Vineyard Church of Ann Arbor Sermon Podcast
The Vineyard Church of Ann Arbor is a growing multi-ethnic, multi-generational, welcoming church that blends the vibrant faith of the historic Christian creeds with a sympathetic and discerning approach to culture.
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The People of God in the Age of Empire – Practices of Resistance
05/12/2025
The People of God in the Age of Empire – Practices of Resistance
Colossians: The People of God in the Age of Empire – Practices of Resistance (Colossians 3:1–17) - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this third installment of the Colossians: The People of God in the Age of Empire series, Pastor Donnell Wyche explores Paul’s invitation to live a resurrection-shaped life as resistance to the demands and distortions of empire. After deconstructing the false promises of empire—security, glory, and salvation—Paul turns toward reconstruction, calling the Colossians to embody new life by setting their minds on Christ. Resurrection, Pastor Donnell reminds us, is not metaphorical—it is real, and it invites us into ordinary, grounded practices of love, patience, forgiveness, and peace as signs that Christ is alive and empire is not in control. Pastor Donnell contextualizes Paul’s challenge by naming how empire shapes us with fear, scarcity, and performance-based identity. Drawing from his experience on Ann Arbor’s planning commission, he critiques how exclusion and self-protection still shape our civic life—especially around housing—and how Paul calls us to take off the habits of empire and put on the character of Christ. Resistance, in this sense, isn’t reactive—it’s proactive. It’s not about protest alone, but daily formation: shedding old ways of being and clothing ourselves with compassion, humility, and love. This, he asserts, is what empire cannot imitate. The sermon climaxes with Paul’s powerful reframing of Christian identity: “You are chosen, you are holy, and you are deeply, deeply loved.” Pastor Donnell insists that our actions must flow from this identity—not out of fear, guilt, or striving, but as a response to God’s unshakable love. Resistance looks like parenting with patience, giving freely, refusing cynicism, and holding fast to hope. Every act of mercy, love, and peace is an act of protest against empire’s rule. The invitation is clear: live like resurrection is real—because it is—and let your life be a declaration that Jesus is Lord.
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Colossians: The People of God in the Age of Empire – Naming the Empire
05/05/2025
Colossians: The People of God in the Age of Empire – Naming the Empire
Colossians: The People of God in the Age of Empire – Naming the Empire (Colossians 2:6-15) - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this powerful and provocative sermon, Pastor Donnell Wyche continues the Colossians: The People of God in the Age of Empire series by exploring Colossians 2:6–15 and what it means to be faithful to Christ in a world shaped by empire. Drawing from Paul’s letter to a fledgling church in Colossae, Donnell frames the passage as a deeply subversive text—one that directly confronts the ideologies, powers, and allegiances of the surrounding Roman empire. For Paul, and for us today, to declare that Christ—not Caesar, not the economy, not nationalism—is Lord, is to resist the false narratives that shape our lives and identities. Pastor Donnell draws sharp connections between Paul’s world and our own, exposing the subtle and not-so-subtle ways empire exerts its influence today—from militarism and economic control to curated media narratives and Christian celebrity culture. He names modern forces—TikTok, Amazon, JPMorgan Chase, Warner Bros, and even popular pastors—not to shame, but to awaken the church to how deeply these forces shape our desires, fears, and theology. “Don’t be taken captive,” Paul warns, and Pastor Donnell echoes that call with urgency, reminding us that resistance starts by rooting ourselves in Christ, not in power, performance, or fear. The sermon crescendos with a bold declaration: Jesus, crucified by empire, disarmed the powers not with violence, but through the cross. Pastor Donnell invites the weary, the skeptical, and the disillusioned to see Jesus clearly—not as a tool of empire, but as the one who triumphs by love, truth, and resurrection. “Empire doesn’t get the last word,” he proclaims, “Jesus does.” The call to the church is clear: Wake up. Resist. Stay rooted in Christ. And when overwhelmed by the noise of the world, pray the simple prayer of resistance: “Jesus, free me from the voices that hold me captive. Root me in you again.”
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Colossians: The People of God in the Age of Empire – The Unco-opted Christ
04/28/2025
Colossians: The People of God in the Age of Empire – The Unco-opted Christ
Colossians: The People of God in the Age of Empire – The Unco-opted Christ (Colossians 1:15-20) - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this opening message of our new series on Colossians, Pastor Donnell Wyche invites us into a powerful re-centering of our lives around the crucified Christ. Preaching from Colossians 1:15–20, he reminds us that in the midst of empire, cultural pressures, and leadership failures, Paul does not begin with fear or anxiety but with a bold proclamation: Christ is the image of the invisible God, the one who holds all things together. Pastor Donnell challenges us to see worship not as private devotion but as public resistance — an act of allegiance to a kingdom that values humility, peace, and sacrificial love over the power, dominance, and platform of empire. Drawing on rich historical context and vivid contemporary parallels, Pastor Donnell names how empire continues to shape our world through fear, fragmentation, and injustice. Yet in a world that feels unstable and disillusioned, Christ invites us to a different imagination — one rooted not in scarcity but in abundance, not in domination but in reconciliation. He reminds us that Christ’s death was not a defeat but the planting of a seed that bursts into new creation, calling us to participate in God’s ongoing work of healing, resistance, and restoration. Throughout the sermon, Pastor Donnell gently yet boldly calls us to faithful resistance: to make Christ, not empire, the center of our lives; to embody peace, generosity, and mercy in a world hungry for hope; and to trust that even in the ruins, Christ is making all things new. As we contend with grief, fear, and low trust, we are invited to breathe deeply, to anchor ourselves in Christ’s sustaining love, and to live as witnesses to a kingdom that does not co-opt or conquer, but sets us free.
