Living in Gratitude: Embracing Resurrection and Community
Summary
This morning, the spirit of gratitude and joy filled the house as we gathered to worship, celebrate, and reflect on the goodness of God. We were reminded that every day is a gift, and our worship is a response to the faithfulness and grace God has shown us. The resurrection of Jesus is not just a moment in history to be celebrated once a year, but a living reality that continues to empower and inspire us. Our hearts remain on fire with the knowledge that our Savior lives, and that truth shapes our daily walk.
We took time to honor those who serve faithfully in ministry, recognizing that the work of the church is a collective effort, built on the dedication and sacrifice of many. As we look ahead, we are excited for the opportunities to grow together—through our men’s and women’s ministries, the upcoming National Day of Prayer, and our community outreach efforts. These ministries are not just programs, but vital expressions of our calling to support, mentor, and uplift one another.
May is a month of celebration and service. We look forward to honoring mothers and, most notably, to celebrating 74 years of God’s faithfulness to Bella Vista. This anniversary is more than a milestone; it is a testimony to the impact of this church in our lives, families, and community. We prepare our hearts to give thanks for all that God has done and to look forward with hope and expectation.
Generosity remains a hallmark of our congregation. We rejoiced in the ways God has moved us to give above and beyond, supporting both the ongoing ministry and the vision for the future. Our giving is an act of worship, a tangible way to participate in God’s work.
As we concluded, we were challenged to remember that whatever “then” we face in life—those moments of trial, transition, or uncertainty—there is always another side with Jesus. He stands with us, speaks peace into our situations, and shows us that our wounds can become testimonies of victory. We are invited to trust Him, to respond to His call, and to walk forward in faith, knowing that God’s power and grace await us on the other side.
Key Takeaways
- Worship is a living response to God’s ongoing faithfulness. Each day we gather, we are called to express gratitude not just for what God has done, but for who He is and how He continues to sustain us. True worship is marked by a heart that recognizes God’s presence in every season, not just on special occasions. [00:36]
- The resurrection is not a one-time event to be remembered, but a continual source of hope and power. Jesus’ victory over death is the foundation for our daily living, reminding us that no matter what we face, we serve a living Savior who is present and active in our lives. [04:10]
- Ministry is a shared journey, requiring the gifts, service, and sacrifice of many. Whether through mentoring, prayer, or acts of service, each member has a role in building up the body and extending Christ’s love to others. Our collective efforts are what make the church a true family and a force for good in the community. [38:00]
- Generosity is both a spiritual discipline and a testimony of trust. When we give faithfully—of our resources, time, and talents—we participate in God’s work and witness His provision. Our willingness to go above and beyond in giving reflects a heart aligned with God’s purposes and a vision for the future. [49:33]
- No matter what “then” we encounter—moments of pain, loss, or uncertainty—Jesus stands with us on the other side. He brings peace, reveals His scars as proof of victory, and invites us to trust that our wounds can be transformed into testimonies. The journey through “then” is not the end; with Christ, there is always hope and new beginnings. [01:29:39]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:36] - Call to Worship and Gratitude
[02:10] - Fellowship and Greeting
[04:10] - Living in Resurrection Power
[07:45] - Honoring Ministry Service
[10:30] - Announcements and Ministry Updates
[13:50] - Men’s and Women’s Ministry Adjustments
[17:20] - National Day of Prayer Invitation
[21:00] - Community Outreach and Service
[24:30] - Celebrating Church Milestones
[28:00] - Offering and Generosity
[32:15] - Worship Through Giving
[37:39] - Special Announcements
[46:41] - Preparing for Church Anniversary
[51:56] - Praise and Worship
[01:29:39] - Invitation and Response
[01:34:16] - Benediction and Sending Forth
Study Guide
Bella Vista Small Group Bible Study Guide
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### Bible Reading
1. John 20:19-29
(Jesus appears to the disciples after the resurrection, stands among them, speaks peace, and shows them his wounds.)
2. Psalm 118:24
("This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.")
3. Acts 2:42-47
(The early church devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, prayer, and generosity.)
---
### Observation Questions
1. In John 20:19-29, what are the first words Jesus says to his disciples when he appears to them after the resurrection? What does he show them, and why do you think he does this?
2. According to Psalm 118:24, what is the reason given for rejoicing and being glad each day?
3. In Acts 2:42-47, what are some specific ways the early church lived out their faith together?
4. The sermon mentioned that the resurrection is not just a one-time event but a continual source of hope and power. What examples were given of how this truth shapes our daily lives? [04:10]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Jesus show his wounds to the disciples in John 20:19-29? What message is he communicating about pain, victory, and faith? [01:29:39]
2. The psalmist says, "This is the day the Lord has made." How does this perspective change the way a believer approaches both ordinary and difficult days? [00:36]
3. The early church in Acts 2:42-47 is described as being generous and unified. What might have motivated their generosity and willingness to share everything?
