In the final week, we bring together the key themes explored in the series. We discuss how wonder and faith intertwine, strengthening our trust in God. Drawing from Habakkuk's declaration of faith and hope in Habakkuk 3:17-19, we encourage participants to embrace wonder as a catalyst for deepening their faith. By nurturing a sense of wonder, we can experience the extraordinary in the midst of the ordinary, finding hope, joy, and renewed faith in our journey with God. Text us: (650)600-0402

This week Megan and Keith join us to continue the conversation of finding joy in worship with hints of redwoods, and spiritual formation. Tim Wong, Director of Missional Outreach, also joins us as we are preparing for our Rise Against Hunger event this weekend! Text Us: (650)600-0402

In week four, we delve into Habakkuk 3:16-19, where Habakkuk responds to God's presence with awe and joy. We explore the wonder and delight that come from knowing and worshiping God. Through this message, we encounter the transformative power of God's presence in our lives and learn to cultivate a sense of wonder in our relationship with Him. Text us: (650)600-0402

Lead Pastor Phil EuBank sit down with Mark and Jess to dive deeper into our timelines in God's plotline, peacocks, patience, dyslexia and answer more of your wonder questions. Text Us: (650)600-0402

In week three, we explore the theme of God's timing and sovereignty in Habakkuk 2:2-3 and 2:20. We discuss how God's timing can be perplexing yet purposeful, and we consider the wonder found in trusting God's plan. By surrendering to His timing, we learn to lean into His faithfulness and embrace the wonder of His perfect timing in our lives. Text us: 650-600-0402

We dive deeper into how not to hurry and worry, give more space to the work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, talk about how one became a prophet, answer your questions about creation, and finally learn how to pronounce Habakkuk. What an episode. Text us: (650)600-0402

Hurry and worry can get in the way of seeing the wonder of the world around us. Rushed behavior and busy thoughts cloud our purpose, and calling, and we want to fight back to eliminate this hurry. Text us: (650)600-0402

Better late than never - here is the message from our Christmas Services. Sorry about that! Text us: (650)600-0402

This week we dive into our Wired for Wonder series to explore wrestling with God, and how honest reflection matters. We also answer your questions about faith, God, and religion. Keep sending them in! Text us: (650)600-0402

In a world that often feels ordinary and mundane, God invites us to embrace our innate longing for awe, curiosity, and amazement. Drawing inspiration from the book of Habakkuk, we journey with the prophet as he grapples with questions, doubts, and a deep desire to encounter the wonder of God. Through this series, we explore how wonder can transform our faith, restore our hope, and ignite a sense of awe in our relationship with God. You were made for more. Text us: (650)600-0402

Happy New year everyone! Praying for you, and would love to help you make this year your best. Text us: (650)600-0402

Do you want to be a more loving person? Scott Palmbush talks us through how to love ourselves and others well, along with great questions and insights from Rachelle Summers. We also chat hometowns, -40 degree weather, and the muppets. Text us: (650)600-0402

"A Christmas Carol," a timeless tale crafted by Charles Dickens, is a profound exploration of transformation, redemption, and the powerful manifestation of love. The story revolves around Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old businessman in Victorian London known for his bitterness and disregard for his fellow men. The tale begins on Christmas Eve, where Scrooge dismisses the season's merriment and his nephew's invitation to Christmas dinner with his infamous line, "Bah, humbug!" His life takes a dramatic turn when he is visited by the ghost of his deceased business partner, Jacob Marley, and three Spirits of Christmas - Past, Present, and Yet to Come.

This week we chat about carrying joy into our everyday lives. Does that sound hard? We give some great tips on how to do so and talk about Christmas rhythms and Phil's high school fast and furious car.

Throughout the movie, Buddy's naive enthusiasm for life and relentless positivity remain unwavering, even in the face of skepticism and cynicism from his newfound family and the bustling city around him. His childlike wonder and excitement for the holiday season serve as reminders of the pure joy that can be found in simple pleasures, a sentiment often lost in the commercial hustle and bustle of Christmas. From impromptu snowball fights to gleefully decorating an entire department store overnight, Buddy's uncontainable joy reignites the Christmas spirit in the hearts of those around him. In essence, "Elf" celebrates the joy of being oneself and encourages audiences to find happiness in the magic and warmth of the holiday season. Text us: (650)600-0402

How do we have peace in a season full of hurry, anxiety, and pressure? We discuss this, and share reflections about Christmas mornings and marathon running! Text us: (650)600-0402

#Church #ChristmasMovie #peace It’s A Wonderful Life is about a man named George Bailey who, facing tremendous financial hardship and stress, wishes he were never born. An angel named Clarence shows him how much worse off the town would be without him, giving George a new appreciation for his life. The film concludes with a heartwarming scene in which the town comes together to help George, demonstrating the peace and unity that result from communal support and love. This movie is often associated with peace because it encourages viewers to find peace in their circumstances by recognizing the value of their lives and the positive impact they have on those around them. It also emphasizes the peace that comes from being part of a caring community.

Matt Summers and Joshua Horton help lead us deeper into the hope that Jesus brings as we chat Miracle on 34th Street, discuss how Josh loves attention, and Matt brings a gift that is, for the meantime, unmatched. Text us: (650)600-0402

Do you find yourself without hope sometimes? Or wishing that things could get better, or there could be a way out? Our Menlo Park Students Pastor leads us in finding hope through themes found in the Christmas classic Miracle on 34th Street.   Text us: (650)600-0402

Happy almost Thanksgiving! We are praying for your week and hope this conversation around sharing a Legacy, the ways to do it, and why it is important is helpful for you to leave a lasting legacy. Text us: (650)600-0402

The final week of the series centers around the responsibility of sharing our legacy with others. Drawing from 2 Timothy 2:1-13, we delve into the importance of mentorship, discipleship, and passing on the torch of faith. We explore how investing in the lives of others can multiply the impact of our own legacy. Through practical guidance and biblical examples, we are encouraged to engage in intentional relationships and to pour into the next generation, equipping them to carry the legacy forward. Text Us: (650)600-0402

Oliver and Robyn Capio share their story of how God met them in times of need, put people and groups in their lives to support and the importance of serving the community around us! Text Us: (650)600-0402

We dive into the power of presence, how to the leave the legacy you want to leave, and the importance of friends and community. Text us: (650)600-0402

In this message, we focus on the importance of guarding and preserving the legacy we have received. Using 2 Timothy 1:13-18 as our guide, we reflect on the vital role of passing down sound doctrine, truth, and the stories of God's faithfulness.   Text In Church: (650)600-0402

Probably the most intense episode to date. Jennie shares with us her life story of growing up in the bay, school in SLO, starting a family and then a series of events that changed the course of her life. We are so grateful for Jennie, she is an inspiration to me and so many others. Text us: (650)600-0402

In this unique episode recap our 150 Anniversary service with various staff members! We share highlights and stories and invite you to get involved with this podcasts, students, worship, and much more! Text us: (650)600-0402

This Sunday marks our 150 year anniversary as a church, and we gathered as many churches in one location to celebrate together as a church family. Enjoy this message, celebrate with us, and remember that God can do amazing things through ordinary people. Text us: (650)600-0402 *We apologize for the audio, it does get better as the message goes on*

Margaret and Tony, both in their early nineties, recollect their story of a lifetime of following Jesus. They are high school sweethearts, pioneers of multiple churches in the bay, one of the original builders of the Saratoga Church and their story is full of inspiration and wisdom. REGISTER FOR MENLO 150 Text us: 650-600-0402

What is a legacy? How do we leave a lasting Legacy? What kind of Legacy do we want to leave behind? We discuss this and more as we kick off our In Your Lifetime series. See you this weekend at our Menlo 150 Celebration at 10:30 at Woodside High! Text us: (650)600-0402

In this series opener, we delve into the importance of living a legacy that outlasts our lifetime. Drawing inspiration from 2 Timothy 1:1-7, we explore how our faith can be a transformative force in shaping the legacy we leave behind. By examining the Apostle Paul's words to Timothy, we learn practical ways to cultivate a lasting impact through love, faith, and the power of the Holy Spirit. We are encouraged to embrace the calling to pass on a rich spiritual heritage to future generations.

How is the next generation doing? Jade is a student at our San Mateo Campus who inspires us all to serve. She reminds us of how impactful we can be when we simply say yes to God's call to serve those around us. Text us: (650)600-0402

Can we know God personally? We dive into this question, wrap up our Explore God series and give a sneak peak to what series is coming next!

In this message, we will learn that God knows everything about us and still loves us. Not only can we have a living and dynamic relationship with the One who made us, but we don't have to perform or jump through a complex series of spiritual hoops. Jesus opened the door for us to have a relationship with God through his perfect life, sacrificial death on the cross, and resurrection from the grave. A true and lasting relationship with God is based on knowing and following Jesus, God’s only Son.

Is the Bible reliable? Should we take it literally or read it as a literary work? We dive into this to further the conversation on how to trust the Bible, give some space to process the conflict in Israel, and shout out some local food and coffee spots in San Carlos.

Is the Bible reliable? Is it true? How do we interpret the Bible? How can reasonable and modern people believe in a book written by individuals from antiquity, lacking any trace of our scientific, technological, or cultural progress? This question isn't limited to non-Christians; it also resides in the minds of many followers of Jesus. How can we trust the scriptures in a world marked by skepticism and doubt?

Is Jesus really God? What about Universalism? What about inclusion of different churches? These are the questions Mark, Jess, and Phil are tackling today with some asides of Taylor Swift, tattoos and theology. Text Us: (650)600-0402

Does God Exist? How do we know that God is Jesus? Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of Jesus' true identity in our 'Explore God' series. Dive deep into the question, 'Is Jesus Really God?' as we navigate historical evidence, biblical truths, and the real meaning of grace. Discover why Christianity offers a unique perspective on salvation, and how it contrasts with other belief systems. Come, be part of this transformative conversation and deepen your understanding of faith.

Does God Exist? What about pain and suffering? Or can I believe in both science and faith? This week we dive in deeper with our guest speaker Jevon Washington to further the conversation about the existence of God, listen to Phil EuBank beat box, and share how we see God at work in the world around us.

While God does not provide the reason for every experience of pain, through Jesus, He does offer a way to face suffering with hope and courage, rather than bitterness and despair! Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: https://http://menlo.church/SSG100123 Text us: (650)600-0402

This week Mark Morinishi sits down with Burt and Mimi McDowell to chat about over 70 years of Menlo Church history, complete with stories of Burt turning 180 degrees from a "card carrying Atheist" to Mimi putting Jesus in a pressure cooker. We hope you enjoy and if you connected with their story please reach out to our team at: (650)600-0402.  

This week Mark and Jess sit down with Phil EuBank to chat about exploring Yosemite, exploring God, and our hopes for the Bay Area that Menlo Church's community is uniquely positioned to play a part in. Text us: (650)600-0402

In partnership with churches from around our region, we are joining together to invite our neighbors, coworkers, family members, and friends to explore God in a way that will feel accessible and helpful. Together we hope to provide multiple ways through the series to get beyond surface-level objections to the genuine invitation of hope from Jesus. This week, we will be talking about how we were created to live in a relationship with God. Life is meaningless without God, but with God, everything gains meaning. Text us: (650)600-0402

In this episode Jess Havens and Co-Host Rachelle Summers chat with Phil EuBank about the final week of our series Teach Us How to Pray, forgiveness, fall and our upcoming series Explore God. Text us: (650)600-0402

The final week of the series centers around the protective aspect of prayer. Building on the model of the Lord's Prayer, we delve into Matthew 6:12-15, which focuses on forgiveness. We explore the connection between receiving God's forgiveness and extending forgiveness to others. Through this message, we discover the healing and freedom that comes from embracing forgiveness as a vital part of our prayer life. We are challenged to examine our hearts, seek reconciliation, and release the burdens of unforgiveness. Text us: (650)600-0402

This week Mark and Jess sit down with Phil EuBank, Senior Pastor, to dive into intentional time with Jesus, how God always answers prayers even when it doesn't feel like it, a quick discussion on spiritual tongues, and more! Text us: (650)600-0402

In this message, we shift our focus to the provision that prayer brings into our lives. Drawing from Matthew 6:11, we explore the power of acknowledging our dependence on God for our daily needs. We also examine the biblical concept of seeking God's provision and trusting in His faithfulness. Through practical insights and testimonies, we are encouraged to approach God with confidence, knowing that He cares for our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Text Us: (650)600-0402

This week Mark and Phil sit down to dive deep into how prayer isn't a magical formula to produce a result, but a posture of aligning our will with God's will. We also discuss Father Imagery, and answer your questions about prayer! Text us: (650)600-0402

Building on the foundation of sincere prayer, we delve into the transformative power of understanding the posture of prayer. Through an exploration of Matthew 6:9-10, we unpack the Lord's Prayer as a model for our own prayers. We learn the significance of approaching God as our loving Father and the reverence we should have for His name. Additionally, we delve into the importance of aligning our prayers with God's will and seeking His kingdom above all else. This message inspires us to adopt a posture of humility, submission, and trust in our conversations with God. Text us: (650)600-0402

This week Mark and Jess sit down with Cheryl Fletcher, Director of Spiritual Formation, to chat fly fishing, redwoods, our series Teach Us How To Pray, the Spiritual Formation Retreat, and, of course, prayer. Text us: (650)600-0402

In this series opener, we explore the pitfalls of prayer that can poison our connection with God. Drawing from Matthew 6:5-8, we examine the dangers of performing prayers for public recognition or engaging in empty repetition. We discover the importance of cultivating a sincere and intimate prayer life that focuses on our relationship with God, rather than seeking the approval of others. Through this message, we are encouraged to evaluate our motives in prayer and seek a genuine connection with God.

This week we chat with Phil EuBank, Senior Pastor, about back to school memories, how Menlo Church has survived almost 150 years, where we are headed and a sneak peak of the next series! Text us: (650)600-0402

Birthdays and anniversaries get bigger over time on purpose. The gravitational pull towards reduced impact and diminished influence for a church like Menlo can be overwhelming unless a group of people remember the mission. Menlo Church isn’t merely a collection of buildings, campuses, or pastors; it’s an enduring community of Jesus followers who have maintained the mission of helping people find and follow Jesus as their central focus for generation after generation. Together, we will emphasize the significance of recalling that mission today and explore what faithfulness to that call means for each of us in our current moment.

