This message launches the “Next” series with a simple foundation for following Jesus: be with Jesus, become like Jesus, and be on mission with Jesus. Rich teaches from John 15 that fruitfulness doesn’t come from striving—it comes from remaining (abiding) in Christ. He also challenges us to confront the quiet threat of distraction and ask, “Who or what is discipling you?” As we begin 21 Days of Prayer, this is an invitation to re-center your life on intimacy with Jesus and take a clear next step.

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Christmas is more than a baby in a manger—it’s Immanuel: God with us. In this message, Rich shows how God brings peace through His presence now, while promising full peace later when Jesus returns.

If your hope has felt shaky—or life has felt heavy—this is for you.

In this message:

• Why hope is essential (and what happens when “hope → nope”)

• The longing for peace at the first Christmas

• The angels’ announcement: Jesus is Savior, Messiah, and Lord

• Why peace doesn’t mean no storms—it means Jesus is present

• The “already, but not yet” reality of God’s peace

• A bold prayer from Romans 16:20: “God of peace, crush what’s crushing me/us.”

• 3 ways to hope in the “not yet”:

  1. Turn your waiting into worship

  2. Let your pain point you to His promise

  3. Live like you know the end of the story

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When life feels like a storm, you’re not alone. In Mark 4, Jesus calms the storm—and reminds us that God is with us even when the waves are loud. In this message, Rich shares how Christmas points to Emmanuel (“God with us,” Matthew 1:23) and how real peace isn’t found in perfect circumstances—it’s found in Jesus’ presence (John 14:27).

Scripture: Mark 4:35–41 • Matthew 1:23 • John 14:27

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