There's a thread of history in the Bible that's easy to miss unless you're looking for it. It begins with a young man named Joseph, the favorite son of Jacob. His jealous brothers threw him into a well and sold him into slavery in Egypt. But God was at work in Joseph's life. After years of hardship, Joseph rose to power, becoming second only to Pharaoh himself. When famine hit the land, it was Joseph who saved not only Egypt but also his own family—the very brothers who had betrayed him.

That's how Jacob's family, the Israelites, ended up in Egypt. And over generations, they grew from a small family to a large population. But then, Scripture says, "a new king arose over Egypt, who did not know Joseph" (Exodus 1:8). The people who had once been honored guests became enslaved. The impact of Joseph's leadership and faithfulness was forgotten.

It's a cautionary tale. Even the greatest stories of faith and service can fade from memory if they are not lived out in the present. It raises a tough question for today's churches and for all of us who seek to do good: What have we done lately?

Churches often take pride in their history. And rightly so. Many have deep roots of service, worship, and outreach. But if we're not careful, we can spend so much time looking back that we forget to look around. Are we still feeding the hungry? Are we still speaking up for justice? Are we still showing love to the outsider?

And to those who’ve drifted away from church—or perhaps never felt connected in the first place—this story may still speak. Maybe you haven’t seen the church at work lately, and wondered, What difference does it make anymore?  That’s a valid question. But maybe—just maybe--you are part of the answer.  What lives might be changed if you found a faith community and joined your efforts with theirs?

The Israelites weren’t forgotten forever. God called Moses—a reluctant leader with a checkered past—and used him to bring the Israelites to freedom. But it started when someone showed up. Someone listened. Someone said yes.  Maybe today, that person is you.

Whether you're a longtime church member or someone searching for meaning, you don’t have to have all the answers. But your compassion, your voice, your willingness to serve—those might be exactly what’s missing right now. You could be the one who reminds the world what the church can be.

Because no matter how powerful the story of the past may be, the real question is always: What are we doing now?
 

Driving home from Mitchell last week, I was reminded of one of those humorous South Dakota truths: we really only have two seasons—winter and construction. We are well into construction season now and though we may mutter under our breath in frustration as we bounce down a recently torn up road or follow a long line of traffic merging into a single lane, we all know that this is an important season. Without a careful plan of maintenance and repair, our roads would become unusable.

So as I waited, not so patiently, in that long line on highway 81, my mind began to wander and it struck me: construction season is actually a pretty good metaphor for life. We are all under construction, and just like roadwork, our own personal growth involves disruption, delays, and detours.  But the good news is that God has a plan, even when we can’t see the next step.  God sees the whole map and knows where every detour leads.  We are reminded of this in Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

As you live through your own construction zones—those times when you feel like everything is being torn up or rearranged, unexpected challenges come up, or things just seem to be in the way, remember that you are not alone.  The truth is, we’re all a work in progress. Sometimes, that progress is slow and messy. But that doesn’t mean God has stopped working.

And one of the gifts God gives us during our construction season is community. A church family can be like a good road crew—helping to steady us when the path is rough, walking with us through detours, and reminding us to trust the plan. We support one another, pray for one another, and sometimes hold up a sign that says, “caution” or “slow.”

Construction zones are inconvenient and often things get worse before they become better. But they have a purpose.  In the same way, the struggles we go through can shape us, stretch us, and strengthen us. Romans 5 says, “Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” I don’t know about you, but that gives me comfort. God isn’t just patching up potholes—He’s building something lasting in us.

So the next time you’re stuck behind a line of traffic or rerouted by a road crew, maybe say a little prayer—not just for safe roads, but for a patient and willing spirit. Because in the end, we’re all under construction and with God in charge of the project, it will be worth the wait.

There is one incredible Bible story that many people know well. It has made its way into cartoons, kids’ movies, literature, and even everyday sayings. It’s the story of a man named Jonah and his encounter with a big fish.

It’s an exciting, adventurous tale that captures children’s attention and teaches simple lessons about listening to God. But it’s also a story filled with complicated emotions and deeper truths - lessons that speak just as powerfully to adults. And it’s one of those “grown-up” lessons that we consider today.

