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Recorded September 7, 2008. Richard looks at 1 Corinthians 15:15. Richard focuses on Paul’s statement, “By the grace of God, I am what I am.” God’s grace to me is not without effect. Paul is not worthy to be anything, but he is what he is by God’s grace. God’s grace transformed Paul from a terrible person into a champion for God. Godly character is the result of the active work of grace.

i’m still trying to get used to our new server and its idiosyncrasies. We recorded this episode when all the troubles with our old server made adding new podcast episodes impossible. i will say one thing about this episode, everything positive we’ve accomplished through this podcast episode is the result of God’s grace, and his grace alone. You can listen to this episode and subscribe to our podcast by visiting From Richard’s Heart.

Recorded on August 3, 2008. Richard takes a look at the first eight verses of Psalm 34. He reminds us that David chose to praise God even when circumstances weren’t favorable for David. We are encouraged to glorify and praise God together as a group.

We face many uncertainties in life. Yet God delivers us from the grip of our fears. As we look to God, we gain confidence. We shine with joy. Our troubles become God’s opportunities.

As we look more and more to God, we discover He becomes more involved with us. God sets up shop around us. We sample and savor God’s goodness. We know from our experience, God is good.

Richard’s mic kept falling off while we did this recording. He made a quick reference to our failing technology as he retrieved the mic. Fortunately for us while our technology often fails, God does not.

Hear what Richard has to say and subscribe to this series by visiting our podcast page.

Recorded July 6, 2008. We live in an age of constant threats to our safety and security. Homeland Security is supposed to keep US citizens safe. Many people rely on their wealth to secure their future. We use police and military to protect our safety and security. So what is the ultimate in safety?

This week Richard examines what he considers ultimate safety. He begins by looking at John 10. In this chapter Jesus reminds his disciples that as our shepherd, he knows all of us, and we recognize his voice. Jesus prevents anyone or anything from taking us away from him. In return God asks us to act justly, love mercy, walk humbly with our God.

Because as a congregation we enjoy God’s ultimate safety, we participate in worldwide missions. We do this through our financial and prayer support of missionaries. We also participate via this podcast. And, we participate in worldwide missions as we witness to the people around us through our daily living.

When we recorded this episode, the Pearman family gave us an update on their upcoming trip to Africa. Our prayers continue with them as they serve God in this very important capacity. We are honored to be serve God via our support of this very special family.

For those who missed church on July 13, Richard shared some of his faith journey with us. He has lived an extraordinary life. Many of us rejoice continually that God has worked so powerfully in his life, and we thank God Richard willingly serves as our pastor.

Richard will share more of his faith Journey on July 20. i’m in prayer now that we will be able to include some of Richard’s testimony in “From Richard’s Heart.” All of us at Mesa regard Richard as a very dear friend. Our heartfelt thanks go to God and those who shepherded Richard during his lifetime. Now we know why Richard believes God provides us the ultimate safety.