This week Jess sits down with some of the Central Ministry team to reminisce over yearbook photos, talk music, and hear more about how Central Ministries help what we do on campus each weekend. Text us: (650)600-0402

This week Mark and Jess sit down with Phil to wrap up our Rest of the Story series, talk about deep cut TV series holiday references, Iron Man, and Phil's take aways for deconstruction aka spiritual formation. Here is a link to the C.S. Lewis animated videos. They are great. Text us: (650)600-0402

This week Mark sits down with the San Mateo Staff to hear about how Jenny is actually a super hero, Junior's ability to make your flight travel plans easier, Matt's family history and, of course, the amazing things that are happening in, around and through the San Mateo Campus. Text us: (650)600-0402

For this Campus Takeover the Menlo Park Campus staff joins Mark to chat about aliens, some of the amazing things that are happening in the lives of kids and students, service time changes and how there is a role for you at their campus.  Text us: (650)600-0402

Sometimes, all it takes is a closer look at the things we've been avoiding in our faith to uncover a more meaningful faith we can share together. Perhaps this series has helped you dive deeper and shift your perspective, or perhaps it has simply affirmed your existing beliefs. Regardless of how you reflect on these stories, let's move forward as a community, envisioning the kind of future we aspire to create together. Text us: (650)600-0402

For this Campus Takeover episode Jess sits down with the Saratoga Campus team in a lively discussion about topics including Sam being a dirty hippy, the correct amount of pillows to sleep with at night, and hear some of the amazing stories of how lives are being changed through the Saratoga Campus. Text Us: (650)600-0402

This week Mark sits down with guest host Rachelle Summers and Senior Pastor Phil EuBank to dive deeper into the story of Solomon, chat about Barbie, and we get a sneak peak of next week's message. Text us: (650)600-0402

This week Jess sits down with some of the staff members of the Mountain View Campus! We get to hear exciting things going on at their campus, what their favorite pump up song is, and how we can partner with Mountain View to be one church in many locations. Text Us: (650)600-0402

Many of us have at least one family member with a past or even a present that we generally avoid talking about. Solomon is complicated; he had tremendous 'professional' success amidst deep personal failings. We can find ways to see the ministry that he conducted as a part of this important plan of God for His people, but we would be wise to learn from the gaps in his personal character and how they reveal the same potential in each one of us. Text us: (650)600-0402

This was a fun one. Mark, Jess and Phil EuBank sit down in the new studio to continue the conversation about war in the Bible, with sidebars of Maui, fly fishing and the difference between trips and vacations. Text us: (650)600-0402

Gruesome tales of violence may appear more fitting for Hollywood or history books, yet we encounter numerous accounts of war and loss in the Hebrew Scriptures. Throughout Israel's history, it seems God has employed the tool of war for a greater purpose. The challenge lies in reconciling a God who operates in such a manner for millennia with the message of love conveyed through the ministry and teachings of Jesus. Text us: (650)600-0402

This week Jess and Mark sit down with Cheryl Fletcher to chat spiritual beings, tips for healthy conversations around God, a deeper dive into the Garden of Eden and, of course, a lot of fun side bars. It was a super fun episode to record and if you would like to come join in on the fun let us know! Text us! (650)600-0402

Whether we learned it in Sunday School or from the movies, most of us are familiar with the concepts of Satan, sin, and Adam and Eve making a wrong choice. But what is the rest of the story? In this sermon, we dive into a passage of the Bible known as "The Fall" and explore how everything in the world went sideways, in order to take a deeper look at these concepts and find hope. Text us: (650)600-0402

This is your week to get to know your hosts a little bit better, hear some great book and TV recommendations and get access to some of the behind the scenes of what is to come at Menlo for summer and fall. Text us: (650)600-0402

In Genesis, we examine the story of Abraham, the one chosen by God to be the Father of His people. While Abraham is praised as a champion of faithfulness and trust in God, he faced struggles of his own. When God asked him to sacrifice the thing he cherished the most—his beloved son—Abraham confronted this challenging decision, grounded in his experience of God's faithfulness. Ultimately, he chose to place his trust in God above all else. In this sermon, we contemplate this significant event in Abraham's life and how it serves as a reminder for all of us to wholeheartedly devote ourselves to a faithful God. Text us: (650)600-0402

This week Keith and Megan join to chat through The Rest of the Story series so far. We chat about Megan winning a pageant, Keith's all day Sunday School experiences, Lectio Divina and further the conversation of how to interpret scripture. Text us: (650)600-0402

Whether you love the life you are currently living or hope for something different in the days ahead, we all face unexpected challenges and encounter unreliable people. Jonah lived his "professional" career with certain core assumptions about God that He wanted to address. The thoughts and assumptions we have about God from the stories in the Bible can be overwhelming, but in this particular story, we wonder, "How could God use someone like Jonah?"

Human accomplishment has always been a significant focus in history. Today, particularly in our region, we are driven by the opportunity to increase our capacity at a pace where implications are not always clear. The Tower of Babel serves as a prime example of how far back this inclination dates and the unchecked motivations that can accompany it. Text us: (650)600-0402

This week sit down with Adam Hendrix to discuss our childhood bible songs, what is "true" and some weird things were happening with our lights/studio. What a fun episode! Text us: 650-600-0402

Every story points to something. For many children, the flood story points to a fun and exciting adventure involving animals, a boat, and a big rainbow... what's not to love?! However, upon closer examination, the story is not that simple and is definitely not a children's story. As we look deeper into this story, we want to wrestle with three questions: "Is this a true story?" "What does this story tell us about God?" And "What does this story tell us about humanity?" With closer examination, we discover a story about a God who longs to redeem and restore His creation and invites us into this same story of redemption. Just like the flood story, our own stories and lives are pointing to something deeper. Every story points to something. What is that something in your story?

This week Mark and Jess get time with Phil EuBank, Senior Pastor, to chat deconstruction of faith, how to approach the "yeah but what about this" questions of faith, and mutant trout. Yeah, the fish kind of trout. We are stoked on our summer series "The Rest of the Story" and hope you are too! Text us: 650-600-0402

As children, the story of how the universe began can be one of the most formative stories that we hear growing up in church. Let's discover how do we incorporate understanding modern science with our shared purpose in creation. In this series, we will dive into why unity doesn’t mean uniformity. Text us: (650)600-0402

We are SO excited to announce that Mark Kim, formerly our San Mateo Kids Director, has accepted a role as Menlo Church's Chief of Staff. He is great and we could not be more excited. Taco Trucks:  El Paisa by Los Alegres Taco Truck (by Redwood City Costco/OSH) Margarita's Taqueria (in Sunnyvale on Homestead) Text us: (650)600-0402 

When we feel stuck, we often try to fix it with change. We try things like a new schedule, new job, or new major in school, but what about our faith? Together, we can learn to find the growth we were always meant to experience as we explore a common reason we get stuck and a common way out. Message by: Matt Summers, Mountain View Campus Pastor Text us: (650)600-0402

When we feel stuck, we often try to fix it with change. We try things like a new schedule, new job, or new major in school, but what about our faith? Together, we can learn to find the growth we were always meant to experience as we explore a common reason we get stuck and a common way out. Message by: Josh Robertson, Saratoga Campus Pastor Text us: (650)600-0402

When we feel stuck, we often try to fix it with change. We try things like a new schedule, new job, or new major in school, but what about our faith? Together, we can learn to find the growth we were always meant to experience as we explore a common reason we get stuck and a common way out. Message by: Cris Coniconde, San Mateo Campus Adult Discipleship Director Text us: (650)600-0402

When we feel stuck, we often try to fix it with change. We try things like a new schedule, new job, or new major in school, but what about our faith? Together, we can learn to find the growth we were always meant to experience as we explore a common reason we get stuck and a common way out. Message by: Mark Swarner, Menlo Park Campus Pastor Text us: (650)600-0402

This week Mark and Phil EuBank, Senior Pastor, chat about winter, closing out our Seasons series, trauma, and some great resources and frameworks to help navigate it all. It is a bit of a heavier episode, text us if you need anything. (650)600-0402

The days get shorter but feel longer; eventually, in the winters of our lives, we can learn unhealthy detachment from healthy rhythms with God and others and turn to unhealthy coping strategies that only perpetuate the problem. Learning to live in Winter may require some counterintuitive steps, but they are worth the work. Text us: (650)600-0402 Our spiritual formation practice for this series is Praying the Psalms. Formation practices are our training ground for Christlikeness. The formation practice for the series, Seasons: Permission to Feel, is Praying the Psalms. Each week, beginning May 14, go to http://menlo.church/seasons for the sermon video, a Life Group discussion guide, and a formation practice resource.

This week Mark sits down with Phil and Rachelle to chat Memorial Day, gate keeping passages of scripture, and the importance of friends. Text us: (650)600-0402

Fall can often catch us off guard, leaving us wondering where the time went. It’s not always easy to point out what changed in our inner world, but things feel cooler. During this season, our connection with God and others may start to feel distant, and though we may try to put on a facade, reality eventually sets in. Navigating through fall and finding growth within it requires us to explore what happened and what God can do inside of us because of it. Our spiritual formation practice for this series is Praying the Psalms. Formation practices are our training ground for Christlikeness. The formation practice for the series, Seasons: Permission to Feel, is Praying the Psalms. Each week, beginning May 14, go to http://menlo.church/seasons for the sermon video, a Life Group discussion guide, and a formation practice resource.

This week Mark and Jess sit down with not only Phil EuBank, but also our awesome volunteer host Rachelle Summers to chat seasons, new coffee shops in Menlo Park, how summer can be intertwined with loss, and at the core of it all is joy. It was a great episode. Text us: (650)600-0402

After the challenging years we've had, it might seem like positivity is often just a disguise for insincerity and negativity. But even when things are going well, we can still find joy in every little thing. Today, we'll explore a Psalm that helps us see life from that perspective. It reminds us to cherish the joyful moments and find the rest we need for the times ahead. Our spiritual formation practice for this series is Praying the Psalms. Formation practices are our training ground for Christlikeness. The formation practice for the series, Seasons: Permission to Feel, is Praying the Psalms. Each week, you can go to http://menlo.church/seasons for the sermon video, a Life Group discussion guide, and a formation practice resource.

This week Mark and Jess chat with Cheryl Fletcher about our new series Seasons, how to approach reading the Psalms, and how life isn't about moving towards a certain season but moving towards God wherever you are. Text us: (650)600-0402

This week, Cheryl Fletcher kicks off our Seasons: Permission to Feel series where we'll delve into a valuable tool God has given us to navigate through life's seasons while remaining emotionally stable and moving closer to Him. Text us: (650)600-0402

This week Mark and Jess sit down with Senior Pastor Phil EuBank for a fun discussion around the theory and history of baptism, and of course the side tangents ranging from fly fishing to spiritual gifts to Warriors vs Lakers. Text us: (650)600-0402 Also, check out the video of this episode on our YouTube Channel.

When an individual decides to follow Jesus, their life experiences a tangible transformation over time, and this shift is marked by a distinctive trait that has endured throughout the history of the church. Traditionally, entire families would be baptized to signify God's redeeming work in their salvation, and newly converted individuals would follow suit by getting baptized. In contemporary times, baptism serves as a reminder of our rebirth in Him, not as a sign of spiritual maturity but rather as an assurance of our eternal security. It is an outward expression of an internal reality. Next week, we launch a brand-new series called Seasons where we will unpack the reality that God is with us through EVERY season - times of great joy AND deep sorrow. If you wrestle with anxiety, depression, or are in need of peace and joy, this series will help you experience God in whatever season you’re in. Go to http://menlo.church/seasons where we have additional study guides and spiritual formation practice resources to help you do life with Jesus throughout the week, not just on Sundays.

This week Mark and Jess sit down with Donavan Doan, San Mateo Students Director, for a conversation including being aware and open to opportunities, fears and apprehensions about sharing faith, and Donavan leaves us with two amazing encouragement. Text us: (650)600-0402 Check out our series resource page here:http://menlo.church/forthebay Sermon Study Guide: Https://menlo.church/studyguide043023

The gospel is the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ, and as Christians, we are called to share this message with others. In this sermon, we will explore why we should and how we can share the hope of the gospel in the Bay Area. Looking at the life and words of Jesus, we will discuss how to build relationships with people who don't know Jesus, how to share our own stories of faith, and how to invite people into our lives and point them to the hope of Jesus. Check out our series resource page here:http://menlo.church/forthebay Sermon Study Guide: Https://menlo.church/studyguide043023 Text us! (650)600-0402

This week Mark and Jess sit down with Phil to chat Hawaii, how everyone is more of a volunteer than they realize, and more about what it means to serve the Bay Area. Text us: (650)600-0402

As Christians, we are called to serve God's purposes in the world. In this sermon, we will explore how we can serve the Bay Area with God's purpose in mind. We will discuss how we can use our gifts, talents, and resources to make a positive impact in our community. We will also look at how we can partner with other organizations and churches to amplify our efforts all in the name of Jesus. Check out our series resource page here: http://menlo.church/forthebay  Text us: (650)600-0402

Jess and first time host, Megan Cole, chat with Phil about our new sermon series, For the Bay. From what it means to be a good neighbor, making super pinky-promises with God, how to use your kids and dogs to start conversations and how to be For the Bay when most churches are known for what they are against. Check out our series resource page including the neighbor card here: menlo.church/forthebay Text us: (650)600-0402 Jesus teaches us that the greatest commandment is to love God and to love our neighbors as ourselves. In this weeks sermon, we explored how we can love our neighbors in the Bay Area, including those who are different from us, those who are in need, and those who are marginalized. We looked at practical ways to show God's love to our neighbors, both individually and as a church community. Watch the sermon at http://www.youtube.com/menlochurch  Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide041623 

Jesus teaches us that the greatest commandment is to LOVE GOD and to LOVE OUR NEIGHBORS as ourselves. In this sermon, we will explore how we can love our neighbors in the Bay Area, including those who are different from us, those in need, and those who are marginalized. We will look at practical ways to show God's love to our neighbors individually and as a church community. Check out our series resource page here: http://menlo.church/forthebay  Text us: (650)600-0402

Mark, Jess and Phil debrief Easter, chat about why the resurrection of Jesus isn't crazy to believe, and how to explain why faith in Christ is reasonable. We also mention Starting Point and Exploring Christianity. Text us: (650)600-0402 Join us for our Easter service where Senior Pastor Phil EuBank will walk us through three pieces of Easter: the importance of the resurrection, the indications there was a resurrection, and the implications of the resurrection. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide040923

Join us for our Easter service where Senior Pastor Phil EuBank will walk us through three pieces of Easter: the importance of the resurrection, the indications there was a resurrection, and the implications of the resurrection. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide040923

This week Mark and Jess dive into Phil EuBank's message, chat what car Jesus would have rode into modern day Jerusalem in, why Good Friday is actually good, and how we can look at Easter through a diamond. Text Us: (650)600-0402 In His last few breaths on the cross, Jesus had one final word that began something entirely new. The story of all of human history led to the fulfillment of this life perfectly lived and now perfectly finished. What needs to begin in our lives in light of what finished in His? Join us for Easter! http://menlo.church/easter Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide040223

In His last few breaths on the cross, Jesus had one final word that began something entirely new. The story of all of human history led to the fulfillment of this life perfectly lived and now perfectly finished. What needs to begin in our lives in light of what finished in His? Join us for Easter! http://menlo.church/easter Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide040223  

Mark and Jess sit down with Cheryl Fletcher to discuss her latest message, recap our awesome Online Dream Team's milestone for Run for Hope, chat about the intersection of guilt and shame, and  Cheryl shares why Jesus had to go to the cross.