4. The sermon emphasized that ministry is a shared journey and not just the work of a few. What are some reasons it is important for everyone to participate in the life of the church? [38:00]
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon challenged us to see worship as a daily response to God’s faithfulness, not just something for special occasions. What is one practical way you can express gratitude to God in your daily routine this week? [00:36]
2. Jesus stood with his disciples in their fear and uncertainty and spoke peace to them. Is there a “then” moment (a trial, transition, or uncertainty) you are facing right now? How can you invite Jesus to stand with you and speak peace into that situation? [01:29:39]
3. The church celebrated those who serve faithfully in ministry. Is there someone in your church or community you can encourage or thank for their service this week? How will you do it? [38:00]
4. Generosity was described as both a spiritual discipline and a testimony of trust. What is one area—time, talent, or treasure—where you feel God is calling you to be more generous? What step can you take this week to respond? [49:33]
5. The sermon mentioned upcoming opportunities for prayer, service, and outreach. Which of these areas do you feel most drawn to participate in, and what is one action you can take to get involved? [21:00]
6. The church’s 74th anniversary is a time to remember God’s faithfulness. Take a moment to reflect: How has God used this church (or another faith community) to impact your life or your family? How can you share that story with someone else this month? [24:30]
7. Jesus’ wounds became testimonies of victory. Is there a past hurt or struggle in your life that God has helped you overcome? How might you use your story to encourage someone else who is going through a similar “then” moment? [01:29:39]
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Closing Prayer:
Invite group members to pray for one another, especially for any “then” moments they are facing, and to ask God for the courage to walk forward in faith, gratitude, and generosity.
Devotional
Day 1: Worship as a Daily Encounter with God’s Presence
Worship is not confined to special occasions or rituals; it is a continual, living response to God’s faithfulness in every moment. Each day offers a fresh opportunity to recognize God’s sustaining grace and to express gratitude for who He is, not just for what He has done. This posture of worship transforms ordinary moments into sacred encounters, shaping a heart that remains attuned to God’s presence through every season of life. When worship becomes a daily rhythm, it nurtures a deeper awareness of God’s ongoing work and invites His Spirit to move powerfully within us. [00:36]
“Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy.” (Psalm 103:2-4 ESV)
Reflection: What specific practice can you adopt today to intentionally recognize and respond to God’s presence throughout your daily routine, beyond formal worship times?
Day 2: Resurrection Power as the Foundation for Daily Living
The resurrection of Jesus is not merely a historical event to be remembered once a year; it is a living reality that empowers believers every day. This victory over death assures us that no matter the challenges or uncertainties we face, we serve a Savior who is alive and active in our lives. The resurrection breathes hope into our struggles and invites us to live with confidence in God’s power to bring new life and transformation. Embracing this truth shapes how we walk through each day, knowing that Jesus’ triumph is the source of our strength and courage. [04:10]
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” (1 Peter 1:3 ESV)
Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to more fully embrace the power of the resurrection, trusting that Jesus’ victory can bring renewal and hope today?
Day 3: Ministry as a Collective Journey of Service and Sacrifice
Ministry is not the work of a few but a shared journey that requires the diverse gifts, service, and sacrifices of the entire community. Each person plays a vital role in building up the body of Christ, whether through mentoring, prayer, or acts of service. This collective effort creates a true family where love is extended beyond words into tangible support and encouragement. Recognizing ministry as a communal calling invites every believer to participate actively, knowing that together the church becomes a powerful force for good in the world. [38:00]
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” (1 Peter 4:10 ESV)
Reflection: Identify one way you can step into a ministry role this week that uses your unique gifts to support and uplift others in your church family.
Day 4: Generosity as Worship and Trust in God’s Provision
Generosity is more than financial giving; it is a spiritual discipline and a tangible expression of trust in God’s provision. When believers give faithfully of their resources, time, and talents, they participate in God’s work and bear witness to His faithfulness. Going beyond what is expected reflects a heart aligned with God’s purposes and a vision for the future of the church and community. This act of worship invites God’s blessing and sustains the mission, reminding us that our giving is a partnership with God in advancing His kingdom. [49:33]
“On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come.” (1 Corinthians 16:2 ESV)
Reflection: What is one tangible way you can increase your generosity this month—whether through time, talents, or resources—to actively participate in God’s work?
Day 5: Trusting Jesus Through Life’s Trials Toward New Beginnings
Life’s difficult “then” moments—times of pain, loss, or uncertainty—are not the end of the story. Jesus stands with us on the other side, offering peace and revealing His scars as proof of victory over suffering. Our wounds, when surrendered to Him, can be transformed into powerful testimonies of God’s grace and redemption. This journey invites us to trust Jesus deeply, knowing that with Him there is always hope, healing, and new beginnings beyond every trial. Walking forward in faith means embracing God’s power and grace that await us beyond the darkest valleys. [01:29:39]
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” (2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV)
Reflection: Reflect on a current or past trial—how can you invite Jesus to transform that experience into a testimony of His grace and victory in your life today?