The story begins with God calling Jonah to go to the city of Nineveh and warn the people that their wickedness has not gone unnoticed. But Jonah doesn’t want the job. He knows the reputation of the Ninevites. They are lawless. They are enemies. He wants nothing to do with them. So he runs.
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Soon we find Jonah on a ship headed in the opposite direction. A storm comes. Jonah is tossed overboard and swallowed by a giant fish. There, in the belly of the beast, Jonah prays in desperation. He asks God for forgiveness. God hears him and offers grace. Jonah is spit out onto dry land, and this time, he obeys.

Jonah enters Nineveh with a short message: “Forty days more, and Nineveh shall be overthrown.” No long sermon. No dramatic plea. Just a warning. nd then, something amazing happens. The people actually listen. They fast. They repent. They change. And God, seeing their sincerity, forgives them.

Jonah should be overjoyed. But he’s furious. “This is why I didn’t want to come,” he says. “I knew you’d forgive them. I knew you were gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.”

Let that sink in. Jonah had just, days before, received that same love and mercy. He was rescued and forgiven after running away. But now, when others receive grace, he can’t stand it.

That’s the part of the story we don’t always remember. Jonah liked God’s mercy when it was for him. He struggled when it was for them.

It’s easy to do the same today. We welcome second chances for ourselves or for people we love. But what about people who have hurt us? People who’ve made mistakes in the public eye? People whose values or lifestyles clash with ours? Can we accept that God’s mercy might be for them, too?

At the end of the story, God asks Jonah, “Should I not be concerned about Nineveh?” It’s a question that still matters. Because God’s mercy isn’t just for the deserving or the familiar. It’s for everyone. And thank goodness it is, because all of us, at one point or another, have been in need of a second chance.
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If you’ve ever needed one—or struggled to accept that others might need one too—you’re not alone. People just like you gather each week in communities of faith to be reminded of grace, to wrestle with life’s hard questions, and to grow in compassion together. You’re always welcome to join us.

This time of year, I like to plant seeds in my house. There’s something deeply satisfying about watching small pots, seemingly filled with nothing but dirt, slowly come to life. At first, there’s no visible change. But then, tiny green shoots push through the soil, stretch toward the light, and grow into strong plants ready for the garden.

As I planted seeds last week and dreamed of eventually harvesting a tomato, pepper, or squash, I was reminded about faith and how it, too, begins small and requires the right conditions to flourish.

When we first come to faith, no matter our age, we are like newly planted seeds. We need nourishment—prayer, scripture, and the encouragement of others—to take root and grow. At first, our understanding of God may be simple, much like a seedling’s first leaves. We see His presence in the beauty of nature: in the warmth of the sun, the glow of the stars, and the rhythm of the seasons.

Psalm 8 captures this early wonder:
"Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!
When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars, which you have set in place,
what is mankind that you are mindful of them,
human beings that you care for them?"

But faith, like a plant, is meant to grow. And just as a plant needs rich soil and careful tending, we need a nurturing community to support us in faith. The love and prayers of others help us stand strong, especially when the storms of life come.

Psalm 29 reminds us that God is present in both beauty and power:
"The voice of the LORD is powerful;
The voice of the LORD strikes with flashes of lightning.
The voice of the LORD shakes the desert."

Life brings its share of storms—unexpected hardships, disappointments, moments of uncertainty. But just as storms bring the rain that strengthens plants, trials strengthen our faith. We learn to rely on God not only in peaceful moments but also when the winds rage around us. And in those moments, the presence of a loving faith community can make all the difference.

Yet, the same God who commands the storm also speaks peace. After the thunder, He calms the skies. After the struggle, He gives us rest.

Spring reminds us of this truth. We see God’s handiwork in the tulips and budding trees, but we also find Him in the spring storms. The same God who formed the universe walks beside us, guiding us through every season.

So in this time of new growth, may we open our hearts to God’s presence. May we stand in awe of His power yet rest in His peace. The God of the storm is also the God of stillness, calling us to trust, to hope, and to grow together in the fullness of His love.

