All In - Week 1
Week 1 Recap:
All In: A Call to Authentic Faith and Commitment
Introduction: The journey of faith is often likened to stepping into a river—once you’re in, there’s no turning back. We’re passionately calling the congregation to be “All In” for 2025. Through stories of thrill-seeking adventures, candid confessions, and a heartfelt appeal to authenticity, this message challenges us to fully commit to our faith and community. Lets explore what it means to live a life that’s truly “All In.”
Thrill-Seeking Commitment: Lessons from the Rapids: The story of riding Bull Sluice, a challenging Class IV rapid, was a vivid illustration of commitment. Once you’re on the raft, there’s no room for hesitation—you’re all in. Similarly, our faith journey requires a full embrace. Just as rafters must work together to navigate treacherous waters, believers must unite in purpose and action. This thrilling experience reminds us that commitment isn’t passive; it demands courage, collaboration, and trust.
Authenticity: Real Inside and Out: One of the sermon’s central themes was authenticity. Pastor Mac humorously recounted receiving a counterfeit Rolex, which looked perfect on the outside but lacked the genuine craftsmanship within. This analogy served as a sobering reminder: outward appearances mean little if our hearts are not aligned with God. Authentic faith involves being honest about our struggles, seeking forgiveness, and living transparently—not merely acting like Christians but truly being Christ-followers.
Walking in the Light: Drawing from 1 John 1:4-7, the sermon emphasizes the importance of living in the light. To walk in the light means to be fully known by God and others, embracing vulnerability and accountability. By bringing our struggles into the open, we disarm the enemy and free ourselves from shame. Authentic relationships and fellowship flourish when we embrace this transparency.
Giving Generously - An Expression of Commitment: Pastor Mac’s challenge to give wasn’t about numbers but about cultivating a mindset of obedience and generosity. He painted a vision of a thriving church community—one with robust children’s programs, youth spaces, and impactful outreach—all made possible through collective giving. Whether it’s a dollar or a tithe, the act of giving is a tangible way to demonstrate an “All In” lifestyle. It’s less about the amount and more about the heart behind it.
A Call to Action: Stepping Up in 2025: From running ministries to volunteering in small but meaningful ways, the message was clear: the church thrives when everyone plays their part. The pastor’s vulnerability in sharing his struggles with stepping into uncomfortable roles reinforced the theme of total commitment. Being “All In” means moving beyond comfort zones to serve the greater mission.
Conclusion: As we step into a new year, the challenge is set: Will you be “All In” for 2025? This isn’t about perfection but about pursuit—of authenticity, fellowship, generosity, and service. Like the rafters navigating Bull Sluice, we’re called to paddle together, fully committed to the journey ahead. When held up to the light, may we be found genuine, living lives that reflect the joy and purpose of walking with Christ.