Quotes
Our God is a great God and he is greatly to be praised and in his grace, he has kept us one more week, one more day and allowed us to gather together in his house. One more time, help me thank God for Sister Cheryl welcoming us to worship with us, welcoming us to worship this morning. Amen. We appreciate always her words of testimony about what this church and what this ministry means to her and to her family and to so many others who share those same sentiments. And again, to all of our guests on site and online, we welcome you to worship today with us. And we hope that you are already being blessed by what God is doing in the midst of us this morning. Uh, we are still grateful. Listen, I know that we celebrated resurrection on last Sunday, but resurrection is not just one day. Um, the same Jesus who was a, who we celebrated. [00:37:39] (59 seconds)
It is the central spiritual discipline of our faith, and there will be an opportunity for us to participate in our own local way this coming Thursday for this National Day of Prayer. We thank God for Sister Kenya Clark, who's been heading and leading our burgeoning prayer ministry here at the church. And once again, she has put something for us together. Father, the Spirit has led her to put something together for us to engage in, those who are willing and have a willing heart to participate in on this Thursday for the National Day of Prayer. [00:44:20] (35 seconds)
There will be an opportunity for you to, those of you who would like to participate, for those of you to be assigned a prayer partner, a prayer partner that is going to come and join us on this coming Thursday. If you want to know more information about this, she's asking that you stay just a few moments after service so that you can get more information about it. But there will be an opportunity for you to pray with a partner. There will be some different iterations and expressions of that, either through morning prayer, midday check -in, evening prayer at the church. There will also be a pie fellowship that's happening on that particular day as well. And so, if you, again, want more extensive information about this, just stay a few moments after service to meet with Sister Clark so that she can share with you in more detail. But I'm excited about how we're all going to be praying together this Thursday, and I hope you are as well, church. And I hope many of you will join us in that effort and join us in that regard. We celebrate with our adult ministry. Help me thank God for them who hosted a wonderful Crawfish and Conversation event on yesterday. And I want to speak on behalf of the leader, just thanking all of you who are able to come out and participate. Y 'all must have been there for a long time. Must have been there for a long time. That means y 'all were having a good time. It means y 'all were having a good time. And so, we thank God for all of you who are able to come and be present and participating. [00:44:54] (89 seconds)
As you all know, we headed to the month of May, celebrating mothers on Mother's Day, second Sunday. But what I am most excited about, church, is that on the third Sunday in the month of May, Bella Vista will be turning 74 years old. It's our church anniversary. [00:46:24] (17 seconds)
I said help me thank God in advance. For 74 years, 74 years of meaningful ministry here on this corner and in this community, how God has blessed us throughout these decades to be able to celebrate. And I'm excited once again, I'm excited once again to make our way to this space of celebration, to thank God for this place called Bella Vista Missionary Baptist Church. Has this church been a blessing to anybody in the room? [00:46:47] (32 seconds)
Amen. We're going to worship the Lord through giving. I'm going to dispatch our ushers now. And while they're doing that, there's one announcement that I did leave out. I will worship outside of the walls ministry. They have partnered with the Houston Parks and Recreation Department to host a community park beautification event. And, Bella Vista, we want you to join our Worship Outside of the Walls ministry in this event. This will be taking place this coming Saturday, May 3rd, 2025, and it's going to be happening right around the corner at the Independence Heights Park at 601 East 35th Street. Like, I really needed to give you all that address, right? So, it's going to be happening at the park around the corner. We want you, for those of you who are going to be joining, to wear any kind of BVT shirt or paraphernalia that you have. [00:51:06] (50 seconds)
And the preacher told us Jesus will show you his wounds and how he conquered and overcame his wounds to show you that if you have faith in him, you can overcome your scars and your wounds in life as well. [01:30:01] (23 seconds)
So if you're here today, either on these grounds or watching online and you need Christ in your life, come this way. We're standing to invite you. If you need a church that will help you grow in your relationship with Christ, the heart of Bella Vista is open to you. If you want to be baptized, whatever your spiritual need is today, we're here for you. [01:31:29] (26 seconds)
and I hope that you receive those requests via email and when you see them that you look to the Lord on behalf of those people our National Day of Prayer this Thursday Sister Kenya Clark will be waiting for those who want to join in with us just a few minutes after we give the benediction right here in the sanctuary but let's prepare to leave in the blessing and in the benediction of the Lord as we praise God from whom all blessings flow [01:35:08] (34 seconds)
Amen. Amen. Amen. Amen. Go in peace, go in love, and go in joy. Have a great week. We'll see you this Tuesday and this Thursday. Those who are partnering with us in prayer, remain where you are for just a few moments. Amen. [01:38:30] (21 seconds)
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