Author: Wende Gonzales

Pastor’s Notes 1/26/2024

Posted on by Wende Gonzales

“Let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action. And by this we will know that we are from the truth and will reassure our hearts before him.” – 1 John 3:18-19

Remember some of the ‘ol the catch phrases that were used to motivate us to act. “Just Do it.” “Actions speak louder than words.” “Put your money where your mouth is.” “Practice what you preach.” And then there is probably the most uttered challenge my brother and I would lob back and forth at each other, “prove it.”

“I can run faster than you.”
“Prove it.”

“I can stuff 30 marshmallows in my mouth.”
“Prove it.”

”I heard that if you put a raw egg, still in the shell in the microwave for a minute, it will explode.”
“Prove it!”

“Prove it” is a still one of my favorite motivational statements and it is one that is made constantly in the Bible. The scriptures influencing worship for Sunday include: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, 1 John 3:16-24, Matthew 7:24-27, Mark 12:28-34.

Service matters. Loving God requires action, it is something followers of Jesus should feel compelled to do. Faith is a practice and to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength our body must get involved.

Scholar Steve Thomason reminds us that the body is the connective tissue between loving God and loving our neighbor. Our texts this week remind us that love without action for the good of the neighbor is not love at all. We cannot love God without loving our neighbor and we cannot truly love the neighbor, especially our enemies, without the love of God overflowing from our lives.

The life of the disciple is a life called to service for the good of the other. This Sunday we will explore how our congregation is using the gifts of our physical resources to serve all our neighbors.

Don’t forget to bring bags of potato chips this Sunday as we will disperse what we collect into baggies for the food pantry of Community Christian Church (DOC) in Tempe.

Pastor’s Notes 1/12/2024

Posted on by Wende Gonzales

Therefore, prepare your minds for action; discipline yourselves; set all your hope on the grace that Jesus Christ will bring you when he is revealed.  – 1 Peter 1:13

The human mind is such a fascinating creation. We could think of the brain as God’s first computer design. Our mind is a cognitive nexus that is constantly firing and sending messages and impulses that trigger all aspects of our being. Not only do we think with our mind but we reason and connect and create the messages that we communicate with others.

It makes sense that for a sermon series entitled, “Loving Deeper,” this week’s theme is “Loving God with our Mind.” It is as important a place as any to start. We also find that the Gospel writer Mark this week, Mark 12:28-34 (Romans 12:1-2, and Luke 2:39-40 will also be present in worship Sunday) highlights what we must use to love God and our neighbor. “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.”

On Sunday we will explore ways to deepen our Spiritual relationship through study and prayer. Being in communication with God and other humans is key to a healthy Spiritual life. We must be in dialogue. Words and feelings must not only be expressed but received. We send out information and open ourselves to receive it and as a result, apply it to our lives.

One way I hope we can deepen our spiritual connection in 2024 is by being intentional in ministry practices with Sun City Christian Church. The use of our time and talents matters. So to help us identify our gifts, I invite you to join me for lunch. Sign-up sheets will be available Sunday and there are four slots each day at 11am in the library for either January 15, 16, 17, 18, 23, or 24.

We have such rich opportunities for ministry awaiting us and I can’t wait to hear the ways you are excited to participate. See you Sunday. 

Brett

Pastor’s Notes 1/5/2024

Posted on by Wende Gonzales

He said to them, ‘Why were you searching for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?  – Luke 2:49


“I have an idea.” 

“Here’s a thought.” 

“I wonder.”

I like those sentences. I will drop whatever I am doing and pay full attention every time someone (especially a member of Sun City Christian Church) has an epiphany. This is who we are and what we are called to do: manifest Christ into the world through our ability to love.

The season of Epiphany is about recognizing that Christ has come to the world for all. God’s love is greater than any power or might that humanity could wield, and it is available to all who wish to receive it.

I really wrestled with scripture passage to utilize for Sunday. Do we focus our epiphany energy onto the Magi finding the Christ child and paying him homage? Do we follow the lectionary and celebrate Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist? Both of those scriptures regularly appear this time of year, but I was drawn to another passage, Luke 2:41-52.

