Receiving God’s Promise in the New Year

As we step into 2026, many of us are setting resolutions and making plans for personal growth. But what if this year could be different? What if instead of relying on our own strength, we tapped into the transformative power of the Holy Spirit?

The Promise of Pentecost Still Stands

In Acts 2, we find a powerful moment when people were “cut to the heart” after hearing Peter’s message. Their response was immediate: “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter’s answer remains as relevant today as it was 2,000 years ago: “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

This promise isn’t just for those who heard Peter preach on the day of Pentecost. Scripture makes it clear: “The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.” That includes you, right now, in 2026.

Living in the Power of the Spirit

The early church understood something we often forget: authentic Christian living requires the Holy Spirit’s power. Acts 2 tells us they “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” This wasn’t casual participation—it was wholehearted devotion fueled by the Spirit.

As we approach communion and prepare our hearts for this new year, we’re challenged to not do things in our own power. Instead, we must step out boldly and listen to where God is leading. This requires courage and faith that goes beyond our comfort zones.

When the Holy Spirit Tugs, Speak Up

One of the most practical ways the Holy Spirit works in our lives is through those gentle (or sometimes not-so-gentle) promptings in our hearts. You know the feeling—when you sense you should speak up, reach out to someone, or take action, but fear or uncertainty holds you back.

In 2026, God wants you to speak. When you feel that tug on your heart, don’t remain silent. Have those tough conversations. Take those bold steps. The Holy Spirit doesn’t prompt us for no reason—He’s orchestrating divine appointments and opportunities for His kingdom.

It’s Jesus’s Love, Not Ours

Here’s a crucial truth: our mission is changing lives through Jesus’s love, not our own. This distinction matters because it takes the pressure off us and places it where it belongs—on the power and presence of the Holy Spirit.

We can’t manufacture genuine transformation. We can’t love people into the kingdom through sheer willpower. We can only access the love that changes lives through the Holy Spirit working in and through us.

A Move of God in Your Community

Whether you’re part of Lakeview Church or any faith community, the desire should be the same: to see God move powerfully in your midst. This happens when believers collectively surrender to the Holy Spirit’s leading, when we stop relying on programs and start depending on God’s presence.

Your 2026 Prayer

As you move forward this year, make this your prayer: “Lord, I am available.” Not “use someone else,” not “when it’s convenient,” but simply, “I am here, and I’m listening.”

The Holy Spirit is present, powerful, and ready to work. The question is: are you ready to catch the wind and let Him lead you into the extraordinary life He has planned?

The promise of the Holy Spirit is for you. Will you receive it?

As we stand on the brink of a new year, Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes invites you to embark on a transformative journey with us. Our mission, “Be the Change as Jesus Has Changed Us,” calls us to live out our faith through “Just 3”: Study, Share, and Serve. This year, we are inspired by the theme “Catch the Wind,” a call to embrace the Holy Spirit’s presence and power in our lives.

The Eternal Goodness of God

The foundation of our journey is the unwavering truth that God is good—yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Hebrews 13:8 reminds us, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” This assurance anchors us as we navigate the uncertainties of life. God’s promises are steadfast, and among them is the gift of the Holy Spirit, our divine Helper. In John 14:16-17, Jesus promises, “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth.”

The Breath of God: The Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is often likened to the wind, an unseen force that moves and shapes our lives. In John 3:8, Jesus explains, “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” This imagery captures the essence of our theme, “Catch the Wind.” Just as a sailboat relies on the wind to move forward, we are called to rely on the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us.

Authentic Living Through the Spirit

In our human nature, we may attempt to manufacture the evidence of the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives. However, true transformation comes from genuine reliance on the Spirit’s power. Galatians 5:22-23 describes the fruit of the Spirit as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities cannot be faked; they are the natural outflow of a life surrendered to the Spirit.

Setting Our Sails: Intentional Obedience

As we look to the future, our goal is to be intentional in setting our sails and sights on what God has ahead for us. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” By aligning our lives with God’s will, we position ourselves to catch the wind of the Holy Spirit and move in the direction He leads.

Living Out Our Mission: Study, Share, Serve

At Lakeview Christian Church, our mission to “Be the Change as Jesus Has Changed Us” is lived out through “Just 3”: Study, Share, and Serve.