Understanding why and how Jesus died has implications for how we live today and for all eternity. In this message, we look at Jesus’ last words from the cross, “I am thirsty.” to discover how God helps us follow him and what he provides so we can thrive in our relationship with him. Sign up for Run for Hope today! http://menlo.church/runforhope Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide032623

This week Mark, Jess and Phil EuBank sit down to chat more about suffering (fun, we know...), awkward transitions, more fun "church words" like hermeneutics and kenosis, and some great leadership lessons for everyone. We also answer a great text in question! Sign up for Run for Hope today and join the ONLINE DREAM TEAM/ Text us: (650)600-0402  

Family is complicated; these relationships carry immense power and potential but also bring pain when they are fractured. God the Father and God the Son had experienced perfect union for all eternity until one moment when Jesus hung the cross and cried out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” This moment holds much to discover about our faith and what it means for us to grow deeper together. Sign up for Run for Hope today! http://menlo.church/runforhope Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide031923

This week, Mark sits down with an amazing volunteer guest host Rachelle Summers and Cheryl Fletcher to discuss her Sunday message, chat about the atrocity that is (or is it?) daylight savings time, and we get deep about community and knowing Jesus. Contact Taylor to RSVP for the Minds of All Kinds Game Night at the Mountain View Campus - tchoate@menlo.church. Text us: (650)600-0402

In this special episode Mark and Jess chat with Tara Rumler from the 1024 Movement. 1024 Movement is a community of young people making an impact on the mental health crisis right here in the Bay Area, and one of our 5 partners for this year's virtual Run for Hope taking place Friday, March 24 to Sunday, March 26. Sign up for the 'Online Dream Team' and Mark will run a mile for every sign up. Famous last words. Text us: (650)600-0402

Today we explore the words of Jesus from the cross that speak to our loneliness and isolation and what it means for the church to be the family God intends it to be loving and serving one another without judgment. Journey through Lent with us! We have additional resources, and you can follow along with our Lent Devotional at http://menlo.church/lastwords Sign up for Run for Hope – http://menlo.church/runforhope Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide031223

This special episode is a family conversation with Mark, our Senior Pastor Phil EuBank and Campus Pastor Josh Robertson centering around the launch of the New Saratoga Campus. We discuss the changes being made and give context around the closing of our San Jose Campus, why we pursue a healthy multi-site model, and how launching a New Menlo Saratoga Campus is Menlo's step forward. Text us: (650)600-0402  

Mark and Jess sit down with Senior Pastor Phil EuBank for a long conversation ranging from Jess's idea of herself as a Peloton instructor, theological ideas like substitutionary penal atonement, Phil answers why Jesus didn't save himself on the cross, and we end with a wager about Run for Hope involving YOU and Mark! Sign up for the Online Dream Team for RUN FOR HOPE! Text us: (650)600-0402

What do you do when you can’t meet the demands or standards that others set for you? How do you admit weakness or ask for help. This week we see Jesus as he extends grace, care, and love to those asking for his help as he endures the cross. Senior Pastor Phil EuBank discusses these last words of Jesus, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise," in week 3 of our Last Words series. Journey through Lent with us! We have additional resources, and you can follow along with our Lent Devotional at menlo.church/lastwords Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide30523

This week Mark and Jess sit down with Phil EuBank, Senior Pastor, to discuss the heaviness of the scene of Jesus on the cross, Asbury Revivals, conflict, and the New Saratoga Campus launch.  Don't miss out on our Lent Resources, and check out our Menlo Meditation podcasts channel for a meaningful way to start your morning! Text us: (650)600-0402

Grace is the foundational resource of forgiveness. Without undeserved favor, we stand no chance of experiencing forgiveness from anyone, including God. This forgiveness is available today, and it seems more relevant than ever before. In the second message of our Last Words series, Senior Pastor Phil EuBank discusses the last words of Jesus, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." Journey through Lent with us! We have additional resources, and you can follow along with our Lent Devotional at menlo.church/lastwords Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide022623

We kick off our Last Words series with Mark sitting down with Senior Pastor Phil EuBank to chat fasting, Lent, the Asbury Revival and fly fishing. Text us: (650)600-0402 Lent is a tradition of many Christian churches around the world. It is an opportunity to fast from something in order to cultivate spiritual hunger in its place. Our Last Words sermon series will parallel our Lent Devotional and help our community experience a season in which God awakens us to the meaning of Christ’s death and resurrection and its implications for our lives. In this message, we consider some of the first words of Jesus before we look at his last words on the cross each week leading up to Easter. We will see how Jesus faced temptation and entered into his own season of spiritual preparation that is the foundation for Lent. This Lenten season we are focusing on Jesus’s last words on the cross as a way to know him and follow in his way of love. To help us journey through lent together we have created a special Lent Devotional. Dive into these resources individually and as a Life Group to discover the beauty of Jesus and the opportunity Lent provides for us to go deeper on our journey of discovery, questioning and faith. You can pick up your free copy at any of our campuses or go to http://menlo.church/lent for a digital version. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide021923

Lent is a tradition of many Christian churches around the world. It is an opportunity to fast from something in order to cultivate spiritual hunger in its place. Our Last Words sermon series will parallel our Lent Devotional and help our community experience a season in which God awakens us to the meaning of Christ’s death and resurrection and its implications for our lives. In this message, we consider some of the first words of Jesus before we look at his last words on the cross each week leading up to Easter. We will see how Jesus faced temptation and entered into his own season of spiritual preparation that is the foundation for Lent. This Lenten season we are focusing on Jesus’s last words on the cross as a way to know him and follow in his way of love. To help us journey through lent together we have created a special Lent Devotional. Dive into these resources individually and as a Life Group to discover the beauty of Jesus and the opportunity Lent provides for us to go deeper on our journey of discovery, questioning and faith. You can pick up your free copy at any of our campuses or go to http://menlo.church/lent for a digital version. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide021923

This week Mark and Jess sit down with Senior Pastor Phil EuBank to discuss revival, "churchy" language, bbq and a preview for whats to come for our Lent Series! Text us: (650)600-0402 Renewal without revival can lead to a counterfeit faith. We long to be a church that is always growing closer to God through meaningful spiritual practices and authentic, honest expressions of faith. A self-driven theology rarely leads to an others-oriented missiology. Join us Sunday as we dive into why our personal renewal is always the beginning of love, compassion, and care for those close to us regardless of where they are in relationship to God. This Lenten season we are focusing on Jesus’s last words on the cross as a way to know him and follow in his way of love. To help us journey through lent together we have created a special Lent Devotional. Dive into these resources individually and as a Life Group to discover the beauty of Jesus and the opportunity Lent provides for us to go deeper on our journey of discovery, questioning and faith. You can pick up your free copy at any of our campuses or go to http://menlo.church/lent for a digital version. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide021223

Renewal without revival can lead to a counterfeit faith. We long to be a church that is always growing closer to God through meaningful spiritual practices and authentic, honest expressions of faith. A self-driven theology rarely leads to an others-oriented missiology. Join us Sunday as we dive into why our personal renewal is always the beginning of love, compassion, and care for those close to us regardless of where they are in relationship to God. This Lenten season we are focusing on Jesus’s last words on the cross as a way to know him and follow in his way of love. To help us journey through lent together we have created a special Lent Devotional. Dive into these resources individually and as a Life Group to discover the beauty of Jesus and the opportunity Lent provides for us to go deeper on our journey of discovery, questioning and faith. You can pick up your free copy at any of our campuses or go to http://menlo.church/lent for a digital version. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide021223

In our final Phil in the EuBlank episode Mark and Jess get the privilege of both Phil and Alyssa's time to discuss things like favorite TV shows, Eagle Scouts, the pressures of being a pastor's wife, and how not to introduce yourself to someone. Thanks for all your participation - your texts and comments is what made this show great. We will continue to have time with Phil during the Menlo Midweek podcasts so keep sending them in. See you there! Text us: (650)600-0402

This week Mark and Jess sit down with Senior Pastor Phil EuBank to discuss his first sermon here at Menlo Church, and chat Mario Party, sewage pipes, and a breakfast spot in downtown Half Moon Bay. Text us (650)600-0402 From culture wars to longing for friends and family to find Jesus, we can sometimes use the ends to justify the means. And in hopes of seeing something real, we are sometimes willing to be fake. We all work to realize our deepest desires; to see our broken systems restored, those closest to us rescued, and for the Gospel to reach the hearts of everyone, even as we continue pursuing God ourselves. Jesus asks, ‘What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul?’ We don’t need to make that trade. We must never make that trade. And while we are not God’s PR firm, honesty about our brokenness can become the beacon God uses to show a watching world that no one is too far gone. Church doesn't just happen on Sundays! Listen to our Menlo Midweek Podcast as we interview the preacher of the week. They take some deep dives into the sermon writing process, breakdown their sermon and let us in on a few things they kept out of their sermon. This is a great way to connect with us and grow your faith throughout the week. Menlo Podcasts: http://menlo.church/podcasts Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide020523

From culture wars to longing for friends and family to find Jesus, we can sometimes use the ends to justify the means. And in hopes of seeing something real, we are sometimes willing to be fake. We all work to realize our deepest desires; to see our broken systems restored, those closest to us rescued, and for the Gospel to reach the hearts of everyone, even as we continue pursuing God ourselves. Jesus asks, ‘What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul?’ We don’t need to make that trade. We must never make that trade. And while we are not God’s PR firm, honesty about our brokenness can become the beacon God uses to show a watching world that no one is too far gone. Church doesn't just happen on Sundays! Listen to our Menlo Midweek Podcast as we interview the preacher of the week. They take some deep dives into the sermon writing process, breakdown their sermon and let us in on a few things they kept out of their sermon. This is a great way to connect with us and grow your faith throughout the week. Menlo Podcasts: http://menlo.church/podcasts Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide020523

This week, Jess and not one, but two special guests sit down to recap our Hearing God series answering questions like, "what other spiritual practices do you recommend for practicing hearing with God?" and, "how do I talk about hearing God with someone who isn’t Christian?" Plus important topics like working remotely in Disneyland and seeing Jesus in pancakes and Santa Barbara.   Text us: (650)600-0402 Join a Life Group: http://menlo.church/groups Check out our Young Adults ministry: http://menlo.church/young-adults   Am I making the right decision? What should I do? For many of us it’s not until we’re facing big life challenges or decisions that we start moving into a listening posture. But if our ears are not tuned to hear the small things it can be hard to hear God for the bigger ones. God will provide guidance for us, but he is more interested in the person that we are becoming. Which means we don’t have to approach the future with fear, as there is no decision we can make that God can’t redeem. And if God doesn’t provide clear direction, it means that he trusts us to move forward; we can act with confidence because we know he is with us.   Formation practices are our training ground for Christlikeness. The formation practice during our Hearing God sermon series is Listening Prayer. Listening Prayer can take many forms and be done privately and communally. Head to http://menlo.church/hearinggod each week for the sermon video, a Life Group discussion guide, and a formation practice resource.

Am I making the right decision? What should I do? For many of us it’s not until we’re facing big life challenges or decisions that we start moving into a listening posture. But if our ears are not tuned to hear the small things it can be hard to hear God for the bigger ones. God will provide guidance for us, but he is more interested in the person that we are becoming. Which means we don’t have to approach the future with fear, as there is no decision, we can make that God can’t redeem. And if God doesn’t provide clear direction, it means that he trusts us to move forward; we can act with confidence because we know he is with us. This week, bring your discernment questions before God. Practice Holy indifference and listen for God’s leading. Formation practices are our training ground for Christlikeness. The formation practice during our Hearing God sermon series is Listening Prayer. Listening Prayer can take many forms and be done privately and communally. Head to http://menlo.church/hearinggod each week for the sermon video, a Life Group discussion guide, and a formation practice resource. We've got a brand-new mini-series for you on our Menlo Church podcast! Phil in the Blank is your time to get to know our new Senior Pastor, Phil EuBank. Jess and Mark sit down with Phil to pass along your questions in a fun conversation asking everything from "What's your Philz order?" to "what is your favorite part about leading a church?" Check it out every Friday wherever you listen to podcasts http://menlo.church/podcasts Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide012923

Phil in the Blank is your time to get to know our new Senior Pastor Phil EuBank! Jess and Mark sit down with Phil to pass along your questions in a fun, lighthearted conversation. Today's topics include: More coffee talk, In and Out fries, favorite PHILanthropy and sports. To join in on the fun simply text in your question to (650)600-0402!

This week Jess, Mark and Rachelle sit down with Cheryl Fletcher to chat Menlo Park dining recommendations, how a person's intentions can affect a group, and a guided practice to praying for someone. Text us: (650)600-0402 When it comes to hearing God, we all sometimes need help. In this sermon we discuss finding that support and guidance. We consider who can help us and what that help looks like. As a bonus, we talk about how you can learn to be a person who helps others hear God. Formation practices are our training ground for Christlikeness. The formation practice during our Hearing God sermon series is Listening Prayer. Listening Prayer can take many forms and be done privately and communally. Head to http://menlo.church/hearinggod each week for the sermon video, a Life Group discussion guide, and a formation practice resource. We've got a brand-new mini-series for you on our Menlo Church podcast! Phil in the Blank is your time to get to know our new Senior Pastor, Phil EuBank. Jess and Mark sit down with Phil to pass along your questions in a fun conversation asking everything from "what's your Philz order?" to "what is your favorite part about leading a church?" Check it out every Friday wherever you listen to podcasts http://menlo.church/podcasts For more Hearing God resources go to: http://menlochurch/hearinggod

When it comes to hearing God, we all sometimes need help. In this sermon we discuss finding that support and guidance. We consider who can help us and what that help looks like. As a bonus, we talk about how you can learn to be a person who helps others hear God. Formation practices are our training ground for Christlikeness. The formation practice during our Hearing God sermon series is Listening Prayer. Listening Prayer can take many forms and be done privately and communally. Head to http://menlo.church/hearinggod each week for the sermon video, a Life Group discussion guide, and a formation practice resource. We've got a brand-new mini-series for you on our Menlo Church podcast! Phil in the Blank is your time to get to know our new Senior Pastor, Phil EuBank. Jess and Mark sit down with Phil to pass along your questions in a fun conversation asking everything from "what's your Philz order?" to "what is your favorite part about leading a church?" Check it out every Friday wherever you listen to podcasts http://menlo.church/podcasts For more Hearing God resources go to: http://menlochurch/hearinggod

Phil in the Blank is your time to get to know our new Senior Pastor Phil EuBank! Jess and Mark sit down with Phil to pass along your questions in a fun, lighthearted conversation. Today's topics include: Phil's most embarrassing moments on stage, favorite things about pastoring, and the classic question - does pineapple belong on pizza? To join in on the fun simply text in your question to (650)600-0402!

God reveals himself uniquely throughout the pages of the Bible. The history, stories, poems, letters, and prophecies we find in it provide a picture of who God is, what his character is like, and what he wants for us. The Bible also gives us an understanding of who we are as humans and of what really matters in our lives. If we read it prayerfully, expectantly, and regularly we can find comfort, hope, direction, and transformation in its pages. Through meditation and intentional listening, the words on the page can become food for our souls. This week, create a plan to read Scripture on a regular basis. Practice Lectio Divina. Read the text meditatively to enable you to encounter God’s words and experience his presence. Formation practices are our training ground for Christlikeness. The formation practice during our Hearing God sermon series is Listening Prayer. Listening Prayer can take many forms and be done privately and communally. Head to http://menlo.church/hearinggod each week for the sermon video, a Life Group discussion guide, and a formation practice resource. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide011523

Phil in the Blank is your time to get to know our new Senior Pastor Phil EuBank! Jess and Mark sit down with Phil to pass along your questions in a fun, lighthearted conversation. Today's topics include: Coffee, rap music, and the intersection of ministry and artificial intelligence. To participate, simply text in your question to (650)600-0402!

