An ideal personality…

What does the ideal personality look like to you? Is there a single word that comes to mind?

Now, before we dive in, let’s set the record straight: I don’t believe there’s an ideal one-size-fits-all personality out there.

Our differences?

They add flavor and depth to life. But if I had to pinpoint some key traits, here’s what I’d highlight:

First off, there’s that whole “unconditional love” thing. You know, loving others despite their flaws and slip-ups…

Then, there’s being a clear communicator, someone who listens and talks with empathy and understanding.

Next, let’s talk about selflessness. Putting others’ needs ahead of our own, even when it means making sacrifices—that’s definitely worth noting.

Generosity is another trait that stands out. The willingness to give freely and support others is a mark of a truly admirable person.

Forgiveness is a cornerstone for healthy relationships.

To round it out, when describing ideal characteristics in a person, I think I need to include leading by example and having a good sense of humor. After all, life’s too short to take ourselves too seriously.

Now to let you in on a secret…these characteristics actually describe some very important people in my life….moms!

My mom, Mary, and my wife Leigh-Ann (and her mom Tina is also a great mom)!

At the risk of embarrassing them, they are the whole package for motherhood.

This Sunday, we’re getting ready to celebrate Mother’s Day, with a special gift for all the women joining us. To wrap things up, we’re finishing our sermon series in Philippians by exploring Philippians 4:14-23. These verses might not specifically talk about motherhood, but they do offer insights into living a generous life and offer us characteristics for a generous life. We’ll discover that generosity is about partnership, discipleship, worship, stewardship, and fellowship. I’m excited to delve into the value of generosity and share some practical steps for each of us to take—no matter our role in life.

There is so much more to share, I sure hope to see you Sunday at 8:00, 9:15 (Full KidCity available), or 10:45 am (Full KidCity available), or you can watch the Livestream on YouTube (Like and Subscribe) or Facebook at 9:15 am. Additionally, we are also publishing our sermons on Spotify.
Have a great evening,
Troy

Embrace it…

Yesterday, our oldest daughter graduated from college. She has made great friends, learned a lot, and is now all grown up. In the words of one of the speakers yesterday, she is now an “adult, adult.” If age 18 was like dipping her toe into adulthood, and age 21 was wading out into the water, then graduating from college yesterday is like a canon ball into the deep end. I just don’t feel old enough to have kids doing cannonballs into the deep end of life. However, my options are to deny my age or embrace it. So, I’m coming in for a hug (see what I did there)…and now looking for my AARP application 😊….well, maybe not quite there, but I am beginning to recognize that the speed of life seems to move in proportion to my age….it just keeps speeding up. I feel like I’m on a treadmill and holding down on the “Speed Up” button….and at this point, I’m in a full-out run. Since Alexa has been alive, Leigh-Ann and I have recognized that as parents we will experience plenty of transitions. From diapers to bikes to a phone and driver’s license to college graduation, it is a privilege to be a part of each of our kids’ growth. As our oldest, Alexa has been blessed with a strong mind and plenty of grit. Combined with her faith in God, she has already enjoyed plenty of incredible blessings. We are all so proud of her and excited to see all that God has planned for her life. But to be honest, it’s been a constant temptation to overlook the blessings of the present moment and look ahead to the future. If she can just get a certain GPA or earn a scholarship to play college soccer or travel internationally or get to know a guy we can all agree on 😊or get accepted into Med School, then we can relax a bit. She has done all this and more, and if we are not careful, there will always be more. More reasons to try harder, work longer and experience a growing resume of successes. So what would it look like to be content….and still pursuing success in life? And what happens when we are not just looking forward to more successes, but we are also having to deal with tough times? Times that are marked by pain and suffering? This Sunday, Pastor Anthony will discuss these types of questions and more in a sermon entitled, “Strengthening through Contentment: A Grateful Life” from Philippians 4:10-13. I sure hope to see you Sunday at 8:00, 9:15 (Full KidCity available), or 10:45 am (Full KidCity available), or you can watch the Livestream on YouTube (Like and Subscribe) or Facebook at 9:15 am. Additionally, we are also publishing our sermons on Spotify. Have a great evening, Troy

The joy of mulch….

