This Sunday, July 26, we close out our summer series, You Are, Because I Am, with “You Are Bold, Because I Am Strong” from Joshua 1:1-9. Right before Joshua leads Israel into completely unfamiliar territory, God tells him plainly: “Be strong and courageous… for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
All summer we’ve been tracing that same shape: Our identity (who we are and what we do) flows out of who God already is. That doesn’t stop being true the moment we walk out the doors Sunday and back into the rhythm of the school year.
And that rhythm is exactly where we’re headed next. On August 2, we kick off the fall with a series that’s a little more playful than usual: Behind the Magic. As kids head back to school and routines reset, we’re using something the whole family already knows, Walt Disney World, as a lens for the basics of our faith. It’s meant to be fun, approachable, and a great way to invite a friend or neighbor who’s looking for an easy way back into church.
Here’s what’s ahead in the series:
- August 2 — Please Stand Clear of the Doors (Por Favor Manténgase Alejado De Las Puertas)
John 10:1-10: Jesus isn’t only the one who opens the door; Jesus is the door. - August 9 — The Wildest Ride in the Wilderness
Exodus 13:17-22: Life, like the wilderness, may feel wild, but God is still leading us. - August 16 — Dead Men Tell No Tales
Romans 6:1-11: In Christ, the old self dies, but the redeemed life tells a new story. - August 23 — The Eighth Wonder Of The World: Backside of Water
John 4:7-15: Sometimes God changes our lives by helping us see what’s been in front of us all along. - August 30 — Here We Go!
Matthew 28:19-20: Wesley Student Sunday: God is sending us out to love and serve the world. - September 6 — There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow
Revelation 21:5: Christian hope isn’t wishful thinking; it’s confidence that God is making all things new.
Whether you’ve got kids heading back to the classroom or you’re just ready for a fresh season, come be part of it.
God bless, and see you Sunday!
Jonathan Smith
For Jesus. For People. For Community.