🌱 New Year, New Growth: Mars Hill Anywhere’s 2025 Vision 🎉

🌱 New Year, New Growth: Mars Hill Anywhere’s 2025 Vision 🎉

by | Jan 2, 2025 | Empowerment

Happy New Year! 🎉

As we enter 2025, I’m excited about what God has in store for us. This year, our focus is on being “Rooted in Faith, Growing Anywhere,” inspired by Psalm 1:3 (NLT):

They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.

When we’re firmly planted in God’s Word, growth becomes inevitable. This year, we aim to grow in faith, impact, and connection wherever God places us. In this week’s newsletter, you’ll find:

​1️⃣ A preview of our 2025 Vision: From Here to There, Rooted in Faith, Growing Anywhere, including the three pillars guiding us this year.

2️⃣ An invitation to our first service of 2025 on Sunday, January 5th, at 10:30 AM CST—whether in person or online.

3️⃣ A preview of our first series of the year, “Missed Calls”—a powerful four-week journey exploring how God can redeem missed opportunities.

Let’s make 2025 a year of faith, growth, and community. Keep reading to learn how to get involved and inspired from the start!

2025 Vision: From Here to There, Rooted in Faith, Growing Anywhere

Our vision for 2025 is inspired by Psalm 1:3 (NLT):

They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.

This year, we’re focusing on three strategic pillars to guide our ministry:

1. Spiritual Growth & Discipleship

Goal: Equip individuals to grow deeper in their faith and develop spiritual resilience.

2. Community Impact & Connection

Goal: Strengthen our local and global communities through service and relationships.

3. Hybrid Excellence & Engagement

Goal: Optimize our digital and in-person ministries to meet people wherever they are.

Throughout the first quarter, I’ll explain this vision in greater detail and share ways you can grow and serve with us.

Let’s kick off the year together with worship and community!

Join Us for Worship This Sunday: Pull Up or Log On!

We’d love for you to “Pull up” and be with us in person or “Log on” to join our online worship community this Sunday, January 5, 2024, at 10:30 AM CST.

Here’s what you need to know:

✨ Date: Sunday, January 5, 2025

✨ Time: 10:30 AM CST

✨ Location:

Mars Hill Anywhere
7941 47th St
McCook, IL 60525

🖥️ Online Service

  • Time: 10:30 AM CST
  • Platform: Mars Hill Anywhere (YouTube & Facebook Live)
  • Perfect for our digital family joining from home

Bring your family, friends, or neighbors—there’s room for everyone at Mars Hill Anywhere!

No matter where you are, there’s always a place for you at Mars Hill.

Feel free to scan the QR code in the image above for more details and to connect with us quickly. We can’t wait to see you—whether in person or online!

Whether you pull up or log on, this service is a powerful way to begin 2025 rooted in faith and fellowship.

New Series: Missed Calls

We’re starting the year with a thought-provoking four-week series, “Missed Calls.”

In life, we sometimes miss God’s call because:

• We overlook chances to serve others.

• We focus on our desires instead of God’s plan.

• We cling to expectations that don’t align with His will.

• We fail to seize the moments God places in front of us.

But here’s the good news: God can redeem even missed calls. Join us each week to discover how to recognize and respond to His call in every season of life.

How to Support Mars Hill

Your support helps us spread hope and share God’s love with our community and beyond. Here are some ways you can get involved:

  1. Give: Your financial gifts make a difference. You can give online through our secure website or use our mobile app.
  2. Serve: We have many opportunities to serve, both in-person and virtually. Check out our website for current needs.
  3. Pray: Please keep our church, leaders, and community in your prayers. Your prayers are powerful!
  4. Invite: Do you know someone who might benefit from our message? Invite them to join us online or in person this Sunday.
  5. Share: Help spread the word by sharing our social media posts or forwarding this email to a friend.

Your generosity keeps Mars Hill thriving and helps us reach more people with God’s love. If you feel led to contribute, here are some ways you can support our ministry:

  1. ​Online Giving: Visit our website to set up one-time or recurring donations securely.
  2. Text-to-Give: Text MHGIVE to 33777 and follow the prompts.
  3. Sunday Offering: Drop your gift in the offering basket during our in-person services.
  4. Mail: Send checks to:

Mars Hill Baptist Church
PO Box 6159
River Forest, IL 60305

Remember, every gift, big or small, makes a difference. Your support allows us to:

  • Maintain our temporary church home
  • Fund community outreach programs
  • Provide resources for Life Groups
  • Expand our online ministry
  • Invest in equipment, tools, cameras, and software to grow our online campus.

