Worship last weekend was powerful as we ended our series Heaven on Earth. I invited all who wanted to be baptized or reaffirm their baptism to come forward. What followed was inspiring. Across our sites we had over 150 people come forward to be baptized, reaffirm their baptism or commit to membership at The Gathering. All of these represent steps to follow Christ, not just through our words, but i...  Read More

Life is full of endless choices. Before you’ve even made it out the door in the morning, you’ve likely chosen what to wear, what to have for breakfast, whether to work out or not, what route to take to work or school…and you’re only a few hours into your day! Most of the choices we make might seem insignificant, but some can have lasting, even profound effects.This Sunday, we’re all going to have ...  Read More

The Gathering only grows when you are willing to take a step forward in your own faith. Our church is in a season of change, development, and growth, and that means opportunities for all of you to grow with us! Here are three specific invitations I hope you’ll consider right now in the life of our church.This weekend, our West County site is having a preview worship service. It will be their first...  Read More

What if I told you there is a sermon online that has over 10 billion views since being posted? This sermon, only a little over 20 minutes long, has been used as the basis for laws and governments, influencing world leaders. The sermon has been debated and studied by ethicists, philosophers, lawyers, and theologians. The sermon has been quoted at least a trillion times, the most viral words in the ...  Read More

There are TWO big things happening this weekend.First, today is obviously an important one for our country. On its 250th anniversary, I am reminded of both the power and promise of the United States. Living here is a blessing and an ongoing mission, something we ought to be grateful for even as we accept the work of ensuring this country’s blessings for all people. Today, I hope each of us can giv...  Read More

I am going to confess something. Taking time off is hard for me. I know some of you think that sounds wild, but I suspect a few of you understand. First, I love my work and so it is not something I want to escape. Secondly, I like my days to have structure, a plan, and activity. I like to feel like I have accomplished something. Finally, and this one is the most difficult to admit, I have a lot of...  Read More