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Why You’re Not Responsible for Fixing Everyone’s Problems

Why You’re Not Responsible for Fixing Everyone’s Problems

by | Jan 22, 2025 | Empowerment, Excellence

Picture yourself on a platform, blindfolded, with friends below promising to catch you. 

Your knees tremble as every instinct urges you to stop.

You hear their voices reassuring you, "We've got you. Just trust us."

But you hesitate. What if they don’t catch you?

What if you fall flat on your back?

Worst-case scenarios flood your mind. Your heart pleads.

Can I peek first? But trust falls are all about letting go without seeing.

Finally, you breathe deep and fall.

For a moment, weightlessness takes over—and then, they catch you. 

Relief floods in as you realize the hardest part wasn’t the fall. It was the decision to let go.

Trusting God feels like that trust fall. It requires stepping out of your comfort zone and surrendering control over your struggles and unanswered questions. Human instincts crave certainty, but God invites us to lean on His promises instead of our own understanding.

This journey of trust leads to a deeper peace—one that doesn’t depend on fixing others or rushing God’s timing but on believing that His plan unfolds perfectly in every moment.

woman falls on purple surface

Let People Be Where They Are

Each of us will give a personal account to God. – Romans 14:12 (NLT)

We’re not meant to be anyone else’s savior because only God can change hearts. The pressure to "fix" others often comes from our impatience or lack of trust in God’s perfect timing. Romans 14:12 reminds us that God alone is the ultimate judge.

Key Insights:

  • Stay in Your Lane: Romans 14 addresses disagreements among early Christians over food laws and holy days. Paul encourages believers to focus on harmony rather than judgment.
  • Trust God’s Timing: You don’t have to referee someone else’s life. God is more than capable of working in His own time.
  • Speak Life: Instead of criticizing, use your words to build others up. Romans 14:19 emphasizes that unity grows when we prioritize what matters most to God.

Reflection & Action:

  • Question: Am I trusting God with the people in my life, or am I trying to control their journey?
  • Next Step: Let go of judgment today. Instead, pray for someone and trust God to work in their life.

Letting go of control over others is the first step, but how do we learn to find peace when life itself feels overwhelming? Let’s explore what it means to accept situations for what they are.

man in green black and white camouflage uniform

Accept Situations for What They Are

I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. – Philippians 4:11 (NLT)

Contentment isn’t giving up; it’s stepping up in faith.

It’s choosing to trust God in the middle of your mess, believing He’s still working even when nothing around you makes sense. Contentment isn't about passively accepting unfavorable situations. Instead, it focuses on actively trusting God, even when circumstances are challenging. Paul, writing from prison, is a prime example of this mindset.

His peace was not derived from his surroundings but from his unwavering trust in Christ's strength and provision. This perspective encourages readers to lean on their faith during difficulties, seeing them as opportunities to trust in God's plan.

 Why? Because his strength came from Christ, not his situation (Philippians 4:13).

Reflection & Action:

  • Question: Am I seeking peace in my circumstances or in Christ?
  • Next Step: Focus on one challenge this week. Instead of resisting it, ask God to reveal His provision through it.

When we understand contentment, the next challenge is restraint—choosing how and when to respond in wisdom rather than frustration.

a woman wearing sunglasses and smoking a cigarette

Not Every Action Needs a Reaction

Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. – James 1:19 (NLT)

Wisdom begins with restraint. Not every word or action demands a reaction. James 1:19 encourages humility, teaching us to listen more, speak less, and let God’s Word transform us.

Key Insights:

  • Listen With Purpose: "Quick to listen" means opening your spirit to God. James 1:22 warns against hearing God’s Word without acting on it.
  • Anger Is a Thief: Anger clouds judgment and blocks God’s wisdom. Restraint allows His power to shape your response.
  • Jesus’ Example: In Matthew 26:63, Jesus stayed silent during false accusations, showing that stillness can be the strongest response.

Reflection & Action:

  • Question: Am I reacting out of frustration, or am I responding with God’s wisdom?
  • Next Step: Pause before reacting to difficult situations this week. Pray for wisdom and respond with grace.

