First Love Church

Love Is Stronger Than The Grave

 Join us as we journey through the transformative power of love and resurrection, drawing inspiration from the Easter narrative.  Mary Magdalene's unwavering love and her poignant vigil during Holy Saturday serve as our backdrop for a conversation about enduring hope and love's capacity to transcend even the grave. Imagine standing before an empty tomb, grief-stricken and yet on the cusp of a miraculous discovery. Through Mary's eyes, we explore the depths of heartbreak and the dawning of u...

What if LOVE gets the last word?

Have you ever found yourself at a crossroads, faced with the choice between retaliation or forgiveness, anger or love? Our Lenten journey takes us through these very human experiences, weaving a tapestry of stories that illustrate the transformative power of choosing love, even in the most trying of times. As we navigate the complexities of life, we often overlook the simple yet profound impact of love in action; from the domestic misunderstandings that test our patience to the everyday enco...

Thriving in Divine Love: Sacred Acts, Radical Compassion, and the Path to Resurrection

Imagine uncovering the profound truth that you were not only created out of love but also designed to thrive in it—this revelation is what we unpack at First Love Church. As we navigate heartfelt discussions on divine love, our congregation's spirit radiates warmth and acceptance, reinforcing the belief in our inherent worth. Join us in reflecting on the sacredness of small gestures, like caring for a tiny rejected goat, which reminded us that acts of kindness are the truest form of worship....

Transfiguration Sunday: How Belovedness shapes us

As the veil thins between the divine and the everyday, we find ourselves on the cusp of Lent, a season ripe with potential for transformation. Imagine shedding the weight of shame and negativity, the way one might peel away layers of old paint, to reveal the original masterpiece beneath—that is the invitation of this episode. Through a tapestry of stories and reflections, from the awe-inspiring Transfiguration of Jesus to the simple yet profound lessons gleaned from a child's empathy at Disn...

Nothing Can Separate You From LOVES Love

Romans chapter 8 and the shaping of our prayers. This Sunday as we gathered, we delve into the spiritual tapestry woven by wisdom, love, and selflessness.  We ponder the parable of the pearl of great price, reflecting on the pursuit of spiritual wealth over material gains.  We also touch on maturity's journey, from limited child-like views to a life enveloped in God's infinite love. Love is all there is and there is nothing that can separate us from God's infinite love; together we tell a ...

Rooted In Transforming LOVE

Embarking on a reflection of nature's grandeur, we find a connection between the steadfastness of trees and our spiritual growth. Our conversations take us from the Garden of Eden to the Tree of Life in Revelation, finding solace in the roots of love and patience. As Lent draws near, we're inspired to look beyond the surface and see the divine in the ordinary, much like the awe-inspiring ancient forests that reveal their beauty when we least expect it. It's a journey of discovery, where the ...

Practicing Your Innocence-and why Jesus' call to Nathanael matters to you.

This morning our conversation orbits around the often overlooked spiritual practice of rekindling our awareness of love's persistent presence. We navigate the transformative power of Epiphany, Together, we consider how the light of Christ beckons us towards living renewed with hope and a sense of beloved identity. Through heartfelt narratives, we contemplate the profound impact of forgiveness and the practice of viewing others through a lens of innocence, mirroring Jesus' grace. We discuss ...

Epiphany- Worshiping Jesus, and Finding Another Route Home

As the new year unfurls its wings, we embark on a voyage through the Epiphany, guided by the starlit musings of poet Malcolm Guite and the universal embrace of the divine. The First Love Church podcast welcomes you to a space where the sacred meets the stars, and the journey of the wise men unfolds as a mirror to our own pursuit of spiritual awakening. In the gentle rustle of nature and the grandeur of the cosmos, we find the light of Christ—a beacon to both Gentiles and the glory of Israel....

Simeon, the prophet Anna, and the voices that bless.

As the clock ticks towards a new year, we're leaving the chase for 'more' behind, instead wrapping ourselves in the restful embrace of love. We ponder over the Christmas spirit, not confining it to a single day but rather as an invitation to co-create with God, infusing love into our earthly journey. This episode brings to light the stories of biblical figures like Simeon and Anna, who demonstrate the profound impact of the Holy Spirit in recognizing Jesus as the Messiah. Like them, we're e...

