come.”
John 2:13-22: The Cleansing of the Temple.
John 20:24–29: Thomas’s doubt and confession after the resurrection.
Luke 5:1–11: Miraculous catch of fish; Peter’s confession and call.
Luke 10:1–3: Jesus appoints seventy-two and sends them two by two.
Luke 22:24–27: Greatness through serving.
Mark 6:7: Jesus sends the twelve two by two.
Synoptics on "Prepare the Way": Mark 1:2–3; Matthew 3:3; Luke 3:4.
1 Kings 19:19–21: Elijah’s call of Elisha.
Isaiah 40:3: Prophetic source for “prepare the way.”
Proverbs 30:4: Oracle of Agur: “What is his name, and what is his son’s name?”
Stories Discussed
The Wedding at Cana: The wine crisis, Mary’s intercession, Jesus bringing more guests, the discreet miracle, and honoring the family.
Discipleship and Calling: Awkward beginnings among misfits; Peter's call after the miraculous catch; Eden’s supportive faith; moving from "watching" to being "sent two by two."
Elijah and Elisha: Prophetic calling and Elisha’s decisive break with his past.
John the Baptist and Nicodemus: The interaction in prison in The Chosen, highlighting Roman context and the question of sonship.
Doubting Thomas: His depiction at Cana and the connection to his post-resurrection encounter with Jesus.
Jesus's Character and Leadership: Patient teaching style; working as a craftsman; building accessible facilities; redirecting Simon's ambition; his humor and relatability.
Humble Wedding Details: Beautifying the crooked “kupa” with flowers; the pride of the wealthy father (Abner) versus the family’s humility.
Guys Night - 5:45pm 1st Thursdays
Thursday, July 2nd 5:45pm at Lefty’s Grill in PSL
July 2nd - 5:45pm
Lefty’s Wings and Grill
1034 SE Port St Lucie Blvd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34952
https://maps.app.goo.gl/APcounWApa4inpDW6
![[Sunday] All things Good - 2 Kings 9-10 & Romans 8:28 - Foolish Wisdom](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5852f18a20099e30cd2c01dc/1782425800701-ZKA0ZIGTYXT03KWDYE7E/FW10a.jpg)
[Sunday] All things Good - 2 Kings 9-10 & Romans 8:28 - Foolish Wisdom
"All things work together for good." What does this famous promise actually mean? God brings true good, not through our overzealous striving, but through the empty tomb.
"All things work together for good." What does this famous promise actually mean? God brings true good, not through our overzealous striving, but through the empty tomb.
Questions for the Week: Naaman: All Things Good
Read Romans 8:18-39. We often think Romans 8:28 means "everything will work out good" or "if I do good, God will bless me." How does reading this verse in the context of suffering and human failure change how you understand God's promise?
Read 2 Kings Chapters 9 and 10. Jehu was incredibly proud of his violent zeal for the Lord, but it ended up destroying his own people. Where have you seen "righteous zeal" (in parenting, marriage, or politics) go too far and end up damaging relationships?
When Elisha's servant anointed Jehu, he added his own angry words to God's command, which fueled Jehu's rampage. How much of our own "zealous" action is actually driven by God's Word, and how much is driven by the angry, polarized voices we surround ourselves with?
Our human zeal is so destructive that it literally crucified Jesus. Yet, God used that exact moment of darkness to bring good to you and the world. How does knowing that God can bring life out of our worst messes give you peace in your current struggles?
What Had happened at Grace this week.
![Vicar Claubert is Moved in and Lots happening around Grace [Photos]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5852f18a20099e30cd2c01dc/1782485561689-A63EJT6X8P3DLNWVSJD1/PXL_20260625_142451905.jpg)
Vicar Claubert is Moved in and Lots happening around Grace [Photos]
A Busy and Blessed Week at Grace!
A Busy and Great Week at Grace! 🌟
Last Monday, Vicar Claubert signed his lease and moved into his new rental house. Since then, we’ve been keeping him incredibly busy as he attends Bible studies and learns the ins and outs of week-to-week life here at Grace.
On Thursday, Pam and Mike teamed up to pull up the old bushes around the property, and Vicar Claubert jumped right in to help! They are hard at work making way for some beautiful new landscaping.
Finally, a huge thank you to everyone who came to Sunday Service. We know the grass was long and parking next to the road wasn't ideal, but the driveway looks fantastic and is now set to last for years to come. We appreciate your patience and flexibility!
Virtually every life transforming event recorded in Scripture includes a journey, a process the people involved go through that leads to insight, transformation and new life for all willing to engage that journey. The journey always includes elements of sacrifice, worship, trust and faith. Christmas is about Jesus making the journey from heaven to earth, for the Magi it was the journey from wisdom to humility. For us, it is a journey to wonder and new life.