Practicing restraint paves the way for a life of greater peace and purpose. Now, let’s tie it all together with a final thought that will encourage and inspire.

Final Thought

What if the hardest part of trusting God isn’t the fall—it’s the decision to let go?

Letting go isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a bold step of faith that says, "God, I trust You more than I trust myself." Surrendering control means acknowledging that His plan is far better than anything we could orchestrate. It’s in His arms, not our own striving, that true peace is found.

So, what’s holding you back?

Release the fear, the need for control, and the pressure to fix others. Instead, step into the freedom of trusting God fully. Pray for His guidance, lean into His promises, and rest knowing He’s working even when you can’t see it.

Call to Action:

Take action today: Identify one area of your life where you’re holding on too tightly.

Write it down, surrender it to God in prayer, and trust that He will catch you. Then, share your story with someone else who might need encouragement.

Let go, let God work, and embrace the peace that comes when you allow Him to lead.

Overcome Your Fear of Asking God for Big Things

Overcome Your Fear of Asking God for Big Things

by | Oct 1, 2024 | Christian, Christianity, Decisions, Empowerment, Mars Hill Baptist Church, Prayer, Self-Leadership

Do you ever hesitate to ask God for something big because you're afraid He won’t answer? Or perhaps, deep down, you feel unworthy of such bold requests?

Many of us find ourselves in this place of fear or doubt when it comes to our prayer life. We may be praying, but we’re praying small—safe prayers that don’t fully reflect our trust in a big God.

The truth is, the size of our prayers says a lot about the size of our faith. If we are afraid to ask for the seemingly impossible, we’re limiting what God can do in our lives.

It’s time to break through that fear and ask boldly, trusting that God is ready and able to show up in big ways.


The truth is, the size of our prayers says a lot about the size of our faith. 
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Small Prayers, Small Faith?

In Philippians 4:6, Paul reminds us not to worry but to pray about everything. Yet, how often do we limit ourselves by holding back? Many of us fear disappointment, thinking,

What if I ask for something huge and God says no?

Others may feel unworthy of receiving large blessings or are afraid to be let down. These fears often keep us praying small prayers, making sure we don’t ask for too much just in case God doesn’t come through.

But Scripture tells us something different. Ephesians 3:20 assures us that:

God "is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine."

This verse is a reminder that God is not bound by our limited perspective. He wants us to ask, and to ask big. Yet, when we don’t bring our boldest requests before Him, we miss the chance to witness His greatness.

So, here’s the challenge: If you’re not asking big, are you really trusting God to do big things?

Fear Keeps Us from Bold Prayers

Fear is a natural emotion, but when it comes to our relationship with God, fear can be crippling.

James 4:2-3 reminds us that sometimes we don’t have because we don’t ask, or we ask with the wrong motives. What keeps us from asking? Fear of rejection, feelings of unworthiness, or even doubt in God’s ability to provide.

However, bold prayers are an expression of deep trust. They acknowledge that we believe God is capable of handling the big things, even when we can’t see how it’s possible. It’s not about demanding things from God, but about coming to Him with expectancy and faith.

Bold prayers are an expression of deep trust. They acknowledge that we believe God is capable of handling the big things, even when we can’t see how it’s possible.

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Take the story of Hannah in 1 Samuel. She was barren, deeply troubled, and carrying the weight of cultural shame. Yet, in her brokenness, she boldly asked God for a son, and her prayer was not timid or vague. It was specific, faith-filled, and persistent. Despite years of disappointment, Hannah trusted that God could do the impossible—and He did.

Hannah’s bold prayer wasn’t just about her personal desire for a child. Her request played a crucial role in the destiny of Israel, as her son Samuel would go on to anoint Israel’s first kings.

Her willingness to ask for something big was part of God’s bigger plan. Her story is a reminder that our bold prayers can have far-reaching effects beyond what we can see.

Want to dive deeper into this message? Check out the full sermon, "Overcome the Fear of Asking Big in Prayer | Bold Prayers That Move Mountains" on YouTube: Watch here.