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All Things New: An Invitation to Hope, Restoration, and Life
04/21/2025
All Things New: An Invitation to Hope, Restoration, and Life
All Things New: An Invitation to Hope, Restoration, and Life (John 20) - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this Easter Sunday sermon, Pastor Donnell Wyche invites the congregation into the heart of the resurrection story—not just as a historical event, but as an unfolding promise. Drawing from John 20, he weaves together the emotional power of personal remembrance, the cosmic implications of Jesus’ resurrection, and the deep yearning we each carry for renewal. The story of Mary at the tomb becomes a powerful symbol of recognition and restoration, where Jesus, mistaken as the gardener, is revealed as the firstborn of a new creation. Pastor Donnell challenges us to see ourselves in this story—to remember who has loved us into being, and to believe that even in our grief, doubt, or despair, God is present and active. Throughout the sermon, he speaks to those who feel abandoned, cynical, or weary—those who have given up on faith, sobriety, relationships, or themselves. Using metaphors like the potter and the clay from Jeremiah 18, Pastor Donnell emphasizes that God does not discard us when we resist or falter. Instead, God reshapes us, breathing new life into what we thought was lost. The resurrection, he reminds us, is not a divine do-over but a bold declaration that nothing is beyond redemption. The promise of Easter is that God is making all things new—not all new things—redeeming rather than replacing. In closing, Pastor Donnell calls each listener to respond: What have you abandoned that God still wants to redeem? Whether your faith feels strong or faint, whether you are hopeful or skeptical, the invitation of Easter is the same—Jesus is alive, and he is still making all things new. That includes you. This sermon is a stirring call to remember, to hope, and to believe that the worst thing is never the last thing when Jesus has the final word.
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Palm Sunday: The Subversive King
04/14/2025
Palm Sunday: The Subversive King
Palm Sunday: The Subversive King – (Mark 11; Matthew 16, 26; Zechariah 9:9) - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this Palm Sunday message, Pastor Donnell explores the tension between divine hope and human expectation. He contrasts Jesus’ humble entrance into Jerusalem on a donkey with the imperial procession of Pontius Pilate entering from the other side of the city. Drawing from Zechariah 9:9, Donnell invites us to notice how Jesus subverts conventional power—not through violence or domination but through vulnerability and prophetic obedience. Pastor Donnell reflects on how the people gathered for Passover saw Jesus as the fulfillment of their long-held hopes for liberation. Yet as the story unfolds, the crowd’s enthusiasm turns to disillusionment. Jesus doesn’t lead a rebellion against Rome—he cleanses the temple, is betrayed, abandoned, and eventually executed. In that dissonance, Donnell challenges us to consider what happens when our expectations of God don’t match how God actually moves. Do we give up—or do we surrender our expectations to follow Jesus in his way of costly, transformative love? This sermon ends with a sobering invitation: the way of Christ is not triumphalism but surrender. Palm Sunday forces us to sit with a God who enters the world not to dominate, but to die—and in dying, to usher in a new kind of kingdom. Pastor Donnell calls the church to live awake to this reality, to deny ourselves, take up our crosses, and follow Jesus, even when it costs us everything.
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Unfinished: Learning Who Jesus Is—and Isn’t
04/07/2025
Unfinished: Learning Who Jesus Is—and Isn’t
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples – Learning Who Jesus Is-and Isn't - Dan Lewan - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this powerful and deeply personal sermon, Dan Lewan opens up about a fifteen-year journey exploring the life of Peter, a disciple whose failures, impulsiveness, and transformation make him a compelling leader in the early church. What began as a college observation—that Peter was often wrong—grew into a lifelong fascination with how Jesus patiently shaped Peter through moments of correction and grace. Dan introduces the series by situating Peter’s story in its historical context, tracing Jewish hopes for political liberation through figures like Judas Maccabeus, and showing how those hopes colored Peter’s expectations of Jesus as a Messiah. Dan explores Peter’s journey from a responsible, middle-aged fisherman to a man willing to leave everything to follow Jesus. Through vivid storytelling, he walks us through Peter’s highs—confessing Jesus as the Messiah, witnessing miracles—and his lows—rebuking Jesus, denying him, and facing bitter regret. Dan highlights how Peter struggled to reconcile his own vision of who Jesus should be with who Jesus actually was. Jesus wasn’t a political revolutionary like Judas Maccabeus, but a suffering servant who called Peter not to reign, but to shepherd. The sermon culminates with Peter’s restoration on the beach, where Jesus calls him to love and tend his sheep—not to lead with power, but with humility. Dan draws a clear arc from Peter’s first call to his eventual martyrdom, showing how Jesus patiently dismantled Peter’s false assumptions to prepare him for true Kingdom leadership. Ultimately, Peter’s story is one of surrender—learning who Jesus is not was just as vital as knowing who he is. Dan concludes by reminding us that like Peter, we must lay down our own agendas to embrace the mission of God fully.
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Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples: When Faith Gets Interrupted
03/31/2025
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples: When Faith Gets Interrupted
Unfinished: When Faith Gets Interrupted – Acts 10 - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this week’s message, Pastor Donnell continues the Unfinished series by exploring Acts 10 and the story of Peter and Cornelius. Framing the journey of discipleship as one that continues to unfold, Pastor Donnell reminds us that even Peter, a foundational leader of the church, still had much to learn. The sermon highlights how God disrupted Peter’s expectations through a vision that challenged his deeply held religious assumptions, ultimately preparing him to recognize the work of God in someone he would have considered an outsider. Pastor Donnell draws out four major movements in the Acts 10 narrative: encountering ordinary people with unseen faith, experiencing a discipleship interruption, transforming a shared table into a pulpit, and finally, the unmistakable arrival of the Holy Spirit. The story of Cornelius—a Gentile centurion who was generous, prayerful, and spiritually attuned—underscores a powerful truth: God is already at work in the lives of those we often overlook. Peter’s vision of unclean animals and the Spirit’s directive to “not call unclean what I have made clean” becomes a metaphor for how God redefines belonging and holiness. The sermon culminates in Peter’s surprise as the Holy Spirit falls on Cornelius and his household—a moment that forces him to acknowledge that God’s family is far more inclusive than he had imagined. Pastor Donnell invites the congregation to live with prophetic imagination, to be willing participants in God’s unfolding story, and to extend welcome where we least expect it. His practical encouragement: live as if “maybe, just maybe, God is already at work.”
