Willow Creek Weekend Podcast
Willow Creek Weekend Podcast is the weekly teaching from Willow Creek Community Church, a multi-generational and multi-ethnic church community. The podcast focuses on following Jesus, loving people, and changing the world, emphasizing that the life and lessons of Jesus are Good News for today. Listeners hear practical messages about becoming more like Christ and being equipped to serve both the church and the wider world.
Episodes
Step Out in Sacrificial Obedience | Shawn Williams
Whether we are accustomed to comfort, stability, and control—or we long for those things—the word sacrifice can feel like a radical concept meant only for more faithful and faith-filled people. In Luke 5, we watch Peter choose to obey Jesus when it does not make sense. Real obedience often comes with a cost and requires us to release control, comfort, or security. It invites us to stop managing ou
Step Out into the Miracle | Shawn Williams
There are moments in life where change shows up uninvited and suddenly we’re navigating an uncertainty we never could have predicted. But sometimes faith means willingly stepping into the unknown because Jesus is there. That’s where we find Peter in Matthew 14. Peter isn’t just asking Jesus to see a miracle. He’s asking to participate in one. And when fear overtook him, Jesus still reached out His
“Why is This So Hard?” | Shawn Williams
It’s hard to move forward in relationships without first healing old wounds. Strong relationships are not the result of avoiding conflict. They are the result of mastering the art of repair. Every meaningful relationship will eventually experience tension, disappointment, and conflict because humans are involved. But when we address issues honestly, prioritize emotional safety, and remain committe
“Why Doesn’t Love Last?” | Duane Calvin
We often confuse infatuation with love. We expect another person to complete us. The problem is that our culture often teaches us to think of love primarily as a feeling—a rush of emotion, attraction, or chemistry. Because of that, we believe love is supposed to be easy, but biblical love was never meant to be effortless. Love is not merely something we feel. It is something we practice. This week
“Why Do I Keep Ending Up Here?” | Shawn Williams
Sometimes the common denominator in our relational struggles is not everyone else—it's us. But God doesn't call us to ignore our wounds; He invites us to bring them into His presence so He can redeem them. David prayed a courageous prayer in Psalm 139: "Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts." He understood that true transformation begins with honest self-examinati
Duane Calvin | More than Hearers
Spiritual growth doesn't happen merely by accumulating Biblical or spiritual knowledge; it happens as we trust God enough to put His truth into practice. This week, we’ll explore why God's Word is not simply meant to be heard—it is meant to be lived. One of the clearest places our obedience to God's Word is revealed is in how we relate to others. As we reflect on our last series, Willow Welcomes,
Willow Welcomes | Dr. Charlie Dates
Paul lived a life of joy—even in prison. How? Dr. Charlie Dates shares that joy is consequential, not circumstantial. Joy is the consequence of Christ being proclaimed, and when we share the Good news and have a relationship with Jesus, joy should follow. There is power in the name of God. You can have real joy when you see your circumstances as catalysts, not constraints, and enemies as encourage
Willow Welcomes | Megan Fate Erickson
When you learn to live out of abundance—out of a cup pointed to God, overflowing—you start living out of what you have already received. You do not need to run on empty trying to earn approval or love. Megan Fate Erickson teaches that what fills you will be what flows from you. Do not be stuck trying to earn the world's favor; seek the love that only God can provide.