One of my favorite times every Spring is the day we spread new mulch in our yard. Since I love getting a good deal, I typically wait until I can buy it for $2 per bag. And this season didn’t disappoint. HD had a special running on mulch that was 5 bags for $10. I decided to wait for the boys to get out of school and on the way home we stopped to get our first 25 bags.

Now, before you start conjuring images of landscapers gracefully sculpting flower beds while birds chirp in harmony, let me set the scene straight. This was a DIY project and I certainly wanted more “do it together” than “do it yourself.”

First, there was the logistics of lugging bags of mulch from the curb to the yard using muscles that had been in hibernation all winter. But hey, who needs a gym membership when you’ve got plenty of mulch to move?

Next came the precision work of spreading the mulch just right—none of that haphazard dumping and hoping for the best. Oh no, we were on a mission for mulch mastery, carefully layering it around bushes and shrubs taking pride in our work.

After two more trips to the store, a few wardrobe casualties, and some seriously stained hands, we emerged victorious, our project complete. Sure, there were muddy footprints and sore muscles, but the satisfaction of a job well done outweighed the discomfort—mostly.

There are plenty of other experiences that bring me satisfaction…spending time with our family and our church family…hearing about lives being changed on a regular basis…a good book or inspiring movie…a hot cup of coffee and time to reflect…

This Sunday, I look forward to sharing a sermon from Philippians 4:1-9 about a joyful life. Does a joyful life extend beyond satisfying experiences? Is it possible to experience joy while also experiencing pain or tragedy?

I can’t wait to address these questions and share more, but you have to come Sunday at 8:00, 9:15 (Full KidCity available), or 10:45 am (Full KidCity available), or you can watch the Livestream on YouTube (Like and Subscribe) or Facebook at 9:15 am. Additionally, we are also publishing our sermons on Spotify.

Have a great evening,
Troy

Golazo….

Dallas and I were pumped as we made our way to GEHA Arrowhead Stadium for the showdown between Inter Miami and Sporting Kansas City. But let’s be real, we were really there for one reason – to catch a glimpse of the legend himself, Lionel Messi.

In the words of my boys, the stadium was lit!

Fans were hyped, jerseys everywhere, chants echoing in the air. But amidst the madness, Dallas and I shared a secret mission: soak up some Messi magic and maybe learn a thing or two about greatness.

The game kicked off, and it was intense. But whenever Messi touched the ball, every eye was on him just waiting for something incredible. His passes were a work of art…leaving defenders scrambling to keep up.

Then it happened – With the score tied 1-1, Messi pulled back and sent that ball flying like it had a GPS to the top corner of the net.

The crowd went wild and I’m pretty sure my jaw hit the ground…As we shuffled out of the stadium after the game, still buzzing from the excitement, everyone seemed to be in awe of the legend. Inter Miami ended with the win, 3-2, but even Sporting fans were pumped about the experience.

I am positive kids all over KC were inspired to work harder and train more often…simply because they have been influenced by one of the best ever.

At the same time, when it comes to remaining steadfast in our faith, we also need to pursue the best influences. This Sunday I look forward to sharing a sermon from Philippians 3:17-21 entitled, “Living in light of eternity: An Influenced Life.” We will spend the majority of our time reflecting on what it means to follow faithful examples.

Learning not only who to follow but also how to become a person worth following as we follow Jesus.

I can’t wait to share more, but you have to come Sunday at 8:00, 9:15 (Full KidCity available), or 10:45 am (Full KidCity available), or you can watch the Livestream on YouTube (Like and Subscribe) or Facebook at 9:15 am. Additionally, we are also publishing our sermons on Spotify.

If you are looking to be a better footballer, I suggest imitating Messi, but if you are looking to remain steadfast in your Christian faith, follow Paul as he follows Christ.

