Well Pleased...

May 22nd, 2026

My love language is acts of service, which is a polite way of saying I feel deeply loved when someone helps me get things done. With three boys ages 17, 15, and 13, the opportunities for that kind of affection show up often. It is amazing how quickly quality time becomes an opportunity to work on the honey-do list. They each have different personalities and strengths, but they are each learning how to work hard, and nothing delights me more than seeing them jump into a project together.

Over the years, they have discovered all kinds of creative ways to work hard and earn their own money. They mow yards. They walk dogs. They clean up dog waste. They clean houses. At least the ones that belong to paying customers. Their own rooms remain an archaeological mystery best addressed in another email. They manage vending machines. They have even run personal soccer training sessions for younger kids.

Dallas, our oldest, usually starts these ventures, and the younger two follow his lead with growing enthusiasm. I love watching them figure things out together and take pride in whatever job sits in front of them.

Yesterday, Leigh-Ann and I took Dallas on a college visit. While we were gone, the younger two decided to tackle the garage. I might have mentioned there was cash involved, but the point is they worked for hours. When we pulled into the driveway, and I opened the garage door, I paused. I blinked. I checked the address. It was clean. Beautifully clean. The kind of clean that made my heart swell with pride and thanksgiving.

And in a far greater way, that is the heartbeat of our passage this Sunday. Pastor Don Lewis will preach from Luke 3:21-38. Jesus steps into the waters of baptism, and as He prays, heaven opens. The Spirit descends like a dove, and the Father’s voice breaks across the moment with the power of eternity, “You are My Son whom I love. With You I am well pleased.”

Before Jesus performs a miracle, preaches a sermon, or calls a single disciple, the Father declares His love and delight over Jesus. Then the genealogy unfolds like a long family road stretching back through centuries, showing that God’s faithfulness has prepared every step leading to this moment.

This Sunday, Pastor Don will help us stand in this very truth. The Father’s voice still speaks. His love still defines His children. His delight still welcomes us home.

I hope you will plan to attend a service at 8:00, 9:15 (Full KidCity available), or 10:45 am (Full KidCity available). Otherwise, you can watch the Livestream on YouTube (Like and Subscribe) or on our New Life website at 9:15 am. Also, we would LOVE for you to follow us on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.

Have a great weekend,

Troy

P.S. Our Youth and College Director (Pastor after tomorrow), Cooper Chavis, is going through an ordination council tomorrow at New Life from 9-12 pm. All are welcome to attend this gathering in the auditorium.

P.P.S. If you are interested in volunteering with our New Life en Español service launching on May 31, please email Miguel: mmorales@newlifekc.org or Karen: kmorales@newlifekc.org

Posted in sunday, Youth ministry, ACCEPTANCE, FAMILY, church community downtown KC, church kcmo, downtown kansas city churches