Temptation...

When we weren’t on the field, we were taking in the incredible beauty of Utah: mountains that still are snow-capped, sheer rock cliffs, canyons that seem to go forever, streams so clear you can just look for fish, and waterfalls that are magical. Yesterday, Dallas even took an ice bath in a freezing mountain stream. I stood there as moral support, and with absolutely no intention of joining him. One of the highlights was inner tubing down the mountain where the Olympic ski jump is held in Park City. I’m not sure how fast we were going, but I do know gravity took its job very seriously. I was mostly focused on not screaming and losing my man card ?.

There’s something about time in the mountains that humbles you. Standing against that kind of majesty, you’re reminded how small you are and how powerful God is. It resets the soul. It quiets the noise. It wakes up gratitude.

Which brings me to this Sunday’s message from Luke 4:1–13. After the baptism of Jesus, He enters the wilderness, and there He encounters Satan face to face. The enemy tempts Him to turn stones into bread, then takes Him up a mountain, and finally to the pinnacle of the temple. Each time, Jesus responds with strength, clarity, and deep dependence on the Father. He shows us that when we have a deep, burning yes to God, we can say no to every lesser thing.

I am very excited to introduce and welcome our friend Pastor Merle Meese this Sunday. He and his wife Karen are dear friends and seasoned leaders who planted a church years ago, and Merle recently retired as lead pastor of Pleasant Valley Baptist Church. He is a gifted communicator, and I know his preaching will encourage your heart and strengthen your walk.

My heart is overflowing with gratitude for God’s creation, for His presence in our temptations, and for the privilege of gathering together around His Word.

I hope you will plan to attend a service at 8:00, 9:15 (Full KidCity available), or 10:45 am (Full KidCity available)…OR a service in Spanish at 1:00 pm. 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 evening,

Troy

P.S. This Sunday we also launch our first Spanish service at 1 p.m. Everyone is welcome, even if you don’t speak Spanish. Come celebrate what God is doing!