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Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - Fear to Faith
03/24/2025
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - Fear to Faith
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples – Fear to Faith – Acts 3 - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this week’s message, Pastor Donnell Wyche continued our Unfinished sermon series by exploring Peter’s journey from fear to faith through the story in Acts 3. Picking up from last week’s reflection on Peter’s restoration by Jesus, Pastor Donnell highlighted how Peter’s transformation continues as he and John move from hiding to boldly participating in the unfolding kingdom of God. As they head to the temple for prayer—an ordinary act on an ordinary day—they encounter a man asking for money. Peter’s response, “Look at us,” begins a sacred interaction, not just of healing, but of seeing and being seen, rooted in the rhythms of daily faithfulness and the unexpected in-breaking of God’s kingdom. Pastor Donnell emphasized that the miracle isn’t the central point of the story—it’s the movement toward faith that matters. Peter doesn’t know for sure what will happen, but he reaches out anyway. This act of trust, however imperfect, invites the kingdom into reality. The healed man walks, leaps, and praises God, astonishing those around him. Peter seizes the moment to preach, anchoring the miracle in the larger redemptive story of Jesus. This is a new Peter—one no longer dominated by fear, but awake to the kingdom’s presence, testifying boldly to the power of Jesus’ name. His journey reminds us that faith often begins with a step, even when we’re unsure of the outcome. Closing the sermon, Pastor Donnell invited us to embody the same movement from fear to faith. He asked what it might look like to truly see others through Christ’s eyes—to respond with compassion, mercy, and open-handed generosity. Whether it’s reaching out to someone in need, forgiving someone who’s hurt us, or taking responsibility in difficult conversations, we are invited to be participants in God’s unfolding story. Like Peter, we are unfinished, but we are being transformed. The resurrection of Jesus not only changed history—it changes us, turning shame into freedom and failure into faithfulness.
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Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples
03/17/2025
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples – John 21 - Martha Balmer - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this sermon, Martha Balmer explores the transformation of the apostle Peter in John 21, highlighting how discipleship is a journey of becoming. After Peter’s painful denial of Jesus, he fades into the background, wrestling with disillusionment and shame. But in the final chapter of John’s Gospel, Jesus reappears to him—not to rebuke or dismiss, but to restore. Through the familiar scene of a miraculous catch of fish and a simple meal by the sea, Jesus invites Peter back into discipleship. This passage demonstrates that every experience—our failures, doubts, and missteps—is part of how Jesus forms us into his likeness. Peter’s journey illustrates that discipleship is not about never failing, but about being willing to return to Jesus, again and again. His encounter with Jesus by the fire—mirroring the setting of his denial—becomes a moment of grace. Three times, Jesus asks, “Do you love me?” not to shame Peter, but to reaffirm his calling. In this exchange, Peter is not only forgiven but recommissioned, given the charge to “feed my sheep.” This transformation shows how Jesus meets us in our worst moments, offering not condemnation but a path forward. Martha closes by reminding us that we, too, are unfinished disciples, continually being shaped by Jesus. Like Peter, we may experience disillusionment with ourselves, but these moments are opportunities for deeper dependence on God’s grace. Through scripture, prayer, and community, we are formed into people who reflect Christ—not through perfection, but through persistent faithfulness. As Peter learned, following Jesus is a lifelong journey, one that invites us to let go of false identities and embrace the truth of who we are in Christ.
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Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - Matthew 26
03/10/2025
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - Matthew 26
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples – Matthew 26 - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this sermon, Pastor Donnell Wyche explores Peter’s bold declarations of loyalty to Jesus in Matthew 26, contrasted with his eventual denial. Peter, full of confidence, insists that even if everyone else falls away, he never will. Yet, when faced with fear and self-preservation, he denies Jesus three times. This moment reveals not just Peter’s weakness, but the human tendency to overestimate our strength. Jesus, knowing Peter’s failure in advance, had already made provision for his restoration, showing that our discipleship journey is not about never failing but about returning to Jesus, even in our weakest moments. Pastor Donnell emphasizes that Peter’s story is not just about failure but transformation. His denial, followed by bitter weeping, marks the beginning of a deeper honesty with himself and his need for grace. Jesus had already been praying for Peter’s restoration, demonstrating that God’s grace is not contingent on our performance but is freely given, even in our failures. The lesson for us is clear: our overconfidence can blind us to our vulnerability, but Jesus calls us to embrace humility, to acknowledge our dependence on Him rather than our own strength. This sermon invites us to reflect on the gaps between our intentions and our actions, not with self-condemnation but with openness to God’s transforming work. Like Peter, we are all unfinished, yet Jesus meets us in our weakness, offering restoration and purpose. Our failures are not final; they are invitations to deeper discipleship, where we learn to rely on God’s grace rather than our own strength.
