As we begin 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting, this message launches our Draw Near series with a simple but challenging invitation: be still. Using the story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10 and Jesus’ words in John 15, we are reminded that fruitfulness does not come from striving or religious effort, but from abiding in Christ.

In this sermon from the Draw Near series, Pastor Josh Hersey teaches from Luke 7:36-50, unpacking the story of the sinful woman with the alabaster jar and the Pharisee who invited Jesus into his home but failed to honor Him. This message explores the difference between surface-level faith and full surrender, revealing how religious familiarity can keep Jesus in the courtyard of our lives while true repentance leads us to worship at His feet. Through rich biblical context, this teaching answers questions about what surrender to Jesus really looks like, the meaning of true repentance, and why the gospel is not about self-righteousness but humility, grace, and love.

As our church concludes 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting, we pause to do something essential before moving forward: remember Jesus. In this message, we look at Acts 2 and 1 Corinthians 11 to rediscover the heart of communion not as routine or ritual, but as a sacred act of devotion that shapes how we live, love, and stay anchored to Christ beyond the fast.