Pastor Brian's Blog

“The Way to Christmas” is a series that follows the events leading to Jesus’ birth.  With stops in Rome, Jerusalem, Nazareth through Judea to Bethlehem, we will trace a spiritual journey that will transform us this hectic time of year.    Most of us long for something better for ourselves and the world, and we are waiting for God’s answer to our prayers.  When we realize we don’t have to do it all, we can experience the joy of God’s work in Christ and see the glory of Christ’s humble birth. December 1 LONGING (Rome) : In Romans 8:18-25 , Paul describes the pain of the present as a form of longing.  We yearn for something better for ourselves and the world.  What are you longing for?  December 8 WAITING (Jerusalem) : In Luke 1:15-17 , Zechariah gets his turn in the Temple and learns that God will fulfill his prayer with the gift of a long-awaited child.  Often, we must wait for God’s answer to our prayers.  When...

In “Asset Management,” we will analyze the portfolio of our lives.  We all have resources of time, money, relationships, and talents.  Through the ups and downs of daily life, we are managers of all God’s gifts.  In this series, we will explore investment options guided by our faith that will help us make the most of all that God puts in our care.  November 3 MANAGING TIME : In Mark 1:29-39 , Jesus orders his daily life to model a healthy work-life balance, allowing for time for others and time with God.  An excessive focus on work can take time away from nurturing family, personal interests, and our spiritual life.  God gives us a limited amount of time, so we must focus.  When has work displaced other important things in your life? November 10 MANAGING GIFTS : In John 6:1-13 , Jesus challenges the disciples to feed a hungry crowd.  God uses our gifts to bless others.  Everything we have is gift meant to be shared...

Consecration Sunday is November 10, 2019. Our Guest Leader this year is Rev. Greta Schumm McDonald, a retired United Methodist pastor in the Northern Illinois Conference with 41 years of ministry serving various communities, including Elizabeth, Libertyville, New Lenox, and Downers Grove.  She received her M.Div. from Iliff School of Theology in Denver, where she met her husband, James McDonald, who is also a retired United Methodist pastor.  In October, consider attending a Home Gathering, a social event (about one hour) in the informal setting of a home where friends and members of Trinity Church can get better acquainted and reinforce their sense of gratitude.  Sign up for the date and time that works best for you ( click here ). Sample 2020 Estimate of Giving Card On Consecration Sunday, Nov. 10, you are invited to one of the Celebration Meals after worship, which will be a special prepared meal, not a potluck. Reservations for the brunch (9:3...

In October, I will lead a 4-week series called “Grateful.”   It is based  on Diana Butler Bass' book, Grateful: The Transformative Power of Giving Thanks . Bass believes that a life of thankfulness creates the possibility of hope, joy, and love. Gratitude shapes who we are, guides our choices, and promotes a good society. In this series, we will explore the personal and social dimensions of gratitude that make us more aware of what is sacred in life and help us to be more committed to justice.   We feel gratitude when we receive a gift or encounter grace.   Gratitude is a choice that we can cultivate.   Shared gratitude promotes community and the common good.   Gratitude leads to a good society of mutual enrichment through giving and receiving. October 6 Grateful Hearts   Matthew 26:26-30 October 13 Grateful Habits Luke 17:11-18 October 20 Grateful Together Colossians 3:15-17 October 27 Grateful Circles Lu...