🎯 Let Them Be: Discover Freedom in Faith This Sunday

🎯 Let Them Be: Discover Freedom in Faith This Sunday

by | Jan 15, 2025 | Empowerment

Hello Reader,

As we enter the new year 2025, I am filled with anticipation for the blessings that God has in store for us.

This year, our guiding focus is to be “Rooted in Faith, Growing Anywhere,” drawing inspiration from Psalm 1:3 (New Living Translation):

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 firmly establish ourselves in God’s Word, growth becomes inevitable. This year, we aim to nurture our faith, positively impact, and strengthen our connections wherever God leads us.

In this week’s newsletter, you’ll discover valuable insights and resources to support your spiritual journey.

​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 “pull up” or “log on” on Sunday, January 19th, at 10:30 AM CST—whether in person or online.

3️⃣ A preview of Sunday’s message, “Let Them Be: Why You’re Not Responsible for Fixing Everyone’s Journey”—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 dive deeper into this vision and share ways you can contribute and serve with us. Let’s commence 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 19, 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—we welcome everyone at Mars Hill Anywhere! No matter where you are, Mars Hill has a place for you.

Scan the QR code in the image above for more details and to connect with us quickly. We eagerly anticipate seeing you—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 Message: Let Them Be: Why You’re Not Responsible for Fixing Everyone’s Journey

Are you feeling the pressure to fix someone else’s life?

In this message, we dive into Romans 14:12 and explore why God calls us to trust His timing instead of trying to control others.

Discover the freedom that comes when you stop carrying burdens that aren’t yours and start trusting God to do the work only He can do.

Learn how to release control, love others well, and find peace in letting go.

3 Questions That Will Shape Your Future (For Better or Worse)

Your future is shaped by the choices you make today. Here are 3 powerful questions to help you reflect, take action, and create meaningful change:

1️⃣ How do the habits you practice today align with the person you want to become in the future?​
The habits you choose now define your trajectory. Start building ones that align with your long-term goals.

2️⃣ How can you make better use of your time to align with your most important goals?​
Time is your most valuable asset—don’t let distractions steal it. Focus on what matters most.

3️⃣ What small, intentional choice can you make today to bring about meaningful change in your life?

Big transformations begin with small, consistent steps. Choose one action today to move closer to your dreams.

✨ Your future is in your hands—take the first step!

👉 Want to dive deeper? Read the full blog post to learn how these questions can reshape your 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 securely set up one-time or recurring donations.
  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! ⏰
[NEW POST] 3 Questions to Shape Your Future: Your Path to a Better Tomorrow Starts Here

[NEW POST] 3 Questions to Shape Your Future: Your Path to a Better Tomorrow Starts Here

by | Jan 14, 2025 | Empowerment

Hello Reader,

What if asking yourself three simple questions could reshape your future? My latest blog post, 3 Questions That Will Shape Your Future, explores how small, intentional choices can lead to significant transformations.

Inside, you’ll discover:

  • How to build habits that align with your long-term vision.
  • Strategies to make time your ally instead of your enemy.
  • The key to creating meaningful change with everyday decisions.

💡 Life-Changing Highlights:

  • “The ways you let in become the ways you’re set in.”
  • “Time isn’t on your side, but it can work for you.”
  • “Your life changes when your choices do.”

👉 Ready to take charge of your future? Read the Full Blog Post Now​

Let’s make progress together, one step at a time.

Here’s to your success,

Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.
​See All of my Links @ Linktree​
3 Questions That Will Shape Your Future

3 Questions That Will Shape Your Future

by | Jan 14, 2025 | Decisions, Empowerment, Encouragement, Goals

Choices That Define Us

Imagine standing at a crossroads, faced with two career opportunities.

Both seem promising at first glance, but they hold vastly different potential for your future. One leads to sustainable growth, offering stability and opportunities to build upon, while the other, despite its initial appeal, may lack the foundation needed for long-term viability. The distinction lies in the planning and strategy invested in each choice, setting the stage for either enduring success or future challenges.

