2026.02.12

"For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” - Matthew 5:20 

Wait, what? The Pharisees were the gold standard of religious righteousness. They knew the law backwards and forwards. They tithed meticulously. They prayed publicly and often. How could Jesus possibly expect us to exceed that? 

Here's the thing, Jesus isn't raising the bar. He's changing the game entirely. 

The Pharisees focused on external performance. They were checking boxes, keeping up appearances, making sure everyone could see their piety. But Jesus is inviting us into something deeper. He is inviting us into a righteousness that flows from the inside out. Righteousness that is rooted not in what we can achieve, but in who God is transforming us to become. 

This isn't about doing more or trying harder. It's about letting God's love sink so deeply into our hearts that it overflows naturally into how we live, how we treat others, and how we show up in the world. 

You want to know the good news? This kind of righteousness isn't something we earn. It's something we receive. It's grace, not performance. It's gift, not achievement.

A Practice for This Week: Each evening this week, before bed, ask yourself: "Where did I notice God's love working in me today?" Not what you accomplished or how well you performed, but where you experienced grace. Did you experience grace in a moment of patience you didn't expect to have, or in compassion that surprised you, or in forgiveness that felt like a gift? Notice how righteousness is already growing in you, quietly, from the inside out. 

So breathe easy today. You don't have to prove anything. You're already beloved

Grace and peace, Pastor Erin

Check out the Weekly Bulletin to see the full schedule of what’s happening at TLC this week!

Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the friends and families for the recent passing of Larry Mendoza, father of Manny Mendoza.

Please join us for Adult Forum every Sunday from 10:20am to 10:50am in the Garden Room.

Upcoming Topics:
February 15 - Epiphany to Lent Transition, presented by Pr. Todd Iverson

Thank you to everyone who contributed to our recent household collection for Downtown Ventura Partners! The first delivery of furniture, linens, and clothing has already been made to newly housed residents at the Valentine Road Apartments — and the items were deeply appreciated.
With eighteen more individuals set to move into housing in the coming weeks, your generosity is helping turn empty apartments into welcoming homes.

We invite you to join us for worship and fellowship throughout the season of Lent as we gather for reflection, prayer, and community.

Ash Wednesday – February 18, 2026
12:30pm Worship Service
6:30pm Worship Service

Wednesdays – February 25 through March 25
12:30pm Worship Service
5:45pm Lenten Soup Supper
6:30pm Worship Service

Our Lenten Soup Suppers begin February 25 and will be held each Wednesday at 5:45pm before the evening worship service. Join us for a simple meal and fellowship during this meaningful season.

If you would like to prepare a soup for one of the evenings, please sign up at the Welcome Desk.

The 3rd Annual Pinewood Derby is officially set for May 30. It’s time to start brainstorming those high-speed designs. Keep a close eye on the bulletin for registration info and race-day details!
 

On May 16, from 10am to Noon there will be Pinewood Derby Workshop in the Fellowship Hall. This is the perfect opportunity to test your car on the official track or get building advice from our team of enthusiasts. Whether you need a little help or a lot, come join the fun!

Please join us for our Young at Heart luncheon on February 19 at noon. The sign-up sheet can be found on the Welcome Desk.

• Jonelle, cousin of Joanne Cornelius
• Judy, cousin of Joanne Cornelius
• Bill Burton
• Dennis Tierney
• Kristy Gray, daughter of Jerry and Sharon Mittelholtz
• Don Frazeur, husband of Karen Jensen
• West Mitchell, partner of Elena Pomposo

• Larry Mendoza, father of Manny Mendoza
• Sandra Mingus