"God knows the truth of what you carry, even when others cannot see it."

"In a world of headlines and hardship, beauty still exists."

"The practices of Jesus help to get the teachings of Jesus into the muscle memory of our bodies."

“Everything points back to a Creator who cares about beauty, meaning, and relationship.”

“Jesus was the ultimate seed planter, dropping truth and grace into hardened hearts, and reviving joy in barren places.”

"Do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity."

How can we, Cedar Creek Church, embody this spirit? How can we find opportunities, big or small, to be the "helping hands" for one another -- lightening loads, sharing joys, and building up our surrounding communities in faith and fellowship?

How will we find awe in the patient unfolding of life and the quiet presence of the Creator this week?

We are now in the heart of Holy Week -- a sacred stretch of days that invites us to slow down and walk intentionally with Jesus.

Friends, just as Hughes found appreciation in the simplicity of spring weather, may we, too, rekindle our gratitude for the ordinary blessings that surround us this week.

Living past 90 sometimes brings a unique kind of solitude, as a lifetime of stories and experiences can feel heavy when you are one of the few remaining from your generation. But in Argentina, a remarkable story is proving that age is no barrier to connection and vibrant engagement.

The cherry blossoms, in their fleeting beauty, remind us of God's artistry and the perfect timing of His creation. May we, like these blossoms, bring beauty and joy to those around us, reflecting the beauty of the One who created all things. 

As this global conversation unfolds, may it stir us to humility -- acknowledging that we are but dust and breath, part of God’s grand creation.

As we walk through this Lenten season together, my prayer is that we will set our focus on Jesus, trusting that everything else -- including justice -- will follow as we anticipate the remarkable complexity of Holy Week.

Lent is a journey, and peacemaking is part of our calling as followers of Christ. May this season be a time of examining our hearts, drawing closer to God, and stepping forward as bearers of His peace in a world that longs for it.

If you are feeling buried under the weight of life’s challenges this month, take heart: God is still writing your story. May we live in the confidence that we serve a God who declares us alive -- even when the world tries to write us off.

As we navigate our own wildfires this week -- metaphorically speaking, of course -- may we find peace in knowing that God will provide refuge ... sometimes in the most surprising places.

God invites us to explore His creation, to ask questions, and to seek understanding. And the tools we develop -- whether it’s a VR headset for a mouse or a telescope peering into distant galaxies -- can lead us to greater awe and worship.

Dédé composed for concert halls, but his story is one of resilience, justice, and the enduring power of beauty. May his life inspire us to embrace our callings with courage, knowing that no barrier is too great when we trust in God’s plan.

After all, even a sunfish at the Kaikyokan Aquarium in southern Japan knows that life is better when we’re together.