This concept resonates in various aspects of life. Recognizing how daily decisions shape our journey empowers us to approach each moment with intention. Whether it's career moves, building relationships, or personal growth, the choices we make today lay the groundwork for tomorrow's success.

To make the most of this understanding, let’s focus on how everyday actions build momentum for long-term achievements.

The Power of Daily Decisions

Every day, we face countless choices that determine how we allocate our time, energy, and focus. These seemingly small decisions accumulate over time, shaping both immediate outcomes and long-term growth. It’s essential to examine how habits influence our path and set us up for meaningful progress.

Key Insight 1: "The Ways You Let In Become The Ways You're Set In"

Life-Changing Question: How do the habits you practice today align with the person you want to become in the future?

Picture your future self a year from now. Are you closer to your goals, or have you drifted further away? Our habits define our trajectory. Small, consistent actions create lasting change.

  • Take Stock: Reflect on whether your daily habits align with your long-term goals. Are you prioritizing what matters most?
  • Eliminate Distractions: Focus on actions that create meaningful progress instead of getting caught up in busyness.
  • Adopt Incremental Growth: Many people overestimate short-term results but underestimate the impact of consistent, small steps over time.

Consider This: What habits can you introduce today to create a stronger, more focused future?

Try This: Commit to one new habit this week, such as reading for 10 minutes daily, exercising, or practicing mindfulness.

The habits you cultivate form the backbone of your daily life, but time is the resource that determines how effectively these habits take root. This leads us to explore how we can make time our ally rather than our adversary.

Key Insight 2: "Time Isn’t On Your Side, But It Can Work For You"

Life-Changing Question: How can you make better use of your time to align with your most important goals?

Time often feels elusive, slipping through our grasp as we juggle competing priorities. Yet, when used strategically, it becomes one of our most valuable assets for building the future we desire.

Embrace the Brevity of Life

Time is finite, but by acknowledging its limits, we can make choices that align with what truly matters.

  • Prioritize What Matters: Focus on activities and relationships that reflect your values and goals.
  • Avoid Procrastination: Take small, consistent steps forward instead of waiting for the perfect moment.
  • Invest in Long-Term Benefits: Favor actions that yield enduring rewards over immediate gratification.

Consider This: Are you spending your time on what truly matters, or are distractions taking over?

Try This: Review your schedule and identify one area to realign with your priorities this week.

As you refine how you use time, the next step is to align your choices with transformative goals, ensuring they lead to meaningful change.

Key Insight 3: "Your Life Changes When Your Choices Do"

Life-Changing Question: What small, intentional choice can you make today to bring about meaningful change in your life?

Meaningful change starts with deliberate decisions that compound over time. Every choice—no matter how small—builds the structure of your future.

Small Choices, Big Impact

Your daily decisions are the building blocks of a life aligned with your goals and values.

  • Shift Your Mindset: Channel energy into what you can control instead of dwelling on limitations.
  • Reframe Challenges: See obstacles as opportunities to adapt and grow.
  • Create Accountability: Share your goals with someone who can support and encourage you.

Consider This: What is one decision you can make today to move closer to your goals?

Try This: Set a micro-goal this week, such as taking a daily walk, writing a journal entry, or organizing a small space.

With these insights in mind, let’s explore actionable strategies to solidify a strong foundation for a fulfilling future.

Practical Tips for a Stronger Future

Consistency, not perfection, is the key to building a resilient life. Here are strategies to guide your journey:

  1. Focus on Growth: Learn something new each month, whether it’s a skill, hobby, or perspective.
  2. Cultivate Relationships: Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you.
  3. Practice Self-Care: Prioritize your mental and physical well-being through rest and activity.
  4. Embrace Adaptability: Develop the flexibility to navigate life’s unpredictability.
  5. Set Goals: Write down your objectives and revisit them regularly to stay on track.

By implementing these practical tips, you lay a foundation for success. Let’s conclude by bringing everything together with a challenge to take your efforts to the next level.