This week Jess and Mark sit down with Cheryl Fletcher to finally uncover what her actual job title is, discuss how hearing God's voice can be a gift or a weapon, and leave you with space to practice. Text us: (650)600-0402 Many of us want to hear God’s voice but aren’t always sure it’s possible—or if it’s actually God we’re hearing. In this sermon, we’ll explore what it really means to hear God, consider some helpful guardrails that offer assurances that we’re not just making things up, and take a look at a practice designed to help us hear. Go to http://menlo.church/hearinggod to see our Listening Prayer resources. Formation practices are our training ground for Christlikeness. The formation practice during our Hearing God sermon series is Listening Prayer. Listening Prayer can take many forms and be done privately and communally. Head to http://menlo.church/hearinggod each week for the sermon video, a Life Group discussion guide, and a formation practice resource. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide010823

Many of us want to hear God’s voice but aren’t always sure it’s possible—or if it’s actually God we’re hearing. In this sermon, we’ll explore what it really means to hear God, consider some helpful guardrails that offer assurances that we’re not just making things up, and take a look at a practice designed to help us hear. Go to http://menlo.church/hearinggod to see our Listening Prayer resources. Formation practices are our training ground for Christlikeness. The formation practice during our Hearing God sermon series is Listening Prayer. Listening Prayer can take many forms and be done privately and communally. Head to http://menlo.church/hearinggod each week for the sermon video, a Life Group discussion guide, and a formation practice resource. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide010823

This week Mark and Jess sit down with our staff resident cycling and futbol expert, Joshua Jewel-Horton to chat Tim Keller, how children are more resilient than adults, and how to become who we are. Text our team: (650)600-0402 Practice makes people who they are. In this sermon we’ll look at a somewhat obscure Old Testament story and use it as an opportunity to pause and reflect on how the events of the last year have affected us. How have we changed? How have we grown? Who have we become? Plus, we’ll look ahead and consider how we might position ourselves to become who we were made to be: people who mirror God. Begin each day this week by asking God how He might want you to meet with Him this year. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide010123

Menlo Park Students Director Josh Jewell-Horton is preaching for us today! Practice makes people who they are. In this sermon we’ll look at a somewhat obscure Old Testament story and use it as an opportunity to pause and reflect on how the events of the last year have affected us. How have we changed? How have we grown? Who have we become? Plus, we’ll look ahead and consider how we might position ourselves to become who we were made to be: people who mirror God. Begin each day this week by asking God how He might want you to meet with Him this year. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide010123

Hi Everyone! Mark here - Jess and I sat down with Adam Hendrix, Sanctuary Pastor, and Anna Triglia, Project Manager, to chat all things end of the year. Lots of perspectives, lots of jokes, and lots of wisdom and insight into how to approach the end of the year. See you in 2023! Text us: (650)600-0402

Mark and Jess sit down the Bearer of Christmas AKA the Queen of All Things AKA The Queen of Astronomy AKA our Director Pastor to chat all things Christmas, slowing down, walking 5.1 miles and the tough parts about the season. Text us! (650)600-0402 God’s grace can often be found in the ordinary, everyday activities of our life. But how can we make sure not to miss it—or resist it? This week we'll see how God followed a group of people and revealed himself to them through their vocation. For us, what might it mean for God to suddenly appear in our routine, daily living? How would we respond? This Christmas you are invited to a life-changing but difficult task: To wait. To go slow. The coming of Jesus, the Messiah King, came after 400 years of waiting and anticipation. God is not hurried. Every moment he whispers, “I am with you.” We have to slow down to hear that whisper. The resources at http://menlo.church/advent will help you slow down and set your mind and heart upon Jesus during this busy, hurried holiday season. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide121822

God’s grace can often be found in the ordinary, everyday activities of our life. But how can we make sure not to miss it—or resist it? This week we'll see how God followed a group of people and revealed himself to them through their vocation. For us, what might it mean for God to suddenly appear in our routine, daily living? How would we respond? This Christmas you are invited to a life-changing but difficult task: To wait. To go slow. The coming of Jesus, the Messiah King, came after 400 years of waiting and anticipation. God is not hurried. Every moment he whispers, “I am with you.” We have to slow down to hear that whisper. The resources at http://menlo.church/advent will help you slow down and set your mind and heart upon Jesus during this busy, hurried holiday season. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide121822

This week Mark and Jess chat with Cheryl Fletcher, holding the title of Bearer of Christmas this time around, to chat about angels and disappointment. Stay tuned for the end to receive an early Christmas gift! Have a question for the podcast? Need prayer or encouragement? Text us: (650)600-0402 None of us is joyful, confident, and self-assured every moment of every day. We all have ups, downs, and struggles. This week is for those who are, or have been, discouraged, disappointed, or doubting. We’ll take an honest look at how to approach God during those challenging times when we’re not sure we believe in Him, or when we’ve felt disappointed once too often. The answer is not a religious formula, nor is there a one-size-fits-all solution. Your next step might not be the same as anyone else's. Join us as we slow down to wrestle with God and encounter the unexpected this Christmas season. This Christmas you are invited to a life-changing but difficult task: To wait. To go slow. The coming of Jesus, the Messiah King, came after 400 years of waiting and anticipation. God is not hurried. Every moment he whispers, “I am with you.” We have to slow down to hear that whisper. The resources at http://menlo.church/advent will help you slow down and set your mind and heart upon Jesus during this busy, hurried holiday season. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide121122

None of us is joyful, confident, and self-assured every moment of every day. We all have ups, downs, and struggles. This week is for those who are, or have been, discouraged, disappointed, or doubting. We’ll take an honest look at how to approach God during those challenging times when we’re not sure we believe in Him, or when we’ve felt disappointed once too often. The answer is not a religious formula, nor is there a one-size-fits-all solution. Your next step might not be the same as anyone else's. Join us as we slow down to wrestle with God and encounter the unexpected this Christmas season. This Christmas you are invited to a life-changing but difficult task: To wait. To go slow. The coming of Jesus, the Messiah King, came after 400 years of waiting and anticipation. God is not hurried. Every moment he whispers, “I am with you.” We have to slow down to hear that whisper. The resources at http://menlo.church/advent will help you slow down and set your mind and heart upon Jesus during this busy, hurried holiday season. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide121122

This week Mark and Jess sit down with Matt Stephan to continue our conversation around a slow pace, and be sure to stick around for a very special ending segment of the podcast!   Does it sometimes feel like you’re spending most of your life in transit? Getting from one place to another, waiting to begin, standing in line, hoping a meeting will end—just so you can get to your next task or meeting? What if, instead of rushing through these everyday moments as quickly as possible, there was a way to fill them with God’s presence? What if these moments could become more like what the Christmas message is about? What if there was a secret to having it all that you could begin practicing right away, starting Monday morning? Join us as we discuss Bay Area residents’ two most hated words, which may actually turn out to be quite life-giving. Come and receive Jesus’s presence as a gift all over again! This Christmas you are invited to a life-changing but difficult task: To wait. To go slow. The coming of Jesus, the Messiah King, came after 400 years of waiting and anticipation. God is not hurried. Every moment he whispers, “I am with you.” We have to slow down to hear that whisper. The resources at http://menlo.church/advent will help you slow down and set your mind and heart upon Jesus during this busy, hurried holiday season. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide120422

Does it sometimes feel like you’re spending most of your life in transit? Getting from one place to another, waiting to begin, standing in line, hoping a meeting will end—just so you can get to your next task or meeting? What if, instead of rushing through these everyday moments as quickly as possible, there was a way to fill them with God’s presence? What if these moments could become more like what the Christmas message is about? What if there was a secret to having it all that you could begin practicing right away, starting Monday morning? Join us as we discuss Bay Area residents’ two most hated words, which may actually turn out to be quite life-giving. Come and receive Jesus’s presence as a gift all over again! This Christmas you are invited to a life-changing but difficult task: To wait. To go slow. The coming of Jesus, the Messiah King, came after 400 years of waiting and anticipation. God is not hurried. Every moment he whispers, “I am with you.” We have to slow down to hear that whisper. The resources at http://menlo.church/advent will help you slow down and set your mind and heart upon Jesus during this busy, hurried holiday season. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide120422

This week Jess is out, so the Jimmy G of Menlo Midweek Keith Riley joins Mark and Matt Stephan to kick off our Advent series. We chat about Keith's pie addictions, grace, and the golden hour of 5-6am for parents. Check out our Menlo Meditations podcast - a short, 2 minute listen to start your dad with Jesus this Advent season.   God has a gift for you. It is a gift that will not fail no matter what you may face. Christmas is our annual celebration to recognize that this gift has arrived. Although we may not always be patient and faithful as we wait for it, Jesus is always faithful. He always arrives. A fresh and exciting understanding of his grace is waiting for you! This Christmas you are invited to a life-changing but difficult task: To wait. To go slow. The coming of Jesus, the Messiah King, came after 400 years of waiting and anticipation. God is not hurried. Every moment he whispers, “I am with you.” We have to slow down to hear that whisper. The resources at http://menlo.church/advent will help you slow down and set your mind and heart upon Jesus during this busy, hurried holiday season. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide112722

God has a gift for you. It is a gift that will not fail no matter what you may face. Christmas is our annual celebration to recognize that this gift has arrived. Although we may not always be patient and faithful as we wait for it, Jesus is always faithful. He always arrives. A fresh and exciting understanding of his grace is waiting for you! This Christmas you are invited to a life-changing but difficult task: To wait. To go slow. The coming of Jesus, the Messiah King, came after 400 years of waiting and anticipation. God is not hurried. Every moment he whispers, “I am with you.” We have to slow down to hear that whisper. The resources at http://menlo.church/advent will help you slow down and set your mind and heart upon Jesus during this busy, hurried holiday season. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide112722

For the first time ever Mark and Jess sit down with not one, but two guests! Josh Fox, our Director of Weekend Experience, and Matt Summers, our Mountain View Campus Pastor, join us to chat about gratefulness, digging through dog daisies, and T9 versus QWERTY keyboards. Menlo Meditations Podcast Text us: 650-600-0402 Studies show that gratefulness is one of the answers to a happy, flourishing life. What many don’t realize, however, is that this principle is evident all through the Bible. God created us to be grateful and experience the joy that follows. This week we’ll look at a story of gratitude from Luke’s gospel. Together, we’ll learn how to practice being grateful—and see how gratefulness can bring us closer to Jesus and to each other, even in seasons of heartache. Join us next week as we begin our journey through Advent. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide112022

Studies show that gratefulness is one of the answers to a happy, flourishing life. What many don’t realize, however, is that this principle is evident all through the Bible. God created us to be grateful and experience the joy that follows. This week we’ll look at a story of gratitude from Luke’s gospel. Together, we’ll learn how to practice being grateful—and see how gratefulness can bring us closer to Jesus and to each other, even in seasons of heartache. Join us next week as we begin our journey through Advent. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide112022

We were honored to get extra time with Fuller Theological Seminary President Mark Labberton! We discuss So Cal vs. Nor Cal, how fear is a rhythm, and his hopes for the church going forward. This is a not miss episode! In this turbulent time of division, change, and confusion, do you have a clear understanding of exactly where you are? And… how do you know? What if it turns out that, by God’s grace, we aren’t truly in the place we think we are, but somewhere we’re not even imagining? This is right at the heart of God’s good news for today! Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide110322

Today we welcome guest speaker, President of Fuller Seminary, Mark Labberton, to preach for us at Menlo Church. In this turbulent time of division, change, and confusion, do you have a clear understanding of exactly where you are? And… how do you know? What if it turns out that, by God’s grace, we aren’t truly in the place we think we are, but somewhere we’re not even imagining? This is right at the heart of God’s good news for today! Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide110322

We get the privilege of getting more time with our new Senior Pastor Phil EuBank! Jess, Keith (now known as the Jimmy G. of Menlo Midweek) and Phil talk about the Bay, our hopes for Menlo and Texas BBQ! For too the long the church has been known more for the negative—what it’s against—rather than for its positive actions and messages. But it doesn't have to be that way. Menlo Church is uniquely positioned to be the kind of place that can create new ways of sharing the hope of heaven while also helping to ease the hurting that exists in the world. What if we were made for this moment? Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide110622 Click here to partner with us in our Thanksgiving Offering. Text us at (650)600-0402!

Today we hear from our senior pastor candidate, Phil EuBank! For too the long the church has been known more for the negative—what it’s against—rather than for its positive actions and messages. But it doesn't have to be that way. Menlo Church is uniquely positioned to be the kind of place that can create new ways of sharing the hope of heaven while also helping to ease the hurting that exists in the world. What if we were made for this moment? Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide110622

This week Adam Hendrix  joins Mark and Jess to close out our Colossians Series, debrief Halloween, and talk about identity and perspective. Text us at (650)600-0402. Come join us this weekend to vote for our Senior Pastor Candidate Phil EuBank! What do you identify as? It’s complicated. We each have many layers to our identity. Our jobs, our race, gender, education, or hobbies. The list is endless. But what is at the core—our true identity? For Christians, our truest identity is seen in Jesus. We are his. We do everything in the name of Jesus. But what does that mean? Many people claim to do things in his name, but their actions are actually filled with anger or malice, not resembling Jesus at all. This week, we talk about the reality that living in his name means living in love. Love is the symptom and indicator of our true self. Identify a relationship or situation where you can “live more in love.” This week, try to see beyond the layers or labels and think of one thing you could do to show the sacrificial love of Jesus. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide103022

What do you identify as? It’s complicated. We each have many layers to our identity. Our jobs, our race, gender, education, or hobbies. The list is endless. But what is at the core—our true identity? For Christians, our truest identity is seen in Jesus. We are his. We do everything in the name of Jesus. But what does that mean? Many people claim to do things in his name, but their actions are actually filled with anger or malice, not resembling Jesus at all. This week, we talk about the reality that living in his name means living in love. Love is the symptom and indicator of our true self. Identify a relationship or situation where you can “live more in love.” This week, try to see beyond the layers or labels and think of one thing you could do to show the sacrificial love of Jesus. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide103022

This week the gang is back together! Mark, Jess and guest Adam Hendrix chat about Japan, Harry Potter, repentance, and how to live into the person God created us all to be. Need something? Text us! (650)600-0402 For many, Christianity is just about being told all the things we shouldn’t do—and at first glance that’s what Paul, in Colossians 3, seems to be doing. However, he’s actually talking about something deeper and more beautiful. He’s hoping we’ll see the symptoms and indicators of what happens when we live in our false self, which results in our settling for something less than God intends. Our new identity is our true self and ultimate calling. This week we talk about how to take off the false self and turn back to a loving union with Christ. This week, reflect on how you may be living out of your false self. Acknowledge it with God, open yourself up, and allow him to help you remove these habits. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide102322

For many, Christianity is just about being told all the things we shouldn’t do—and at first glance that’s what Paul, in Colossians 3, seems to be doing. However, he’s actually talking about something deeper and more beautiful. He’s hoping we’ll see the symptoms and indicators of what happens when we live in our false self, which results in our settling for something less than God intends. Our new identity is our true self and ultimate calling. This week we talk about how to take off the false self and turn back to a loving union with Christ. This week, reflect on how you may be living out of your false self. Acknowledge it with God, open yourself up, and allow him to help you remove these habits. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide102322

On today's episode, Scott Palmbush joined Jess to deep dive his sermon in our Colossians series and to share a BIG ANNOUNCEMENT (did someone say Senior Pastor candidate?!?!) In Scott's Sunday message, he explored how we can live in a world where we are surprised by difficulty and pain, but still see the bigger picture of God’s redemptive work. We dove into Paul's writings in Colossians and talked about how we can engage in the world with real humility and compassion. Also taking on the big questions: What changes in us when we are following Jesus and how does that actually work?   Listen to the song Scott mentioned by Casting Crowns: https://youtu.be/W6aEMce88dQ Following Jesus resources: http://menlo.church/colossians Information on our Senior Pastor Candidate, Phil Eubanks: http://menlo.church/seniorpastor Baptism information: http://menlo.church/baptism

Join us this week to explore how we can live in a world in which we not surprised by difficulty and pain, but still see the bigger picture of God’s redemptive work. We'll delve into Paul's writings in Colossians and will talk about how we can engage in the world with real humility and compassion. We'll also take on the big questions: What changes in us when we are following Jesus and how does that actually work? Make a list of things that represent God’s coming kingdom, perhaps things like serving your neighbors, expressing joy and love, relishing God’s goodness, embracing the promises of Scripture, etc. Once you have a list, consider how you presently fill your mind on a daily basis. Is there a disconnect? Take some time to make sure you include one thing from your list each day. Dive into our Bible Study resources to ignite your mind and heart around the goodness of Jesus at http://menlo.church/Colossians Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide101622

This week we talk to our speaker Adam Hendrix about plants, grandmas and Colossians! In this week's sermon, we explored how we can live in a world in which we are not surprised by difficulty and pain, but still see the bigger picture of God’s redemptive work. We dove into Paul's writings in Colossians and will talk about how we can engage in the world with real humility and compassion. We also took on the big questions: What changes in us when we are following Jesus and how does that actually work?   Get our bible study resources at menlo.church/colossians