Willow Welcomes | Hosanna Wong
What names do you allow the world to define you by? Unworthy? Unwanted? Unlovable? These are not the names that God gives us. The world will try to label us by our failures, wounds, or our past, but God sees us differently. He replaces the false names with new names—true names that speak of who we are in Him. Worthy. Chosen. Loved by God. In this message, Hosanna Wong shares why we don’t need to a
Willow Welcomes | Jud Wilhite
What do we do when we find ourselves in the wilderness—the in-between season where we’re not where we once were, but not yet where we are going? Whether it’s a difficult decision, a job, parenting, or just waiting on God for clarity, the future can feel uncertain and hard to navigate. But the wilderness is not wasted time; it can be formative and strengthening for our faith. In this message, Jud W
“The World We Long For” | Shawn Williams
Life has a way of reminding us that things don’t always end the way we hoped. And yet, Scripture tells a different kind of story. The Bible doesn’t end with disappointment—it ends with renewal. In Revelation, we are given a breathtaking vision: a new heaven and a new earth, where God brings everything together and makes all things new. This is not God abandoning the world, but restoring it complet
“Jesus Sets the World Right” | Shawn Williams
God will not allow evil to have the final word. This is why Christians are people of Hope. It is not a fantasy or a work of science fiction; it is the reality of Jesus' life and God’s plan. He will return, and for those who have been oppressed, overlooked, or wounded, this is a promise of vindication. For those who wonder if righteousness is worth it, Revelation answers with a resounding yes. Even
“What Looks So Good Can Leave Us So Empty” | Megan Erickson
We chase what we believe will finally make us feel whole—success, comfort, recognition, security—only to find that the satisfaction fades faster than we expected. Revelation gives this longing a name: Babylon. Babylon represents a world built on wealth, pleasure, and status. None of these things are evil on their own. But when they become more than they were intended to be, they begin to pull us a
“The Pressure to Compromise” | Shawn Williams
There are moments when following Jesus doesn’t feel inspiring. It feels costly. Sometimes that cost comes through obvious opposition, but oftentimes it comes through something more subtle: pressure. Revelation reminds us that we belong to a different kind of kingdom. The way up is down, and the way to first is to be last. Our security is not found in power or control, but in trusting the One who i
“Why the Battle for Good Feels So Hard” | Shawn Williams
There is a spiritual war being waged for our hearts and allegiance. And while Satan is determined to destroy God’s work, Revelation 12 gives us incredible hope: the decisive victory has already been won. Satan is defeated. He still fights—but he fights as one who has already lost. Every day, you have a choice: step into the fight equipped by God, or drift unaware and be shaped by it. To be a disci
“When God Seems Silent” | Megan Fate Erickson
We chase what we believe will finally make us feel whole—success, comfort, recognition, security—only to find that the satisfaction fades faster than we expected. Revelation gives this longing a name: Babylon. Babylon represents a world built on wealth, pleasure, and status. None of these things are evil on their own. But when they become more than they were intended to be, they begin to pull us a
“Why the World Feels So Broken” | Shawn Williams
War. Injustice. Suffering. Persecution. Headlines filled with loss and fear. And beneath it all, a question rises: Where is God in all of this? Even these forces—terrible as they are—unfold under God’s sovereign hand. This does not mean God delights in suffering or is indifferent to pain. Scripture is clear; He sees every tear. He hears every cry. But His timing is not rushed. When the world feels
“Hope When You Are Overwhelmed” | Shawn Williams
What we worship shapes how we live. Every time we choose to worship Jesus, we are declaring that our hope is not in the powers of this world. When the world feels chaotic, our instinct is often to grasp for control or give in to fear. In these chapters of Revelation, John is given a different response: worship. This side of heaven, worship reorients us. It reminds us that the One we worship is gre
“Courage When You Feel Alone” | Thomas Anderson Jr.