How to Overcome the Fear of Bold Prayers

So how do we overcome the fear that holds us back from asking for big things? Here are a few steps you can take:

  1. Identify Your Fear: Start by reflecting on what specific fears or doubts keep you from asking God for big things. Is it fear of disappointment? Doubt in His goodness? Write it down and confront it head-on.
  2. Ask Specifically: Bold prayers aren’t vague. They’re specific and intentional. Just as Hannah didn’t simply ask for a child—she asked for a son—you can ask for something big in your life, whether it's in your career, relationships, or personal growth. Be clear about what you need.
  3. Pray Persistently: Bold prayers require persistence. Hannah didn’t give up after her first prayer. She kept coming back to God, trusting Him even when she didn’t see immediate results. Likewise, set aside time daily to bring your requests to God, knowing that He hears you.
  4. Surrender the Outcome: Finally, bold prayers are not about demanding your way but about trusting God's plan. Once you’ve prayed, release the outcome to Him, knowing that His ways are higher than ours. Trust that whatever happens, His response will be in your best interest.

The Power of Bold Prayers

God invites us to ask boldly, and when we do, we step into a deeper relationship with Him. Our fear of asking for big things can be more significant than our faith, but it doesn’t have to be.

Remember, bold prayers are not about convincing God—they’re about convincing yourself that God is big enough to handle your requests.

Take action today: choose one bold prayer that you’ve been afraid to ask, write it down, and commit to bringing it before God daily. As Ephesians 3:20 reminds us, we serve a God who can do "immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine."

Let’s stop praying small prayers and start trusting God for big things.

Ready to take your prayer life to the next level? If you’re looking for guidance on how to pray with confidence and expectation, check out my book, Bold Prayers: How to Pray With Confidence and Expectation. It’s available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle. This resource will help you move past fear and doubt, empowering you to ask God for the big things He’s waiting to give you.

Bold prayers are not about convincing God—they’re about convincing yourself that God is big enough to handle your requests.

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Mars Hill Anywhere: Our Vision is Bigger Than a Building

Mars Hill Anywhere: Our Vision is Bigger Than a Building

by | Sep 14, 2024 | Empowerment, Goals, Mars Hill Baptist Church, Vision

Welcome to Mars Hill Baptist Church, a community that values tradition while embracing modernity.

At Mars Hill, we understand that the church is not just a building, but a community of believers who come together to support and uplift one another. That's why we're excited to introduce the Mars Hill Anywhere Platform - a modern initiative that allows us to connect and grow as a community, no matter where we are.

The Mars Hill Anywhere platform is an online hub where you can access all the resources and support needed to stay engaged and connected with our community. Whether at home, at work, or on the go, you can tune in to our live stream, catch up on past sermons, and participate in virtual events and Bible studies.

But Mars Hill Anywhere is more than just a platform - it reflects our commitment to community and collective growth. We believe the church is not just a place to worship, but to grow and learn together. With Mars Hill Anywhere, we can extend our reach beyond our physical location and connect with believers from all over the world.

At Mars Hill Baptist Church, we're excited about the future and the opportunities that Mars Hill Anywhere presents. We believe that by embracing modern technology, we can reach more people and make a bigger impact on the world. So why not join us today and see what Mars Hill Anywhere can do for you?

At Mars Hill, we understand that the church is not just a building, but a community of believers who come together to support and uplift one another. 

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Mars Hill Anywhere Platform: Bringing the Church to You

What is the Mars Hill Anywhere Platform?

The Mars Hill Anywhere Platform is not just another online tool; it's a revolutionary step towards redefining what it means to be a church in the modern age. Recognizing that the essence of a church is its community and not the walls that house it, we've developed a platform that bridges the gap between physical distance and spiritual connection.