There are over 51 million YouTube channels, over 2 million podcasts, and over 1 billion TikTok videos per day. With this endless stream of philosophies, opinions, and ideologies, each one has the power to lead us astray and deceive us. Join us for this sermon, when we explore Paul's warning about being taken captive by empty philosophies and opinions. What is Paul’s answer to not being deceived? You need to sink your roots deep and be rooted in Christ—getting your nourishment and stability from him. Spiritual practices are the key to root yourself in Christ. This week, continue to use our Bible study of Colossians to connect to Jesus at menlo.church/colossians. Also, consider replacing one piece of entertainment or information with another spiritual practice like prayer or meditation. It's not too late to join us NEXT weekend when we will have a spiritual retreat in Mount Hermon! We'll worship, share meals, laugh, rest, and enjoy the beauty of the Santa Cruz mountains. To learn more and register, go to our app and click on the "announcements" tab. Or go to our website http://menlo.church/fallretreat Menlo Labs are fun, interactive gatherings tackling topics like parenting, finances, marriage, justice, and more! With onsite and online options, they start NEXT WEEK and most meet for six weeks Go to our website http://menlo.church/labs to browse and register. There's something for everyone! Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide100922

This week Mark and Jess sit down with Cheryl Fletch with a fun discussion filled with big seminary words, how 40 hours of works gets chiseled down to a 30 minute teaching, and as promised in her message - a deep dive in Colossians 1:24. Text us: (650)600-0402 This week we’re talking about the suffering we choose. Why would someone choose suffering? Parents do so every day for their children. As do business owners who care deeply for their employees and customers. And Paul chose suffering for the sake of the church. We’ll explore what it means if we desire to live a life of love for others. And we'll ask how Jesus showed us the way to do this. Join us to explore these questions as we study Colossians and discover what an other-centered life looks like and how we can be empowered to live this way. Dive into our Bible Study resources to ignite your mind and heart around the goodness of Jesus at menlo.church/Colossians Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide100122

This week we’re talking about the suffering we choose. Why would someone choose suffering? Parents do so every day for their children. As do business owners who care deeply for their employees and customers. And Paul chose suffering for the sake of the church. We’ll explore what it means if we desire to live a life of love for others. And we'll ask how Jesus showed us the way to do this. Jois us to explore these questions as we study Colossians and discover what an other-centered life looks like and how we can be empowered to live this way. Dive into our Bible Study resources to ignite your mind and heart around the goodness of Jesus at menlo.church/Colossians Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide100122

Mark and Jess sit down the Rev. Dr. Scott Palmbush to get a theology 101 lesson, talk about AYSO soccer and get some practical skills on how to better understand Jesus. Dive into our Bible Study resources to ignite your mind and heart around the goodness of Jesus at http://menlo.church/Colossians Menlo Labs are fun, interactive gatherings designed to help us investigate and grow in our understanding of God and his guidance by examining a variety of topics. Get all the details and register at http://menlo.church/labs Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide0925222

This week, through the words of the apostle Paul to the Colossians, we explore who Jesus was. Our tendency is to reduce Jesus to an idol. But that Jesus will never deliver us from sin and death or transform us. This message will encourage us to abandon our false images and embrace the real Jesus. Look at the Scriptures that describe Jesus and identify ways that you treat Jesus as your servant rather than your Lord. How can you more deeply submit to the “real” Jesus wherever he leads. Dive into our Bible Study resources to ignite your mind and heart around the goodness of Jesus at http://menlo.church/Colossians Menlo Labs are fun, interactive gatherings designed to help us investigate and grow in our understanding of God and his guidance by examining a variety of topics. Get all the details and register at http://menlo.church/labs Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide0925222

Mark, Jess and Cheryl sit down to talk about grace, calling to God, and the Giants vs. Dodgers.  Do you ever feel like you’re not measuring up on your journey of faith? Open the book of Colossians with us to discover how God changes us and where the journey begins. Dive into our Bible Study resources to ignite your mind and heart around the goodness of Jesus at http://Menlo.Church/Colossians Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide091822

Do you ever feel like you’re not measuring up on your journey of faith? Open the book of Colossians with us to discover how God changes us and where the journey begins. Dive into our Bible Study resources to ignite your mind and heart around the goodness of Jesus at http://Menlo.Church/Colossians Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide091822

This week Mark and Jess sit down with Cheryl Fletcher to chat more about the opening message of our Colossians series. We chat being a queen, the importance of slowing down and how following Jesus really changes everything. What does that to help find and follow Jesus and how do we know if we are actually following God? In this talk, we lay the foundation for a series on Colossians and how it will help us on our journey of authentic faith in Christ. Go to http://menlo.church/colossians for resources to help you take a deeper dive. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide91122

We are launching a new series titled Colossians: Following Jesus. For more details on the series, check out a special episode of Menlo Midweek at http://menlo.church/podcasts What does that to help find and follow Jesus and how do we know if we are actually following God? In this talk, we lay the foundation for a series on Colossians and how it will help us on our journey of authentic faith in Christ. Go to http://menlo.church/colossians for resources to help you take a deeper dive. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide91122

We are launching a series on Colossians this weekend and got the opportunity to chat with Adam Hendrix as he helped shape this series. We chat hopes for the next 8 weeks, hamster wheels and some great tips and recommendations for how to engage with the Bible as we journey through this book together. Would you like to help us out with the podcast? Maybe you want to start your own? Let us know! Volunteer with our Online Campus: http://menlo.church/connectcard To watch with us live on Sundays at 10:30am PST, head to http://menlo.online.church Thank you for your continued generosity: http://www.menlo.church/give We would love to get to know you better and help you get connected with Menlo Church. Go to http://menlo.church/connectcard and fill out a brief form and we will contact you. Send us your prayer requests: https://menlo.church/prayer-requests-... or text PRAYER to 650-600-0402 Connect with us by following our Online Church instagram account: http://instagram.com/menlo.church

This week, we get some more time with our Menlo Park campus pastor Mark Swarner as he closed out our Get in the Game series. Jesus looks at us with all our faults and failures, just as we are, and says, “I want YOU on my team.” This is in contrast to things like sports championships when only a select few ever get to play in one. Unlike major sports teams, God doesn’t just look for the best and the brightest, the most capable, or the strongest. God invites us—regular human people—to participate in God’s work of bringing hope and healing to the world. Join us as we explore what it means that every one of us has a part in this mission and that Jesus chooses us to be a part of it. Consider that even our smallest acts of service are part of a much bigger picture that we often cannot see. What’s one way you can be an ambassador for Christ this week? Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide090422

This week, our Menlo Park campus pastor Mark Swarner closes out our Get in the Game series. Jesus looks at us with all our faults and failures, just as we are, and says, “I want YOU on my team.” This is in contrast to things like sports championships when only a select few ever get to play in one. Unlike major sports teams, God doesn’t just look for the best and the brightest, the most capable, or the strongest. God invites us—regular human people—to participate in God’s work of bringing hope and healing to the world. Join us as we explore what it means that every one of us has a part in this mission and that Jesus chooses us to be a part of it. Consider that even our smallest acts of service are part of a much bigger picture that we often cannot see. What’s one way you can be an ambassador for Christ this week? Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide090422

Last week was our campus preaching weekend which means we had live teaching at each of our 5 campuses. We get some time to chat with Josh Robertson, our San Jose Campus Pastor, to dive into why we need to love not serve, and diseases that plagued us as kids.  One beautiful thing about being human is that God gives us unique gifts, talents, personality traits, passions, and perspectives. Our world and culture tell us to use these strictly for our own self-centered motives. Join us this week to hear how God’s plan is different; God's plan is to combine our individuality with others uniqueness - to create something bigger and more beautiful. We are each a unique part of a bigger body, the body of Christ! Seek out your spiritual gifts, talents, or passions and use these unique characteristics not just for your own good, but also use them for the body of Christ. If you are talented at music, join your local worship team. If you have the gift of hospitality, consider joining the welcome team or leading a small group. It is only because of your generosity that we are able to offer care and support groups, kids ministry, students ministry, and Life Groups. All of this is only possible through your generosity. Our fiscal year end is August 31, and, despite careful spending, we are forecasting a budget deficit for the year. Whether this is your first time giving or you give regularly, we hope you will consider a fiscal year-end gift. By giving today, we will be able to enter next year ready to move forward as God leads us. Please visit http://menlo.church/give or give through our app today, so we can continue offering these important programs. Join us the weekend of October 14-16, when we will have TWO events in Mount Hermon – a spiritual retreat for adults and camp for our students! For the adult retreat, we’ll worship, share meals, laugh, rest and enjoy the beauty of the Santa Cruz mountains. And, parents of students, the student camp is a great time for your kids to get away, make new friends, and learn more about the God who loves you no matter what. Learn more about both and register at http://menlo.church/fallretreat Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide082822 Volunteer with our Online Campus: http://menlo.church/connectcard To watch with us live on Sundays at 10:30am PST, head to http://menlo.online.church Thank you for your continued generosity: http://www.menlo.church/give We would love to get to know you better and help you get connected with Menlo Church. Go to http://menlo.church/connectcard and fill out a brief form and we will contact you. Send us your prayer requests: https://menlo.church/prayer-requests-... or text PRAYER to 650-600-0402 Connect with us by following our Online Church instagram account: http://instagram.com/menlo.church

One beautiful thing about being human is that God gives us unique gifts, talents, personality traits, passions, and perspectives. Our world and culture tell us to use these strictly for our own self-centered motives. Join us this week to hear how God’s plan is different; God's plan is to combine our individuality with others uniqueness - to create something bigger and more beautiful. We are each a unique part of a bigger body, the body of Christ! Seek out your spiritual gifts, talents, or passions and use these unique characteristics not just for your own good, but also use them for the body of Christ. If you are talented at music, join your local worship team. If you have the gift of hospitality, consider joining the welcome team or leading a small group. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide082822

Mark and Jess get more time with Pastor Scott Dudley from Bellevue Presbyterian Church to hear more stories, get some great advice and laugh - a lot! Menlo has been "in the game" for almost 150 years as we've been helping people find and follow Jesus. Join us this week as we hear from former Menlo Church Pastor Scott Dudley share about our legacy of worship, discipleship, and transformed lives. Don't be surprised if other former Menlo-ites Bryan Dunagan and Scotty Scruggs manage to make appearances as well. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide081422

Today we continue our series, “Get in the Game“ and we will be hearing from Pastor Scott Dudley from Bellevue Presbyterian Church. Menlo has been "in the game" for almost 150 years as we've been helping people find and follow Jesus. Join us this week as we hear from former Menlo Church Pastor Scott Dudley share about our legacy of worship, discipleship, and transformed lives. Don't be surprised if other former Menlo-ites Bryan Dunagan and Scotty Scruggs manage to make appearances as well. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide081422

Are you ready to get out of the stands and participate in the game? Today we launch our new series, “Get in the Game“ and we will be going through Philippians 3:10-14 & John 10:10 In the Kingdom of God everyone gets to play. There is no sideline or bench where you watch the action. You get to be on the field in the middle of what God is doing in the world. And that is where you find real life – when there is a deeper connection with Jesus and a greater love for his people. Join us this week as Mark sits down with Keith Riley and Scott Palmbush to dig deeper in how we find a place to participate and get in the game.

Today we launch our new series, “Get in the Game“ and we will be going through Philippians 3:10-14 & John 10:10. In the Kingdom of God everyone gets to play. There is no sideline or bench where you watch the action. You get to be on the field in the middle of what God is doing in the world. And that is where you find real life – when there is a deeper connection with Jesus and a greater love for his people. Join us this week as we find a place to participate and get in the game. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide081422

Adam Hendrix is back on with Mark and Jess this week to discuss his sabbatical and closing our Being Human series! The word "sin" sounds outdated, old-fashioned, heavy-handed, and guilt-producing. But it’s right there in the Bible. What do we do with that? This week, we explore David's major sin and look at how we, as Christians, don't need to avoid sin, but DO need to recognize and become aware of sin. After all, sin, failures, and mistakes are never the end of the story—redemption is. Use Psalm 51 in the Psalm book to examine your heart. Ask God to help you recognize the sin in your life. And then, meditate on Psalm as a way to turn toward the path of redemption. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide081422

The word "sin" sounds outdated, old-fashioned, heavy-handed, and guilt-producing. But it’s right there in the Bible. What do we do with that? This week, we explore David's major sin and look at how we, as Christians, don't need to avoid sin, but DO need to recognize and become aware of sin. After all, sin, failures, and mistakes are never the end of the story—redemption is. Use Psalm 51 in the Psalm book to examine your heart. Ask God to help you recognize the sin in your life. And then, meditate on Psalm as a way to turn toward the path of redemption. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide081422

Join Mark and Jess as we chat with Brett about how not to be scared of the future. Have you ever worried or wondered about what comes next? Or made plans based on being able to influence what will happen in the future? It is, after all, only human to want to take control of what happens in our lives. But what if in our desire to grab control we miss what God wants to do in and through us? David is a good example. He had plans to do something great to honor God for all that God had done for him, but God said “no”—because God had something even better planned for David. Today, we’ll discover the power that can happen when we let go of our plans and instead trust in God’s plan. This week, practice sitting with God. Find a few moments when you can sit in silence and ask God, “Where might my plans be keeping me from seeing your promises in my life?” Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide73122

Have you ever worried or wondered about what comes next? Or made plans based on being able to influence what will happen in the future? It is, after all, only human to want to take control of what happens in our lives. But what if in our desire to grab control we miss what God wants to do in and through us? David is a good example. He had plans to do something great to honor God for all that God had done for him, but God said “no”—because God had something even better planned for David. Today, we’ll discover the power that can happen when we let go of our plans and instead trust in God’s plan. This week, practice sitting with God. Find a few moments when you can sit in silence and ask God, “Where might my plans be keeping me from seeing your promises in my life?” Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide73122

We sit down this week with Matt Stephan, our San Mateo Campus Pastor, to chat about his sermon, and hear about a monkey, 'cow'culating sacrifice and the most torturous part of the message. What if there was one secret to coming alive? One secret to finding joy? Join us as we take an in-depth look at one of the craziest, most challenging passages in the Bible—and find joy and life as we do so! Make this week a week of worship. And don’t forget to check out our worship playlist on Spotify at http://menlo.church/playlist Church doesn't just happen on Sundays! Listen to our Menlo Midweek Podcast as we interview the preacher of the week. They take some deep dives into the sermon writing process, breakdown their sermon and let us in on a few things they kept out of their sermon. This is a great way to connect with us and grow your faith throughout the week. Go to http://menlo.church/podcasts for all the ways to tune in or find it under “MEDIA” on the Menlo Church app. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide072422

What if there was one secret to coming alive? One secret to finding joy? Join us as we take an in-depth look at one of the craziest, most challenging passages in the Bible—and find joy and life as we do so! Make this week a week of worship. And don’t forget to check out our worship playlist on Spotify at http://menlo.church/playlist Church doesn't just happen on Sundays! Listen to our Menlo Midweek Podcast as we interview the preacher of the week. They take some deep dives into the sermon writing process, breakdown their sermon and let us in on a few things they kept out of their sermon. This is a great way to connect with us and grow your faith throughout the week. Go to http://menlo.church/podcasts for all the ways to tune in or find it under “MEDIA” on the Menlo Church app. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide072422

Do you have difficult people and relationships in your life? So do we! Let's discover what God has to say about this together. We are excited to welcome former Menlo Pastor Scotty Scruggs back to the pulpit! He will be teaching about how God wants us to deal with the difficult relationships in our lives, and what we are supposed to do about it. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide71722 http://Menlo.church/care Text us: (650)600-0402

Do you have difficult people and relationships in your life? So do we! Let's discover what God has to say about this together. We are excited to welcome former Menlo Pastor Scotty Scruggs back to the pulpit! He will be teaching about how God wants us to deal with the difficult relationships in our lives, and what we are supposed to do about it. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide71722