Following Jesus may cost us comfort, approval, or ease. But when we look at the cross, we are reminded: He has already given everything for us. There is no cost of discipleship that outweighs the price He paid. In the opening chapters of Revelation, Jesus speaks directly to seven real churches. His words are not distant or abstract; they are personal, honest, and deeply searching. We don’t endure
“When Everything Feels Out of Control” | Shawn Williams
When the world feels like it’s unraveling, we long for answers; some kind of clarity to make sense of it all. In that search, many Christians turn to the book of Revelation like a crystal ball, hoping to decode current events and predict what comes next. But Revelation was never meant to function that way. Revelation was written to a specific people in a specific time; believers facing pressure, p
“How do I move forward with confidence?” | Duane Calvin
A life of faith is a life of dependence. Confidence in God’s will does not come from having every detail mapped out—it comes from knowing the One who is leading you. Confidence comes from trust, and trust grows walking daily with Jesus. Through prayer, Scripture, community, and attentiveness to the Spirit, we learn to recognize His voice in ordinary moments—how to handle a challenging coworker or
“What do I do when it’s not clear?” | Pat Brennan
When God’s will isn’t obvious, it’s an invitation into deeper trust. When clarity is lacking, ask for wisdom. Often, the Spirit guides through open and closed doors—but we still have to walk toward the door to see whether it opens. So what do you do when God’s will is not clear? Pray. Seek counsel. Dive into Scripture. And then—take the next faithful step. Even if you’re unsure about yourself, you
“How can I really know God’s will?” | Shawn Williams
God’s will is not a secret code you have to crack. It is not a hidden blueprint you have to uncover—the God who created you is not playing hide-and-seek with your future.The Bible says He is both sovereign and good, which means nothing is outside His authority. And because He is good, His sovereignty is not cold control—it is loving rule. The promise isn’t that He will show us every detail in adva
Hope That Can't Be Stopped
After chapters of warning and judgment, the story of Amos concludes with an unexpected promise of restoration. God declares that what was once ruined will be rebuilt, and what was barren will flourish again. Even when the world today feels dark, God is always working—writing redemptive stories for His people to be a light among the nations. We are called to give, serve, and advocate for justice, f
“Faith That Changes Lives” | Humphreys Mkandawire
Have you ever watched someone you love make a decision that you know will end badly—and no matter what you say, they won’t listen? When words fail, all that’s left is to cry out to God. This is where we find Amos in chapter 5. His lament isn’t just poetic grief; it’s the sound of a heart breaking over a people who have forgotten what true worship means. We, too, are called to lament and to grieve
“Open Your Eyes to Injustice” | Shawn Williams & Fabian Garza (English/Spanish)
When life feels overwhelming and daily responsibilities seem paralyzing, it’s easy to wonder: How could I possibly make a difference? Amos was a shepherd, not a celebrity or a political leader, yet God used him to confront injustice among his own people. Even though Israel had received God’s favor and His law, they continued to ignore His heart. Pastors Shawn Williams and Fabian Garza remind us th
When Hope Calls Your Name (Easter full service) | Shawn Williams
When Jesus met Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb, He called her by name. In that moment, her panic turned to peace, her sorrow to steadiness, and her tears to testimony. His voice brought clarity, comfort, and new life. Jesus is personal—He calls you by name in your uncertainty. His trusted voice brings hope and steadies racing hearts. This Easter at Willow, encounter the personal love of Jesus Chr
Build a life that lasts | Shawn Williams
Jesus makes it clear—it’s not impressive works, public platforms, or spiritual performances that reveal a fruitful life. The fruit Jesus desires grows out of presence and daily connection, trust, and obedience shaped by love. Good fruit is not the product of our striving; it’s the result of remaining close to the Vine. And this fruit is not intended for the one who bears it, but rather for the flo