Have a great evening,
Troy

Doughnuts with dad…

A few weeks ago, my youngest son Ian invited me to join him for “Doughnuts with Dad” at his school. I must admit, the prospect of waking up early to hang out in a cafeteria filled with elementary school children and their dads wasn’t exactly on my bucket list.

I know…I am an extrovert and I love my kids and I love doughnuts and coffee and I even care deeply for other kids.

However, I don’t love small talk with other dads I may never see again, and I don’t love the confines of a loud school cafeteria.

Nevertheless, recognizing the significance of such events to our children, I willingly rearranged my schedule to attend…😊.

As Leigh-Ann says, “Sometimes you have to take one for the team.” Well, if eating a doughnut, drinking coffee, and losing to my kid in checkers….(He beat me fair and square)…will build into our relationship for the long term, then “Dads with Doughnuts it is….:).

What a hero 😊 😊!

The decision to make a smaller sacrifice in order to invest in a larger reward down the road is something you and I do often throughout life. Of course, this concept extends far beyond a parenting choice…nearly any part of our lives we will have opportunities to make present sacrifices for a better future.

This Sunday, Pastor Dave is going to share from Philippians 3:12-16 which is a very personal Scripture for him (you will have to come to find out why 😊). In these verses, the Apostle Paul challenges us to press on toward the prize. We are reminded that looking back can be discouraging and constantly reminding ourselves of our struggles can easily rob us of focus. So, in spite of difficult circumstances, when we press on we are investing in the future.

Even though it was a pretty easy decision to spend time with the boys and it was totally worth it, there are plenty of other decisions in our lives that are much tougher. I really hope to see you on Sunday.

I can’t wait to learn more, but you have to come Sunday at 8:00, 9:15 (Full KidCity available), or 10:45 am (Full KidCity available), or you can watch the Livestream on YouTube (Like and Subscribe) or Facebook at 9:15 am. Additionally, we are also publishing our sermons on Spotify.

See you soon,
Troy

Topple….

Easter Sunday breathes new life into us for many reasons. Personally, it started with seeing our New Life CityChurch family and worshipping together. This was truly a blessed time for worship and building deeper relationships. We even broke an attendance record….and perhaps an unofficial record for coffee consumption

Afterwards, we spent time with family and friends eating incredible food and sharing stories around the table. After the youngest kids went on an easter egg hunt, most of us found chairs in the backyard.

And what better way to cap off the day than with one of our favorite pastimes: Giant Jenga.

This was particularly challenging because it was pretty windy outside. After a few embarrassing rounds…we started to get the hang of it.

As each turn came around, the tension mounted. Some of us boldly seized the moment with daring moves, while others approached cautiously, wary of the tower’s impending collapse.

Amidst laughter and cheers, we savored the camaraderie and excitement of the game.
With every sway of the tower, we held our breath, never knowing if it would stand or fall.

In one memorable game, it was my turn, and the tower teetered on the brink. Summoning my championship mindset, I boldly requested my anthem: “Eye of the Tiger.” With nerves of steel, I made my move, and to everyone’s amazement, the tower stood strong.

Let’s Goooooo!

Life often feels like a Giant Jenga game, with moments of intense decision-making and shared anticipation. Yet, unlike the precariousness of the tower, our spiritual lives are anchored by the supernatural power of Christ.

I look forward to beginning the second part of our series in Philippians, “The Good Life of Christ” by studying Philippians 3:1-11, “Humble worship is our response to steadfast faith.”  I hope you can join us while we not only discover why it’s important to remain steadfast but also how to do it.

I can’t wait to share more, but you have to come Sunday at 8:00, 9:15 (Full KidCity available), or 10:45 am (Full KidCity available), or you can watch the Livestream on YouTube (Like and Subscribe) or Facebook at 9:15 am. Additionally, we are also publishing our sermons on Spotify.

See you soon,
Troy

How ’bout those Chieeefs….