• Study: We commit to knowing and loving God through His Word. 2 Timothy 2:15 urges us to “do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.”
• Share: We seek to know and love others, sharing the hope and love of Christ. Matthew 28:19-20 commissions us to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.”
• Serve: We put love into action, serving others as Christ served us. Galatians 5:13 reminds us, “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”

Conclusion

As we embrace the new year, let us commit to catching the wind of the Holy Spirit, allowing His presence to guide and transform us. Together, as a community of believers at Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we will study, share, and serve, living out our mission to be the change as Jesus has changed us. May we be encouraged by the promise that God is with us, empowering us to make a lasting impact in our world.

At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are reminded that true joy is not circumstantial or fleeting. It is a profound and enduring joy that stems from the life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. As we gather each week for Communion, we celebrate the transformative work of Jesus on the cross, which offers us a joy that surpasses all understanding, even in the lowest moments of our lives.

The Incarnation: God With Us

The essence of our joy is rooted in the Incarnation—God becoming flesh and dwelling among us. As John 1:14 states, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” This profound truth assures us that God did not abandon humanity during the 700 years of waiting before Christ’s arrival. Instead, He saw our need and came to pay the ultimate price for our redemption.

Communion: A Celebration of Grace

Each week, as we partake in Communion, we are reminded of the grace that covers our faults and flaws. Through the blood of Jesus, we exchange our brokenness for His righteousness. Isaiah 53:5 beautifully captures this exchange: “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” In this sacred moment, we acknowledge that God no longer sees our sins but sees His Son, who was crushed for our iniquities.

Living Out Our Mission: Be the Change

At Lakeview Christian Church, our mission is to “Be the Change as Jesus has changed us.” We live this out through our “Just 3” approach: Study, Share, and Serve.

1. Study: We are committed to studying God’s Word to deepen our love and knowledge of Him. As we immerse ourselves in Scripture, we are transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2).
2. Share: We strive to share the love of Christ with others, building relationships that reflect His grace and truth. By sharing our faith, we fulfill the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20).
3. Serve: We believe in love in action, serving our community and beyond with the compassion of Christ. As Jesus taught us, “The greatest among you will be your servant” (Matthew 23:11).

A Community of Joy

As a community, we are called to embody the joy that comes from knowing Christ. This joy is not dependent on our circumstances but is a reflection of our relationship with Jesus. As we gather with our brothers and sisters in faith, let us be overcome with the joy that only He can provide—a joy that changes everything.

May we continue to hold this joy in our hearts, not just during the Christmas season, but throughout the year. Let us be a light in the world, sharing the hope and peace that come from knowing Jesus, the one who dwelt among us and changed everything.

At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we believe that God has called us to be a people with purpose. This divine purpose is not confined to the walls of our church but extends into every aspect of our lives. We are called to create “pockets of heaven” wherever we go, embodying the love, joy, peace, and patience that reflect God’s presence in our world.

Living Beyond the Church Walls

While it may be easier to live out our faith within the supportive community of the church, God challenges us to expand our horizons. Our mission is to be “seven-day-a-week Christians,” carrying the values we cherish in church into our everyday interactions. This means pursuing unity and demonstrating Christ-like love in all phases of life, whether at work, at home, or in our communities.

A Relationship, Not an Obligation

Our pursuit of this purpose is not out of obligation but stems from a deep relationship with God. We are inspired by the profound respect for what He has done and who He is. As we embrace our identity as His children, we are reminded that God is with us—Emmanuel. This truth brings hope and empowers us to live out our faith authentically.

The Call to Action

As we strive to create pockets of heaven, let us remember that our actions speak louder than words. By living out the principles of love, joy, peace, and patience, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of those around us. Our mission at Lakeview Christian Church is to “Be the Change as Jesus has Changed Us,” and we do this through our “Just 3” approach: Study, Share, and Serve.

Conclusion

In the name of Jesus, let us embrace our purpose with enthusiasm and dedication. May we be a beacon of hope and a source of unity in a divided world. As we live out our faith daily, we create a ripple effect that extends far beyond our immediate surroundings, bringing a glimpse of heaven to earth.

Join us at Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes as we continue to pursue this divine calling, making a lasting impact in our community and beyond. Together, let’s be the change that reflects the love and hope of Christ.

As we enter the Advent season, a time of anticipation and reflection, we are reminded of the profound theme of hope. In a world where we often place our hope in temporary things—our abilities, finances, relationships, and achievements—Advent calls us to refocus on the one true hope that is eternal and unchanging: Jesus Christ.

The Illusion of Temporary Hope

It’s human nature to seek security and assurance in the tangible aspects of life. We often find ourselves placing hope in our own sufficiency, believing that our skills and efforts can sustain us. We look to our bank accounts for financial security, to our families for emotional support, and to our relationships for fulfillment. While these are blessings from God, they are not the ultimate source of hope that can sustain us through life’s challenges.

