Category Archives: Ministry

By Brian Ochsner, Sully Christian Reformed Church pastor (Excerpted from a sermon on James 1:1-8) “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, when you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Persever-ance must finish its work so that you may be mature…” (1 Peter 1:2-4). Why on earth...

Thought: Scandinavian saying, “Faith is a bird that feels dawn breaking and sings while it is still dark.” Readings from Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 A kindergarten teacher gave her class a show and tell assignment. Each student was instructed to bring an object to share with the class that represented his or her religion. On the day the assignment...

Every year as the calendar turns from one year to the next, I always look forward to new challenges and resolutions for the year. Most of the time these resolutions revolve around exercising and trying to limit my Mountain Dew intake. However, this year I find myself looking back more than forward. Maybe you find...

Happy Thanksgiving! The holiday season is upon us. After a wonderful spring, summer, and fall, we were all surprised with the early arrival of old- man winter a bit too soon. The time for family, travel, dinners, and yes, naps and football are all put into place and planned for “Turkey Day.” This is a special...

By Brian Ochsner, Sully Christian Reformed Church pastor In her book, “Jesus Calling,” author Sarah Young writes, “When you are around other people, you tend to cater to their expectations—real or imagined. You feel enslaved to pleasing them, and your awareness of [Jesus’] presence grows dim. Your efforts to win their approval eventually exhaust you.” We would...