Light in the Darkness: The Power of Advent Hope

Uncover how the practice of Advent helps us confront the darkness in our world, confident that love and transformation will ultimately prevail. We journey together through the grandeur of the Jerusalem temple, Jesus' profound response to it, and the crucial reminder that God's presence is not confined to physical structures but can be found in the smallest, most ordinary moments of life. The awe-inspiring majesty of the Jerusalem temple left the disciples in wonder. Yet, Jesus had a differe...

Christ the King Sunday

Through the lens of Ephesians 1:15, we are guided to explore the importance of trust and love in our relationships with others and God. We are encouraged to adopt prayers from Paul's writings for our own lives and to delve deeper into our intimacy with God. The sermon concludes with a discussion on the power of awareness and its transformative impact on our lives and relationships. Through personal experiences and reflections, we are shown how being mindful of our actions and their effects ...

Cultivating Gratitude As A Spiritual Practice

Have you ever paused and deeply considered the power of a single moment, a single act of gratitude? We're reminded of the potency of living in the now; join us as we journey through the Psalms of Thanksgiving, embracing the opportunity to show gratitude and celebrating the beauty of ordinary moments.  Like a mesmerizing orchestra performance, we discuss how every part of our lives plays a unique role in the grand symphony of the divine, demonstrating the profound significance of every indiv...

Worried? There are other options available.

What if you could navigate life's unexpected turns with the support of a divine guide, anchoring you amidst the turbulence? This episode illuminates the powerful scriptural teachings from Philippians 4:1-9, pointing us towards a new way of living. We unravel the intentional mention of women in Paul's discourse and its implications for a possible egalitarian approach to church and community. Our journey through the gospel allows us to glimpse a community of human flourishing and brings eterni...

Finding Divine Love While Embracing Death and Living In The Present

Would you believe that embracing the inevitability of death can lead to a deeper sense of peace? What if the path to ultimate contentment is through living wholly in the present? This conversation, centered around the powerful themes of World Communion Sunday, will guide you through these thought-provoking questions. We explore the profound unity in the body of Christ and how it amplifies our capacity to spread love in the world. This discussion takes you on a spiritual journey, teaching us...

A Deeper Understanding of Divine Favor and Love

Can you envision your heart expanding with love? Would you believe that a shift in perspective could unlock a richer understanding of God’s divine favor? As local church pastors we’re prepared to guide you on a transformative journey through an exploration of God's abundance, and the power of love. In this spiritually uplifting episode, we unwrap deep insights about our Christian walk, reminding us that rules and doctrines, though important, should not distract us from expressing kindness, ...

The Unchanging Power of Love

Have you ever stopped to consider the strength of love against the backdrop of the early church? Imagine a world rich in fellowship, joy, unity, and selfless giving - a world where the actions of Jesus illustrate the transformative power of love. This is the journey we embark on in this episode, revisiting the roots of the church, where believers shared everything and practiced love in a way that met the needs of every individual.  Ever wondered how Jesus' radical teachings can influence ou...

A Journey into Self-Emptying Love

Picture yourself standing in the center of love's vast expanse – the love of God, love for self, and love for others. What does it look like? What does it feel like? We journey into these questions and more, showing you how to make self-emptying love an everyday practice and a gift of extraordinary magnitude. We turn the spotlight on the power of God’s love, its ability to help overcome fears, and how falling head over heels with Jesus brings an unrivaled peace.  Imagine having a compass to...

The Transformative Power Of Divine Love

Open your hearts and embark on a journey of enlightenment as we delve into the power of sacred spaces, rituals, and divine love. As we venture into the ancient faith and contemplate God's intention for unity and oneness, we invite you to consider how we can embody divine love for ourselves and each other. Our discussion takes an enlightening turn as we dive into the depths of God's love and the power of generosity, guided by the wisdom of Hebrews and 1 John. We explore how God's love can ma...

Exploring the Power of Unity, Holy Spirit, and God's Love

What if the power of unity and the sacredness of community could alter the very lens through which we view our lives? This episode brings us together, across vast physical distances, yet intimately connected, as we explore our collective ability to transform the world through love. Our gathering is a testament to the power of connectivity, and we express heartfelt gratitude for each one of you who joins us in this journey. Together, we'll ponder over the true essence of wealth and generosity...

Love Looks Like Obedience --The Living Room Sessions (5/17/2020)

John 14:15-21 15 "If you love me, you will keep my commandments. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever. 17 This is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, because he abides with you, and he will be in you. 18 "I will not leave you orphaned; I am coming to you. 19 In a little while the world will no longer see me, but you will see me; because I live, you also will live. ...