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Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - Discernment and Prayer
03/03/2025
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - Discernment and Prayer
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples – Discernment and Prayer (Matthew 17) - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: Pastor Donnell Wyche continues the journey through Peter’s discipleship, focusing this week on Matthew 17 and the Transfiguration. He sets the scene by reminding us of last week’s dramatic exchange between Peter and Jesus, where Peter resisted the idea of a suffering Messiah. Now, just six days later, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain, where they witness something extraordinary—Jesus, radiant in divine glory, standing alongside Moses and Elijah. Overwhelmed, Peter responds the only way he knows how: by offering to build shelters for them. His reaction reveals both his reverence and his impulse to control sacred moments. Before Peter can finish speaking, God’s voice interrupts, affirming Jesus as His beloved Son and commanding the disciples to listen. The experience is overwhelming, leaving the disciples in fear, but Jesus reassures them: Do not be afraid. Pastor Donnell explores the significance of this moment, not just for Peter but for all of us. The Transfiguration reveals the true nature of Jesus, yet Peter—despite witnessing miracles—still struggles to fully grasp it. He wants a Messiah who acts on his expectations, but Jesus is revealing something greater: God’s unfolding plan. The sermon challenges us to reflect on how we, like Peter, sometimes miss God’s voice because we’re too busy speaking, planning, or clinging to our own expectations. Pastor Donnell humorously acknowledges Peter’s talkative nature and how it mirrors our own tendency to process out loud, often missing the deeper invitation to listen. He reminds us that even though God’s audible voice is rare in Scripture, God is still speaking in our lives—if we are willing to hear. The sermon closes with a practical reflection: How do we learn to recognize God’s voice? Pastor Donnell shares personal struggles with hearing from God and emphasizes that it is not reserved for the spiritually elite. Instead, God speaks through relationships, conversations, and unexpected moments. Just as Peter learned through experience, so do we. The invitation is to cultivate discernment through openness, humility, and trust. Whether through Scripture, prayer, or the wisdom of others, we are called to be attentive. Above all, Pastor Donnell reminds us that God’s voice isn’t about mystical revelations—it’s about relationship. By learning to listen, we open ourselves to the transformative work of Christ in our lives.
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Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - Failure Before Restoration
02/24/2025
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - Failure Before Restoration
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - Failure Before Restoration (Matthew 16) - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this week’s sermon, Pastor Donnell Wyche explores the tension between failure and restoration through the lens of Peter’s journey with Jesus. He begins by reflecting on our cultural obsession with success and how failure is often viewed as something to be avoided at all costs. Using a contemporary story of a student fabricating their achievements to appear more impressive, Pastor Donnell highlights how we often prioritize appearance over truth. He then turns to Peter, whose expectations of Jesus as a conquering Messiah clashed with Jesus’ actual mission. Peter, like many of us, struggled to trust God’s plan when it didn’t align with his assumptions, leading him to rebuke Jesus—a moment that resulted in Jesus’ sharp correction, calling him a “stumbling block.” Pastor Donnell unpacks how Jesus radically redefined what it meant to be the Messiah. Unlike Judas Maccabeus, who led a rebellion, Jesus would defeat evil not through force but through selfless love and submission, ultimately going to the cross. This reversal of expectations unsettled Peter, just as it unsettles us when God’s plans challenge our understanding. Pastor Donnell draws parallels between Peter’s resistance and our own struggles to trust God, sharing personal experiences of advocacy and opposition. He emphasizes that when we stand for what is right, we will face resistance, much like Jesus did. The temptation, as seen in Jesus’ wilderness testing, is to take shortcuts—to trust power, control, and our own strength instead of surrendering to God’s way. Bringing the message home, Pastor Donnell reminds us that failure is not the opposite of discipleship but an essential part of it. Peter’s failure in misunderstanding Jesus was not the end of his story; instead, Jesus later restores him, showing that grace is always present. As disciples, we must resist the belief that God is only on the side of success. Instead, we are called to trust God fully, even in failure. The sermon closes with a practical challenge: to reach out to someone we’ve been avoiding, acknowledging that reconciliation and restoration are core to following Jesus. Through Peter’s journey, we are invited to embrace both failure and grace, trusting that God is present in every part of our story.
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Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - Lord, Save Me!
02/17/2025
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - Lord, Save Me!
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - Lord, Save Me! (Matthew 14:25-30) - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: This week, Pastor Donnell continues the Unfinished series, exploring the life of Peter as a model of discipleship in progress. Peter’s journey is one of ups and downs, moments of bold faith followed by fear and doubt. In Matthew 14:25-30, we find Peter stepping out of the boat, walking toward Jesus on the water—only to begin sinking when he notices the storm around him. In this moment of crisis, Peter cries out, “Lord, save me!” and Jesus immediately reaches out to catch him. This passage invites us to reflect on how our fears hold us back, how we navigate uncertainty, and whether we trust in God’s faithfulness even when the waves threaten to overwhelm us. Pastor Donnell challenges us to consider where we place our confidence—do we rely on our own ability to stay afloat, or do we trust in God’s presence and provision? Like Peter, we often step out in faith but waver when circumstances feel out of our control. Jesus’ response to Peter reminds us that he does not condemn us for our doubts but meets us with compassion and strength. Even in moments when our faith feels small, God remains faithful. Discipleship, then, is not about achieving perfect faith but learning to trust Jesus more deeply, even in the midst of life’s storms. As the sermon closes, we are invited to examine our own posture—are we living with open hands, ready to receive and give in trust? Or are we clinging to control, fear, and self-reliance? The call to discipleship is an invitation to step beyond the boat’s security, to let go of our false sense of control, and to follow Jesus into the unknown, knowing that he will always reach out and catch us when we call.
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Two Steps Forward, One Step Back
02/10/2025
Two Steps Forward, One Step Back
“Two Steps Forward, One Step Back - Jonathan Hurshman - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In a few verses, Simon Peter goes from being praised by Jesus to being sharply rebuked by him. Peter’s encounter shows that Jesus doesn’t ask his apprentices to always be right. Instead, he invites us to trust his way of life and to reject sketchy shortcuts to godly goals.