Key Features:

  1. Virtual Gatherings: Attend services, bible studies, and group meetings from the comfort of your home or anywhere in the world. Experience the same warmth and fellowship as you would in person.
  2. Interactive Worship: Engage in live worship sessions, submit prayer requests, and participate in communal activities, ensuring that you're not just a passive viewer but an active member of the congregation.
  3. Community Building Tools: Connect with fellow believers, join discussion groups, and find local meet-ups or events. Create and nurture relationships that go beyond Sunday services.
  4. Resource Library: Access a vast collection of sermons, teachings, and other resources to deepen your faith and understanding, available 24/7.
  5. Personalized Experience: Tailor your platform experience based on your interests, needs, and spiritual journey. Receive content recommendations, join groups that resonate with you, and grow at your own pace.

Why Choose the Mars Hill Anywhere Platform?

  1. Flexibility: Whether traveling, unwell, or simply preferring to engage from home, the platform ensures you're always connected to your church community.
  2. Inclusivity: No matter where you are in your faith journey, there's a place for you here. From newcomers to long-time members, everyone is welcome.
  3. Safety: When physical gatherings might be challenging or risky, the platform offers a safe and secure way to stay connected.
  4. Growth: With many resources and community support, your spiritual growth is limitless.

Join Us in this New Chapter

At Mars Hill, we believe that faith is a journey best traveled together. The Mars Hill Anywhere Platform is our commitment to ensuring that no matter where life takes you, your church family is just a click away. Join us, and let's redefine what being a church in the digital age means.

The Mars Hill Anywhere Platform is not just another online tool; it's a revolutionary step towards redefining what it means to be a church in the modern age.

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The Mars Hill Anywhere Platform: A Comprehensive Overview

At Mars Hill, we believe in creating a holistic ecosystem that caters to the diverse needs of our community. The Mars Hill Anywhere initiative is not just a platform; it's a comprehensive suite of tools, services, and experiences designed to nurture your faith, growth, and leadership. Here's a breakdown of what's involved:

  1. In-Person Gatherings: While our digital tools are expansive, nothing can replace the warmth of face-to-face interactions. Our in-person gatherings are spaces for worship, fellowship, and growth, allowing you to connect with the Mars Hill community in a tangible way.
  2. Live Streaming Across Platforms: Whether you're on our official website at [marshillchicago.org](http://marshillchicago.org), YouTube, or Facebook Live, you can access our services in real-time. Experience the power of collective worship, no matter where you are.
  3. The Gathering - Digital Discipleship: Our midweek service, The Gathering, is more than just another online meeting. It's a dedicated space for digital discipleship, designed to help you deepen your relationship with God from wherever you are.
  4. 1:1 Coaching: Life is a journey, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Our 1:1 coaching sessions are tailored to help you reach your personal goals and continuously improve, even if just by 1%.
  5. Stay Informed with Text Alerts: Never miss out on what's happening at Mars Hill. Our text alerts keep you in the loop about events, updates, and important announcements.
  6. The Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast: Leadership is often a lonely journey, but it doesn't have to be. The Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast shines a light on the often-overlooked leaders, offering insights, stories, and inspiration for everyone.
  7. The Breakdown - Weekly Insights: Understanding God's word is a journey, and we're here to guide you. The Breakdown is a weekly newsletter that delves into Sunday's sermon, providing clarity and a 5-day devotional to help you reflect and grow throughout the week.

Embracing the Future, Together

The Mars Hill Anywhere ecosystem is our commitment to ensuring that every community member has the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive in their faith journey. Whether you're joining us online or in person, we're here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

The Mars Hill Anywhere initiative is not just a platform; it's a comprehensive suite of tools, services, and experiences designed to nurture your faith, growth, and leadership.

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The Importance of a Subscription Model for Sustaining Mars Hill Anywhere

The landscape of church operations and community engagement has undergone significant transformation, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. While the essence of the church remains unchanged, the methods by which we connect, worship, and sustain our operations have evolved. As we navigate these changes, it's crucial to explore innovative financial models that can support the growth and sustainability of Mars Hill Anywhere. Here's why introducing a subscription model as an additional way to give is vital:

  1. Predictable Revenue Stream: Traditional tithes and offerings, while deeply appreciated, can be unpredictable. A subscription model provides a consistent and predictable revenue stream, enabling better financial planning and ensuring the church's digital and physical operations run smoothly.
  2. Expanding Digital Infrastructure: The hybrid model of Mars Hill Anywhere requires significant investment in digital infrastructure, from live streaming equipment to online platforms and tools. A subscription model can help offset these costs and ensure our digital offerings remain top-notch.
  3. Supporting Expanded Services: With initiatives like 1:1 coaching, The Gathering, and The Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast, Mars Hill offers more than just Sunday services. A subscription model can help fund these additional services, ensuring they remain accessible and high-quality.
  4. Building Resilience: Post-COVID, many churches face financial challenges. Diversifying our revenue sources through subscriptions can make Mars Hill more resilient to external economic shocks and ensure we can continue our mission regardless of external circumstances.
  5. Deepening Community Engagement: A subscription model can foster a sense of ownership and more profound engagement within the community. Subscribers might feel a heightened sense of commitment and involvement, knowing they're directly sustaining the church's initiatives.
  6. Flexibility for Members: While tithing is a deeply personal act of worship, a subscription model offers an alternative for those who prefer a more structured way of giving. It allows members to choose the best method with their financial planning and personal preferences.

A Forward-Thinking Approach

Introducing a subscription model is not about replacing traditional tithes and offerings but complementing them. It's a forward-thinking approach, recognizing the evolving needs of our community and the changing dynamics of church operations in the digital age. By embracing this model, we're ensuring the sustainability of Mars Hill Anywhere and paving the way for continued growth, innovation, and deepened community engagement.

Introducing a subscription model is not about replacing traditional tithes and offerings but complementing them. 

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Join Us in Shaping the Future of Mars Hill Anywhere

At the heart of Mars Hill lies a community bound by faith, love, and a shared vision. As we navigate the evolving landscape of worship and fellowship, your support becomes the cornerstone of our growth and outreach.

  1. Tithes & Offerings: Your regular tithes and offerings are more than just financial contributions; they're acts of worship, trust, and commitment to our shared mission. Each penny fuels our endeavors, ensuring that the Word reaches every corner and every heart.
  2. Special Offerings: Occasionally, we embark on projects that require a little extra – a community outreach, a mission trip, or infrastructural enhancements. Your unique offerings can make these dreams a reality, creating lasting impact and memories.
  3. Becoming a Subscriber: Dive deeper into the Mars Hill experience by becoming a subscriber. Not only do you gain access to exclusive content and benefits, but you also play a pivotal role in ensuring our church's sustainability in the digital age: every gesture, big or small, stitches together the fabric of our community. Whether giving through tithes, unique offerings, or subscribing, you champion a vision of unity, growth, and boundless faith.

Support Mars Hill Anywhere today as a beacon of hope, love, and transformation.

The Great Facebook & Instagram Outage Lesson: Dig Your Own Unshakable Well

The Great Facebook & Instagram Outage Lesson: Dig Your Own Unshakable Well

by | Mar 6, 2024 | Communication, Current Affairs, Decisions, Empowerment

In the early 2000s, the board of directors forced Steve Jobs, Apple's co-founder, out of the company. Jobs had been a critical figure in the company's success, having overseen the development of iconic products such as the Macintosh, the iPod, and the iPhone. However, he clashed with the board over his management style and the company's direction, leading to his ousting.

Following his departure from Apple, Jobs embarked on personal reflection and soul-searching. He realized that his mistake could have been relying more heavily on someone else's platform, which had resulted in his being removed from Apple. As a result, he decided to create his own platform, Pixar, a company that would allow him to showcase his unique vision for the future of entertainment.

Pixar initially started as a computer hardware company, but they quickly shifted their focus to developing animation software. Steve Jobs, the founder, recognized the potential of animation to transform the movie industry and went all-in to ensure Pixar's success.

In 1995, the company released its first feature film, Toy Story, a massive commercial and critical hit. Pixar continued producing blockbuster films, such as A Bug's Life, Monsters Inc., and Finding Nemo. I will revisit this story later in the article.

This week's brief outage of Facebook and Instagram served as a jarring wake-up call: the rented digital platforms we've come to rely on for our businesses and online presence are ultimately not under our control.