As we continue in Luke’s gospel, immediately after Jesus is dedicated in the temple, we find him back in the Temple 12 years later. After having journeyed to celebrate the Passover with his family and community, Mary and Joseph fail to recognize that he is not with them on the return journey.

“Where else would I be?” Jesus responds to his parents. Engaging about deeper questions of faith in the Temple was the obvious answer and the ah-hah moment for us readers as to what the following stories of Jesus’ life would hold in store.

Together we will explore our ideas for how to love fully as those who believe in Jesus. We will begin to give shape to our calling and purpose for loving others with all our mind, body, and Spirit.

As we forge ahead into a new year, we will do so together in worship and in prayer! See you Sunday in the Chapel as we will continue to worship there until further notice.

Brett

Pastor’s Notes 12/8/2023

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In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. –Luke 1:39-41

One thing the authors of our “How does a weary world rejoice” want to impress upon us is that in community, our joy expands. Even when personally, we are weary and may find it hard to rejoice, we can carry each other’s joy. Not only are Elizabeth and Mary kin, but they now become deeply kindred spirits for one another.

The good news begins to take shape in Elizabeth’s womb, but scripture tells us that she stays secluded, hiding her pregnancy from others—that is, until Mary arrives at her door, also pregnant. Perhaps Mary’s arrival is the inbreaking that changes everything for Elizabeth, for in that moment, her child leaps in her womb and she is filled with the Spirit. She can’t help but rejoice.

Being around people who aren’t afraid to expose their excitement permits us to do the same. Joy thrives when it can be shared. Joy operates so much better when it is a communal experience. Engaging in moments that connect us is why parents who are expecting invite those they love to gender reveal parties. This is why fans thousands upon thousands of fans fill stadiums for sporting events and concerts, to share joy with others.

Our authors remind us that Joy is fundamentally rooted in connection, but connection expands beyond just human relationships. We experience joy through feeling a deep connection to ourselves, our loved ones, to God, to nature, and to the whole cosmos that surrounds us. As we look to the Gospel text, many sermons may emphasize how Elizabeth provides sanctuary for Mary. However, this year, we hope to highlight a different angle: perhaps Mary’s arrival is what pulls Elizabeth out of her seclusion, allowing her to experience joy and delight.

On Sunday we will celebrate the mutuality of Elizabeth and Mary’s bond—even if they each cannot feel joy for themselves, they are both holding joy for each other. From that connection, joy grows. We are connected as the body of Christ; we are on a journey of faith together! See you Sunday.

Brett

Pastor’s notes 12/1/2023

Posted on by Wende Gonzales

Restore us, O God;
let your face shine, that we may be saved.

O Lord God of hosts,
    how long will you be angry with your people’s prayers?
You have fed them with the bread of tears,
    and given them tears to drink in full measure.
You make us the scorn of our neighbors;
    our enemies laugh among themselves.

Restore us, O God of hosts;
    let your face shine, that we may be saved.

– Psalm 80:3-7

How does a weary world rejoice?

Our advent journey to the manger in Bethlehem begins! Our theme “How Does a Weary World Rejoice?” and the supporting materials have been designed by the creative folks at A Sanctified Art.

In this series, close attention is paid to how the Gospel of Luke begins the story of Jesus: by interweaving Christ’s birth with the parallel story of Elizabeth, Zechariah, and John the Baptist. When comparing both birth narratives told side by side, we see the full scope of human emotions: isolation, fear, disbelief, as well as connection, trust, and joy.

The Christmas season is often an emotionally-charged time when we feel many things deeply—sometimes all at once. It is common to experience emotional dissonance amid joy-filled carols and festivities. Identifying ways in which we encounter joy in the midst of our weariness will be the goal of our Advent worship together.

As Advent begins, the creators of this series help up to get started by acknowledging the weariness, grief, rage, and hopelessness we carry—as well as to affirm that we are made for joy. Joy is designed to live in a full house of other emotions.

Scripturally we start the season with Zechariah and Elizabeth in Luke 1:1-23. They have battled infertility and have lived many years steadfast in their faith. Perhaps they feel the weight of hopes and dreams unattained. The angel comes to Zechariah with a promise of good news, but Zechariah can’t fully receive it, and he is cast into silence for the duration of Elizabeth’s pregnancy.

