Kern Talks

Pastor Will uses the image of feeling stuck to connect with Easter’s hope. Like Mary Magdalene in grief at the empty tomb, we often believe our story is over. But when Jesus calls her name, everything changes. The resurrection reveals that we’re not stuck—death, despair, and pain don’t win. In Christ, God is still writing our story with new life.

Pastor Will reflects on Jesus’ burial through Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus—unlikely witnesses who step forward in courage and devotion. Their actions reveal that the cross doesn’t scatter people but draws them together, forming a wider, diverse community. As Easter approaches, we’re invited to expand our circles, extend belonging, and welcome others into the transforming community created by Jesus’ sacrifice.

“Likely Witnesses” challenges the idea that following Jesus is for someone else. Through scripture and a powerful parable on procrastination, Steve reveals that ordinary people are called, equipped, and invited now—not later—to live as disciples. We are not unlikely; we are chosen. The question isn’t if we’re called, but whether we will respond without delay.

Pastor Will explores the unlikely witness of Simon of Cyrene, the man forced to carry Jesus’ cross on the way to crucifixion. What began as an unwanted burden became a life-changing encounter with Christ. Simon’s story reveals that following Jesus means taking up our cross daily—and discovering that when we carry it with Jesus, his presence brings rest.

Pastor Will reflects on fear through the story of Barabbas, the guilty prisoner set free while Jesus takes the cross. In this moment, Barabbas becomes the first living picture of grace—undeserved freedom given through Christ’s sacrifice. The message reminds us that Jesus meets us in fear, failure, and forces beyond our control with mercy and new life.

Pastor Will explores the struggle of akrasia—knowing what’s right yet failing to act. Through Peter’s denial of Jesus and the unnamed servant girl’s challenge, he reveals how fear and self-protection silence faithfulness. Echoing Martin Luther King Jr.’s call to courageous action, he invites us to confront resisting voices and pray for strength to live boldly.

Pastor Will challenges our habit of postponing faith, reminding us that tomorrow never comes. Beginning Lent, he reflects on Mary of Bethany anointing Jesus, showing devotion that acts now, not later. Her example teaches that following Jesus isn’t about waiting for perfect timing but offering ourselves today. Present faithfulness shapes future discipleship—because now is the moment to respond.

Pastor Will challenges the idea that purpose is something we must find. In Matthew 4, Jesus shows that purpose comes through following him in everyday life. Fulfillment grows over time as we walk with Christ and others, allowing him to transform ordinary work and relationships. Purpose isn’t discovered through pressure or perfection—it’s revealed through faithfully following Jesus together each day.

Pastor Will reminds us everyone has influence, and followers of Jesus are called to use theirs for good. Drawing from Matthew 28 and Colossians 4, he teaches that impact isn’t forceful evangelism but everyday presence—living with love, wisdom, and gracious speech. By sharing faith through relationships and ordinary moments, we reflect Jesus and make a meaningful, lasting impact.

Pastor Will explores resilience through faith, reminding listeners that endurance has limits and hitting them isn’t failure. Drawing from James 1, he teaches that hardship can grow maturity and that when strength runs out, prayer is the way forward. God meets us at our limits with wisdom, grace, and guidance for what comes next.