This past Sunday, we kicked off our Summer Reading sermon series with a message inspired by Will Guidara’s book Unreasonable Hospitality and the story of Jesus and Zacchaeus in Luke 19:1-10. We talked about the radical welcome Jesus offers—not just to those who expect it, but to those who least deserve it. And we were reminded that true hospitality isn’t just about hosting people at our tables—it’s about seeing people, loving them, and making room in our lives for them in ways that reflect the heart of Christ.

In case you missed it, here’s the hotdog story and the inspiration for Unreasonable Hospitality directly from Will Guidara:

This coming Sunday, we’ll take that idea a step further as we turn to the books Collaborating with the Enemy by Adam Kahane and High Conflict by Amanda Ripley. These authors challenge us to rethink how we approach disagreement, division, and those tough relationships we’d rather avoid, something Paul addresses directly in  Romans 12:17-21. Our focus this Sunday will center on this single, powerful verse:

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”

And here’s the hard truth: it always depends on you.

In a world increasingly shaped by division, tribalism, and us-vs-them thinking, we are called to a better way, the way of peace, humility, and radical grace, this is the way of Jesus. My message will not be easy. But I believe it will be essential for us. Because peace doesn’t happen by accident—it happens when you and I, as disciples of Jesus Christ decide to live differently.

So whether you’re in conflict, exhausted by division, or longing to make a difference in a broken world, join us this Sunday. Let’s walk this road together, toward becoming disciples of Jesus Christ and a church that lives and loves like Jesus. 

God bless,
Jonathan
For Jesus. For People. For Community.