Final Challenge

Success isn’t about sudden breakthroughs; it’s about the steady application of consistent effort. The foundation you establish today determines the opportunities and resilience you’ll experience tomorrow.

Conclusion: Your Next Step Forward

The journey to shaping your future begins with the choices you make today. Small, consistent actions accumulate into significant transformations over time. Reflect on what matters most to you, manage your time wisely, and commit to practical strategies that align with your vision.

Choose one actionable step from this post—a habit to adopt, a distraction to eliminate, or a goal to pursue. Take the first step today, and remember, progress is made one step at a time.

🔍 Discover Mars Hill’s Vision for 2025 – Let’s Grow Together ✨

🔍 Discover Mars Hill’s Vision for 2025 – Let’s Grow Together ✨

by | Jan 9, 2025 | Empowerment

Happy Thursday Reader,

As we enter 2025, I want to extend a heartfelt welcome to each of you. This year holds incredible promise, and I’m excited about the journey ahead as we grow together in faith and community.

Whether you’re joining us from near or far, know that you are an integral part of our family, and your presence enriches our shared mission.

Let’s embrace this new chapter with open hearts, leaning into God’s guidance and celebrating the joy of being connected as one body in Christ.

This Week at Mars Hill Anywhere

Here’s what you can look forward to in this week’s issue:

  1. Mars Hill’s 2025 Vision: In 2025, Mars Hill Anywhere will deepen connections, leverage technology, and expand its reach to share God’s love and create lasting impact locally and globally.
  2. In-person Service Highlights: Our first in-person service of 2025 was an incredible blessing, filled with worship and community. We reflected on Christ’s sacrifice and celebrated Communion together.
  3. New Sermon Series – “Missed Calls”: Dive into this thought-provoking series that explores how we can reconnect with God’s calling.
  4. Updated Mobile App: Stay connected on the go with our newly updated Mars Hill Anywhere app, designed to enhance your experience and keep you informed.
  5. What to Expect in 2025: Tune in to the Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast for insights and inspiration as we journey through the year ahead.

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

    • Launching the “Bold Prayers” Discipleship Pathway.
    • Hosting workshops on prayer and Bible study.
    • Encouraging consistent growth with a 30-Day Spiritual Growth Challenge.
  2. Community Impact & Connection

    • Expanding the Taste of Mars Hill event to foster relationships.
    • Launching the Mars Hill Men’s Lounge for fellowship and wealth-building.
    • Partnering with local organizations for mentorship and service opportunities.
  3. Hybrid Excellence & Engagement

    • Upgrading live streams with enhanced audio and visuals.
    • Hosting live Q&A sessions after sermons for real-time interaction.
    • Providing resources for both in-person and online worshipers.

Throughout the first quarter, I’ll unpack this vision in greater detail, sharing how you can grow and serve with us.

In-person Service Highlights

Our first in-person service of 2025 was truly unforgettable!

The sanctuary was filled with vibrant worship, heartfelt prayers, and a strong sense of community.

Celebrating Communion together during this service was a blessing. We reflected on Christ’s sacrifice and renewed our faith as we began the year united in His love.

Moments like these remind us of the beauty and power of gathering as a faith family.

Let’s carry this energy forward into the weeks and months ahead, strengthening our connections and growing in our shared mission.

Join Us for Sunday’s Online Church Service!

Start your week with worship and connection at Mars Hill Anywhere!

Join us this Sunday for an uplifting online service led by Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

📅 Time: 10:30 AM CST
📍 Where: Streaming live on Facebook Live and YouTube.

Gather your family, invite your friends, and be part of this powerful experience as we come together in faith, no matter where you are!

New Sermon Series: “Missed Calls”

This four-week series delves into the challenging reality of missed calls and opportunities in life.

As Christians, we often encounter moments when we might overlook God’s calling for various reasons: ignoring opportunities to serve others, prioritizing personal desires over His plan, clinging to unmet expectations, or failing to act on the moments God places before us.