The reality is that these earthly sources of hope are fleeting. They can change, falter, or even disappear, leaving us feeling lost and uncertain. This is why the Advent season is a crucial time to realign our hearts and minds with the true hope that is found in Jesus Christ.

The Living Hope in Jesus Christ

In 1 Peter 1:3-5, we find a powerful reminder of the hope we have in Christ: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, unfading, and kept in heaven for you.”

This passage beautifully encapsulates the essence of the hope we celebrate during Advent. It is a living hope, made possible through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Unlike the temporary hopes of this world, the hope we have in Christ is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading. It is a hope that is secure and eternal, kept in heaven for us.

Hope in a Conquering Savior

Advent is a time to remember that our hope is not just in a Savior who came as a baby in a manger, but in a conquering Savior who has overcome sin and death. Through His resurrection, Jesus has prepared a place for us, offering a way out of our brokenness and the silence of waiting. This hope is not just for the future; it is a present reality that transforms our lives today.

Living Out the Hope of Advent

As we reflect on the hope of Advent, let us be encouraged to live out this hope in our daily lives. This means trusting in God’s promises, even when circumstances seem uncertain. It means finding peace in the assurance that our inheritance in Christ is secure. And it means sharing this hope with others, being a light in a world that desperately needs the hope of Jesus.

Conclusion: A Call to Embrace True Hope

This Advent season, let us turn our hearts towards the true hope that is found in Jesus Christ. As we celebrate His birth and anticipate His return, may we be reminded that our hope is not in the temporary things of this world, but in the eternal promise of our Savior. Let us embrace this living hope, allowing it to transform our lives and inspire us to share the message of hope with those around us.

In doing so, we fulfill the call of Advent: to prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ and to live in the light of His hope, now and forever.

At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we gather each Sunday to partake in the sacred act of communion, a profound reminder of God’s steadfast love and mercy. This practice is not merely a ritual; it is a powerful expression of our faith and gratitude for the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. As we break bread and share the cup, we are united in the body and blood of Christ, acknowledging that our salvation is not earned by our merits but is a gift of grace from God.

Understanding God’s Steadfast Love

The heart of communion lies in the understanding of God’s unwavering love for His creation. Despite humanity’s tendency to turn away, God’s love endures. He paid the ultimate price to redeem us, offering mercy and forgiveness through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ. This steadfast love is beautifully captured in Lamentations 3:22-23, which reminds us that “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

The Significance of Communion

Communion is a time for reflection and gratitude. As we partake in the bread and the cup, we do so in remembrance of Jesus, as instructed in 1 Corinthians 11:24-25. This act is not just a nostalgic remembrance but a participation in the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. It is a moment to reflect on the question: Are we like the one leper who returned to give thanks, or are we like the nine who received blessings but did not return to praise God?

A Call to Gratitude and Praise

As we gather for communion, let it pierce our hearts and inspire us to live lives of gratitude. We are called to give God the praise He is due, recognizing that there is no one else worthy of such honor. Psalm 100:4 encourages us to “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” This is the spirit we bring to the communion table, acknowledging the blessings we have received and the grace that sustains us.

Living Out Our Mission: Be the Change

At Lakeview Christian Church, our mission is to “Be the Change as Jesus Has Changed Us.” Through our “Just 3” approach—Study, Share, Serve—we strive to embody the love and grace of Christ in our daily lives. Communion is a vital part of this mission, as it reminds us of the transformative power of Jesus’ sacrifice and calls us to live out our faith with gratitude and purpose.

Conclusion: A Community United in Christ

As we partake in communion, we are reminded of the unity we share as a community of believers. We are called to be the change in our world, reflecting the love and mercy of Christ in all that we do. Let us approach the communion table with hearts full of gratitude, ready to give God the praise He deserves. Together, we can make a lasting impact, living out our faith with love and action.

Join us at Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes as we continue to embrace God’s steadfast love and strive to be the change in our community and beyond. Through study, sharing, and serving, we are united in our mission to reflect the transformative love of Jesus Christ.

Psalm 116 is a profound testament to the enduring love and compassion of God. It is a psalm that resonates deeply with those who have experienced the trials and tribulations of life, yet have found solace and deliverance in the Lord. At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we draw inspiration from this psalm as we strive to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us.” Through our “Just 3” approach—Study, Share, and Serve—we seek to embody the transformative power of God’s love in our lives and our community.