In case you didn’t know…In two days, the Chiefs play the 49’ers in Super Bowl 58…😊…Let’s run it back!!!

Even though they made it again, the path to the Super Bowl has been long and tough. About 6 months ago we took a family day and traveled to St. Joseph for the Chiefs training camp. From what I’ve heard Andy Reid is known for his tough training camps. Although, his brother Randy isn’t nearly as demanding IYKYK :>).

Coach Reid is known for paying close attention to detail and expecting our Chiefs to play smart and hard for the whole game…offense, defense, and special teams. Each player has to invest everything they have into the success of the team…and when they do, it usually turns out great.

As a fan, it sure is fun to live in Kansas City during these winning seasons. As a faithful Vikings fan growing up, watching my team in the Super Bowl is a new experience. I still root for the Vikings but have been fully converted to a citizen of the Red Kingdom.

When it comes to strategy, I am an average armchair quarterback…I like to think I know the best plays to call and it’s not hard at all for me to notice when the refs make a bad call. I will admit, I wouldn’t know the first thing about coaching in the NFL, but I do know that winning in football demands making the right choice again and again.

Winning over the long haul demands that every pass route must be run with precision….and of course, the receiver has to make the catch 😊. It takes blocking, running, and receiving on offense and coverage and tackling well on defense.

An exemplary team consists of hundreds of coaches, players, and staff stringing together one good decision after another. These simple decisions eventually add up to winning games and championships.

Our Christian life has plenty of parallels. An exemplary life is Gospel-empowered choices threaded together. Although we may long to be a part of a big movement of God (and this can happen) most of our lives as Christians are simply making one good choice after another. This Sunday, we are going to learn from two of Paul’s close friends, Timothy and Epaphroditus. Their lives teach us how to make the simple choices to be good friends and faithful ministers.

I look forward to continuing our sermon series, “The Good Life of Christ” by studying from Philippians 2:19-30. The sermon is titled, “Thriving as Citizens of Another Kingdom: An Exemplary Life.”

I look forward to sharing much more on Sunday. I look forward to seeing you at 8:00, 9:15 (Full KidCity available), or 10:45 am (Full KidCity available), or you can watch the Livestream on YouTube (Like and Subscribe) or Facebook at 9:15 am. Additionally, we are also publishing our sermons on Spotify.

How ‘bout those Chieeefs,
Troy

Because I’m happy….

What makes you happy?

There are plenty of things that make me happy.

This weather makes me happy – plus Punxsutawney Phil didn’t see his shadow. Early Spring is on the way! And if you want to get a little laugh you can watch it here 😊.

The Kansas City Chiefs are headed back to another Super Bowl! And my, didn’t they look good! I have some thoughts on the Justin Tucker Vs. Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce altercation, but you will have to come on Sunday 😊. The Chiefs winning the AFC Championship makes me happy.

Good food makes me happy. Family and friends make me happy. Great gatherings at church make me happy. Health makes me happy…Well-behaved kids make me happy 😊. I could go on…

It’s easy to be glad and rejoice when I’m happy…but what if you’re not so happy?

What if it’s cold outside? Or if you lived in Baltimore…😊…too soon? What if your health wasn’t great or life didn’t seem to be going well?

Could you still be glad and rejoice?

The short answer is yes, and the longer answer is yes, and when you are glad and rejoice despite circumstances you are a light in a dark world.

When you choose joy and not complaining, you are testifying about your faith in Christ. When you make sacrifices empowered by God’s grace you have a good reason to be glad and rejoice.

This Sunday, I look forward to sharing a sermon from Philippians 2:12-18 about the truth that when Christ transforms our lives, we shine as lights in a dark world. This is a part of our verse-by-verse sermon series through Philippians entitled, “The Good Life of Christ.”

Between us, I hope our joy and gladness are not tested a week from Sunday with a disappointing loss, so I’m already believing we are going to run it back.