Sometimes weariness can harden us and prevent us from living fully. We’ve had hard journeys. Grief has left a scar on us. This is how we show up to Advent. Let us acknowledge the ways we, too, are hardened by disbelief. Like the psalmist, let us ask, “how long?” and plead for restoration.

I look forward to beginning our Advent journey together on Sunday!  

Brett

Pastor’s Notes 11/24/2023

Posted on by Wende Gonzales

The Lord spoke to Moses, saying: 2 Speak to the people of Israel and say to them: These are the appointed festivals of the Lord that you shall proclaim as holy convocations, my appointed festivals.

For six days shall work be done; but the seventh day is a sabbath of complete rest, a holy convocation; you shall do no work: it is a sabbath to the Lord throughout your settlements.  – Leviticus 23:1-3

Time. 

Time can be a fickle friend. Some days feel like they last for an eternity while years can fly by in an instant. Managing our time is a lifelong pursuit. The quality of our lives however, is measured by moments rather than minutes. We memorialize our time through experience as we cycle through the circle of life.

This Thanksgiving holiday has been a wonderful opportunity for me to reconnect with loved ones, create new memories, and cherish the relationships that matter significantly. Holidays tend to be benchmarks for measuring our passage of experiences. Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries, and other significant calendar events mark the occasions that help us to not only remember but cherish those moments that are most dear.

This Sunday we will recall the way in which the Church tells time. As early as our ancestral faith roots were planted, we have honored and celebrated God’s presence with God’s people. It is in this active remembering that we are reminded of our calling and purpose.

Leviticus 23 describes the Sabbath together with seven feasts, namely the Feast of Passover, the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Firstfruits, the Feast of the Harvest, the Feast of Trumpets, the Day of Atonement and the Feast of Tabernacles. These feasts of the Lord are ‘appointed seasons’ for ‘holy convocations’.

In antiquity, time was measured from one feast day to the next. Though the celebrations may be different for us as modern day Christians the process and purpose continues to bring us reminders of God’s eternal presence.

I look forward to journeying with you soon into the advent season leading us to Christmas as we meditate together around the theme “A Weary World Rejoices.” See you Sunday.

Brett

Finding Peace Amidst the Holiday Hustle: A Longest Night Service

Posted on by Wende Gonzales
Longest Night Service / Blue Christmas

The holidays can be joyful, but for many of us, they can also bring up feelings of loss and sadness. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the “merry” expectations while mourning the absence of a loved one or facing difficult emotions, you’re not alone.

This Longest Night (Blue Christmas) service, on Thursday, December 21st at 3pm, offers a gentle space for reflection and remembrance amidst the holiday rush.

Find solace, comfort, support and understanding in this brief service which offers you a moment of pause and peace during the longest night of the year. You are welcome to come as you are, and bring whatever memories or feelings you are having.

Don’t let the holidays overshadow your grief. Find strength and comfort in shared quietude and understanding.

Pastor’s Notes – 11/17/2023

Posted on by Wende Gonzales

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?  – Matthew 6:25

Every time I see the words “don’t worry” together in a sentence, my mind automatically goes to the Bobby McFerrin song from my youth, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” I would bop around the house singing the tune incessantly, it was such an earworm of a song. The concept of happiness being the opposite of worry takes me back to a simpler and most likely child-like time.

Life experience has taught me that the opposite of worry is more likely gratitude than happiness, so the lyrics should really be “don’t fret over the things that could go wrong but be grateful in the things that are working out.” This faithful solution runs counter to everything I learned growing up (Iowans by nature tend to be fatalistic I’m afraid).

Our gospel writers try to remind us that anxiety doesn’t add a single hour to one’s life, but apparently people throughout time have been unconvinced. It is easy for us to overlook Matthew’s advice in 6:33, “strive first for the kingdom of God.”

As Fred Craddock and Eugene Boring teach it, Matthew wants to relate his key word dikaiosyne (or righteousness/justice) to the eternal reign of God as well as having trust in God’s providential care as we walk this earthly life.

This Sunday we will celebrate Thanksgiving Sunday. We will focus our attention and prayer on the things we are grateful for having in this life rather than being consumed by that which we don’t. If nothing else, it is a good place to start in our praise for God our creator. I look forward to worshiping with you on Sunday.

Brett