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The Great Facebook Outage Lesson

This week's brief outage of Facebook and Instagram served as a jarring wake-up call: the rented digital platforms we've come to rely on for our businesses and online presence are ultimately not under our control. While undeniably convenient, they can go dark at any moment, leaving us high and dry, scrambling to reconnect with our audiences and customers.

The lesson is as clear as a desert mirage: we must dig our own wells before the thirst sets in. By building a robust, self-sufficient platform that we truly own and govern, we insulate ourselves from the whims and failures of third-party rentiers.

This self-made oasis should comprise several key elements:

  1. A Website You Fully Own: No more renting digital real estate. Your website is your sovereign territory on the internet, where you make the rules and set the terms of engagement. It's your impenetrable home base, unshakeable by external forces.
  2. An Email List Under Your Control: With your email list, you own the direct line of communication with your tribe. There are no algorithms, no intermediaries—just an unbroken pipeline to the inboxes of those who matter most. This connection can never be blocked or disrupted.
  3. An Instantaneous Text Alerting System: In today's age of fracturing attention, reach your people immediately through the communication channel they're guaranteed to see. With your owned SMS systems, you're never accountable to someone else's pipes.
  4. Internal Team Collaboration Channels: Keep your crew connected, aligned, and productive through digital spaces you control and manage. Efficient teamwork and flawless execution are vital competitive advantages.
  5. Streamlined Opt-In and Follow-Up Processes: Effortlessly guide new leads into your world on your own terms. With automated systems under your watchful eye, every prospect can stay caught up when the rented streams run dry.

The lesson is as clear as a desert mirage: we must dig our own wells before the thirst sets in.

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By piecing together the different pillars of your self-governed platform, you can avoid being a "digital sharecropper" and subject to your landlords' whims. If the domains you rent fail, you can easily switch to your fully owned domain and continue serving your audience without problems. Let's return to Steve Jobs' story to see how he applied this lesson years later when he returned to Apple. 

He transformed Apple into a self-governed empire by creating iTunes, the Online Store, and an ironclad ecosystem, resulting in a self-sustaining oasis that was unshakable by external forces. 

The moral of Jobs' story is that true visionaries should build their empire on self-reliance and control their destiny by digging their own wells. Don't rent land to build your empire, as it can vanish overnight. Cultivate self-reliance by owning your platform.

Never be caught up with resources when you need them the most. Instead, take the initiative to cultivate a strong foundation that will provide you with the necessary tools to secure your future success. By doing so, you can ensure that your business or audience will continue to grow and thrive.

Remember that self-reliance is crucial in achieving this goal, as it will help you become more resilient in the face of any challenges.

When the rented domains inevitably fail, you can easily switch to your fully owned domain and continue serving your audience from the depths of your well-stocked waters.

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If you are ready to take the initiative towards securing your future success, start cultivating a strong foundation today. Don't wait until you are caught up with resources when you need them the most. 

Remember, self-reliance is key to becoming more resilient and achieving your goals. So, take action now and invest in yourself to ensure that your business or audience continues to grow and thrive!


✨ This Week at Mars Hill: Transforming Lives, One Sunday at a Time ✨

✨ This Week at Mars Hill: Transforming Lives, One Sunday at a Time ✨

by | Feb 7, 2024 | Mars Hill Baptist Church

However, with 20+ years of pastoring, I experienced just about all a church could experience. whenHappy Wednesday Reader,

I hope this email finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to share some important updates regarding our upcoming events and extend a heartfelt invitation to join us online for spiritually enriching experiences.

Sunday Worship Recap

As the sun rose last Sunday, it ushered in a day unlike any other. Our sanctuary became a vessel for the vibrant, pulsating presence of the Lord, creating an atmosphere that was both electric and sanctifying. The air was thick with anticipation, and as we lifted our voices in worship, the spirit of unity and praise was palpable.

Those who joined us in person were part of a moment in time where heaven touched earth, leaving us all a little more connected, a little more uplifted, and infinitely more inspired.

