Pastor’s Message (Page 24)

Are you acting out?

This Sunday we start a new series, called “Acting Out,” through the book of Acts. For the next ten weeks we’ll be studying the amazing work of God as the Holy Spirit transformed the early church from being a disorganized band of discouraged and defeated disciples into an unstoppable force that continues to turn the…

Come heaven or high water

Dear Valley Church family,   Once upon a time there were two very religious men who lived in the same city that was flooded by a storm. The first man was poor and was caught in rising floodwaters. He climbed onto the roof of his house and trusted God to rescue him. A neighbor came…

Hug or Tug?

Dear Church Family, This Saturday, across the country, people will play tug-o-war in parks and playgrounds. As you know, tug-o-war is lots of fun at parties and picnics, but lousy in personal relationships. It’s miserable to feel tension and tugging with others in our homes and churches. Can we experience tenderness and hugging instead of…

Have you ever slipped?

When we were first married, Valorie and I had a little Subaru four-wheel-drive wagon. It didn’t have much power, but it was perfect for taking us up into the mountains. One weekend we were going backpacking with some friends in the Desolation Wilderness area. These steep mountains and deep valleys with beautiful lakes and streams…

What does it take to astonish you?

In this day and age of overwhelming visual experiences, it takes a lot to make us say, “Wow!”.  At the Fourth of July celebration in Central Park, we could hear the “ooohs” and “ahhhs” as showers of brightly colored fireworks filled the sky. People quickly pointed out their favorites as the show went on.  At the finale, I felt myself getting overwhelmed by…

Diving in!

It was a beautiful summer day at Hume Lake Christian Camp. High school student Connor Williamson was having fun on the beach with his friends like so many others have done over the years.  Connor was at camp with West Hills Community Church in Morgan Hill where was an active member and played drums in the worship band. Connor looked at the inviting water…