Category: Riley’s Messages

  • Servanthood

    In today’s society, the idea of servanthood can feel out of place. We are often driven to pursue power, prestige, and acknowledgment. Yet, the Bible offers a contrasting viewpoint, emphasizing that genuine greatness is discovered through serving others. Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of servanthood. In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus teaches His disciples…

  • Servant Leaders

    Distinguishing Between a Leader and a Servant-Leader Leadership in contemporary society is frequently linked to power, authority, and control. Yet, Scripture offers a contrasting perspective, one that highlights humility, service, and love as the cornerstone of true leadership. This approach, referred to as servant-leadership, challenges conventional norms and invites us to reimagine leadership through biblical…

  • A Biblical Approach to stress management

    Stress is an unavoidable part of life, impacting each of us differently. In small doses, it can be beneficial, sharpening our focus and motivating us to accomplish important tasks. However, chronic stress can be overwhelming and detrimental, affecting not only us but also those we care about. In this discussion, we’ll explore how the Bible…

  • Trusting God’s Path Over Our Own

    In our faith journey, we frequently encounter moments where we must choose between pursuing our own ambitions or placing our trust in God’s divine plan. The Bible offers countless examples and lessons that emphasize the significance of aligning our will with God’s purpose. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to, “Trust in the Lord with all your…

  • Easter: The Garden of Gethsemane

    As we journey through the events leading up to Easter, one significant moment stands out: Jesus’ time in the Garden of Gethsemane. Gethsemane, located at the foot of the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, is where Jesus spent His final hours before His arrest. The name “Gethsemane” means “oil press,” symbolizing the intense pressure Jesus…

  • Jesus or Barabbas

    A Reflection of the Passover Lamb Let’s explore for a connection between two pivotal events in the Bible: the crowd’s choice between Jesus and Barabbas, and the selection of the Passover lamb. These narratives are steeped in symbolism, offering deep reflections on sacrifice, redemption, and deliverance. The Passover lamb is central to the Jewish celebration…

  • Barriers to Christian Growth

    In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to become consumed by the hustle and demands of everyday life. We often find ourselves balancing work, family, and social obligations, barely pausing to catch our breath. While being busy can foster productivity, it can also hinder our spiritual growth by pulling our focus away from deepening our relationship…

  • Easter: Monday

    Reflecting on Leviticus 23:36 Leviticus 23:36 states, “For seven days you shall present food offerings to the Lord. On the eighth day, you shall hold a holy convocation and present a food offering to the Lord. It is a solemn assembly; you shall not do any ordinary work.” This verse is part of the instructions…

  • Easter: Sunday

    The Stone Rolled Away for Us Easter is a time of celebration and reflection for Christians around the world. It’s the day we commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a pivotal event that changed the course of history. One of the most profound aspects of the Easter story is the rolling away of the stone…

  • Loving Your Enemies

    A Reflection on Matthew 5:43-48 In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus presents a radical and transformative teaching that challenges our natural inclinations and societal norms. Matthew 5:43-48 reads: “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who…

  • Easter: Good Friday

    Continuing our Easter message, we arrive at Good Friday. This is yet another chance to go beyond familiar church traditions and focus deeply on scripture, ensuring we don’t let rituals overshadow the profound truths within God’s Word. The Day of Ultimate Sacrifice Good Friday, also known as “Holy or Sacred Friday,” is a day of…

  • Easter: Maundy Thursday

    Continuing our Easter message, we arrive at Maundy Thursday. This is a chance to go beyond familiar church traditions and focus deeply on scripture, ensuring we don’t let rituals overshadow the profound truths within God’s Word. Maundy Thursday, or the “Great and Holy Thursday,” comes from a Latin word that means “a new ‘commandment’ I…