If you weren’t able to join us, let me assure you the next live service on Sunday, February 18, 2024, at 10:30 AM Central, promises another opportunity to be part of something truly miraculous.

And for our family far and wide, remember, we stream on all our platforms, ensuring you’re never too far from home.

video preview​

Life Groups are in Session!

In the spirit of growth and fellowship, our life groups continue to be a beacon of light and learning, gathering in-person and online.

It’s with immense joy that I share with you my latest labor of love, “From Rubble to Renewal: The Nehemiah Strategy for Modern Times,” now available on Amazon in Paperback and Kindle formats.

This work is more than a book; it’s a journey we embark on together towards rebuilding and renewing our spiritual walls in these modern times. Your support means the world to me and to our mission.

Text LIFEGROUP to 33777 and connect today.

We’re Partnering With YouVersion Bible App

Exciting news for our community! Mars Hill is now partnering with YouVersion to introduce YouVersion Connect.

This platform is our new central hub for engaging with the Bible together, sharing insights, and supporting each other in our spiritual journeys.

Joining is simple, and the shared experience of growing in faith is profoundly impactful. Connect with us today, and let’s explore the Word together.

Happy Black History Month

As we observe Black History Month, let’s also turn our attention to the stories that challenge us to think deeper and act with intention. The realities of prison commissaries and the actions of certain individuals in the justice system remind us of the ongoing struggle for equity and justice.

In 2018, the Birmingham News broke an alarming story: Etowah, Alabama’s sheriff, Todd Entrekin, accrued $750,000 in income and purchased a $740,000 beach house.

But how? After all, his salary was less than six figures. The money came from budgets to feed people in jails. And it wasn’t technically illegal.

These stories not only demand our awareness but also call us to be part of the solution in our communities and beyond.

Have You Heard About Kindle Vella on Amazon?

In other news, I was selected by Amazon’s Kindle Vella platform to write an episodic series (fiction) called From Ashes to Grace: A Story of Unwavering Faith and the Rebirth of a Community. In ‘From Ashes to Grace: A Story of Unwavering Faith and the Rebirth of a Community,’ experience the stirring journey of Pastor Elijah Thomas and his congregation.

Facing their church’s near collapse, they tackle adversity to survive and thrive. This tale of unity, innovation, and indomitable spirit showcases their discovery of faith’s true essence in the modern world. Embark on their transformative path from despair to hope, where each challenge leads to a new beginning.

​An episode releases weekly and the first is available NOW! You can read it online or on your Kindle. Let me know what you think.This is a stretch for me since I primarily write non-fiction books. However, with 20+ years pastoring, I experience just about all a church could experience.

Join Us This Sunday

Finally, I extend an invitation to you, your family, and friends to join us this coming Sunday, February 11, 2024, at 10:30 AM for our church online. It’s more than a service; it’s a moment to come together, to be uplifted, and to feel the encompassing love and grace of our Lord. Let’s share in this experience, for every soul gathered strengthens our bond and amplifies our praise.

Your Support Means the World

Your prayers and financial contributions have been pivotal. Planning and executing in-person and online services takes 60-80 hours weekly. This dedication to excellence is made possible through your generous support. We are deeply thankful for your commitment to our church’s mission.

Your Support is a Blessing 🙏

Being a part of Mars Hill Anywhere means you’re part of a community dedicated to transformative and inclusive worship experiences.

We encourage you to donate financially to help Mars Hill Anywhere keep doing its good work and grow.

Your donations don’t just help us; they also spread our message of love and forgiveness to people in need, both in our local area and worldwide.

It’s easy to donate. Go to our safe online giving portal or call our hardworking team at 773-287-3535.

Every gift, big or small, helps us move forward with our goal and support people looking for spiritual food.

We appreciate you being a part of the Mars Hill Anywhere group.

We are blessed to be on this trip together, combining the best of in-person and online worship to create a spiritual experience that is transformative and open to everyone.

With warmth and blessings,

Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

P.S. Don’t forget to save the event to your calendar! Feel free to bring friends and family—let’s share the joy of this sacred night with our loved ones. Please let us know if you’re interested. Let’s come by replying to this email.