What if asking and receiving changed your life? | Dr. Megan Marshman
God is not burdened by your prayers. We are encouraged to present our bold, faith-filled requests to the Father and participate in a relationship with Him. He says, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.” This isn’t about demanding our way—in the context of the Sermon on the Mount, it’s about aligning our hearts with God’s kingdom. Dr
Stop Judging and Start Living | Shawn Williams
Judgment comes naturally to us, but it’s not always necessary. Jesus warns against allowing judgment to become condemnation, reminding us that every human is a child of God. In this message, we are invited to examine our motives and invite Jesus into our inner dialogue, where He can transform our pride and assumptions into grace and self-awareness. When we do this, we learn to love others and refl
Stop Worrying about Tomorrow | Duane Calvin
Worry often disguises itself as responsibility. What we call “planning” or “being realistic” is usually our attempt to control what only God can. Jesus teaches us something better—to release the burden of tomorrow and trust that our Father is already there, working all things together for our good. Jesus teaches us that when God’s Kingdom becomes our focus, anxiety loses all power. Today, seek His
The Treasure Trap | Shawn Williams
What we treasure shapes who we become. Our treasures aren’t just money; they are the things we cling to for safety, identity, or joy. Whether it's success, relationships, or something else, Jesus calls us to put our hope in Him, allowing our treasure to be transformed into a tool for Kingdom living. When we put our identity in Jesus and depend on Him, we find peace in generosity rather than pa
Praying like Jesus I Shawn Williams
Prayer was never meant to be a task to check off—but an invitation into a holy relationship. It’s not meant to feel distant, scary, or overly formal. It isn’t about perfect words; it’s about honest presence. Jesus gave us a simple yet powerful framework for achieving intimacy with Him. The Lord’s Prayer helps center our hearts on God’s glory, and when we make time to pray, we experience His presen
More heart than show? | Shawn Williams
We’ve all put on a show at some point, failing to practice what we preach. The essential practices Jesus teaches in Matthew 6—generosity, prayer, and fasting—are not intended to impress others but to transform our own hearts. When we seek to please God instead of other people, our “reward” might not come as applause, but as His presence. Pastor Shawn Williams explains that integrity isn’t about ac
Stay in the Game | Interview with Matt Forté
Senior Pastor Shawn Williams interviews former NFL All-Pro running back, philanthropist, and Chicago Bears great Matt Forté about his life, career, and purpose.
What If Love Meant More Than You Thought? | Thomas Anderson Jr
Many people think in simple opposites—fight back or back down—but Jesus’ teachings on love offer a powerful third way: loving your enemies. This radical love isn’t weakness; it’s a courageous choice to break the cycle of hate through forgiveness and honoring everyone’s dignity. As Martin Luther King Jr. said, “Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” Pastor Thomas Anderson Jr. unpacks J
Divorce, Purity, & the Heart Behind the Rules | Shawn Williams
In the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:27–37), Jesus teaches about lust and divorce to help us understand how to honor others and keep marriage strong. He speaks against casual divorce and seeing people as objects, reminding us that marriage is about love, respect, and faithfulness. Jesus encourages us to choose healing and restoration, not just in marriage but in all relationships. Pastor Shawn Wi
Anger Can Take You Down | Shawn Williams
When Jesus said He came to fulfill the Law, not abolish it, He revealed that God cares not just about outward actions but about the heart. In Matthew 5:22, Jesus teaches that anger—whether explosive or silent—can be as harmful as murder, destroying relationships, reputations, and the image of God in others. His call to reconciliation isn’t weakness; it’s a bold invitation to choose love over bitte
What Difference Can Our Lives Make? | Dr. Megan Marshman
Jesus’ call to be the “salt of the earth” and the “light of the world” wasn’t just for spiritual elites—it was a radical, communal invitation to ordinary people. In a time of increasing loneliness, isolation, and individualism, this teaching from the Sermon on the Mount reminds us that faith is meant to be lived out together, not alone. Salt preserves and enhances, but only when it’s used. Light e