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Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - Self-Esteemies
02/03/2025
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - Self-Esteemies
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - Self-Esteemies - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: Pastor Donnell Wyche continued the Unfinished series on Simon Peter, focusing on Luke 5:11. He explored a key shift in the passage—the pronouns moving from “Simon” to “they”—emphasizing that faith is not a solitary journey but a communal experience. Jesus calls us not just to personal transformation but to a collective identity, where we find ourselves through relationships with others. The sermon highlighted that discipleship is not self-actualization but participation in the diverse, multi-generational, and multi-ethnic community that Jesus is forming. Pastor Donnell then examined how our self-image shapes our faith journey. He illustrated this with personal stories, including his own realization of aging and vision changes, drawing a parallel to how we often construct false identities based on external validation. He cautioned against the influence of curated images in social media and advertising, reminding the congregation that our worth is found in God, not in how others perceive us. Using the story of Peter’s encounter with Jesus, he emphasized that true discipleship requires leaving behind not just material possessions but also the false self we construct for security and approval. The sermon concluded with a call to embrace our true identity in Christ. Just as Peter had to surrender his old self to follow Jesus, we, too, must let go of self-centered pursuits and the layers of pretense we build around our identity. Pastor Donnell encouraged the congregation to see themselves as God sees them—beloved and whole. He ended with a practical exercise: taking a selfie, not as a tool of vanity, but as a reflection of God’s love for each of us as we are.
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Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - I Am a Sinner
01/27/2025
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - I Am a Sinner
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - I Am a Sinner - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this week’s sermon, Pastor Donnell Wyche explores the transformative encounter between Simon Peter and Jesus in Luke 5:1-11. The message unpacks the profound moment when Simon recognizes his own sinfulness in the presence of the divine, confessing, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man.” Through the lens of proclamation and demonstration, Jesus reveals God’s boundless generosity, freedom, and joy, offering Simon an invitation into a life shaped by trust in God rather than self-reliance. This encounter challenges Simon—and us—to embrace God’s grace in the midst of our imperfections and fears. Pastor Donnell Wyche highlights how Jesus’ actions mirror His words. He proclaims God’s good news to the poor and oppressed and then demonstrates it through the miraculous catch of fish, showing Simon that the kingdom of God is one of abundance and freedom. Simon’s confession of sin arises not just from the miracle but from a deeper realization of God’s intimate care and presence, which disrupts Simon’s worldview and invites him to trust God in the “deep waters” of life—spaces where control falters, and faith is required. The sermon concludes with a powerful reminder that we are seen and loved by a God who meets us in our brokenness, not to condemn but to redeem. Just as Jesus reassured Simon with the words, “Don’t be afraid,” He extends the same comfort to us, inviting us to lay down our defenses and step into a fuller, freer life. The call is clear: trust in the God who sees you, loves you, and demonstrates His goodness in both ordinary and extraordinary ways.
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Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - Are you Willing?
01/20/2025
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - Are you Willing?
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - Are you Willing? - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: This week, Pastor Donnell Wyche shared the story of Simon Peter’s life-changing encounter with Jesus in Luke 5:1-11. As Jesus teaches from Simon’s boat, He commands Simon to lower his nets into the deep water despite Simon’s skepticism and prior fruitless efforts. The miraculous catch of fish that follows demonstrates both Jesus’ divine authority and His personal care for Simon. Pastor Donnell highlighted how this moment challenges the false separation between the divine and the secular, showing that God’s presence infuses every aspect of our lives, from our work to our relationships. Through the story, Pastor Donnell emphasized that Jesus meets us where we are, entering our world and using what we know to reveal God’s kingdom. For Simon, this meant realizing that his skills as a fisherman had new meaning in the context of God’s purposes. This encounter is not about Simon’s worthiness but his willingness to trust and follow. Despite Simon’s initial sarcasm and doubt, Jesus calls him into a deeper life of dependence on God, transforming his priorities and inviting him to join a mission far greater than himself. The sermon concluded with a reflection on the grace of God, who accepts us as we are but also calls us to live differently. Just as Jesus told Simon, “Don’t be afraid,” He extends the same invitation to us, asking if we are willing to live in the fullness of God’s kingdom. Pastor Donnell urged listeners to read and reflect on Luke 5:1-11, allowing the story to reveal how God’s blessings and invitations meet us in our everyday lives.
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Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - You Aren’t Who You Think You Are
01/13/2025
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - You Aren’t Who You Think You Are
Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - You Aren’t Who You Think You Are (Luke 5:1-3) - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In the opening sermon of the Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples series, Pastor Donnell Wyche reflected on Luke 5:1-3, where Jesus begins His relationship with Simon Peter by asking for his help. Pastor Donnell explained how this simple yet profound invitation reveals the heart of God. Jesus communicates to Simon that He trusts him, believes in him, and sees him—not just as a fisherman but as someone with a greater purpose in God’s unfolding story. This moment challenges us to consider our own identity and worth through God’s eyes, reminding us that God meets us where we are, even in our frustration, disappointment, or uncertainty. Pastor Donnell highlighted Simon’s reluctance and irritation at being asked to assist Jesus after a long, unsuccessful night of fishing. Yet, even in his weariness and doubt, Simon agrees to Jesus’ request. This sets the stage for a transformative encounter. Through this act of obedience, Simon begins to see himself in a new light—not defined solely by his profession or failures but as someone invited into partnership with the divine. Pastor Donnell emphasized that Jesus calls us to discover who we truly are, not in isolation but in relationship with God, who knows us better than we know ourselves. The sermon concluded with a practical spiritual exercise, inviting listeners to meditate on Luke 5:1-11. Pastor Donnell encouraged the congregation to reflect on the story by imagining themselves in various roles—Simon, Jesus, or even an observer. This practice allows us to explore how Jesus’ words, “I trust you,” “I believe in you,” and “I see you,” speak to our own lives. Pastor Donnell urged everyone to embrace the ongoing journey of discipleship and discover their identity in the presence of God.