In a world filled with the noise of social media—where we sometimes cheer on individuals who ridicule anyone they disagree with—we’ve lost the art of honoring people. Especially people we believe to be dishonorable. Saul repeatedly tried to kill David or have him killed. David had the chance to seek revenge against Saul, but instead he chose to honor him. How is that possible? Today, we explore how we can follow the way of a merciful God by extending forgiveness to those who don’t seem to deserve it. Think about who seems dishonorable that you can honor through mercy and forgiveness. Join us on August 13 at the campus nearest you to battle food insecurity both locally and globally. Participants will be invited to donate specific food items that our Bay Area partners will distribute locally, and together we will build food kits, with the goal of providing 285,000 meals globally! This will be a great time to give back and be together in community. Go to http://menlo.church/serveyourcity for more details and how to register. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide71022

In a world filled with the noise of social media—where we sometimes cheer on individuals who ridicule anyone they disagree with—we’ve lost the art of honoring people. Especially people we believe to be dishonorable. Saul repeatedly tried to kill David or have him killed. David had the chance to seek revenge against Saul, but instead he chose to honor him. How is that possible? Today, we explore how we can follow the way of a merciful God by extending forgiveness to those who don’t seem to deserve it. Think about who seems dishonorable that you can honor through mercy and forgiveness. Join us on August 13 at the campus nearest you to battle food insecurity both locally and globally. Participants will be invited to donate specific food items that our Bay Area partners will distribute locally, and together we will build food kits, with the goal of providing 285,000 meals globally! This will be a great time to give back and be together in community. Go to http://menlo.church/serveyourcity for more details and how to register. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide71022

We all face challenges and fears that require courage. David and Goliath show us two different approaches to courage—one grounded in reality and the other coming from delusion. In this sermon we consider God-centered courage—the courage that comes not from something big, but is actually a result of the small steps taken every day. Today, we see how God is working to help us face our challenges and fears, even when we don’t know it. Use your Psalm book and meditate on Psalm 31 as a way to commune with God, reflecting on the ways you can serve him in your everyday work and activities. Join us on August 13 at the campus nearest you to battle food insecurity both locally and globally. Participants will be invited to donate specific food items that our Bay Area partners will distribute locally, and together we will build food kits, with the goal of providing 285,000 meals globally! This will be a great time to give back and be together in community. Go to http://menlo.church/serveyourcity for more details and how to register at the campus nearest you. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide7322

We all face challenges and fears that require courage. David and Goliath show us two different approaches to courage—one grounded in reality and the other coming from delusion. In this sermon we consider God-centered courage—the courage that comes not from something big, but is actually a result of the small steps taken every day. Today, we see how God is working to help us face our challenges and fears, even when we don’t know it. Use your Psalm book and meditate on Psalm 31 as a way to commune with God, reflecting on the ways you can serve him in your everyday work and activities. Join us on August 13 at the campus nearest you to battle food insecurity both locally and globally. Participants will be invited to donate specific food items that our Bay Area partners will distribute locally, and together we will build food kits, with the goal of providing 285,000 meals globally! This will be a great time to give back and be together in community. Go to http://menlo.church/serveyourcity for more details and how to register at the campus nearest you. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide7322

Do you know what your calling is? This week, our Director of young adults, Adam Hendrix continues our series, “Being Human.” We all want our lives to matter, to make a difference, and to have a purpose. We are desperate to find out what we are made to do. But, does every human being have a calling or only certain vocations? This week we study the calling of David and see what it can teach us about our calling. Continue to use the Psalm book this week as a way to commune with God, reflecting on the ways you can serve him in your everyday work and activities. If you don't live in the area and are unable to make it to a campus to pick up a Psalms Devotional guide, please text PSALMS to 650-600-0402 Join us on August 13 at the campus nearest you to battle food insecurity both locally and globally. Participants will be invited to donate specific food items that our Bay Area partners will distribute locally, and together we will build food kits, with the goal of providing 285,000 meals globally! This will be a great time to give back and be together in community. Go to http://menlo.church/serveyourcity for more details and how to register. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide62622

Welcome to the Menlo Legacy Service! This is Menlo Church's traditional worship service made available every Sunday morning. This week, our director of young adults, Adam Hendrix continues our series, “Being Human.” Do you know what your calling is? We all want our lives to matter, to make a difference, and to have a purpose. We are desperate to find out what we are made to do. But, does every human being have a calling or only certain vocations? This week we study the calling of David and see what it can teach us about our calling. Continue to use the Psalm book this week as a way to commune with God, reflecting on the ways you can serve him in your everyday work and activities. If you don't live in the area and are unable to make it to a campus to pick up a Psalms Devotional guide, please text PSALMS to 650-600-0402 Join us on August 13 at the campus nearest you to battle food insecurity both locally and globally. Participants will be invited to donate specific food items that our Bay Area partners will distribute locally, and together we will build food kits, with the goal of providing 285,000 meals globally! This will be a great time to give back and be together in community. Go to http://menlo.church/serveyourcity for more details and how to register. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide62622

Humans are complicated, walking paradoxes. Sometimes we’re the worst, sometimes we’re the best. We are physical beings with flesh and blood, skin, and bones. We’re also spiritual beings, having the breath of God. Often, we tend to separate our lives-the spiritual or the sacred, the holy or the earthly. But at the core of being human, is a union, not a separation. It is the union between us and God that makes us fully alive. This week, join us as we explore this paradox through our new series studying the life of David. We will explore how to embrace our humanness as we live in God’s presence in our normal, average human moments. This week, take the Psalm devotional book with you as you go about your normal activities. Use this week’s Psalm to help you commune with God and connect with him in the average moments of each day. Text us at (650)600-0402 to get a copy mailed to you! Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide61922

Adam invites us to come together this summer to try to answer one of life's biggest questions - What does it mean to be human? We are excited about this series and hope you follow along by joining us at our campuses, or online!

Humans are complicated, walking paradoxes. Sometimes we’re the worst, sometimes we’re the best. We are physical beings with flesh and blood, skin, and bones. We’re also spiritual beings, having the breath of God. Often, we tend to separate our lives-the spiritual or the sacred, the holy or the earthly. But at the core of being human, is a union, not a separation. It is the union between us and God that makes us fully alive. This week, join us as we explore this paradox through our new series studying the life of David. We will explore how to embrace our humanness as we live in God’s presence in our normal, average human moments. This week, take the Psalm devotional book with you as you go about your normal activities. Use this week’s Psalm to help you commune with God and connect with him in the average moments of each day. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide61922

This week, we close out our Unlikely Witness series in a deep dive about what it means for a church body to be an unlikely witness. We'll ask, how does “the church” share the hope of the world? What does this say about how we act with one another, how we get along, and how we handle disputes and challenges? Join us as we think about how the way we live out community together as a church speaks volumes to the world around us. Practice radical hospitality this week. Who can you invite to your Life Group, fellowship group, Bible study, or dinner with your family? Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide061222

This week, we talk about what it means for a church body to be an unlikely witness. We'll ask, how does “the church” share the hope of the world? What does this say about how we act with one another, how we get along, and how we handle disputes and challenges? Join us as we think about how the way we live out community together as a church speaks volumes to the world around us. Practice radical hospitality this week. Who can you invite to your Life Group, fellowship group, Bible study, or dinner with your family? Church doesn't just happen on Sundays! Listen to our Menlo Midweek Podcast as we interview the preacher of the week. They take some deep dives into the sermon writing process, breakdown their sermon and let us in on a few things they kept out of their sermon. This is a great way to connect with us and grow your faith throughout the week. Check out the Menlo Church Sermon Podcast on Apple Podcasts today. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide061222

Every witness has a story to tell, an experience that has shaped and impacted us. The pain of the present can be a word of wisdom for tomorrow. This week, we’re delving into the questions: "What is the significance of your story? What have you been a witness to?" We’ll also be hearing from some special guests who are in the midst of a challenging season and how that challenge has shaped their story. This week, take some time to consider your story; the experience that God has brought, or is bringing you through. Within that story is your testimony; the power of witness. This summer in our Menlo Book Club we are reading The 9 Arts of Spiritual Conversations by Mary Schaller and John Crilly. We'll explore nine very simple practices that ANYONE can do to engage with others. We hope you'll join us to learn ways to share the hope we have in Jesus with people who have different beliefs. Go to http://menlo.church/bookclub for more information and how to sign up! Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide60522

Join us as we explore what it means to lean into witnessing to the goodness of God. Instead of being afraid of saying the wrong thing, not having the right answers or not being good enough. we will think about what it looks like to partner with God in witnessing and experience his presence. We’ll give practical tools for prayer and encouragement for taking risks. Take some time today to fill out the Partnering with God in Prayer card and join a summer book club. This summer in our Menlo Book Club we are reading The 9 Arts of Spiritual Conversations by Mary Schaller and John Crilly. We'll explore nine very simple practices that ANYONE can do to engage with others. We hope you'll join us to learn ways to share the hope we have in Jesus with people who have different beliefs. Go to http://menlo.church/bookclub for more information and how to sign up! Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http:menlo.church/studyguide52922

Join us as we explore what it means to lean into witnessing to the goodness of God. Intead of being afraid of saying the wrong thing, not having the right answers or not being good enough. we will think about what it looks like to partner with God in witnessing and experience his presence. We’ll give practical tools for prayer and encouragement for taking risks. Take some time today to fill out the Partnering with God in Prayer card and join a summer book club. This summer in our Menlo Book Club we are reading The 9 Arts of Spiritual Conversations by Mary Schaller and John Crilly. We'll explore nine very simple practices that ANYONE can do to engage with others. We hope you'll join us to learn ways to share the hope we have in Jesus with people who have different beliefs. Go to http://menlo.church/bookclub for more information and how to sign up! Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http:menlo.church/studyguide52922

Is it even possible to have conversations about faith when we’re not supposed to talk about religion, politics, or money? Today, take a deeper look at exploring how to bear witness to our friends, neighbors, and co-workers about who Jesus is—without being a jerk. This talk is especially for those who want to get really practical about what this looks like! This summer in our Menlo Book Club we are reading The 9 Arts of Spiritual Conversations by Mary Schaller and John Crilly. We'll explore nine very simple practices that ANYONE can do to engage with others. We hope you'll join us to learn ways to share the hope we have in Jesus with people who have different beliefs. Go to http://menlo.church/bookclub for more information and how to sign up! Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http:menlo.church/studyguide52222

Is it even possible to have conversations about faith when we’re not supposed to talk about religion, politics, or money? Today, we explore how to bear witness to our friends, neighbors, and co-workers about who Jesus is—without being a jerk. This talk is especially for those who want to get really practical about what this looks like! This summer in our Menlo Book Club we are reading The 9 Arts of Spiritual Conversations by Mary Schaller and John Crilly. We'll explore nine very simple practices that ANYONE can do to engage with others. We hope you'll join us to learn ways to share the hope we have in Jesus with people who have different beliefs. Go to http://menlo.church/bookclub for more information and how to sign up! Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http:menlo.church/studyguide52222

Jesus tells us to go and be his witnesses, but what is the message that we’re supposed to share? This week, we’re diving deeper about the Gospel to understand more fully what it means and why it is good news for our world today.  Whether you consider yourself part of our online community or not, we would love to invite you to participate in how we do online church going forward. We want to hear your voice by filling out this short survey to better understand who our community is and how we can continue to improve our online church experience. https://menlochurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/376009 This summer in our Menlo Book Club we are reading The 9 Arts of Spiritual Conversations by Mary Schaller and John Crilly. We'll explore nine very simple practices that ANYONE can do to engage with others. We hope you'll join us to learn ways to share the hope we have in Jesus with people who have different beliefs. Go to http://menlo.church/bookclub for more information and how to sign up! Church doesn't just happen on Sundays! Listen to our Menlo Midweek Podcast as we interview the preacher of the week. They take some deep dives into the sermon writing process, breakdown their sermon and let us in on a few things they kept out of their sermon. This is a great way to connect with us and grow your faith throughout the week. Check out the Menlo Church Sermon Podcast on Apple Podcasts today. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http:menlo.church/studyguide51522

Jesus tells us to go and be his witnesses, but what is the message that we’re supposed to share? This week, we’re talking about the Gospel to understand more fully what it means and why it is good news for our world today. We will also explore how the Gospel forces us to ask the question, “Who is reigning over our lives?” Spend some time thinking about how you would answer the questions, “Why is the Gospel good news to me?” Whether you consider yourself part of our online community or not, we would love to invite you to participate in how we do online church going forward. We want to hear your voice by filling out this short survey to better understand who our community is and how we can continue to improve our online church experience. https://menlochurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/376009 This summer in our Menlo Book Club we are reading The 9 Arts of Spiritual Conversations by Mary Schaller and John Crilly. We'll explore nine very simple practices that ANYONE can do to engage with others. We hope you'll join us to learn ways to share the hope we have in Jesus with people who have different beliefs. Go to http://menlo.church/bookclub for more information and how to sign up! Church doesn't just happen on Sundays! Listen to our Menlo Midweek Podcast as we interview the preacher of the week. They take some deep dives into the sermon writing process, breakdown their sermon and let us in on a few things they kept out of their sermon. This is a great way to connect with us and grow your faith throughout the week. Check out the Menlo Church Sermon Podcast on Apple Podcasts today. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http:menlo.church/studyguide51522

Does the word evangelism disturb you? Does it bring to mind obnoxious people forcing their faith upon others? This week we begin a six week series on this difficult topic and get to look ahead with one of the masterminds behind the series, Brett Koerten. We look at what Jesus said about being a witness, why it doesn’t have to be an uncomfortable topic, and why it might even be something that gives you great delight. Read the gospel of Mark and return next week to learn about the message of the witness. Whether you consider yourself part of our online community or not, we would love to invite you to participate in how we do online church going forward. We want to hear your voice by filling out this short survey to better understand who our community is and how we can continue to improve our online church experience. https://menlochurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/376009 If you’ve become a follower of Jesus but have never been baptized, we’d love to celebrate this step with you. Baptism is an outward sign of God’s grace and of your personal faith in Jesus. If you are interested in being baptized as a sign of your faith in Jesus, let us know today: http://menlo.church/baptism *Next baptisms will be May 15 at all campuses. This summer in our Menlo Book Club we are reading The 9 Arts of Spiritual Conversations by Mary Schaller and John Crilly. We'll explore nine very simple practices that ANYONE can do to engage with others. We hope you'll join us to learn ways to share the hope we have in Jesus with people who have different beliefs. Go to http://menlo.church/bookclub for more information and how to sign up! Church doesn't just happen on Sundays! Listen to our Menlo Midweek Podcast as we interview the preacher of the week. They take some deep dives into the sermon writing process, breakdown their sermon and let us in on a few things they kept out of their sermon. This is a great way to connect with us and grow your faith throughout the week. Check out the Menlo Church Sermon Podcast on Apple Podcasts today. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http:menlo.church/studyguide50822

