Category: pastor’s notes

Preparing our hearts for the joy of Easter morning

Posted on by Wende Gonzales

After the Sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb.  –Matthew 28:1

As we prepare our hearts for the joy of Easter morning, we come to one of the most powerful stories in all of Scripture—Matthew 28:1–10, where two faithful disciples arrive at the tomb expecting to find death, and instead encounter new life.

This Sunday, we will celebrate with joy and wonder under the theme: “Finishing Faithfully: Death Is Not the End.”

Jesus’ resurrection reminds us that God’s story doesn’t end at the grave. The faithful witness of Mary Magdalene and the other Mary reveals a powerful truth: even in our deepest grief, even when the future is uncertain, God is still moving stones, still surprising us with life, and still calling us to go and tell the good news.

Easter is a Sunday for hope—for proclaiming that endings in God’s story are never really the end. Whether you are coming in joy or carrying sorrow, Easter morning invites you to stand on resurrection ground and hear again the angel’s words:
“He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said.”

Come ready to rejoice. Come ready to be renewed. Come ready to believe again that love never dies. Come ready to walk with Jesus as he shows us once more how to finish faithfully. I look forward to celebrating Easter with you in person or on YouTube.

Pastor’s Notes 4/11/2025

Posted on by Wende Gonzales

A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and that followed were shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!” –Matthew 21:8,9

Our Journey through Lent is drawing to an end. I am most grateful and moved by your willingness to face end of life questions with our series, “Finishing Faithfully.” Here is a reminder of the weekly themes that we covered:

“The Dwelling Place of Memory.” “Remember, you are Dust.” “Preparing With Purpose.” “This Will be the Day.” “The End of Life is not the End.” “A Day of Preparation.” “Letting Go is Okay.” This Sunday we will conclude with “Leaving our Legacy.”

Stories of Jesus, Paul, and other Biblical ancestors have reminded us that death is a part of life and there is a faithful way to embrace the process that leads to eternal life. It has been a reflective and intentional season of study, knowledge, reflection, and sharing. Our Wellness Ministry team has gifted us with tools and resources to help us put our plans in place.

Our team will continue to encourage us to put our plans and wishes into place by offering individual and group opportunities to talk through and think about our plans and wishes for when we die. I will be signing up sessions with anyone who would like to meet with me one on one to discuss your memorial service plans and/or record your stories on video!

Our text for Sunday is Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem as depicted in Matthew 21:1-11. Preparations are made for Jesus’ final return to the Holy City and the large crowd gathers to cheer on the one who has come to save the people. With palm branches waving and shouts of “Hosanna in the highest heaven!” anticipation mounts.  

Things turn quickly and the events surrounding the Passover feast will lead Jesus to his crucifixion. As a congregation we will join our UCC colleagues for Maundy Thursday worship and communion at 5pm at Church of the Palms, on April 17. You are also invited to join me for a service of scripture and prayer on Good Friday at 12 noon in our sanctuary on April 18. Many blessings as we continue of committed journey with Christ. 

Pastor’s Notes 4/3/2025

Posted on by Wende Gonzales

As for me, I am already being poured out as a libation, and the time of my departure has come. – 2 Timothy 4:6

There’s an old story about a monkey who finds a jar filled with treats. Eagerly, he reaches in and grabs a handful, but when he tries to pull his hand out, he discovers he’s stuck. The jar’s opening is too small for his clenched fist, and though freedom is just a simple release away, he refuses to let go. Trapped by his own grasp, he remains stuck, unwilling to loosen his grip on what he wants.

So often in life, we find ourselves in a similar struggle. We hold on: to plans, to expectations, to past hurts, loved ones, or even to roles we have played for years, because letting go feels like loss. But what if letting go is the path to freedom, wholeness, or resurrection?

This Sunday, we continue our Lenten journey with the theme “Finishing Faithfully: It Is OK to Let Go.” In Luke 9:43-45, Jesus begins preparing his disciples for the road ahead, but they struggle to grasp what he is saying. In 2 Timothy 4:1-8, Paul, at the end of his ministry, writes with peace and confidence, declaring, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Both passages remind us that faithfulness is not just about perseverance; it is also about trust.

What might God be inviting you to release? What burdens are keeping you from moving forward? I hope you’ll join us as we reflect on these questions together, seeking the courage to trust God with open hands and open hearts.

Brett

Pastor’s Notes 3/28/2025

Posted on by Wende Gonzales

“As members of the Christian Church, We confess that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, and proclaim him Lord and Savior of the world.”

This confession is the opening sentence in the Preamble to the Design of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). It, or a version of it, is used by many Disciples congregations in worship as an affirmation of  faith and a sign of commitment to faithfully serve within the body.

Last Sunday eleven of our faithful stood before the altar and made this proclamation, and in so doing, reaffirmed baptismal vows and claimed Sun City Christian Church as home.

This wasn’t a planned or premeditated arrangement. It all started when Jo Ann Wood, the newest face to enter our doors, arrived and inquired about what she needed to do to belong, to become an active and vital part of the congregation. In five minutes and a wave of conversations, a handful of folks felt compelled to do the same.