Chasing the Wrong Things | Shawn Williams
When Jesus opened the Sermon on the Mount with the words “Blessed are…,” He wasn’t just offering inspirational quotes for wall art. These powerful statements, known as the Beatitudes, were spoken to people living under Roman occupation—people whose lives looked anything but “blessed” by worldly standards. Yet, through these words, Jesus extended a bold invitation to a radically different way of li
God’s Plan, My Surrender: Joseph’s Radical Yes to God | Pat Brennan
What should we do when God calls us to radical obedience, especially when it disrupts our comfort, plans, or public image? In this powerful message, we explore the story of Joseph and his courageous choice to trust God despite fear, uncertainty, and cultural expectations. His example challenges us to choose faith over fear and obedience over convenience, even when the cost is high. Like Joseph, we
When Grace Finds You: Mary’s Encounter with God’s Favor | Dr. Megan Marshman
What does it mean to be chosen by grace? Dr. Megan Marshman explains Mary’s encounter with the angel Gabriel—a life-changing moment that reveals the power of God’s unearned favor. Though Mary was seemingly ordinary, she was called “highly favored” and invited to experience the impossible. This teaching highlights that grace isn’t something we achieve; it’s a divine invitation to trust God beyond o
When Hope Feels Impossible: Zechariah and God’s Promise in the Silence | Shawn Williams
Waiting can feel never-ending—whether you're longing for healing, a new job, a child, or the fulfillment of a dream. Pastor Shawn Williams reflects on the biblical story of Zechariah and Elizabeth, who carried unanswered prayers for decades. Just when hope seemed lost, God responded at the perfect time—showing that His silence doesn't mean He's absent, but that He's preparing somet
Forgive as God Forgave You: But Must You Reconcile? | Megan Marshman
Many people believe forgiveness must lead to reconciliation, but those who hurt us can’t always heal us. Colossians 3:12–14 urges us to forgive as the Lord forgave us, making forgiveness a necessary path to healing—not optional. Forgiveness is an ongoing act of obedience that sets us free, while reconciliation requires both parties to rebuild trust and repair the relationship. Scripture shows this
Forgive as God Forgave: A story of Forgiveness | Interview with Chris Baker
Forgiving small offenses like being cut off in traffic or a missed birthday can be tough, but what happens when the offense is much bigger? This weekend, we welcome Chris Baker, a tattoo artist from Oswego, Illinois, who founded INK 180, a nonprofit offering free tattoo work to former gang members and victims of human trafficking as a second chance. Chris grew up around gangs in Los Angeles and ex
Forgive as God Forgave You: The Path to Freedom | Shawn Williams
Emotional wounds are like paper cuts—easy to ignore until something triggers the pain, revealing hurt that still lingers. We often believe time or distance will heal us, but true healing comes only through forgiveness. The parable of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18:21–35 shows how withholding forgiveness traps us in bitterness, while Ephesians 4:31–32 calls us to forgive as God has forgiven
Choosing to Serve God in Every Season | Shawn Williams
In this message, Pastor Shawn Williams invites us to lean into Joshua’s bold declaration: “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” It’s a call to remember God’s faithfulness and make a fresh, wholehearted commitment—whether you’re just starting out in faith or have followed Jesus for decades. As a church, we’re stepping into the future with confidence, ready to raise up the next gener
Breaking the Cycle: Justice, Mercy, and the Mission of the Church | Shawn Williams & Fabian Garza
In ancient Israel, cities of refuge reflected God’s heart for justice and mercy—places of safety, restoration, and a second chance. Today, the church is called to embody that same spirit, creating spaces where grace meets brokenness and hope takes root. As we step into a new season, Willow is boldly committed to being a refuge of radical compassion, offering holistic care and spiritual support tha
God Still Does the Impossible | Thomas Anderson Jr.