Do Not Let Your Hearts Be Troubled- The Living Room Sessions (5/10/2020)

John 14:1-14 Do not let your hearts be troubled. This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would like to support the ongoing work of First Love Church you can donate at https://www.firstlovechurch.org/giving In the service of LOVE, Pastors Dennis and Heather Drake

(05/03/2020) The Living Room Sessions- I Am The Good Shepherd.

John 10:1-10 Jesus declares Himself to be the Good Shepherd.   What is this imagery meant to invoke? What lessons are being taught with this claim?   Jesus makes claims that contradict empire- His followers don't understand.  This is one of the I am statements regarding Jesus' own narrative of who He is.  Jesus again declares that He is the way to relationship with the Father.  This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would like to support the ongoing w...

The Road to Emmaus - The Living Room Sessions (4/26/2020)

Luke 24:13-35 This scene is set on the same day as the women’s discovery of the empty tomb from last week. We learn that two disciples are walking, leaving Jerusalem to make the seven-mile jaunt to Emmaus. Why are they leaving Jerusalem? Do they fear for their lives now that Jesus has been executed? We don’t really know. All Luke tells us is that they are grieved about their recent experience. They are talking to one another, hoping to make sense of the nonsensical, when Jesus himself walks...

The Witness of Thomas (04/19/2020) 10:30am

The Easter Season provides opportunities for the church to reflect on the biblical witness concerning the rumors of the resurrection. It is still the first day of the week, according to the written record. So much happened from sunrise to evening on that day to turn the world over and over again, worshipers today can linger in the original testimony. For some, it is still news that the entire witness to the resurrection began on the testimony of women.  First, a mourning Mary discovers an ...

Wednesday Night- Take Out Church-Renovation Update (04/12/2020)

Take Out Church During our time of practicing self distancing the church is gathering in Jesus name although we are not physically gathering.  We thought it would be interesting for you to see what we were up to as we have been working on some renovations at the church.  

He Is Risen Indeed. (04/12/2020)

Wednesday (04/07/2020) Holy week together yet apart

Tonight we discuss the basics of podcasting and Holy week while social distancing.  Maundy Thursday with no foot washing but with longing.   How to dive into the love command place firmly in the middle of service.   And seeing the plan of Jesus calling his friends family.  

Palm Sunday (from the living room) (04/05/2020)

While still practicing love for neighbor and staying at home- we gather in the name of Jesus and remember the Passion week beginning with Palm Sunday. Matthew 27:11-54 Jesus begins His journey to the cross- and we stand with those who say Hosanna blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.

Palm Sunday (from the living room) (04/05/2020)

While still practicing love for neighbor and staying at home- we gather in the name of Jesus and remember the Passion week beginning with Palm Sunday. Matthew 27:11-54 Jesus begins His journey to the cross- and we stand with those who say Hosanna blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.

The Raising Of Lazarus (03/29/2020)

 Beloveds we are the church who gather for corporate worship and scatter for service in the spheres of influence God affords us. Like ancient Israel shifting to synagogues when the Temple was destroyed, our worship of God is not limited to a building or space. Like the first disciples of Christ shifting their gatherings to secret places, the people of God continue to worship in Spirit though the venue may change. This time of physical distancing is an act of caring for our neighbor as we con...

The Living Room: Jesus answers the question."who sinned?" (3/22/2020)10:30am

The First Sunday in our living room- COVID-19 says shelter in place- so we are. We are also gathering in the name of Jesus, while staying in our homes.  We meet Jesus who is healing a blind man, the people around him ask, "who is to blame?", "who sinned?", "who can we accuse for this suffering?".  Jesus does not respond to their questions in the way they expected and calls the healed man into further relationship.   #blindman #firstlovechurch #churchathome #help #healingisfromJesus

Saved By His Life (3/15/2020) 10:30am

Romans 5:1-11 “Therefore,” the opening word in Romans 5:1, and here is where we are reminding of the  message of God’s plan for reconciling humanity with God’s self and with one another. In the midst of our suffering and human alienation, the church at every age is called upon to count on God’s love, the love that was shown before we’re even forgiven of our sins, and now we have come to experience that love. The call to ministry has been emphasized, but the call to love has suffered and is ...

While we were yet sinners (03/15/2020) 8:30am

Romans 5:1-11 “Therefore,” the opening word in Romans 5:1, and here is where we are reminding of the  message of God’s plan for reconciling humanity with God’s self and with one another. In the midst of our suffering and human alienation, the church at every age is called upon to count on God’s love, the love that was shown before we’re even forgiven of our sins, and now we have come to experience that love. The call to ministry has been emphasized, but the call to love has suffered and is...