A Cry for Mercy and a Response of Grace

The psalmist begins with a declaration of love for the Lord, acknowledging that God has heard his voice and his cry for mercy. “I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy” (Psalm 116:1). This opening verse sets the tone for the entire psalm, highlighting the intimate relationship between the believer and God. It is a reminder that our prayers do not fall on deaf ears; rather, God turns His ear to us, listening with compassion and grace.

In moments of despair, when “the cords of death entangled me, the anguish of the grave came over me,” the psalmist calls upon the name of the Lord, saying, “Lord, save me” (Psalm 116:3-4). This plea for salvation is met with God’s gracious and righteous response. The Lord’s compassion is evident as He delivers the psalmist from death, wipes away tears, and steadies his feet. This divine intervention allows the psalmist to “walk before the Lord in the land of the living” (Psalm 116:9).

The Transformative Power of God’s Love

At Lakeview Christian Church, we believe that the love and grace of God have the power to transform lives. Our mission, “Be the change as Jesus has changed us,” is rooted in the understanding that God’s compassion compels us to live differently. As we study to love and know God, we are reminded of His faithfulness and mercy, which are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23).

Psalm 116 serves as a powerful reminder that God’s deliverance is not just a past event but an ongoing reality. The psalmist’s experience of being saved from distress and sorrow is a testament to the enduring nature of God’s love. As we share to know and love others, we are called to extend this same compassion and grace to those around us, reflecting the heart of God in our interactions.

Serving as Love in Action

The psalmist’s declaration of walking before the Lord in the land of the living is a call to action. It is an invitation to live a life that honors God and serves others. At Lakeview Christian Church, we are committed to serving as love in action. Our service is a tangible expression of our gratitude for God’s deliverance and a reflection of our desire to be the change in our community.

Galatians 5:13 encourages us to “serve one another humbly in love.” By serving, we not only fulfill our mission but also become living testimonies of God’s love and grace. Whether through community outreach, volunteering, or simply offering a helping hand, our service is a reflection of our faith in action.

Conclusion: Embracing God’s Compassion and Grace

Psalm 116 is a beautiful reminder of God’s compassion and grace. It calls us to love the Lord, to cry out to Him in times of need, and to trust in His deliverance. At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are inspired by this psalm to live out our mission: “Be the change as Jesus has changed us.”

As we study, share, and serve, let us embrace the transformative power of God’s love in our lives. May we continue to call upon the Lord, trusting in His grace and compassion, and may our lives be a testament to His enduring faithfulness.

At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are committed to living out our mission to “Be the Change as Jesus has Changed Us.” This mission is rooted in the transformative power of Jesus Christ, who calls us into a relationship with Him, not through religious rituals or performances, but through faith and love. Our approach to this mission is encapsulated in our “Just 3” initiative: Study, Share, and Serve.

Study: To Love and Know God

In John 14:1-6, Jesus reassures His disciples with a promise that transcends time and space: “In my Father’s house are many rooms… I go to prepare a place for you.” This passage is a profound reminder that our faith journey is not about adhering to a set of rules, but about cultivating a deep, personal relationship with Jesus. He is “the way, the truth, and the life,” and through Him, we find our path to the Father. At Lakeview, we encourage our community to delve into the Scriptures, to study and understand the heart of God, and to grow in love and knowledge of Him. This is the foundation of our faith and the first step in our mission to be the change.

Share: To Know and Love Others

Jesus’ declaration that He is the way, the truth, and the life is not just a message for us to keep to ourselves. It is a truth meant to be shared with the world. As we gather to celebrate this truth, whether in our Sunday services or in our daily lives, we are called to share the love of Christ with others. This means reaching out to those around us, building relationships, and sharing the hope and joy that comes from knowing Jesus. At Lakeview, we believe that sharing our faith is an act of love, a way to connect with others and invite them into the life-changing relationship with Christ.

Serve: Love in Action

Our mission to “Be the Change” is not complete without action. Jesus’ life was marked by service, and as His followers, we are called to serve others in love. This is where our faith becomes tangible, where we put into practice the teachings of Jesus. Whether it’s through community service projects, helping a neighbor in need, or volunteering within the church, serving is how we demonstrate the love of Christ in action. At Lakeview, we are committed to serving our community and beyond, embodying the love of Jesus in all that we do.

Conclusion

As we reflect on the words of Jesus in John 14, let us be reminded that our faith is not about religion or performance, but about a relationship with the One who is the way, the truth, and the life. At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are dedicated to living out this truth through our “Just 3” initiative: Study, Share, and Serve. Together, we can be the change as Jesus has changed us, bringing His love and hope to a world in need. Let us celebrate this truth every morning when we wake up and every night when we go to bed, knowing that it changes everything.