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A New You for the New Year
01/06/2025
A New You for the New Year
A New Your for the New Year - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: Pastor Donnell Wyche welcomed the congregation into the new year with a message of hope and transformation, inviting everyone to embrace the promise of “A New You for the New Year.” Drawing on the spirit of renewal inherent in the season, Pastor Donnell highlighted how the new year offers us the opportunity to leave the past behind and step into a future filled with hope, promise, and potential. He explored how Jesus’ desire for us aligns with our resolutions: to live lives of joy, meaning, and freedom from worry, rooted in trust and dependence on God. Using John 10 as a central text, Pastor Donnell unpacked Jesus’ role as the Good Shepherd, who offers us abundant life, care, and protection, inviting us to experience life in its fullness. In a reflective and practical exercise, Pastor Donnell encouraged the congregation to examine the fears and struggles they carried from the past year. He led them to write down what disrupted their peace in 2024 and the missed opportunities to trust Jesus. This act of naming the challenges was a step toward letting go of burdens and stepping into 2025 with renewed trust in God’s provision. Pastor Donnell emphasized that Jesus knows each of us intimately and is present in every moment, ready to transform our fears into opportunities for growth and trust. The sermon concluded with an invitation to discernment. Pastor Donnell encouraged the congregation to listen to the whispers of the Holy Spirit, step into the gaps in the world where God’s kingdom has yet to fully break through, and take risks to reflect God’s generosity and love. Through practical acts of faith and obedience, we can cultivate a deeper sensitivity to God’s presence and experience the abundant life Jesus promises. The new year is an opportunity to let go, take risks, and live as joyful, free, and faithful disciples.
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The Good News Worth Sharing - A Christmas Message
12/25/2024
The Good News Worth Sharing - A Christmas Message
The Good News Worth Sharing - A Christmas Message (Luke 2:1-20) - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this Christmas Eve message, Pastor Donnell explores the nature of genuine good news through Luke's nativity narrative, contrasting it with today's overwhelming information landscape. Drawing from Luke 2, he unpacks three essential qualities of authentic good news: its relevance for today, its reliability, and its inherent shareability. Through the lens of the shepherds' experience, he illustrates how God's news breaks into our lives unexpectedly but precisely when needed. The sermon delves into the practical implications of trustworthy news in our "post-truth" era. Using the shepherds' journey to find Jesus as a metaphor, Pastor Donnell emphasizes how specific, verifiable details - like the manger mentioned three times in Luke's account - serve as reliable markers guiding people to truth. He challenges the congregation to consider their role as bearers of reliable truth in a world saturated with misinformation. The message culminates in a powerful Christmas prayer focusing on practical love and empathy. Pastor Donnell weaves together themes of neighborly love, enemy love, and self-awareness, emphasizing that true good news transforms how we treat others and ourselves. He concludes by encouraging the congregation to embrace humility, practice forgiveness, and trust in God's unchanging love, even in moments of failure.
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Advent Sermon #4 - The Loving Gospel
12/23/2024
Advent Sermon #4 - The Loving Gospel
Advent Sermon #4 - The Loving Gospel (John 3:16-17, Luke 1:26-27) - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this final Sunday of Advent, Pastor Donnell explores the transformative power of love through the Christmas narrative. He challenges our understanding of love beyond mere feelings, presenting it as an active force that moves toward us, exemplified perfectly in God's decision to enter human history as a child. Through engaging illustrations, including a conversation with a four-year-old about the nature of love, he demonstrates how love transcends emotion to become tangible action. The sermon traces humanity's complex relationship with God, from the Garden of Eden through various covenants, leading to God's ultimate expression of love in sending Jesus. Drawing from John 3:16-17 and Luke 1:26-27, Pastor Donnell illustrates how Christmas represents God's decisive move toward humanity, choosing vulnerability over power to demonstrate perfect love. This divine approach reveals that love isn't passive but actively seeks connection, transforms relationships, and overcomes barriers. The message culminates by exploring how God's love enables our own capacity to love others. Referencing Matthew 22:36-40 and 1 John 4:18-19, Pastor Donnell explains that authentic love flows from experiencing God's love first. He concludes with a practical breathing exercise designed to help listeners internalize God's unconditional love, emphasizing that receiving God's love forms the foundation for loving others effectively.
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Advent Sermon #3 - The Joyful Gospel Revealed
12/16/2024
Advent Sermon #3 - The Joyful Gospel Revealed
Advent Sermon #3 - The Joyful Gospel Revealed (Luke 2:10-11) - Jonathan Hurshman - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this third Sunday of Advent, Jonathan Hurshman challenges the common Christian cliché that "joy is not based on circumstances." Drawing from both scripture and neuroscience research by Dr. Alan Shore, he presents joy as "the experience of being with someone who is glad to be with you." Through the Advent narrative of the shepherds receiving good news of great joy, he demonstrates how this understanding of joy aligns with God's consistent desire to be present with His people. The sermon weaves through biblical examples from Luke 2, Philippians 4, and the story of the Prodigal Son to show how joy is fundamentally relational rather than circumstantial. Hurshman explains that joy can coexist with other emotions, including sorrow, because it's rooted in God's presence rather than the absence of difficulty. Using Rembrandt's "Return of the Prodigal Son" and insights from early church teachings about the Trinity, he illustrates how God's joy in being with us enables our joy in being with Him. The message concludes with practical applications for cultivating joy through breath prayers, building genuine community, and developing our imagination of God's gladness to be with us. He emphasizes that while we cannot directly manufacture joy, we can create space for it to grow by staying connected to God and others, understanding that "God is more glad to be with us than we can imagine."