Nicodemus comes at night to ask the hard questions. (03/08/2020) 8:30am

When Nicodemus has the questions he comes at night, and Jesus welcomes his questions  and spends time offering relationship. 

Even when you come imperfectly, Jesus welcomes the questions (03/08/2020) 10:30am

When Nicodemus comes at night- Jesus welcomes his questions- and offers him relationship.  Jesus doesn't shy away from the difficult discussions and speaks of thing of the Spirit.

The way of The Wilderness (03/01/2020) 10:30am

Matthew 4:1-11 Jesus after baptism is led to the wilderness, He is tempted but does not compromise, by speaking God's word he thwarts the enemies plan.

The Way Of The Wilderness (03/01/2020) 8:30am

Matthew 4:1-11  Jesus is led into the wilderness, after baptism and heaven opening and declaring "This is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased." Though the satan comes and tempts Jesus - Jesus does not compromise and thwarts the enemies plan by declaring the word of God.

Witnesses to the Transfiguration (2/23/2020)8:30am

We look at the text to remind us of the transfiguration of Jesus and his call to follow him in transformation.

Wrestling School (02/23/2020) 10:30am

The Transfiguation of Christ Matthew 17:1-9 We engage the text today to truly see the promise of transformation as we follow Jesus as He is transfigured in front of witnesses.  We hear the Father once again offer words of beloved son and then a command to "Listen to him".   And then we wrestle, we wrestle with the promise, with longing, with grief, and with God.  We will not let you go until you bless us......

Wednesday (02/12/2020) Gifts of the Holy Spirit

Pastors Dennis and Heather continue the conversation around the evidence and gifts of the Holy Spirit.  Why its important for today and what we can expect as fruit in our lives.

Wednesday Night (02/19/2020)

Wednesday night service concluding the series by pastor Dennis on the fruits and gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Wednesday Night (02/19/2020)

Wednesday night service concluding the series by pastor Dennis on the fruits and gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Salt and Light (02/16/2020) 10:30am

Matthew 5:13-20 Jesus calls us to be salt, to serve in the way we were designed to serve. But what if we do not? What if we lose our saltiness? What if we hide the light under a basket? The call of the Sermon of the Mount is high and costly and risky. The darkening of the light, the loss of the salt’s saltiness is not without consequence. Jesus makes clear that he is not overthrowing the law and the prophets. He stands in the streams of righteous hope and transformative justice that both h...

Salty and Bright (2/16/2020)8:30am

Jesus calls us to be Salt and Light a narrative and a command. This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would like to support the ongoing work of First Love Church you can donate at https://www.firstlovechurch.org/giving In the service of LOVE, Pastors Dennis and Heather Drake

The Beatitudes (02/09/2020) Thomas Drake 10:30am

Thomas Drake encourages us from the gospel reading of the beatitudes, including a modern blessing of those that our current culture often overlook.  

Jonathan Martin (02-02-2020) 8:30am

Our friend and guest minister Jonathan Martin. This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would like to support the ongoing work of First Love Church you can donate at https://www.firstlovechurch.org/giving In the service of LOVE, Pastors Dennis and Heather Drake

Jonathan Martin (02-02-2020) 10:30am

Jonathan Martin is our guest minister 

Jonathan Martin (02-02-2020) 10:30am

Jonathan Martin is our guest minister  This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would like to support the ongoing work of First Love Church you can donate at https://www.firstlovechurch.org/giving In the service of LOVE, Pastors Dennis and Heather Drake

Fishers of Mankind (01/26/2020) 8:30am

Matthew 4:12-23 Jesus moves quickly to invite the first set of disciples to join him with the promise of making them “fishers of men.” The phrase connotes challenging structures of power just as John had done and Jesus began to do.1 It is a transformative and dangerous mission that Jesus inherited from John and is inviting disciples into it. And they leave their families, livelihoods and instantly join him for little in return. The disciples were apparently inspired by the mission and made r...

Wednesday Night Evidences of the Spirit (1/22/20)

What do our lives look like? How do others experience us? What does it mean to have a life that produces God kind of "fruit" or evidence?   Pastor Dennis explores the passage in Galatians 5 where Paul contrasts the fruit of the Spirit with the evidences of selfishness or fleshly controlled life.