I look forward to sharing much more on Sunday. I look forward to seeing you at 8:00, 9:15 (Full KidCity available), or 10:45 am (Full KidCity available), or you can watch the Livestream on YouTube (Like and Subscribe) or Facebook at 9:15 am. Additionally, we are also publishing our sermons on Spotify.

Have a great weekend,
Troy

Wrestling….

This past week, Isaiah entered his first wrestling tournament. This is a pretty big deal in our household.  I started wrestling about the same time I learned how to crawl and went through college…also… eight (out of eight boys) of his cousins wrestle.

So to say wrestling is a part of our family is a bit of an understatement….however, I have been slow to encourage the boys to wrestle…maybe because I remember what it’s like to spend an entire Saturday in a very loud gym, packed with people, waiting for hours for a match that may only last a few minutes.

Despite all my reasons…we jumped into the black hole of wrestling, and it turned out pretty well. Isaiah ended the day with two wins (by pin) and one loss which was enough for a Bronze Medal.

Let’s Gooooooo!

One thing I love about wrestling is that it’s very objective…you control your destiny. You can’t blame a teammate or depend on a teammate for the outcome (of course you can still blame the ref 😊)…It’s just one wrestler against another wrestler on the mat.

No matter how good you are as a wrestler however, there is still someone who either has defeated you or will defeat you…even the greatest wrestlers of all time have experienced the pain of defeat.

This is humbling….and necessary…

Another part of wrestling that I love is when you are out there, you have family, friends, and teammates, cheering you on. This past Saturday, Isaiah had a pretty good cheering section including mom, dad, brothers, uncle, friends, and coaches.

Wrestling teaches plenty of life lessons including discipline, humility, and of course unity.

Much of wrestling translates to our spiritual journey. This Sunday, Will Boroughs will continue our sermon series through Philippians by focusing on Philippians 2:1-11. Together, we will discover that Jesus has done the heavy lifting for us and as God of the universe humbled Himself…veiled His glory, so that He could live among us and die for us.

Knowing that we absolutely need Jesus is humbling and unifying and offers us hope for this life and eternity. And I’m very grateful that when it comes to our spiritual warfare, Jesus has already stepped in for us…

I look forward to seeing you at 8:00, 9:15 (Full KidCity available), or 10:45 am (Full KidCity available), or you can watch the Livestream on YouTube (Like and Subscribe) or Facebook at 9:15 am. Additionally, we are also publishing our sermons on Spotify.

Have a great weekend,
Troy

Significance….

Super Bowl LVIII will be held on Sunday, February 11, 2024. This will be a game between the two best football teams in the world (at least at the time 😊).

If you are a Chiefs fan, you are hoping we can get a win this week and next week in our attempt to “Run it Back!”

What do you think? Will we get there again?

Only five teams have ever won two Super Bowls in a row…and if we can win again this year we would be the 6^th team to pull it off.

Our New Life community is blessed to have one of the players, #83 Noah Gray as a part of our church. He was baptized a few years ago and is a committed follower of Jesus.

I am sure he would tell you that playing in front of millions of people and winning the Super Bowl is significant. However, I believe he would also tell you that knowing Jesus personally is even more significant.

A few weeks ago, he stopped by the church for a Good Dad’s Christmas event. He took pics and signed autographs, but first, he testified that Jesus Christ is his Lord and Savior.

Knowing Jesus is the most significant relationship we can have.

This Sunday, I look forward to sharing a sermon entitled, “Honoring Christ: A Significant Life from our series in Philippians, The Good Life of Christ.

The Apostle Paul had many experiences and had spent his life serving Jesus. While he was writing from prison in Rome, he shared one of the most significant verses in the book, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21).

No matter what you do for a living, who you know or what you have accomplished one thing is true….significance will ultimately be found in Christ.

I look forward to seeing you at 8:00, 9:15 (Full KidCity available), or 10:45 am (Full KidCity available), or you can watch the Livestream on YouTube (Like and Subscribe) or Facebook at 9:15 am. Additionally, we are also publishing our sermons on Spotify.

I hope you stay warm and have a great weekend,
Troy