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Advent Sermon #2 - The Peaceful Gospel
12/09/2024
Advent Sermon #2 - The Peaceful Gospel
Advent Sermon #2 - The Peaceful Gospel (Luke 1:7-13) - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this second Sunday of Advent, Pastor Donnell revisits Zechariah and Elizabeth's story, exploring how their season of silence and waiting became the fertile ground for God's peace. Through their narrative, he illuminates that peace isn't the absence of trouble but rather the presence of God in our circumstances. The sermon challenges the oversimplified notion that knowing God automatically equals peace, acknowledging the complex journey of developing peace through relationship and dependence on God. Luke's account strategically uses Elizabeth's barrenness to illustrate God's creative power and divine timing. Pastor Donnell explains how, just as Israel yearned for rescue, this story reveals how God births peace from barren places, demonstrating that divine interruptions often occur in life's ordinary moments. Zechariah's encounter with the angel while performing his routine priestly duties exemplifies how God's peace arrives unexpectedly, transforming our perspective even when circumstances remain unchanged. The message concludes by contrasting worldly paths to peace with God's approach of finding peace through divine presence. Pastor Donnell offers practical guidance through an ancient breath prayer exercise, reminding us that peace isn't an achievement but a Presence we receive. Drawing from Philippians 4:4-9, he emphasizes that God's peace transcends understanding and guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus, even amid life's interruptions and struggles.
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Advent Sermon #1 - The Hopeful Gospel Revealed
12/02/2024
Advent Sermon #1 - The Hopeful Gospel Revealed
Advent Sermon #1 - The Hopeful Gospel Revealed - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this first Sunday of Advent, Pastor Donnell explores the inherent hope found within the gospel through the lens of Zechariah and Elizabeth's story. Drawing from Luke 1, he examines how this faithful couple's journey from barrenness to blessing mirrors our own experiences of waiting and divine intervention. Through their narrative, we discover that God's silence doesn't equate to God's absence, and that hope often emerges in unexpected places and ordinary moments. Pastor Donnell challenges us to choose between nihilism and hope, sharing personal insights about finding God in life's mundane moments – even while washing dishes. He presents three key ways the gospel brings hope: God enters our story, our current circumstances don't define our future, and God's redemptive work encompasses all of creation. Through engaging storytelling and thoughtful reflection, he illustrates how the gospel guarantees that God's promises find their fulfillment in Christ. The sermon concludes with a practical spiritual exercise called "be in the room," teaching listeners how to rest in God's presence amidst life's distractions. Pastor Donnell shares accessible techniques for managing wandering thoughts during quiet time with God, comparing them to boats passing by while we remain anchored on the shoreline. This timely message reminds us that during Advent's darkening days, hope shines brightest when we learn to trust in God's presence in both light and darkness.
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Back to Basics: Why Do We Pray?
11/18/2024
Back to Basics: Why Do We Pray?
Back to Basics: Why Do We Pray? - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: Pastor Donnell explores the question "Why Do We Pray?" through an engaging and personal approach, beginning with the intriguing observation that Jesus' disciples had to specifically ask him to teach them to pray. With characteristic warmth and humor, he introduces the concept that prayer is "appetite-driven" – not something forced upon us, but rather an invitation that awakens something deep within us as God patiently waits for us to acknowledge our need for connection. Through three main themes drawn from Psalm 139, Pastor Donnell illustrates that we pray because we are fully known, because God is with us, and to be transformed. He emphasizes a particularly powerful point: not only does God love us, but God likes us just as we are. Using personal stories, including one about his grandmother Pearl who wouldn't let go of a hug until she knew her love had been fully received, Pastor Donnell paints a picture of a God who accepts us completely, even in our anxiety, fears, and imperfections. The sermon culminates in exploring how prayer serves as a transformative practice, but not in the way many might expect. Rather than focusing on correct words or postures, Pastor Donnell describes transformation as something that happens when we finally let our guard down in God's presence – similar to the way we relax with someone we've learned to trust. He concludes with a practical evening prayer exercise, while humorously adding that if people don't want God to answer and reveal truths about themselves, they might want to pray instead: "God, keep me ignorant of my ways. Don't reveal any truths to me today. Just let me know you love me instead."
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Back to Basics: Hope Is Our Superpower!
11/11/2024
Back to Basics: Hope Is Our Superpower!
Back to Basics: Hope Is Our Superpower! - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this inspiring sermon, Pastor Donnell explores the transformative power of hope in the face of adversity. Drawing from Romans 12:9b-14, he emphasizes the call to be "joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer," and examines what this looks like amidst betrayal and suffering. Pastor Donnell delves into the story of Joseph, who, despite being sold into slavery by his own brothers and facing numerous injustices, remained steadfast in his hope and trust in God. Pastor Donnell highlights how Joseph's unwavering hope not only sustained him but also brought blessings to those around him—even in the most challenging circumstances. He notes that Joseph's recognition of God's presence allowed him to thrive and forgive, turning what was meant for harm into good. This powerful example serves as a reminder that fear, anger, and injustice are the enemies of hope, but by keeping hope alive, we can overcome these obstacles. Concluding the sermon, Pastor Donnell offers a practical tip: pause each day, especially when feeling overwhelmed, to remember God's presence, just as Joseph did. He encourages us to notice the small ways God brings life and hope into our lives, reinforcing that the same God who transformed Joseph's story is actively working in ours. By keeping hope alive, we anchor our souls and open ourselves to God's restorative work.