Joshua’s bold “sun, stand still” prayer wasn’t rooted in perfect understanding, but in a life shaped by God’s presence and steady spiritual formation. Even in the face of fear and uncertainty, he trusted that God could do the impossible—and God did. That’s the kind of faith we’re called to today: one that grows through daily trust, deep surrender, and ongoing transformation. As we step into a new
Victory Comes Through Surrender | Jericho and the God Who Breaks Barriers | Shawn Williams
Pastor Shawn Williams reminds us that the fall of Jericho wasn’t won by might, but by surrender and obedience to God. The victory was already declared—God simply called His people to walk in faith and trust Him to bring it to pass. Today, we face walls of doubt, fear, and resistance, but like Jericho, they can fall when we move forward in faith. As a church, we’re stepping into God’s mission with
Don’t Forget What God Has Done | Celebrating 50 Years | Shawn Williams
As we celebrate 50 years of God’s unwavering faithfulness at Willow, Pastor Shawn Williams invites us to reflect on all God has done and boldly trust Him for what’s ahead. Just like Joshua, we step into new beginnings with our eyes fixed firmly on God’s limitless power, not our own. The same God who parted the Red Sea and the Jordan River is leading us today, filling us with confidence that His fa
Faith Over Fear: Rahab’s Yes to God Changed Everything | Shawn Williams
Rahab risked everything to follow God, trading fear for faith and choosing obedience over comfort. Her yes to God not only saved her family but wove her into the very lineage of Jesus—a once-outcast turned legacy-maker. Like Rahab, we don’t have to see the full picture to say yes; we simply have to trust the One who calls us. This message invites us to take that same bold step of faith, knowing Go
God’s Faithfulness from the Wilderness to the Promise | Megan Marshman
God’s promise to give His people the Promised Land began with Abraham in Genesis 12:7 and was echoed generations later through Joshua, who stood at the edge of that promise with courage and faith. Though the wilderness delayed its fulfillment, it was never wasted—it was a season of preparation. Now, like Joshua, we stand at the threshold of a new season, trusting the same faithful God to lead us f
Boundaries That Honor: Letting Go with Love | Shawn Williams
Have you faced the painful reality of ending a friendship? In 1 Samuel 20, Jonathan honored his friendship with David by protecting him, even when it meant saying goodbye. Their story shows that true friendship sometimes means letting go with love, courage, and peace. Pastor Shawn Williams teaches that when friendships end well, they leave behind a lasting legacy of loyalty, grace, and godly honor
Worth the Work: How to Build Friendships that Last | Thomas Anderson Jr.
Building lasting friendships takes more than connection—it requires humility, intentionality, and selfless effort. In 1 Samuel 19, Jonathan risked everything to protect David, showing that true friendship is rooted in loyalty and love over pride and rivalry. Philippians 2:3–4 calls us to value others above ourselves, reminding us that godly friendships thrive on courage, grace, and putting others
It Starts with You: Be the Friend You Wish You Had | Shawn Williams
Loneliness seriously impacts mental, emotional, and physical health, yet God offers healing through loving, faithful friendship. The friendship between David and Jonathan shows us how humility, loyalty, and sacrificial care create deep connections. Inspired by Philippians 2, Pastor Shawn Williams encourages us to lead with compassion, take the first step, and help others move from isolation into t
Willow Welcomes Back | Gene Appel
Gene Appel, Senior Pastor of Eastside Christian Church in Anaheim, California, started his ministry as a 20-year-old intern and has since guided the church through significant growth and community impact. A graduate of Lincoln Christian University and honorary Doctor of Divinity recipient from Hope International University, Gene is also a global church leadership coach. Formerly the Lead Pastor of
Willow Welcomes Back | Megan Marshman
Let’s welcome back Megan Marshman—dynamic Bible teacher, author, and Willow teaching pastor—whose heart for women’s ministry and global impact inspires many. Recently, during a trip to Uganda with her boys, Megan experienced a powerful shift in perspective—one that challenges the productivity-obsessed culture we live in and invites us to embrace a slower, more human pace. She watched her boys slow
Willow Welcomes Back | Ashlee Eiland
Welcome back author Ashlee Eiland—a beloved part of Willow’s story who helped lead Young Adults, contributed to the high school ministry, and shaped Midweek services. In this message, we'll explore one of those questions from John's Gospel as Jesus encounters a man by a pool. How Jesus chooses to engage this man serves as a timely invitation to us: Do we, in fact, want to be well?
