05/30/2026
Dear Hillside: Recently, I was reading about the thousands of pioneers who crossed the United States in wagon trains during the mid-nineteenth century. Think about what they endured: blizzards, grizzly bears, and hostility from locals unhappy with the intrusion. And think of how few Peets Coffees there were along the way. This puts everything in perspective for me.
Of course, they made that harrowing journey to reach a better homeland. That is a perfect picture of the Christian life. As followers of Jesus, we too are overlanders. But instead of traveling west, we are journeying toward the new creation--this earth renewed and restored, with the grizzlies so tame we can scratch their bellies.
Did you know that many pioneers refused to travel on Sundays? Some wagon trains even split over the issue; the hasty pressed ahead, while the Sabbath-keepers stopped for worship and rest. Interestingly, historical accounts show that the overlanders who rested on Sunday routinely caught up with those who pushed through without a break.
In addition to being a command from our loving God, resting and worshiping on Sundays refreshes us for the tasks ahead. So, fellow pioneers--those ’seeking a homeland’ in the new creation (Hebrews 11:14)--I invite you to park your wagons, unhitch your horses, and celebrate the Sabbath by coming to church. All your fellow overlanders will be there to greet you, shake your hand, and share stories of the trail (blizzards and bears) from the week before. Can’t wait to see you!
Come worship with Hillside Covenant Church LIVE at 10:00 AM both online and in person as Dan Seitz teaches from James 2:1-5.
https://youtu.be/lMdoUqPBFEg
This week’s sermon notes are available at: https://u.pcloud.link/publink/show?code=XZ8BDI5Z7XpvnfT3lSQJarbxsfeK6k8nmPwy
If you are new to Hillside and are looking for ways to get connected and build community, visit our website: https://www.hillsidecovenant.org/ We welcome you to Hillside and are so glad you joined us today!
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Dear Hillside: Recently, I was reading about the thousands of pioneers who crossed the United States in wagon trains during the mid-nineteenth century. Think...