The good news is that even missed calls can be redeemed by God. Join us as we learn to recognize and respond to His call in every season of life.

video preview​

Updated Mars Hill Anywhere Mobile App

We’re excited to announce the launch of our updated Mars Hill Anywhere mobile app! Designed to keep you connected and inspired, the app offers enhanced features, including:

  • Access to sermon archives and weekly devotionals anytime, anywhere.
  • Staying up-to-date with church events and announcements.
  • Joining live streams seamlessly from your mobile device.
  • Submitting prayer requests and connecting with your Mars Hill family.

Download or update the app today at Mars Hill Mobile App and stay rooted in faith wherever you are. Let’s grow together in 2025!

Download or update the app today!

Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast: Latest Episode

Kick-off 2025 with inspiration by tuning in to the latest episode of the Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast, “Forget Perfection: Why Progress is the Real Goal in 2025.”

This episode, packed with practical insights and faith-driven leadership principles, sets the tone for a year of growth and transformation.

Listen now: Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast.

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 securely set up one-time or recurring donations.
  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!

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! ⏰
🎙️ New Podcast Episode: Revolutionize Your Growth with Micro Resolutions! 🎧

🎙️ New Podcast Episode: Revolutionize Your Growth with Micro Resolutions! 🎧

by | Jan 7, 2025 | Empowerment

Happy Monday Reader,

Think New Year’s resolutions are the only way to grow?

This ONE tweak to your mindset will make you 37x better by next year.

Ready to embrace small wins? 🎧

A new episode of my podcast is live, and it’s all about transforming your approach to personal development!

Episode Overview:

Discover the power of Micro Growth Resolutions—small, consistent actions that lead to big, lasting changes. This episode challenges the traditional New Year’s resolution mindset and explores how embracing small wins can revolutionize your growth journey.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• Why Micro Resolutions Work: How daily 1% improvements can make you 37 times better by year’s end.

• Real-Life Stories of Success: Inspiring examples of how small actions, like reading one page a day or taking short walks, lead to remarkable progress.

• Practical Micro Resolutions: Easy-to-implement ideas for personal growth, relationships, health, and workspace organization.

Key Takeaways:

• Focus on progress, not perfection.

• Celebrate small wins to build momentum.

• Remember, growth is a journey, not a destination.

🎧 Listen now to “Forget Perfection: Why Progress is the Real Goal in 2025.”

Let this episode inspire you to embrace small, actionable steps that will create meaningful change. Share your favorite micro-resolution idea with me—I’d love to hear it!

Here’s to your success,

Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.
​Get 1% Better Every Day​
​See All of my Links @ Linktree​

P.S. Don’t forget to share this episode with a friend who’s ready to transform their growth journey!
📱This Week’s Devotional is Ready: “The Power of a Second Chance: Turning Setbacks into Comebacks”

📱This Week’s Devotional is Ready: “The Power of a Second Chance: Turning Setbacks into Comebacks”

by | Jan 6, 2025 | Empowerment

Happy Monday Reader,

I’m excited to share two updates that will keep you connected and inspired!

New Mobile App Features

We’ve updated our app to bring #ChurchInYourPocket to life! Here’s what’s new:

• Add events directly to your calendar for easy planning.

• Access a weekly devotional within the Devotional Tab to encourage your spiritual growth.

• Submit prayer requests anytime, anywhere.

• Watch the latest message without leaving the app—check it out in the “Missed Calls” new series tab.

It’s all about making your experience with Mars Hill Anywhere more accessible and impactful right from your phone.

Download or update the app today!

This Week’s Devotional: Between the Already and Not Yet

This week’s devotional, Between the Already and Not Yet: Preparing for 2025, will inspire and equip you to embrace the opportunities ahead with faith and purpose.

You can access it here: The Power of a Second Chance: Turning Setbacks into Comebacks.

Let’s step into 2025 together, ready to turn challenges into comebacks!

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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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