We’re grateful for your partnership in spreading the Gospel and serving our community in person and online.

Please consider giving today and help us grow in faith and impact.

​Give Now!

Let’s step into 2025 confidently, knowing that God will guide us every step. I can’t wait to see you on January 5th as we begin this exciting journey together!

With faith and gratitude,

Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

P.S. Don’t forget to”pull up” or “Log on” us online this Sunday at 10:30 AM Central for our online service. Set your reminder now! ⏰
Why New Year’s Resolutions Fail—and What Actually Works 🚀

Why New Year’s Resolutions Fail—and What Actually Works 🚀

by | Jan 2, 2025 | Empowerment

Happy New Year Reader,

Ever feel like New Year’s resolutions are set up to fail?

Here’s the thing: big, sweeping resolutions often feel overwhelming and unattainable. That’s why I want to share a different approach—a way to build small, consistent wins that could completely redefine your 2025.

Take David, for example. At the start of last year, he decided to ditch the grand, intimidating goals and focus on small, meaningful changes instead.

He committed to reading just one page of a book daily, saving $5 weekly, and taking a five-minute walk every morning.

By the end of the year, those simple habits added to big wins: he finished three books, built a savings cushion, and felt noticeably healthier.

2025 is here, with it, the promise of new opportunities and growth. What if you focused on progress this year instead of chasing perfection?

In my latest blog post, you’ll discover:

• Why the 1% better every day mindset could redefine your year

• Simple, actionable steps to build habits that stick

• A fresh perspective on why small changes create a lasting impact

Plus, I’m sharing more stories like David’s and how small, consistent actions can also lead to big results in your life.

👉 Ready to kick off 2025 with clarity and confidence? Click below to read the full blog post:

​Forget Perfection: Why Progress is the Real Goal for 2025​

Here’s to making this year one of growth and progress!

Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.
​See All of my Links @ Linktree​
Forget Perfection: Why Progress is the Real Goal for 2025

Forget Perfection: Why Progress is the Real Goal for 2025

by | Jan 2, 2025 | Goals

Ever feel like New Year’s resolutions are set up to fail? 

Here’s why focusing on small, consistent wins could be the game-changer you need for 2025—and how one simple habit can spark a year of growth.

The dawn of a new year often brings a surge of motivation. But let’s be real: big, sweeping resolutions can feel overwhelming and unattainable. Consider David’s experience. At the start of last year, he decided to focus on making small, meaningful changes rather than setting grand, intimidating goals.

He committed to reading just one page of a book each day, saving $5 weekly, and taking a five-minute walk every morning. By the end of the year, these simple habits added up: he finished three books, built a savings cushion, and felt noticeably healthier and more energized. Small, consistent actions led to significant progress.

This same approach can help you tackle 2025 with clarity and confidence. Let’s explore how small, actionable steps can set the stage for big wins throughout the year.

This year, instead of striving for perfection, aim for progress. Micro growth resolutions are about building momentum with manageable steps. Starting today, you can take the first steps toward your journey to a better you.

 Small, consistent actions led to significant progress.

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Ideas to Try in 2025

These small, intentional actions can be the building blocks for growth. Here are practical ideas to start incorporating into your daily routine:

  1. Write Down One Thing You’re Grateful For from 2024: Gratitude is the foundation of growth. Take a moment to reflect on a highlight or lesson from last year and jot it down. This practice shifts your focus toward positivity and abundance as you step into 2025.
  2. Identify One Skill You Want to Improve and Research One Resource: Whether it’s public speaking, cooking, or financial literacy, choose a skill you want to develop. Look up a book, podcast, or online course to get started. The first step is simply finding the right tool.
  3. Set a Timer for 10 Minutes and Declutter Your Workspace: A clear space fosters a clear mind. Spend just 10 minutes tidying up your desk or digital workspace. Small changes in your environment can lead to big boosts in productivity.
  4. Text or Call Someone Who Inspired You in 2024: Expressing appreciation not only strengthens relationships but also boosts your own sense of connection and purpose. Let someone know they made a difference in your life.
  5. Choose One Habit to Track Daily for January: Habits shape your future. Pick one small habit—like drinking more water, journaling, or walking 10 minutes a day—and commit to tracking it every day this month.
  6. Pick a Motivational Quote and Set It as Your Phone’s Wallpaper: Find a quote that resonates with your goals and make it a daily visual reminder. Inspiration is just a glance away.
  7. Create a Note on Your Phone for Tracking Daily Wins in 2025: Celebrate your progress. Start a note titled “Wins” and commit to logging one achievement—big or small—every day. Over time, this list becomes a powerful testament to your growth.
  8. Review Your Calendar and Schedule One Hour for Self-Care Each Week in January: Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Block out time for activities that recharge you, whether it’s reading, exercising, or simply resting.
  9. Reflect on a Tough Moment from 2024 and Write Down What It Taught You: Challenges are fertile ground for growth. Write down a lesson you learned from a difficult experience. This practice turns setbacks into stepping stones.
man in red jacket reading book