At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are called to “Be the Change as Jesus Has Changed Us.” This mission is rooted in the transformative power of Jesus Christ, who, through His life, death, and resurrection, has given us a gift beyond measure—a gift that calls us to respond with our whole hearts.

The Blessing Beyond Abraham

The blessing God bestowed upon Abraham was not meant to be contained within a single lineage or nation. It was a revelation of God’s heart for all nations, a promise that through Abraham’s seed, all the families of the earth would be blessed (Genesis 12:3). However, as history unfolded, the Israelites struggled to fully live out this calling. Yet, God’s plan was never thwarted. In His infinite wisdom and love, He provided Jesus Christ, the perfect atonement for our sins—a gift we could never earn or repay.

Romans 5:8 reminds us, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This sacrificial love is the cornerstone of our faith and the catalyst for our mission.

The Condition of the Heart

The gift of salvation through Jesus comes with a profound “so that.” It is not about adhering to a set of rules or performing religious rituals. Instead, it is about giving our hearts to Jesus. He desires our worship, our love, and our devotion. When we truly give our hearts to Him, everything changes—our actions, our conversations, and our entire way of life.

As we reflect on this, we are reminded of Proverbs 3:5-6, which encourages us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Being Shrewd Stewards

In the parable of the shrewd manager (Luke 16:1-13), Jesus teaches us the importance of being wise and intentional with the resources God has entrusted to us. At Lakeview, we are called to be shrewd stewards of the gifts of forgiveness, salvation, and hope. This means actively engaging in our mission through “Just 3”: Study, Share, and Serve.

1. Study: To love and know God, we must immerse ourselves in His Word. As we study the Scriptures, we deepen our understanding of His character and His will for our lives. Psalm 119:105 declares, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
2. Share: To know and love others, we must share the love of Christ in our words and actions. This involves building relationships, listening with empathy, and being a source of encouragement and support. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges us to “consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.”
3. Serve: Love in action is the heartbeat of our mission. We are called to serve others selflessly, reflecting the love of Christ in tangible ways. Galatians 5:13 reminds us, “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”

Conclusion

As we embrace our mission at Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, let us remember that we are part of a greater story—a story of redemption, love, and transformation. By giving our hearts to Jesus and living out our mission through Study, Share, and Serve, we become conduits of His blessing to the world around us.

May we be the change, as Jesus has changed us, and may our lives be a testament to His grace and glory. Amen.

At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are reminded of the profound truth that God is always near, even when we feel distant. In a heartfelt reflection, Pastor Tyler shared his personal experience of feeling a gap between himself and God, especially during times of loss and grief. This feeling is something many of us can relate to, but it is crucial to remember that this perceived distance is not a reflection of God’s absence, but rather a challenge for us to draw nearer to Him.

Understanding the Bridge Built by Christ

The Apostle Paul reminds us in Ephesians 2:13, “But now in Christ Jesus, you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.” This scripture underscores the work of Christ in bridging the gap between humanity and God. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross was the ultimate act of love, designed to eliminate the separation caused by sin and to restore our relationship with the Father.

Pastor Tyler emphasized that any sense of distance we feel is not a “God problem,” but a “me problem.” God has not moved away; He remains steadfast and faithful. Psalm 34:18 assures us, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” This promise is a comforting reminder that God is always present, especially in our moments of need.

Embracing the Mission: Be the Change

At Lakeview, our mission is to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us.” This mission calls us to actively engage in our “Just 3” approach: Study, Share, and Serve. By studying God’s Word, we deepen our understanding of His love and draw closer to Him. Sharing His love with others helps us build meaningful connections and reflect Christ’s compassion. Serving as love in action allows us to be the hands and feet of Jesus in our community.

Letting the Truth Settle in Our Hearts

As we navigate life’s challenges and moments of feeling distant from God, let us hold onto the truth that He is always near. The stories of Jesus’ interactions with the lost, as shared in the Gospels, reveal His heart for restoration and reconciliation. Jesus came to seek and save the lost, to build a bridge back to the Father.

In moments of doubt or distance, let us remember that God’s love is unwavering. He is always ready to welcome us back with open arms. As we embrace our mission at Lakeview, let us be the change in our world, reflecting the love and grace of Christ in all that we do.

Conclusion: Drawing Near to God

In conclusion, let us take comfort in the knowledge that God is always near, ready to bridge any gap we feel. As we study His Word, share His love, and serve others, we draw closer to Him and become agents of change in our community. Together, let us embrace the mission of Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, being the change as Jesus has changed us, and inviting others to experience the transformative power of His love.