[x_feature_headline type=”left” level=”h1″ looks_like=”h1″ icon=”road”]The Power of Story[/x_feature_headline]
The season of Epiphany is our invitation to participate in the Incarnation of Jesus. Through January and February we will be hearing the Bible Stories of Jesus’s light as He shines on His people. In worship we will read through the Sermon on the Mount and some of the radical teachings of our Lord. The beauty of Jesus and the power of the Incarnation is that Jesus’ story is not over yet. His story is renewed each day in His people. His story is renewed in you.

If you have been around St. John’s for a while—or even if you are new—the truth is that there are some really stellar people that call this place their home. We are blessed with so many wonderful saints of the Lord who live their faith in exciting and powerful ways. During Epiphany we will be sharing just a few stories of some of these amazing people. We have video recordings of some special people and I am excited for you to hear a little about how God has used them in a variety of ways and situations. Throughout January and February there will be opportunities for you to watch these video stories. Some of them will be shown on Sunday morning in the 10:45 worship service. All of them will be available on our website and through social media. The reason is simple: we want to live into Psalm 107:2.

Stories are powerful. They are a window into the soul and they create a turbine of power and courage. Stories move people. They inspire people. And they help people to glimpse and dream about what could be. As the people who are redeemed by our Lord, we have a story to tell. Yes, our collective story is of a manger, a cross, and a tomb. But, how these elements are enacted in our own lives is as unique as each person. These video interviews tell of how people have overcome great difficulties; stepped forward in faith and were surprised; and of how faith has changed their lives in remarkable and scary ways.

One hope is that, in sharing stories, you might be better prepared to answer the question, “What’s my story?” Also, you might be able to better identify where the Lord of Heaven and Earth is at work in your past, present, and future. Stories also have the ability to shape culture and community. They lift up and celebrate what a community holds as important. These videos offer a glimpse into this and they shine light into the darkness.

Finally, my hope is that these stories, and the people who are courageously living their faith, might inspire you. The challenge is simple. Through these next 2 months ponder and move to take one small step forward in faith. What is your ‘one small step?’

Together we will Reform our Culture; Reclaim our Identity; and Reframe our Story.

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Pastor Scott Ness

Pastor Scott Ness loves stories and finding ways to use ordinary, everyday life to point to our amazing God. He strives to see with eyes of faith. He fails consistently. Through it all, God remains faithful and full of grace. When Pastor Scott isn't running around the church he is often found at home with his wife, Deanna and their six children.