Willow Welcomes Back | Lee Strobel
Lee Strobel is a former investigative journalist and bestselling author known for his compelling exploration of faith through a legal and evidential lens. Once an atheist, he became a Christian after an in-depth investigation into the claims of Christianity, which he documented in, The Case for Christ. Strobel served as a teaching pastor at Willow during the 80s and 90s, and has since written nume
The Unstoppable Mission | Shawn Williams
The book of Acts shows how the early church, empowered by the Holy Spirit, boldly spread the message of Jesus despite persecution and challenges. Even under house arrest, Paul continued to proclaim the Kingdom of God, proving that nothing can stop the Gospel. Just like the early church, we are called to live on mission, trusting the Spirit to empower us to share Jesus with others. The church is al
Resilience in Trials | Shawn Williams
Suffering is a part of life; following Jesus means embracing His call to join Him in it. Paul’s journey—filled with arrests, trials, storms, and shipwrecks—teaches us that hardship doesn’t have to silence or discourage us. Through it all, Paul kept preaching and pointing others to the hope of the Gospel, showing us that even in suffering, we can glorify God. Pastor Shawn Williams reminds us that J
Courageous Faith | Dave Dummitt
Paul’s time in Athens was a bold step of courage. Surrounded by idols and intellectual pride, he took the Gospel straight into the marketplace, engaging with the great thinkers of the time. Even with the real risk of death, Paul stood firm, declaring that the Creator God had always been present. His courage wasn’t based on intellect, but on being deeply aware of God’s presence—reminding us that we
Radical Worship: Finding Joy in the Hard Places | Dave Dummitt
In Acts 16, we find Paul and Silas worshipping in prison, choosing hymns of hope in the darkest of circumstances. Their unwavering faith led to a miracle, not only freeing them but also bringing salvation to the jailer and his family. Pastor Dave Dummitt teaches that worship isn’t merely about enduring hardships, it’s about transforming lives and pointing others to Jesus. Their example calls us to
Faith in the Face of the Impossible | Shawn Williams
Acts 12 narrates the miraculous escape of Peter from prison, underscoring the transformative power of prayer amidst persecution. In a seemingly hopeless situation, the church came together in earnest prayer, and God responded by sending an angel to deliver Peter. Pastor Shawn Williams emphasizes that faith isn't about having all the answers but trusting in God's power to move—even when the
Breaking Boundaries: Open Doors to God’s Kingdom
Acts 10 marks a turning point in church history, as the Gospel breaks beyond Jerusalem to reach the Gentiles. God revealed to Cornelius, a Roman centurion, and Peter, through a vision, that the Gospel is for all, challenging Jewish purity laws. Peter’s bold decision to enter Cornelius’s home, defying Jewish customs, symbolized radical inclusion. The Holy Spirit falling on the Gentiles confirmed th
Transformed and Commissioned: The Power of Grace | Shawn Williams
Paul’s transformation is one of the most dramatic in Scripture. Once a fierce persecutor of Jesus’ followers, he was blinded on the road to Damascus, where Jesus called him by name and commissioned him to proclaim the Gospel. This moment marked not only his redemption but also his mission. Similarly, Ananias showed radical faith by welcoming Paul, proving that no one is beyond redemption. Pastor S
Radical Generosity: Living with Open Hands | Shawn Williams
The early church demonstrated radical generosity, sharing all they had to meet each other's needs, reflecting their faith in Jesus and God’s provision. Their giving came from love, not obligation, as they understood that following Jesus meant living with open hands and caring for one another. Pastor Shawn Williams challenges us to embrace this same generous heart, trusting that as Jesus gave every
The Power of Community | Thomas Anderson Jr.