With these ideas in hand, it’s time to reflect on why micro growth matters and how it can create lasting impact.

  1. Write a Personal Mission Statement for 2025: What’s your “why” for this year? Define your purpose in a single, clear statement to guide your decisions and actions.
  2. Commit to Drinking One More Glass of Water a Day: Hydration is a simple yet impactful health habit. Add one extra glass of water to your daily routine—your body and mind will thank you.
  3. Organize One Digital Folder or Clean Up Your Inbox: Start small in the battle against digital clutter. Choose one folder or tackle the oldest 10 emails in your inbox to bring a sense of order.
  4. Choose a Book, Podcast, or Video Series to Fuel Your Growth Mindset: Learning doesn’t stop when school ends. Select a resource that aligns with your goals and commit to engaging with it regularly.
  5. Stretch for Five Minutes While Reflecting on Your Goals: Physical and mental flexibility go hand in hand. Take five minutes to stretch and visualize what you want to achieve this year.
  6. Write One Sentence to Your Future Self About What You Hope to Achieve This Year: Capture your aspirations in one powerful sentence. Address your future self with encouragement and clarity.
  7. Plan a Low-Cost, Meaningful Reward for Your First Win in January: Rewards reinforce habits. Plan a simple treat for hitting your first milestone, like a coffee date, a new book, or a relaxing evening.
  8. Visualize What 1% Better Every Day Looks Like for You: Imagine the compound effect of small, consistent improvements. Spend a few minutes visualizing what incremental growth could mean for your health, career, relationships, or faith.
  9. Set a Simple Morning Routine for the First Week of January: Start your day with intention. Create a short routine—like stretching, journaling, and a healthy breakfast—to set a positive tone.
  10. Create a List of People You Want to Encourage This Year: Growth isn’t just personal—it’s communal. Write down the names of people you want to inspire, mentor, or support in 2025.

Challenges are fertile ground for growth.

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Why Micro Growth Matters

The idea of getting 1% better every day is rooted in the power of small, consistent actions. Consider this: if you improve by just 1% daily, by the end of the year, you will be 37 times better than when you started. This isn’t about perfection; it’s about persistence.

Now that we understand the importance of these small steps, let’s focus on applying them consistently as we move forward in 2025.

black iPhone 11 Pro Max near gold twist pen

Consider this: if you improve by just 1% daily, by the end of the year, you will be 37 times better than when you started.

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Your 2025 Reminder

This year doesn’t have to be about an overhaul of your entire life.

Growth is not about giant leaps; it’s about showing up consistently, even in the smallest ways. By focusing on micro growth resolutions, you’re giving yourself permission to celebrate the journey, not just the destination.

Take a deep breath. Choose one or two small actions from the list above and let them be your starting point. You’re already on your way to a better, brighter 2025.

Here’s to 1% better every day—starting now. Cheers to your growth!

Growth is not about giant leaps; it’s about showing up consistently, even in the smallest ways.

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🌟 This Week’s Devotional is Ready: “Between the Already and Not Yet”

🌟 This Week’s Devotional is Ready: “Between the Already and Not Yet”

by | Dec 30, 2024 | Empowerment

Happy Monday Reader,

I’m thrilled to inform you that this week’s devotional, “Between the Already and Not Yet: Preparing for 2025,” is now available.

As we approach the new year, it’s the perfect opportunity to pause and reflect on where we are and where we’re heading.

In this devotional, we’ll explore what it means to live in the tension between God’s already accomplished work and the promises we’re still waiting to fulfill.

You’ll find encouragement to trust God’s timing, practical insights for spiritual growth, and inspiration to step confidently into 2025.

​1️⃣ Click the link in this email to access your unique Rewind page.

