Advent is not normally the season in the Christian calendar that we talk about trials/suffering (looking at you, Lent). But trials are a normative and, arguably, necessary part of our formation. 1 Peter 1:3-9 gives us a unique look at how our looking forward to the second Advent can help us navigate those trials.

Luke 1:46-55 gives us a front row seat to the Holy Spirit taking what Mary had already held in high regard in her heart (i.e. the Scriptures) and weaving it into a hallowed tapestry. This profoundly theological song shows us that renewal begins with worship, brings reversal, and lasts with remembering.

The message of John 21 explores how Jesus meets us in our ordinary moments, restores us from our failures, and calls us to run the unique race He has set before us. Discover the power of Christ’s enduring presence and how the Gospel continues to shape our lives and bring glory to God.

The resurrection is not only an event to be celebrated but a reality to be lived. It is the dawn of new creation that calls us to hope, a summons to a personal encounter with Jesus that invites us to faith, and Christ's commission that sends us forth in love.

John 19 emphasizes the profound sovereignty of Christ in his crucifixion, revealing how even in his suffering, every detail was part of God’s eternal plan for redemption. John highlights Christ’s compassion on the cross, his substitutionary death for sinners, and the fulfillment of Scripture, calling believers to trust in the completed work of Christ and embrace the community formed by his atoning sacrifice.

Christ’s kingdom flips worldly power structures on their head: it is a kingdom of peace, not violence; humility, not arrogance; love, not domination. Christ’s kingdom, while politically charged, brings about change through love, self-sacrifice, and hope for a renewed world.

Happy Fall and Winter, City Parish! We’ve got some exciting things coming up that we want to remind everyone of…

John 18:1-11 explores how Jesus intentionally chose the location of his betrayal, demonstrating his sovereign control over his surroundings, his enemies, and the suffering he would endure, ultimately revealing the profound mystery and hope of the gospel.