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Back to Basics: An Invitation to New Life
11/04/2024
Back to Basics: An Invitation to New Life
Back to Basics: An Invitation to New Life - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: Pastor Donnell begins with the universal struggle of feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from God, especially when life seems to offer only exhaustion and disappointment. He reminds us that in these moments of despair, our natural responses—like fear and control—may feel necessary but ultimately leave us unfulfilled. Instead, the invitation Jesus offers is not to seek more control or avoid hardship but to embrace a new life through surrender and trust in God's Spirit. Using Ezekiel’s vision of the valley of dry bones, Pastor Donnell illustrates how God brings life to what seems dead. He shares a poignant story of someone finding hope and renewal amid hardship, showing how God's Spirit works through ordinary people and unexpected grace. This new life, he explains, does not erase struggles but offers a way through them, fostering resilience, healing, and hope that even the most barren areas of our lives can be restored. Concluding with practical steps, Pastor Donnell encourages the congregation to begin each day with a prayer of surrender, inviting the Holy Spirit to bring new life into their day-to-day challenges. He emphasizes that this journey is a pilgrimage toward love, trust, and a closer relationship with Jesus—a journey that transforms us and brings life to even the driest parts of our souls.
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The Gospel Unbound: Resisting Hypersexualization – Recovering Sacred Dignity – Ephesians
10/28/2024
The Gospel Unbound: Resisting Hypersexualization – Recovering Sacred Dignity – Ephesians
The Gospel Unbound: Resisting Hypersexualization – Recovering Sacred Dignity – Ephesians - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: Pastor Donnell tackles the issue of hypersexualization in modern culture, emphasizing the need for a biblical approach to sexuality that honors human dignity beyond physical desires. He introduces his sermon with a candid discussion on the complexities of sexual ethics, influenced by Christian thinkers like Howard Thurman and James Cone, who view Christianity as a support for the oppressed, including those marginalized by current sexual norms. Highlighting Jesus as a model of complete humanity without sexual activity, Pastor Donnell challenges the congregation to see sexuality as a part of our spiritual and emotional makeup, not just physical. He critiques how media and advertising exploit our sexual desires to sell products, using the absurd example of a "sexy cow" to question the moral implications of such tactics. Pastor Donnell delves into Paul’s warnings in Ephesians about the dangers of a hypersexualized society that equates human worth with sexual appeal, urging a return to seeing the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit deserving respect and purity. Concluding, Pastor Donnell advocates for a shift towards a theology that views bodies as sacred, calling for open, honest church discussions on sexuality to cultivate a healthier understanding. He encourages the congregation to reflect on personal views of sexuality and actively challenge societal objectification, promoting a scripturally grounded respect for our own and others' dignity. This reflection aims to inspire personal and communal changes in how sexuality is perceived and taught within the Christian community.
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The Gospel Unbound: Unmasking the Chains – Voices of Liberation and Justice - Mark 5
10/21/2024
The Gospel Unbound: Unmasking the Chains – Voices of Liberation and Justice - Mark 5
The Gospel Unbound: Unmasking the Chains – Voices of Liberation and Justice - Mark 5 - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this week’s sermon, Pastor Donnell explores the profound themes of oppression and liberation, drawing on the insights of Howard Thurman and James Cone to highlight Christianity's commitment to the oppressed. He challenges the notion that the gospel is solely about spiritual salvation, emphasizing its call for physical, emotional, and systemic liberation. Anchoring his message in 2 Corinthians 3:17, Pastor Donnell reminds us that where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty—liberty that must permeate our societal structures and personal interactions. Pastor Donnell discusses contemporary and historical injustices, using the story of the Gerasene demoniac from Mark 5 to illustrate how Jesus' ministry was actively committed to confronting and dismantling the powers of bondage. This passage not only reflects the plight of those oppressed by visible and invisible chains but also calls Christians to actively participate in the struggle against these oppressive forces by naming, opposing, and seeking to overcome them. Concluding his message, Pastor Donnell invites the congregation to reflect on their role in perpetuating or combating oppressive ideologies. He encourages a Christianity that does more than observe; it acts to heal and liberate. By advocating for a practical application of Jesus' teachings, Pastor Donnell urges the community to commit to justice, inclusivity, and the destruction of the walls that divide us. The sermon ends with a practical tip: to dedicate time each week to reflect on how one can actively contribute to creating a more just and equitable society, truly embodying the liberating power of the gospel.
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The Gospel Unbound: Living the Theology of Enough – A Rejection of Greed - Ephesians 5:3-7
10/14/2024
The Gospel Unbound: Living the Theology of Enough – A Rejection of Greed - Ephesians 5:3-7
The Gospel Unbound: Living the Theology of Enough – A Rejection of Greed - Ephesians 5:3-7 - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - . Like us on or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - Summary: In this stirring sermon, Pastor Donnell delves into the perilous allure of greed, using the iconic speech from the movie "Wall Street" to frame his discussion. He explores the destructive power of greed, which, while motivating and clarifying, also blinds us to the true nature of abundance in God's creation. Pastor Donnell contrasts the worldview promoted by empire—marked by scarcity and self-preservation—with the biblical call to community and shared humanity. He points out that the empire's narrative compels us to hoard and isolate, whereas God has wired us for love, compassion, and communal support. Pastor Donnell challenges the congregation to recognize how societal structures, particularly those driven by consumerism, reinforce a scarcity mindset that breeds greed. This system persuades us that life's value is measured by consumption and material wealth rather than the virtues of peace, joy, and love. He argues that greed is a learned behavior, not an intrinsic human trait, and critiques the way our society equates personal worth with production and consumption. This worldview is not only at odds with Christian teachings but also blinds us to the abundance that God provides. The sermon concludes with a call to adopt a theology of enough, urging us to reject the narrative of scarcity propagated by the empire. Pastor Donnell invites the congregation to live by the principles of generosity and contentment laid out in the scriptures, from the manna in the desert to the teachings of John the Baptist. He encourages everyone to reflect on their relationship with money and possessions, to identify where they sense scarcity, and to consider how embracing a mindset of 'enough' could transform their lives and relationships. This reflection aims to inspire actions that align with the kingdom of God, fostering a community that thrives on mutual support and shared resources.
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