Do Not Be Afraid, I Am With You | January 4, 2026

This powerful message centers on Isaiah 43's profound promise: 'When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.' We're reminded that God doesn't just know about us—He knows us by name, personally and intimately. The sermon challenges us to recognize God's presence not just in the dramatic moments, but in the everyday near-misses and small mercies we often overlook. Whether it's narrowly avoiding an accident at a red light or remembering just enough to pass an unexpected test, God's redemptive hand is at work. The call here is urgent: we've become too comfortable being 'Sunday Christians' while the rest of the week we drift away from our vision of the kingdom. We're challenged to move beyond social programs and good deeds—as important as they are—to actually share Jesus Christ with those around us. The parable of the sower reminds us that seeds must be planted, and the woman who poured out expensive perfume shows us what it means to be 'spilled out' in abandon for God. This message asks us the hard question: have we lost our vision? Are we so focused on getting through school, climbing the career ladder, and reaching retirement that we forget to actually live for Christ today? God calls us to be light-bearers right where we are, not someday or somewhere else, but in this moment with our families, coworkers, and communities.