Have you ever followed advice that seemed right at the time, only to realize later that it led you down the wrong path? In today’s world, we are constantly surrounded by voices—friends, media, influencers, and even our own inner thoughts—each offering guidance on how to live, what to value, and what choices to make. But how do we know which voices to trust?

The Bible provides wisdom on this very question. In Jeremiah 17, the prophet contrasts two types of people: one who trusts in human wisdom alone, becoming like a shrub in the desert, and one who trusts in the Lord, flourishing like a tree by the water, free from fear and full of life. This contrast challenges us to reflect on the voices we follow. Are we listening to the right sources, or are we relying on advice that leads us astray?

An old TV show, Leave It to Beaver, offers a lighthearted but insightful example of misguided influence. The main character, Beaver, often followed the advice of his brother’s friend, Eddie Haskell. Eddie, though charming, led Beaver into trouble with his schemes. Beaver, eager to fit in or have fun, would listen to Eddie—usually ending up in some mess. While the problem always came to a happy conclusion for Beaver, the truth is that real life isn’t a sitcom.  Bad advice can have real consequences in life—broken relationships, lost opportunities, or deep regrets.

Jesus himself warned about false teachers who appear trustworthy but lead people astray. In Matthew 7, he says, "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit, you will recognize them." This is not about dividing people into "good" and "bad.” The reality is that we all make mistakes in who we listen to. Sometimes, we follow advice that seems wise but turns out to be empty. Other times, we ignore guidance that could truly help us.

How do we avoid these pitfalls? One approach is to ask key questions: Does this advice bring clarity and peace, or does it lead to confusion and fear? Does it promote kindness and integrity, or does it encourage selfishness and division? And most importantly, what kind of fruit does it produce? Does it lead to a life richer in love, meaning, and good relationships, or does it leave regret and brokenness?

In a world full of noise, it’s easy to get lost in the chatter. But if we take the time to reflect and evaluate the voices we follow, we can find a path that leads not to confusion, but to fulfillment. So, take a moment to consider: Who are you listening to? And is their voice leading you toward your best life, the life God desires for you?

The Bible is full of stories that offer wisdom and guidance for living our best lives. And right from the very beginning, it teaches us how to build meaningful (dare we say ‘fruit-ful’) relationships, as seen in the story of Adam and Eve. 
 
God created Adam.  Recognizing that it was not good for him to be alone, God made Eve as his companion. Together, they lived in the Garden of Eden, enjoying a close relationship with their Creator. They had only one rule: not to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. But temptation proved too strong. They disobeyed, and as a result, they were sent out of the garden.
 
This ancient story still speaks to us today, offering valuable lessons about life, relationships, and faith.
 
First, we learn that community matters. God designed us for relationships. Adam wasn’t meant to be alone, and neither are we. Whether it’s family, friends, or faith communities, God calls us to build and nurture connections that bring support, love, and accountability.
 
The story of Adam and Eve is an example of poor judgements made based on outward appearances and bad advice. Not everything that looks or sounds appealing is good for us.  The serpent promised new exciting experiences, and the fruit looked delicious.  But appearances can be deceiving. Just because something seems desirable—whether it’s a decision, a habit, or a relationship—doesn’t mean it’s beneficial. We must look beyond the surface, learn to distinguish between truth and deception, and consider the consequences of our choices.

A close look at the story shows that Adam was with Eve when she chose to eat the fruit. He didn’t object; he followed along. This reminds us of the power of influence.  Our choices can influence those around us—for good or for harm. We should surround ourselves with people who inspire wise and faithful choices while also striving to be that same source of encouragement for others.
 
From Adam, we learn how not to behave when confronted with our own mistakes.  When questioned, Adam shifted the blame to Eve—and even to God. But true growth comes from owning our mistakes. Instead of making excuses, we should acknowledge our failures, learn from them, and seek to do better.
 
The story concludes with Adam and Eve being sent from the garden. But even after their disobedience, God didn’t abandon Adam and Eve. Though they faced consequences, God continued to care for them and their descendants. In the same way, no matter our mistakes, God remains faithful. Human relationships may falter, but God’s love endures.
 