Does the word evangelism disturb you? Does it bring to mind obnoxious people forcing their faith upon others? This week we begin a six week series on this difficult topic. We look at what Jesus said about being a witness, why it doesn’t have to be an uncomfortable topic, and why it might even be something that gives you great delight. Read the gospel of Mark and return next week to learn about the message of the witness. Whether you consider yourself part of our online community or not, we would love to invite you to participate in how we do online church going forward. We want to hear your voice by filling out this short survey to better understand who our community is and how we can continue to improve our online church experience. https://menlochurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/376009 If you’ve become a follower of Jesus but have never been baptized, we’d love to celebrate this step with you. Baptism is an outward sign of God’s grace and of your personal faith in Jesus. If you are interested in being baptized as a sign of your faith in Jesus, let us know today: http://menlo.church/baptism *Next baptisms will be May 15 at all campuses. This summer in our Menlo Book Club we are reading The 9 Arts of Spiritual Conversations by Mary Schaller and John Crilly. We'll explore nine very simple practices that ANYONE can do to engage with others. We hope you'll join us to learn ways to share the hope we have in Jesus with people who have different beliefs. Go to http://menlo.church/bookclub for more information and how to sign up! Church doesn't just happen on Sundays! Listen to our Menlo Midweek Podcast as we interview the preacher of the week. They take some deep dives into the sermon writing process, breakdown their sermon and let us in on a few things they kept out of their sermon. This is a great way to connect with us and grow your faith throughout the week. Check out the Menlo Church Sermon Podcast on Apple Podcasts today. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http:menlo.church/studyguide50822

This week we get to talk with Scott Palmbush, our new Head of Staff. We chat about hopes and dreams for Menlo, how Scott is a Reverend Doctor in some social circles, and how we can come alongside our community during this time of transition. Whether you consider yourself part of our online community or not, we would love to invite you to participate in how we do online church going forward. We want to hear your voice by filling out this short survey to better understand who our community is and how we can continue to improve our online church experience: https://menlochurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/376009    

In this sermon, we explore the story of Naaman, a young woman who cares for a needy person, which shows how God acts through unlikely people. We'll think about how Naaman is in some ways just like you. Who do you see around you that’s hurting or might feel as though they’re on the outside looking in? Think about how you can be an unlikely witness like Naaman. Whether you consider yourself part of our online community or not, we would love to invite you to participate in how we do online church going forward. We want to hear your voice by filling out this short survey to better understand who our community is and how we can continue to improve our online church experience. https://menlochurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/376009 Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http:menlo.church/studyguide50122

This week we chat with Brett Koerten (bkoerten@menlo.church) to further explore what a truly multi-generational church can be. We are going to look at Jesus’s example as he walked along people's path with them, to see how we can be a church that joins the next generation on their path—helping them discover that Jesus has a spot prepared for them at his table. Whether you consider yourself part of our online community or not, we would love to invite you to participate in how we do online church going forward. We want to hear your voice by filling out this short survey to better understand who our community is and how we can continue to improve our online church experience: https://menlochurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/376009  

For the past seven weeks, we’ve been feasting with Jesus. We saw him go to the table of outcasts, doubters, and people in need to let them know they have a place at his table. In this talk, we are going to look at Jesus’s example as he walked along people's path with them, to see how we can be a church that joins the next generation on their path—helping them discover that Jesus has a spot prepared for them at his table. Do you know a student whose path you can be on with them? Pray for them to rely on Jesus. And pray they know they are fully known and loved by Jesus. If you don’t know a student, go to http://menlo.church/studentprayer and get the name of a student in one of our programs to pray for! Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide042422

We recap Easter, Holy Week, and further discuss the last meal of Jesus in the New Testament, when the disciples learn the most important lesson of faith. We look at how Jesus’s food provision for people who have failed and abandoned him gives hope to all of us. Join us in this conversation as we explore what it means to find and follow Jesus, leaning into love rather than performance. If responding to the love of God is the core of our lives, think about how you would respond to Jesus if he asked you the question, “Do you love me?” Whether you consider yourself part of our online community or not, we would love to invite you to participate in how we do online church going forward. We want to hear your voice by filling out this short survey to better understand who our community is and how we can continue to improve our online church experience: https://menlochurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/376009 Sign up for online community newsletter! https://menlochurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/171124

This Easter we talk about the last meal of Jesus in the New Testament, when the disciples learn the most important lesson of faith. We look at how Jesus’s food provision for people who have failed and abandoned him gives hope to all of us. Join us in this conversation as we explore what it means to find and follow Jesus, leaning into love rather than performance. If responding to the love of God is the core of our lives, think about how you would respond to Jesus if he asked you the question, “Do you love me?” For over 40 years, Menlo Church has dedicated our Easter Offering as an above-and-beyond gift to address an urgent need. This year, your gifts to the Easter Offering will support Afghans and Ukrainians who have had to flee their homes this past year. Your donations will support organizations who are helping Ukrainian refugees now and long-term, as well as providing housing support for Afghan refugees arriving in the Bay Area. To help support refugees, go to http://menlo.church/give and choose the Easter Offering option. Whether you consider yourself part of our online community or not, we would love to invite you to participate in how we do online church going forward. We want to hear your voice by filling out this short survey to better understand who our community is and how we can continue to improve our online church experience: https://menlochurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/376009 Sign up for online community newsletter! https://menlochurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/171124 Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http:menlo.church/studyguide041722

Join us as we sit down with Matt Stephan to further discuss what it will take for us to be satisfied and set free. In another mealtime passage in John, we see who the God of the Bible truly is and come face to face with what it will take to know who we truly are. As you start making Easter plans, we hope you will be part of our community during Holy Week and Easter. Holy Week is the week leading up to Easter, a time to reflect on the life and mission of Jesus. Join us as we prepare for the joy of Easter Sunday, the highlight of the Christian year. Head to http://menlo.church/holyweek for all the service details. Then, rejoice with us this Easter with fun activities, worship, and an inspiring message about finding renewed hope. All the details about Easter can be found at http://menlo.church/easter

Join us to discuss who Jesus was and what he was up to. We'll discuss what it will take for us to be satisfied and set free. In another mealtime passage in John, we see who the God of the Bible truly is and come face to face with what it will take to know who we truly are. Take time during Holy Week to talk with Jesus about your own cross and what it would mean for you to be set free. We invite you to journey through Lent with us. To take part, you can walk through a Lent Devotional, participate in a Lent Life Group, listen to the Menlo Midweek Podcast or enjoy activities with Menlo Kids…or all of the above! We can't wait to see what God does for us each individually and as a church community! Go to http://menlo.church/lent for all the ways you can participate. As you start making Easter plans, we hope you will be part of our community during Holy Week and Easter. Holy Week is the week leading up to Easter, a time to reflect on the life and mission of Jesus. Join us as we prepare for the joy of Easter Sunday, the highlight of the Christian year. Head to http://menlo.church/holyweek for all the service details. Then, rejoice with us this Easter with fun activities, worship, and an inspiring message about finding renewed hope. All the details about Easter can be found at http://menlo.church/easter Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http:menlo.church/studyguide041022

This week we sit down with our Transition Pastor John Crosby to further explore Jesus’s claim that he was the bread of life, sent from heaven to save humankind. This claim, while controversial from the beginning, is the basis of Communion and leads us towards the start of Holy Week. As you start making Easter plans, we hope you will be part of our community during Holy Week and Easter. Holy Week is the week leading up to Easter, a time to reflect on the life and mission of Jesus. Join us as we prepare for the joy of Easter Sunday, the highlight of the Christian year. Head to http://menlo.church/holyweek for all the service details. Then, rejoice with us this Easter with fun activities, worship, and an inspiring message about finding renewed hope. All the details about Easter can be found at http://menlo.church/easter

In this talk, we explore Jesus’s claim that he was the bread of life, sent from heaven to save humankind. This claim, while controversial from the beginning, is the basis of Communion. Join us as we delve into how the bread and cup represent the presence of our Savior and God and what it means that this claim is the source of grace unlimited for all who turn to him. Examine how your understanding of the Lord’s Supper has changed over time. Has it become a rote activity, or has it become more meaningful? Consider what it means that by joining with others in this activity, it will help you believe more firmly in Christ and God’s love for you. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide40322

This week we sit down with Cris Coniconde, our San Mateo Director of Adult Discipleship, to dive deeper into her message. We would love to see you take part in this series by walking through a Lent Devotional, participating in a Lent Life Group, and enjoying activities with Menlo Kids. We can't wait to see what God does for us each individually and as a church community! Head to http://menlo.church/lent for all the resources. Watch the Jacquez family story video: https://youtu.be/p90NfsgCNh4  

We see God’s abundant provision throughout the Scriptures and in everyday life, but it can be easy to forget and sink into a scarcity mindset. We take our eyes off Jesus and try to take control, or we think that whatever we have isn’t enough. Jesus simply asks us to give what we have and let him multiply it. In this talk, we’ll explore what it looks like to live according to God’s generous economy instead of the world’s economy. This week, what can you bring to Jesus and trust him to multiply it? Watch the Jacquez family story video: https://youtu.be/p90NfsgCNh4 We invite you to journey through Lent with us. To take part, you can walk through a Lent Devotional, participate in a Lent Life Group, listen to the Menlo Midweek Podcast or enjoy activities with Menlo Kids…or all of the above! We can't wait to see what God does for us each individually and as a church community! Go to http://menlo.church/lent for all the ways you can participate. As you start making Easter plans, we hope you will be part of our community during Holy Week and Easter. Holy Week is the week leading up to Easter, a time to reflect on the life and mission of Jesus. Join us as we prepare for the joy of Easter Sunday, the highlight of the Christian year. Head to http://menlo.church/holyweek for all the service details. Then, rejoice with us this Easter with fun activities, worship, and an inspiring message about finding renewed hope. All the details about Easter can be found at http://menlo.church/easter Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide032722

In this talk, we sit down the Adam Hendrix to further explore what it means that Jesus was sent by the Father to bring them home—and that now he is sending you to do the same.  We would love to see you take part in this series by walking through a Lent Devotional, participating in a Lent Life Group, and enjoying activities with Menlo Kids. We can't wait to see what God does for us each individually and as a church community! Head to http://menlo.church/lent for all the resources.

Jesus said that doing the will and work of the Father is more important than food. He lost his appetite because of the great need for the outsiders, the lost, and the broken to be invited to his Kingdom. In this talk, we explore what it means that Jesus was sent by the Father to bring them home—and that now he is sending you to do the same. Identify one person you love who is “missing from the table.” Pray for them and ask God to give you an opportunity to invite them to the table. We invite you to journey through Lent with us. To take part, walk through a Lent Devotional, participate in a Lent Life Group, and enjoy activities with Menlo Kids. We can't wait to see what God does for us each individually and as a church community! Head to http://menlo.church/lent for all the resources. As you start making Easter plans, we hope you will be part of our community during Holy Week and Easter. Holy Week is the week leading up to Easter, a time to reflect on the life and mission of Jesus. Join us as we prepare for the joy of Easter Sunday, the highlight of the Christian year. Head to http://menlo.church/holyweek for all the service details. Then, rejoice with us this Easter with fun activities, worship, and an inspiring message about finding renewed hope. All the details about Easter can be found at http://menlo.church/easter Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http: menlo.church/studyguide032022

This week, our Lenten series begins as we delve into Jesus’s encounter with the woman at the well. We sit down with Mary Scott, our Director of Students at our Mountain View Campus, to dive deeper into her message. We invite you to journey through Lent with us. To take part, walk through a Lent Devotional, participate in a Lent Life Group, and enjoy activities with Menlo Kids. We can't wait to see what God does for us each individually and as a church community! 

In this talk, we look at Jesus’s encounter with a woman at a well and how it changed her life. From here, we’re encouraged to be with Jesus each day, opening our hearts to him, then allowing his grace to lead us into the unexpected. we explore how instead of moving through the world with expectations and judgements, we can move through it with love and grace for ourselves and others. Take some time each day this week to withdraw with Jesus, be vulnerable before him, and pray for openness to go out in the world with grace. We invite you to journey through Lent with us. To take part, walk through a Lent Devotional, participate in a Lent Life Group, listen to the Menlo Midweek podcast, and enjoy activities with Menlo Kids. We can't wait to see what God does for us each individually and as a church community! Go to http://Menlo.church/lent for all the resources. Join us for our third annual Run For Hope the weekend of March 19 – 20! We’re going to run, walk, stroll, and skip to encourage and support first responders in the Bay Area. This is a virtual run, and for every mile that participants run or walk, Menlo Church will commit $25 toward supporting our local first responders up to a total of $125k. Register at http://menlo.church/runforhope Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http:menlo.church/studyguide031322

This week, our Lenten series begins as we delve into Jesus’s first miracle in the Gospel of John, when Jesus turned water to wine. We sit down with Transitional Pastor John Crosby to dive deeper into his message.   We invite you to journey through Lent with us. To take part, walk through a Lent Devotional, participate in a Lent Life Group, and enjoy activities with Menlo Kids. We can't wait to see what God does for us each individually and as a church community! 

This week, our Lenten series begins as we delve into Jesus’s first miracle in the Gospel of John, when Jesus turned water to wine. We look at the thirsts of our lives and consider what will satisfy us. And we think about what it means that the first ‘sign’ Jesus uses to have his disciples put their faith in him, is a sign of life in all its abundance, a sign of things to come. Think about if someone were to ask what you thirst for in your heart and soul most often, what would come to mind? Have you talked to Jesus recently about fulfilling the deepest callings in your life and what direction that might take you? Who do you know that could use a ‘taste of new wine’ to bring joy and meaning to their lives, so they might see Jesus as the trustworthy one? We invite you to journey through Lent with us. To take part, walk through a Lent Devotional, participate in a Lent Life Group, and enjoy activities with Menlo Kids. We can't wait to see what God does for us each individually and as a church community! Go to http://menlo.church/lent for all the details. Join us for our third annual Run For Hope the weekend of March 19 – 20! We’re going to run, walk, stroll, and skip to encourage and support first responders in the Bay Area. This is a virtual run, and for every mile that participants run or walk, Menlo Church will commit $25 toward supporting our local first responders up to a total of $125k. Register at http://menlo.church/runforhope Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http:menlo.church/studyguide030622  

Join us for the Menlo Midweek podcast where we get more time with last week's speaker to dive deeper into their message and process. We hope this helps you get the most out of our Around the Table series as we journey towards Easter together.

The cry for Freedom is as American as apple pie and is often a point of contention in our society. Biblical freedom rests on God’s design of humanity in his image, meant to express freedom and creativity, or ‘dominion’. At the same time, God’s love for us is expressed in defining limits to our freedom. Our resistance to the limits set by God is as old as Adam and Eve, who desired to set their own course and be the ultimate authority in their lives. Join us as we discuss what it means to reassume the responsibilities of being in the image of God and agree to the limitations as a sign of trusting in God’s loving guidance for us. Where does the idea of ‘submitting’, of accepting limits, most grate upon you in this season of your life? How do limits affect your view of money, or work, or relationships? As you heard John describe the pitfalls of workaholism or overeating, pick one area of your life to consciously accept the limits as well as the responsibilities God offers to you as a beloved follower of Jesus. Join us for a unique and soul-shaping experience! Follow our "You Were Made For This" reading plan through Genesis 1-2 at http://menlo.church/genesis We invite you to journey through Lent with us! To take part, you can walk through a Lent Devotional, participate in a Lent Life Group, listen to our Menlo Midweek podcast and enjoy activities with Menlo Kids. We can't wait to see what God does for us each individually and as a church community! Go to http://menlo.church/lent for all the details!