Many would have assumed that for most of the 11, this was a confession professed here, long ago. It was a beautiful reminder of the amazing way the Holy Spirit is moving in our midst and that for the love of Christ to be shared, we must willingly step forward and make the proclamation. We are doing that!

This Sunday, we continue our Lenten journey by reflecting on Joseph of Arimathea, the man who stepped forward to care for Jesus’ body after his death. In Luke 23:50-56, Joseph, a quiet but faithful disciple, takes great care in preparing Jesus for burial—an act of both love and devotion. Even when others had fled, Joseph remained.

His actions remind us that faithfulness doesn’t end with death. In fact, how we prepare for and respond to death—our own and that of others—can be one of the clearest expressions of our faith. As Romans 14:7-9 reminds us, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.

This Sunday, we’ll explore how final preparations, whether making arrangements, honoring a loved one, or even considering our own legacy, are sacred acts of faith. Joseph teaches us that discipleship extends beyond life; it is seen in how we honor Christ and one another, even in times of loss.

I look forward to worshipping with you on Sunday!

Brett

Pastor’s Notes 3/21/2025

Posted on by Wende Gonzales

So we are always confident; even though we know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord.  —2 Corinthians 5:6

 As we continue our Lenten journey, we turn our hearts toward the promise that “the end of life is not the end.” This Sunday, we reflect on Finishing Faithfully, drawing from Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 5:1-9, “We have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven” and Jesus’ assurance in John 14:1-4, “I go to prepare a place for you.”

Lent invites us to walk with Christ toward the cross, but it also calls us to trust in the hope of resurrection. In a season of reflection and preparation, we are reminded that our faith is not only for the present but for what lies ahead. How do we live with the confidence that God’s promises extend beyond this life? What does it mean to “finish faithfully” in our relationships, our commitments, and our trust in the Holy?

Recently in worship and fellowship time, we joked together about the risky investment buying ripe bananas can be for an aging congregation like ours! We have earned the right to crack such jokes but there is a reality to be embraced, in that the planning for the future, whether in this early life or life eternal, is never fully complete.

Here are a few questions to ponder between now and worship on Sunday. What gives you assurance when facing uncertainty about the future? How does the hope of God’s eternal presence shape the way you live today? Who has modeled for you what it means to finish life’s journey with faith?

Join us this Sunday as we explore the promise that, as faithful followers of Jesus, death is not the end.

Brett

Pastor’s Notes 3/14/2025

Posted on by Wende Gonzales

Jesus began to weep. -John 11:35

As we journey together in faith, we are reminded that our calling is not only to live well but to finish faithfully, to trust in God’s presence through every season of life, including its closing chapters. This Sunday, Rev. Al Beasley will lead our reflection through John 11 and the story of Lazarus. It is a passage that speaks to grief, hope, and the power of resurrection.

When Jesus arrives at the tomb of his dear friend, he does not rush past the sorrow. Instead, he weeps. In that moment, Jesus shows us that grief is not a failure of faith but an expression of love. He stands in the pain of death, fully present with those who mourn. Yet, he also speaks life into what seems beyond hope: “Lazarus, come out!”

What does this story teach us about finishing faithfully?

  • Jesus honors the reality of death. He does not dismiss its pain or pretend it isn’t hard.
  • Jesus is present with us in grief, reminding us that God walks with us in every loss.
  • Jesus calls us into new life, pointing to hope beyond death, both now and for eternity.

As we consider our own journey of faith, may we be people who face life and death with trust, who weep with those who weep, and who hold onto hope, even when the tomb seems closed.

Join us this Sunday in person or on YouTube! Many blessings.

Brett

Pastor’s Notes 3/7/2025

Posted on by Wende Gonzales

‘This is the land of which I swore to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, saying, “I will give it to your descendants”; I have let you see it with your eyes, but you shall not cross over there.’ Then Moses, the servant of the Lord, died there in the land of Moab, at the Lord’s command. –Deuteronomy 34:4-5

We all know the classic fable of the Tortoise and the Hare—the speedy hare dashes ahead, confident he’s got the race won, while the slow, steady tortoise keeps moving forward. But the hare, full of overconfidence, gets distracted and loses focus. In the end, it’s the tortoise, persistent and unwavering, who crosses the finish line first.

This timeless story reminds us that how we start isn’t as important as how we finish. Endurance, faithfulness, and preparation matter far more than hubris, unsustainable zealousness, and lost focus.

This Sunday, officially kick-off the first Sunday of Lent and our theme, “Finishing Faithfully.” We turn to Deuteronomy 34, where Moses stands atop Mount Nebo, gazing into the Promised Land, a land he has led the Israelites toward for forty years, yet will not enter himself. His journey was long and filled with hardship, but his faithfulness never wavered. Though his role was ending, his preparation ensured the people would continue forward under Joshua’s leadership.