The story of Adam and Eve is not just about the fall of humanity—it’s about grace, redemption, and the lessons that shape our lives. If we take these teachings to heart, we can build stronger relationships, make wiser choices, and draw closer to God.  If you want to become part of a community striving to do these things, join us at First Presby!

The book of Deuteronomy, chapter 26 tells the story of the Hebrews, who, having been set free from slavery in Egypt, wandered the desert for 40 years and were finally preparing to enter the promised land.  Their leader, Moses reminded them that God had brought them from slavery into a land flowing with milk and honey and instructed them to bring their “first fruits” as a gift of gratitude to God.

The concept of “first fruits” isn’t just about the kind of gift but instead reflects the spirit of the gift. Is gratitude the first and best thing you express, or is it an afterthought? Do you live a life of gratitude, or only occasionally remember to give thanks?

Science underscores the power of gratitude. Studies have shown that people who express gratitude live longer, happier lives. Neuroscience shows gratitude activates the hippocampus and amygdala—parts of the brain tied to emotions, memory, and function. It releases dopamine and serotonin, promoting happiness and gratitude reduces cortisol, the stress hormone. An attitude of thankfulness is linked to a significantly lower risk of psychological diagnoses including unhealthy dependencies, anxiety, phobias and depression.  Practicing gratitude daily improves physical health, lowers stress, strengthens relationships, enhances sleep, and bolsters the immune system. In gratitude, we just feel better!

Isn’t it wonderful that the body God has created for us rewards us when we feel and express gratitude?

I have a friend who was undergoing chemotherapy. I asked her one day how things were going and she said that the first few days after a treatment were pretty rough, but she was so grateful that it was only for those few days.  She lost most of her hair, but that week, she told me she was so happy to be able to wear her new stylish hat! 

Living gratefully challenges us in hard times and good. In suffering, gratitude reminds us that God’s love is constant, offering comfort and a new perspective. When things are going well, gratitude keeps us from overbearing pride, helping us acknowledge God’s provision and the people who contribute to our blessings.

As we begin a new year, perhaps a good resolution would be to focus this year on living in gratitude. Start by practicing outward expressions of gratitude: smile, say thank you, and engage with those around you. Change how you talk about your life; emphasize what others have done to bless you rather than your own accomplishments. When envy arises, redirect your thoughts. Trust in God’s unique plan for your life and find peace in it.

Gratitude is transformative. It reorients our hearts, our minds, and our bodies to recognize God’s goodness in everything. As the Hebrews were called to offer their first fruits, let us offer our lives in gratitude, discovering joy, health, and hope in the process.
 
 
 
 

Each year, we eagerly await, prepare for, and celebrate the Christmas story, an incredible story of faith.
 
Mary, devoted to God, was chosen to carry the Christ child.  Imagine how frightening this might have been.  Yet Mary’s faith in God was so strong that instead of pointing out all that could go wrong she celebrated the gift.  Instead of focusing on her doubts, she acted on what she believed.  And what she believed was that God was with her, that God loved her, and that God had a plan for her.
 
Maybe that’s the essence of faith- having our doubts, not fully understanding - but trusting in God’s will for us and acting on that trust.
 
And what about Joseph?  When he heard Mary was expecting a child, surely Joseph had doubts, but he acted on what he believed. Joseph believed that God was good and that God had an important plan for the child.  Joseph acted on his beliefs rather than on his doubts.  Joseph acted in faith.
 
When the angels announced the birth to the shepherds, they had doubts, but they went to Bethlehem anyway.  When the wise men saw the star and read the prophecies, they surely had doubts, but they made the long trip to Bethlehem anyway. 
 
Some people struggle with the concept of faith because they find it hard to believe in the miraculous events described in the Bible.  They worry about having blind faith in a talking snake, a virgin birth, a mysterious star, a dead man brought back to life…
 
But God doesn’t call us to blind faith.  True faith involves having doubts, asking questions, but trusting in God’s goodness, despite the lack of proof or understanding.
 
Christian faith is believing that God can do the impossible, and God will do the impossible for us.  Then, taking it one step further, faith is acting on that belief, just as Mary and Joseph did so long ago.
 