2️⃣ Save the link from your browser so it’s easy to find later. (You can copy the URL from the address bar, bookmark it, or save it in your notes.)

3️⃣ Share it with your circle—your congregation, family, friends, or anyone you feel would benefit.

That’s it! Rewind makes it simple to turn Sunday’s message into something shareable, bite-sized, and impactful.

Don’t miss this chance to prepare your heart and mind for the new year ahead.

Click here to start: Between the Already and Not Yet: Preparing for 2025.

Feel free to share this with anyone who might need encouragement as we close out 2024 and prepare for what’s next. I’d love to hear your thoughts after you’ve had a chance to reflect on it.

Let’s walk into 2025 together with faith, purpose, and hope!

FAQs

Does this cost anything?

No, Rewind is included with your silver plan at no additional cost.

How do I save the link from my browser?

Once you click the link in this email and open your Rewind page, copy the URL from your browser’s address bar. You can bookmark it for quick access or paste it into a note or document to save it for later.

Can I share this link on social media?

Absolutely! Your unique URL is perfect for sharing via text, email, or social platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Will my link work on mobile devices?

Yes, the Rewind page is fully optimized for mobile, so people can easily access it from their phones or tablets.

What if I lose my link?

No worries! You can reaccess it by clicking the original email or contacting support.

What if I have other questions?

Just reply to this email, and I’ll be happy to help.

Thanks again for helping me make sermons more shareable. Let’s do this together!

Here to help you win,

Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

P.S. Don’t forget to”pull up” or “Log on” us online this Sunday at 10:30 AM Central for our online service. Set your reminder now! ⏰
🎄 Introducing Rewind: Making Sermons More Shareable

🎄 Introducing Rewind: Making Sermons More Shareable

by | Dec 23, 2024 | Empowerment

Happy Monday Reader,

I’m excited to share something new with you—Rewind!

I want to personally thank you for agreeing to be a beta tester. You’re one of the first to try this platform, which is about helping people connect with sermons in ways that work for their busy lives.

​1️⃣ Click the link in this email to access your unique Rewind page: He Did What He Said He Would Do.

2️⃣ Save the link from your browser so it’s easy to find later. (You can copy the URL from the address bar, bookmark it, or save it in your notes.)

3️⃣ Share it with your circle—your congregation, family, friends, or anyone you feel would benefit.

That’s it! Rewind makes it simple to turn Sunday’s message into something shareable, bite-sized, and impactful.

Why I’m So Excited About This

Let’s be honest—most people don’t sit down to rewatch full sermons.

But imagine this: someone says, “This message made me think of you. Would you like to check out this 5-day devotional? It’s only 2 minutes a day.”

That’s the power of Rewind—making Sunday messages relevant and accessible in just the right way.

Your Feedback Matters

Your feedback is key to making this better for all of us. I’d love to hear what you think—what’s working, what’s not, and how it can help you even more.

Here’s how it works:

  • Daily Devotionals: 2-minute reflections inspired by my latest sermons.
  • Shareable Content: Perfect to share with a friend who needs encouragement.
  • Flexible Connection: Engage with sermons in ways that work best for you.

👉 Check out This Week’s Rewind​

Want to invite someone to join? Forward this email or tell them about the five-day devotional that complements my latest sermon, “Finding Hope in Hidden Places.”

If Rewind isn’t right for you, no problem! You’ll still receive my weekly newsletter, full of inspiration and updates.

Your feedback matters! As a beta tester, your insights will help make Rewind an even better resource for our ministry.

FAQs

Does this cost anything?

No, Rewind is included with your silver plan at no additional cost.

How do I save the link from my browser?

Copy the URL from your browser’s address bar once you click the link in this email and open your Rewind page. You can bookmark it for quick access or paste it into a note or document to save it for later.

Can I share this link on social media?

Absolutely! Your unique URL is perfect for sharing via text, email, or social platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Will my link work on mobile devices?

Yes, the Rewind page is fully optimized for mobile, so people can easily access it from their phones or tablets.

What if I lose my link?

No worries! You can always access it again by clicking the original email or reaching out for support if needed.

What if I have other questions?

Just reply to this email, and I’ll be happy to help.

Thanks again for helping me make sermons more shareable. Let’s do this together!

Here to help you win,

Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

P.S. Don’t forget to “Log on” us online this Sunday at 10:30 AM Central for our online service. Set your reminder now! ⏰

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