Like Moses, we are all called to prepare for what comes next, not just for ourselves, but for those who will follow. Lent is a season of reflection and preparation, urging us to think about what it means to finish faithfully as Christ’s beloved. This season we will put our penitential energies into ensuring that we finish this earthly life as faithfully as we can. Whether our journey has been smooth and steady or full of detours and distractions, the invitation is the same: keep going. Stay faithful. Prepare well. And trust that God’s promises extend beyond what we can see.

I look forward to worshipping with you in person or on YouTube Sunday as we explore what it means to finish faithfully—to live with purpose, prepare with care, and leave a legacy of love and faith.

Brett

The importance of telling our stories, learning from them, and sharing them with one another.

Posted on by Wende Gonzales

Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good for us to be here; let us set up three tents: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah,” Luke 9:33

As I think back over the memories of my life, there are thousands of times where I wish it could have lasted longer: loved ones laughing, listening to favorite stories, birthdays, holidays, and family gatherings. These are pitch a tent and stay a while, kind of moments.

In Luke 9:28-36, Peter, James, and John witness Jesus’ radiant transformation on the mountaintop. Overwhelmed by the moment, Peter wants to build a dwelling place—to hold on, to remain, to preserve. We, too, long to hold onto the meaningful moments of our lives. This longing isn’t a bad thing, because our stories matter. Our memories shape us.

This Sunday, we will reflect on the importance of telling our stories, learning from them, and sharing them with one another.

As we begin our Lenten series, “Finishing Faithfully,” we invite you to think about the stories of faith, love, and transformation that have shaped your journey. Where has God met you on the mountaintop? How have those moments carried you forward? On Tuesday, March 5th when we gather for our first “Lenten Lunch & Learn,” a writing instructor will guide us through exercises to help us put our stories on paper.

Join us this Sunday for worship in person or on YouTube and stay a while—dwell in the beauty of memory, the power of story, and the presence of God.

Brett

C is for Compassion

Posted on by Wende Gonzales

Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8-9

On Sunday we will continue our sermon Series “Following Jesus From A-Z” and the theme word will be Compassion. It is most fitting that it is also the time of year to receive the Special Day Offering that supports Week Of Compassion.

For 80 years, Week of Compassion has represented our denomination by responding to the needs of God’s people in our country and around the world. The shared work of Week of Compassion matters – to people in crisis, and as people of faith. The gifts we give make an impact around the world, ensuring that the stories, needs, and celebrations of vulnerable communities are heard and seen – and that our whole church is equipped to respond.

According to Rev. Vy T. Nguyen, Executive Directory for Week of Compassion,
“the scriptural qualities that are to be our focus this year– what is honorable, just, pure, pleasing, commendable – are readily found among the people we serve, and the partners with whom we do the work. We praise God for the resilience of people recovering from disaster, navigating resettlement, and surviving the onslaught of war, political and climate crises. With long-standing partnerships around ecumenical tables, especially in times of conflict and division, recovery is a steady and deliberate process. Through Week of Compassion, Disciples commit to the long haul, and keep on about the work before us, undeterred and undistracted.”

Our shared work together as Disciples continues to extend compassion to those in need. This is the reflection of Christ that Paul was modeling to the church in Philippi and it is our calling and purpose as the church today. With compassion, may we continue to faithfully serve God and community together.

I look forward to worshipping with you on YouTube or in person on Sunday,

Brett

Pastor’s Notes 2/14/2025

Posted on by Wende Gonzales

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  Matthew 5:3                   
Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.  Luke 6:20

This Sunday, we continue our “Following Jesus from A-Z” sermon series by exploring what it truly means to be blessed. The world tells us that blessing looks like wealth, success, and ease—but Jesus turns that idea upside down. In both the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1-12) and the Sermon on the Plain (Luke 6:20-26), Jesus proclaims that blessing is found in humility, mercy, justice, and a heart open to God’s kingdom.

Matthew’s version of the Beatitudes presents a vision of discipleship that is deeply spiritual, emphasizing attitudes of the heart, poverty of spirit, a hunger for righteousness, and the call to be peacemakers. Luke’s version, however, is strikingly direct, addressing economic and social realities. And while Matthew speaks only of blessings, Luke adds a series of warnings. Together, these passages remind us that God’s blessing is not about status or wealth, but about trust in God’s justice and mercy.

Recognizing the truly blessed means seeing the world as Jesus sees it. The blessed are not just those who have much, but those who know their need for God. The blessed are not just those who laugh, but those who weep and are met with compassion. The blessed are those who hunger, not just for daily bread but for righteousness.

And if we are to follow Jesus, we are called to stand alongside them and one another for the gospels make it clear that nobody is exempt from being God’s beloved. This means caring for the poor, comforting the grieving, working for justice, and embodying mercy in a world that often prizes power over grace. When we do so we are extending the blessing of God as followers of Jesus.

I look forward to worshipping with you in person or on YouTube this Sunday. Don’t forget to come back at 3:00pm for the Monday Players in concert in Cobbs Hall!