Faith is dynamic and you may go through times in your life when your faith falters, when you doubt that God is working in your life.  The Bible is full of stories of people who experience this kind of doubt.
 
But even during those times, God is faithful to you.  So, when you’re ready to meet God again, or meet God for the first time, God will be there.  You don’t have to be embarrassed, or nervous about how God will treat you, you are always welcome. 
 
So, as we prepare for Christmas, by faith, we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and marvel that God can reach anywhere and through anyone, even a small town like Bethlehem and a simple stable with a young girl who had faith, or a small town like Brookings and someone like you.   And God can bring hope and joy into the world. 

In recent weeks, the noise of campaign season has filled every corner of our lives. The non-stop advertisements, the passionate rallies, the heated debates—each candidate or cause vying for our attention and our vote. When Election Day came and went, many of us breathed a sigh of relief, looking forward to the return of some kind of normalcy. As we write this, the results are not yet in, but in the days and weeks to come, as outcomes continue to unfold, we may feel uncertain, wondering what the future holds. In times like these, it’s only natural to ask, “Where is God in all this?”

This is a good time to be reminded of David’s timeless description of God’s steadfast presence in our lives, found in Psalm 139.  In this psalm, David writes, “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me …you hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me.”  These words provide a comforting image of a God who knows us completely;  a God who surrounds us on all sides, steadying us when we stumble, guiding us when we are uncertain.

David’s words offer a powerful assurance: “Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.”  Whether we are celebrating victories or navigating setbacks, God is with us. When we’re filled with joy, God rejoices with us. When we fear the future, God stands beside us, offering strength. No matter where we find ourselves—emotionally, mentally, or physically—God is there and God sees us, even in our darkest moments.

Perhaps some of us are facing personal challenges in addition to the uncertainty of the world around us. Maybe we’re dealing with a painful loss, a period of doubt, or a season of unexpected change. In these moments, it’s easy to feel isolated, as if we’re walking through darkness alone. But Psalm 139 assures us that God sees us even in those shadowed places, that God reaches into our darkness with a light only God can provide.
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As we face the unknowns of tomorrow, we can trust that God is with us. Hold on to that truth, and to the promise found in Matthew 28:20, when Jesus said, “surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” No matter the path ahead—whether filled with celebrations or challenges—we are never alone. God knows us, God loves us, and God walks beside us always.

One day, as Jesus was speaking among his friends, a group of men approached Him with what seemed like a simple question: “Tell us,” they said, “what is your opinion? Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not?"
 
This was a loaded question. The men who asked were hoping Jesus would respond in a way that aligned with their own views—either endorsing or rejecting the Roman Empire’s authority. The crowd, too, waited with anticipation.
 
But Jesus’ reply cut through the trap they had set for Him: “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and give to God what belongs to God.” Though His words were simple, the wisdom they conveyed reached far beyond the moment. Jesus urged His listeners not to let political debate overshadow their higher calling, encouraging them to look beyond politics.  Jesus provided a principle of balance between civic duty and spiritual devotion.
 
And His response is still relevant today. We all know we have to give unto Caesar, we have to go to school, we have to go to work, we have to pay our taxes and follow the laws of our country.  But how many times have you wondered, IS THERE MORE?
 
Jesus’ invitation to a balanced life was this: Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar but offer to God what belongs to God.
 
Fulfill your obligations to the world—whether that means being a responsible citizen, a diligent employee, a loving parent, or a faithful leader. Even in the everyday pleasures of life—enjoying sports, playing video games, spending time with family and friends—God desires for you to embrace these things. They are part of the world God has placed you in.
 
But in doing so, don’t neglect what belongs to God. Set aside time for God. Allow God to shape your heart and guide your decisions. Let God be your compass in times of self-reflection, your source of strength in difficult moments. Worship the God who created you, who sustains you, and who offers hope beyond this world. The demands of this world are real, but so is our need for a relationship with God. Give to the world what belongs to the world, but never forget to give God what belongs to God: your heart, your time, and your devotion.
 
If you’re looking for a place to nurture that balance and grow deeper in your faith, church can be a space to reflect, worship, and connect with others who are also seeking to find that balance. There’s always room for you.