Story by Marilyn Scott
As our nation marks its 250th anniversary, it is worth reflecting on what freedom truly means. Fireworks, parades and get-togethers are more than traditions; they reveal a deep desire in all of us to be free. National freedom is worth honoring and expressing gratitude for, yet it also invites us to consider an even greater freedom found in God’s kingdom where celebration never ends.
Story by Beth Villanueva
When Heather Lunsford, a member of Chesapeake Conference’s New Hope church in Fulton, Md., was a child, complex topics such as adoption, bullying and surrogacy were not commonly addressed in children’s books. Now, as an adult who has experienced all three situations, Lunsford has authored and illustrated books she hopes will help others.
Story by Evan Knott
The Living Word church in Glen Burnie, Md., in partnership with Priority Partners—a Johns Hopkins-affiliated organization that works to provide accessible health care in Maryland—recently held an inauguration ceremony for a new community food cupboard (pictured). Living Word is the 10th pantry location as part of the Priority Partners Cupboard Project.
Editorial by Andre Hastick
With each passing day, there is one fundamental question that is taking on greater significance. The answer to this question will determine the direction we travel together: What is the church—a building, a worship service?
Paul’s teaching in the New Testament uses the human body as a metaphor for the church, revealing that we are the body of Christ, and Christ is the Head (see 1 Corinthians 12 and Colossians 1). Without Jesus, there is no life, no direction, no purpose. Paul informs us, “He is before all things, and in Him all things consist” (Col. 1:17, NKJV). This means that our connection to Jesus is not optional, but essential.