In Acts 2:42-47, the early church demonstrated a profound commitment to authentic community, as believers devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, and sharing meals together. Their unity and generosity were powerful reflections of God’s Kingdom, as they gave selflessly, meeting each other's needs. This passage reveals that true community demands vulnerability, sacrificial love, and a willin
Empowered to Change the World | Shawn Williams
Old habits die hard, and this truth is highlighted in Acts 1, where, even after spending forty days with the resurrected Jesus, the disciples still ask, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” This moment marks the birth of the church, and serves as a reminder that even today, followers of Jesus are called to embody its mission. To be His witnesses, we must first enco
Willow Welcomes David Ashcraft
David Ashcraft, CEO of the Global Leadership Network, is a dynamic leader with a proven ability to transform lives. He grew Lives Changed By Christ (LCBC) Church from a small congregation into one of the largest in the Northeastern U.S. Now leading the Global Leadership Summit, the world’s largest leadership conference, David empowers pastors and leaders to drive lasting change in their communitie
Happiness in Relationships | Megan Marshman
Television shows like The Brady Bunch, Friends, and This is Us show us the power of relationships to shape our happiness. While family relationships can be challenging, they also provide opportunities for growth as we navigate love, dependence, and autonomy. Pastor Megan Marshman explores Proverbs 21:21 and how leaning into God’s wisdom can help us nurture meaningful relationships and find true ha
Contentment Over Comparison | Dave Dummitt with Sav Crow, LaRue Howard, and Gretchen Dedina
In today’s social media-driven world, it’s easy to fall into the comparison trap, constantly measuring our lives against the highlight reels of others. But comparison steals our contentment, breeding envy that robs us of peace and joy. Over time, envy can distort our relationships and hurt our mental health. Proverbs 14:30 reminds us that “a heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the
The Joy of Living Generously | Dave Dummitt
There was a time when phrases like "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" and "It is better to give than to receive" were widely understood, regardless of faith. Both, rooted in the teachings of Jesus, emphasized generosity—a principle we’ve lost sight of in today’s pursuit of happiness. Proverbs 11:24-25 reminds us that true happiness isn’t found in holding on to
The Pursuit of Wisdom | Shawn Williams
"I want to be happy, but ___." We’ve all faced moments when life's challenges—like difficult relationships, health struggles, or career setbacks—leave us longing for happiness. But true happiness doesn’t come from our circumstances. Proverbs 3:13-14 shows us that happiness is found in wisdom, far more valuable than material wealth. Wisdom helps us navigate life’s complexities and emp
Easter at Willow 2025 | Shawn Williams (Full Service)
Have you ever tried talking about math with parents of elementary or middle school kids? You’ll likely hear things like, “It’s like a foreign language!” It’s funny, but also kind of frustrating. The truth is, math hasn’t really changed—one plus one is still two. Similarly, have we overcomplicated the Gospel? Pastor Shawn Williams and our creative team keep it simple and celebrate the Good News: Go
“The End of Selfishness” | Megan Marshman
It’s easy to get caught up in the culture of “Me, Myself, and I,” where self-help and self-care often take center stage. But for followers of Jesus, this self-centered mindset isn’t the answer—He calls us to humility and service. When we shift our focus from ourselves to others, using our gifts to serve and bless those around us, we live out the love of Jesus and reflect God’s heart of generosity.
“The End of Loneliness” | Dave Dummitt
Loneliness is something we all experience, but true hospitality—offering warmth and genuine presence—can help create a place of connection. When we create spaces like this, our church and community becomes a place where no one is left feeling alone, and real, meaningful relationships can flourish!
“The End of Hate” | Dave Dummitt
When you scroll through social media or watch the news, it's easy to be overwhelmed by the negativity and hate around you—whether it's the latest conflict, violence, or tragedy. It’s a reminder that our world is often shaped by personal feelings of powerlessness, mistreatment, or fear. But there’s hope! Pastor Dave Dummitt highlights Peter’s antidote to hate: the power of the resurrection, which c
Weekend Service, March 23 | Senior Pastor Update
Dave Dummitt, Willow's Elders, and Shawn Williams share an update on our senior pastor transition. You can learn more at https://www.willowcreek.org/updates/
