Pastor Stephen Dedman

June 17, 2025

Then He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach,
‭‭Mark‬ ‭3‬:‭14‬

Just as Jesus chose twelve ordinary men, He extends an invitation to each of us today. In the midst of our busy lives, responsibilities, and distractions, He calls us to spend time with Him daily. He desires to be our constant companion, guiding us, comforting us, and revealing the truths of His kingdom.

Being with Jesus allows us to witness firsthand His compassion for the broken, His wisdom in handling challenges, and His unwavering faith in God the Father. As we walk with Him, we learn invaluable lessons, not just for ourselves but also to share with others.

We have a special purpose as disciples of Christ. We are not called to walk alone or merely perform tasks in our own strength. We are called to be with Him, to abide in His love, and to allow His truth to shape every aspect of our lives.

Have you responded to Jesus’ invitation wholeheartedly? It is a privilege to be one of His followers.

Pray

Lord, thank You for calling me to be one of Your followers. Help me to embrace Your presence so that I will grow close to You. Give me the courage to follow You wholeheartedly. In Jesus’ name, amen.

June 16, 2025

Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!
‭‭II Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭15‬

It’s easy to get caught up in our daily routines and forget to pause and reflect on the many blessings that surround us. Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to cultivate a spirit of gratitude and thanksgiving, recognizing that every good and perfect gift comes from our Heavenly Father.

In today’s verse, Paul is referring to the ultimate gift of God’s grace and salvation through Jesus Christ. It is a gift so profound, so extraordinary, that words alone cannot fully express its magnitude.

As we reflect on this verse, let us consider three key aspects of God’s indescribable gift:

  1. The Gift of Grace: The gift that Paul refers to is none other than the gift of God’s grace extended to us through Jesus Christ. It is a gift that we could never earn or deserve, yet God freely offers it to us out of His great love and mercy. Through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, we are forgiven of our sins and reconciled to God, receiving the gift of eternal life.
  2. The Gift of Salvation: In addition to grace, God’s indescribable gift includes the gift of salvation. Through faith in Jesus Christ, we are saved from the power of sin and death, and we are adopted into God’s family as His beloved children. This salvation is not just for this life but extends into eternity, offering us hope and assurance for the future.
  3. The Gift of Relationship: Ultimately, God’s indescribable gift is the gift of relationship with Him. Through Jesus Christ, we are invited into a deep and intimate relationship with our Heavenly Father. We are able to experience His presence, His love, and His peace in our lives, knowing that we are never alone.

As we contemplate the indescribable gift of God’s grace and salvation, let us respond with overflowing thanks and praise. May our hearts be filled with gratitude for the incredible blessings that God has bestowed upon us, and may we seek to live lives that reflect the depth of His love and the richness of His grace.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your indescribable gift of grace and salvation. Help me to never take for granted the profound sacrifice that was made on my behalf. Fill my heart with gratitude and thanksgiving, and may I live each day in response to Your amazing love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

June 15, 2025

The Lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭103‬:‭13‬

Father’s Day is a special opportunity to honor the men who have been a reflection of God’s heart, those who have provided, protected, taught, and loved us, whether biologically, spiritually, or by their faithful example. In Psalm 103:13, we see a powerful comparison: just as a father shows compassion to his children, so God shows compassion to us.

This verse doesn’t just tell us what fathers do, it points to who God is. A godly father reflects the heart of the Heavenly Father in his care and concern. He doesn’t rule with fear, but with mercy. He doesn’t demand perfection, but walks with patience, knowing growth takes time.

Being a father doesn’t mean being emotionless or hard. It means showing love, even in correction, and having a heart that breaks when your child struggles. Just like God is full of mercy, a father’s compassion builds trust and security in his children.

Maybe your father wasn’t what he should have been. Or maybe you’ve lost your father, or never knew him. Know this: God is a perfect Father. He sees you, knows you, and cares deeply for you. Psalm 68:5 says He is “a father to the fatherless.”

And to those who are spiritual fathers, mentors, teachers, pastors, big brothers… you are making a difference. Your example matters.

Pray

Lord, thank You for showing us what true fatherhood looks like. Help every father to reflect Your love and compassion. Strengthen the weary dad, encourage the discouraged one, and guide the one who wants to lead well. Heal those who carry pain from father wounds, and help us all to look to You as our perfect Father. In Jesus’ name, amen.