It’s easy for us to use rest as an escape from the chaos of our lives, but what if there was a different kind of rest available to us? What if something we’re invited into rest as a means to be filled up? In Genesis, we see God invite us into rest as an act of worship rather than as the source of our fulfillment. In this talk, we look at what it means to honor God’s command to rest. Look at your week and find a block of time that you can protect for Sabbath rest, and then practice it! Join us for a unique and soul-shaping experience! Follow our "You Were Made For This" reading plan through Genesis 1-2 at http://menlo.church/genesis or by texting "readgenesis" to 94000 Join us for our third annual Run For Hope the weekend of March 19 – 20! We’re going to run, walk, stroll, and skip to encourage and support first responders in the Bay Area. This is a virtual run, and for every mile that participants run or walk, Menlo Church will commit $25 toward supporting our local first responders up to a total of $125k. Register at http://menlo.church/runforhope As you may know, the global church journeys to Easter in a season called Lent and this year Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, March 2. To take this journey together, Menlo Church is providing a devotional guide with scripture readings, questions for reflection, and weekly activities. We hope everyone on the church will go through this devotional together as we grow in community. Invite your friends and Life Group to join you! Download your copy and check out all the other Lent Resources at http://menlo.church/lent If you want a physical copy, text your name and address to the online team at 650-600-0402 Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide022022

We all desire to have an impact on our world. For some, it’s the desire for a big impact (like curing cancer, inventing something to improve the workplace, or some other big idea). For others it’s the desire to leave a legacy with their family and friends, to bring good to their workplace, or encouragement to their co-workers. These are all God-given desires and in this talk, we explore how our purpose it given to us by God and empowered by his grace. We’ll discuss the Creation Mandate given in scripture and how to join with God in his purpose of our lives. Join us for a unique and soul-shaping experience! Follow our "You Were Made For This" reading plan through Genesis 1-2 at http://menlo.church/genesis or by texting "readgenesis" to 94000 Join us for our third annual Run For Hope the weekend of March 19 – 20! We’re going to run, walk, stroll, and skip to encourage and support first responders in the Bay Area. This is a virtual run, and for every mile that participants run or walk, Menlo Church will commit $25 toward supporting our local first responders up to a total of $125k. Register at http://menlo.church/runforhope Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide21322

In this talk, we explore how God intended us to live "without masks," to share much more than the image we present to the world, especially with those we are close to. That is the beginning of intimacy, the safety to disclose our secrets, even in a "cancel culture." Intimacy is not meant for every relationship, but every person is made for intimacy with others. We'll look at the biblical root of living without a mask. Take some time to assess your closest relationships and consider what fears you have that cause you to put up the mask. Consider who is in your life who you feel does not know the "real you," who you really are when not impressive.  At the end of the sermon, we will take communion. In this talk, we explore how God intended us to live "without masks," to share much more than the image we present to the world, especially with those we are close to. That is the beginning of intimacy, the safety to disclose our secrets, even in a "cancel culture." Intimacy is not meant for every relationship, but every person is made for intimacy with others. We'll look at the biblical root of living without a mask. Take some time to assess your closest relationships and consider what fears you have that cause you to put up the mask. Consider who is in your life who you feel does not know the "real you," who you really are when not impressive. Join us for a unique and soul-shaping experience! Follow our "You Were Made For This" reading plan through Genesis 1-2 at http://menlo.church/genesis or by texting "readgenesis" to 94000 Find a sermon-based study guide for this week here: http://menlo.church/studyguide020622

God made us for relationship, according to Genesis 1-2. So why do we often experience loneliness, even with groups of friends or in a marriage? What if fighting loneliness isn’t the path to a life together but actually leveraging loneliness can be your super power? Join us to explore how God redeems everything for his people, to live a life of love that can crush our despair and expand our influence. This week, we hope you intentionally practice seeing your loneliness as an invitation to love others and receive the love of God. Join us for a unique and soul-shaping experience! Follow our "You Were Made For This" reading plan through Genesis 1-2 at http://menlo.church/genesis or by texting "readgenesis" to 94000 Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide013022

For some of us, work is a soul-crushing obstacle in the way of leisure and fun. For others, work is our life—we are defined by what we do. What if God designed work to be something better than either of these options? What if work could be meaningful and purposeful, while not our primary identity? In this talk, we explore how God has given us a different vision for our work. When we work with God and we work for God, our work reflects God. Join us to think about how this vision has the power to change the way we do our jobs and tasks; how this vision can transform our work into a symbol of the loving kingdom of Jesus. Join us for a unique and soul-shaping experience! Follow our "You Were Made For This" reading plan through Genesis 1-2 at http://menlo.church/genesis or by texting "readgenesis" to 94000 Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide12322

This week, join us as we explore Genesis 1:26-27 and consider how it impacts our relationship with God, others, and the world. We will look at each of these implications and ask, if sin has distorted the image of God in us, how do we repair it? And we will delve into the phrase "Let us make man in our image" and look at its crucial practical implications for our faith. Every day this week, meditate on how your life would change if you saw yourself as part of God’s story. Ask God to dwell within you today. Join us for a unique and soul-shaping experience! Follow our "You Were Made For This" reading plan through Genesis 1-2 at http://menlo.church/genesis or by texting "readgenesis" to 94000 Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide011622

Setting the stage for our series, “You Were Made For This”, we examine the very beginning of the beginning, creation itself. A study of the first chapter of the Bible offers HUGE opportunities to learn about the nature of God and humankind, the purpose of what ‘dominion’ means, as well as where the Story of God and God’s people is heading. The essence of human value derives from being made by our Creator ‘in the image of God', and the exploration of what we were intended to become is the path to true freedom and meaning. Join us for a unique and soul-shaping experience! Follow our "You Were Made For This" reading plan through Genesis 1-2 at http://menlo.church/readgenesis or by texting "readgenesis" to 94000 Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: menlo.church/studyguide010922

At this time of year, when many people start thinking of making goals, we often focus on making goals actions that we have to accomplish, like “I’m going to get a new job," or "I'm going read the whole Bible this year!” But Jesus reveals to his disciples that our goal is to know God and true everlasting life. In this sermon, we explore what it would look like to set living in union with God as our ultimate goal. Spend some time with God in prayer each day, using Hebrews 12:1-2 as a guide. Read the passage and then think about what is weighing on you today. Offer it to God and ask for vision, healing or guidance. Think of the people who help you with perseverance, and offer a prayer of thanks for them. Picture Jesus, smiling and happy, with you. Sit for a few minutes knowing that God loves you.

We all love the idea of love. But the word is overused, and the real power of love has been diluted in our culture, so we can become desensitized to it. In this sermon, we go on a journey of rediscovering the wonder of God’s love that extends to people who are thought of as unacceptable, unlovable, and unqualified. Spend some moments this week reflecting on a love that is so great that it is bigger than mistakes and flaws. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week here: http://menlo.church/studyguide121921 This holiday season, we are filled with joy to come together as a church family! We’ll sing along to modern Christmas carols, enjoy hot cocoa with treats, and hear an inspiring message on how we can experience peace this Christmas. Get service times and all other details at our website http://menlo.church In this advent season, it is so important to start our day focused on Jesus. Join us for Season 2 of our Menlo Meditations podcast as we journey through the Advent season. These 3-4 minute daily meditations will release Monday-Friday until Christmas Day and coincide with our Sunday sermon series. Go to http://menlo.church/meditations

The chaos of the Christmas season can squeeze out the promise of ‘joy that will last’. In this talk, we explore Mary’s decision to ‘treasure all this in her heart’ and how that decision led to a season of JOY to the whole world. We also look at how we can find that joy that will last, even in the midst of stress. This week think re-read the Christmas story through new eyes and consider where you need a sense of hope that leads to Joy unquenchable. This holiday season, we are filled with joy to come together as a church family! We’ll sing along to modern Christmas carols, enjoy hot cocoa with treats, and hear an inspiring message on how we can experience peace this Christmas. Get service times and all other details at our website http://menlo.church In this advent season, it is so important to start our day focused on Jesus. Join us for Season 2 of our Menlo Meditations podcast as we journey through the Advent season. These 3-4 minute daily meditations will release Monday-Friday until Christmas Day and coincide with our Sunday sermon series. Go to http://menlo.church/meditations Find a sermon-based study guide for this week here: http://menlo.church/studygiude121221

In today's message, we explore a traditional Advent theme: Hope. At Christmastime, we celebrate that with Jesus's birth, he brought light to our weary world. He also brought a vision for a different kind of life, a vision that continues to bring hope to each of us. Ask God to show you areas in your life where you’ve lost vision and need more hope. As you become aware of those areas, ask him to bring his light so you can cultivate hope. This holiday season, we are filled with joy to come together as a church family! We’ll sing along to modern Christmas carols, enjoy hot cocoa with treats, and hear an inspiring message on how we can experience peace this Christmas. Get service times and all other details at our website http://menlo.church In this advent season, it is so important to start our day focused on Jesus. Join us for Season 2 of our Menlo Meditations podcast as we journey through the Advent season. These 3-4 minute daily meditations will release Monday-Friday until Christmas Day and coincide with our Sunday sermon series. Go to http://menlo.church/meditations Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: menlo.church/studyguide12521  

Christmas is a splendid and wondrous thing. But what if we’re missing out on the best part? What if there was a shocking, knock-you-off-your-feet element to Christmas that could change our lives and even make you feel like you have more time? This weekend we begin the month-long journey towards Christmas day, and you won’t want to miss learning about the mindset that will change everything. This week, make an effort to ignore the bustle and change what you pay attention to. Intentionally make space for wonder and listen to the daily meditations we’ve prepared on the Menlo Meditations Podcast. Go to http://menlo.church/meditations to listen starting Monday November 29 Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: menlo.church/studyguide112821

Daily Meditations to anchor your mind in Jesus’ presence. Tune your mind to Christ each morning and find a better way to think, feel and live. Season two centers on journeying through the Advent season.

International Justice Mission founder and CEO Gary Haugen joins us to celebrate that Menlo Church has donated $1 million over 17 years to the global organization, which protects people in poverty from violence. For the past 24 years, International Justice Mission has fought human trafficking, uncovering civil rights abuses in Thailand, Ghana, Cambodia and beyond. This talk will be a true testimony of faith and generosity, and how those lead to joy. Join us to protect those living in poverty from violence. Sign up to connect with an IJM staff member to make this vision a reality: http://www.ijm.org/menlo Throughout November and December, join us to offer meals, support people in need, and help make wishes come true! There will be opportunities for all ages, skill levels, and interests. We can’t wait to build a strong community by serving together. Register here: http://menlo.church/serveyourcity This month, we invite you to give to our Thanksgiving Offering, which will support Serve Your City events and mission initiatives in the Bay Area throughout 2022. If you would like to ensure we can continue to support our neighbors in need in this next year, we invite you to give to the Thanksgiving Offering today. Visit our website http://menlo.church/give to partner with us this holiday season. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide112121

We all want to be generous but, as you know, it is harder than we think it should be. Generosity exposes your fears and hidden motivations. Through a parable about greed, Jesus reminds us that God will provide and invites us to be a part of blessing the world. Watch this week's sermon to explore how we can live the “life that is truly life.” Make a list of God’s provision in your life, ask friends to pray for you, and take one intentional step of generosity and see how he meets you. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: menlo.church/studyguide111421

This week we discuss how to reject our consumer culture and have lasting contentment by becoming generous right now, not later. We explore the knowledge that we are content only when we view what we have as a gift from God, including our background, abilities, and current circumstances. To experience contentment, we delve into the importance of thanking God for gifts, rather than thinking "I deserve this and more.” As you look at the relative abundance of your life, what would make you more content and more able to joyously share God’s blessings with others? Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: menlo.church/studyguide11721

Who are you becoming? We’re all becoming something. For example, doctors don’t finish their residency and stop changing; they either become better and more specialized, or perhaps lose focus and backslide. Similarly, spiritual formation is the path to your truest self. This week, we explore practical steps to enter the process of becoming our truest selves. Set an alarm to help you remember that God is doing something in every ordinary moment of your day. When the alarm goes off, pause for 5 seconds to say, "Thank you God for being here, in this moment."

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.” Christians are often portrayed as anti-science or the enemy of culture. This week, we explore how the church practices loving God with all our mind, and how this can put us at odds with culture and society.   Discussion Questions: * What word came to mind when you heard Francis Collins' story? Is there an attribute that struck you in his integration of faith and the mind? * What point of tension do you feel between "the Christian mind" and our culture? What would improve your next discussion of that tension? * The life of the mind is rooted in Scripture. As you think of how you read the Bible, is it: daily with a plan; occasionally with a group; rarely or never; or a good idea that you don’t have time for?   Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide102421 Join one of our Facebook groups: http://facebook.com/menlochurch/groups  

The world is for winners: those who achieve, perform, and climb the ladder of success. But who is the church for? This week, we dive into a story that Jesus told, and we discuss what kind of people should be most valued at our church. Do you have a friend or group that you can be totally authentic with? If not, commit to finding at least one person to share your burdens with. Let this person see the messes in your life. Download our new Menlo Church app: http://menlo.church/app

As we look forward after a year like no other, in this talk we will kick off a series when we affirm Menlo Church's foundational values. We'll look to Menlo’s past and at God’s faithfulness to explore who we have been and who we continue to be as a church community. Specifically, this week we'll dive into what it means to be a Jesus Church. This week, consider what feels life-giving about your faith right now. Also, read Luke 4, and as you hear Jesus proclaim his mission, think about which element met you emotionally. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: menlo.church/studyguide101021 Volunteer with our Online Campus: http://menlo.church/connectcard

In the land between disaster and redemption, we often point at things that are wrong, unjust, or imperfect and we say, “someone should do something about that.” What if that someone is you? This week, we examine the challenges that God invites you to meet head-on. For his entire life, Joshua could rely on Moses to lead the Israelites and solve their problems. But after Moses died, the vision was still not realized, the Israelites were not in the promised land, and someone should do something about that. What is an opportunity or decision that you feel God is calling you to, but you keep waiting for someone else to handle it? This week, open your hands and surrender this opportunity to God, trusting that he will supply the courage and power. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: menlo.church/studyguide100321

As the Israelites discovered in the desert between slavery and the Promised Land, God's provision often looks different from what we expect. This week, we discuss the transformative power of letting go and looking for God's assistance. Recall a time when God provided, and thank him. Identify areas of your life where you may be demanding Twinkies at the gas station instead of accepting the nourishing manna God offers. Ask yourself if you really trust God to guide you, and if not, pray for help trusting him. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: menlo.church/studyguide92621

The longer we stay stuck in a rut between disaster and transformation, the easier it is to complain. When the Israelites wandered in the wilderness, despite some grumbling, God offered his presence and guidance during the crisis. This week, we examine the attitude of our complaints, and how God still graciously invites us into relationship with himself to guide us through. Ask God for eyes to see his loving presence in areas where it feels easy to complain. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: menlo.church/studyguide91921  

Our faith changes most in times between disaster and realignment with "the Promised Land." This week, we discuss how God's presence develops the hope and endurance that propel us on our journey of faith. Locate yourself spiritually; do you feel in the midst of crisis (Egypt) or happy and stable (the Promised Land)? In your "Land Between," what are your places of biggest strain, where you pray God will help? Can you recall times when God already proved faithful, or when he transformed your expectations? Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: menlo.church/studyguide91221

How does being a Jesus Church impact how we live? What does a Jesus Church do? This week, we examine Jesus's invitation to make him the cornerstone of our church and personal identities. Read a passage about Jesus and emulate his behavior in a problem you're facing. Towards the end of this message, Cheryl reads through Colossians 1:15-20. Read along here: http://menlo.church/scripturecard Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide09521 Menlo Labs are fun, interactive gatherings designed to help us investigate and grow in our understanding of God and his guidance by examining a variety of important topics. Go to http://menlo.church/labs to get all the details and register!

What happens when the church goes wrong? What tools does Jesus give us to process wrongdoing? In week three of our Jesus Church series, we tackle the mystery and the mess of church and how to rededicate ourselves to Jesus. Menlo Labs are fun, interactive gatherings designed to help us investigate and grow in our understanding of God and his guidance by examining a variety of important topics. Go to http://menlo.church/labs to get all the details and register! Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide82921 Volunteer with our Online Campus: http://menlo.church/connectcard  

Who is the church? Is it the building, the people, or the values? In week two of our series, Jesus Church, we discuss the power of belonging. We all crave acceptance, but how does a faith community provide that? Join us as we explore what it means to be a Jesus Church, accept God's invitation, and allow people to belong before they believe. Offer yourself in worship to God or service to one another. This is core to being a faith community. Menlo Labs are fun, interactive gatherings designed to help us investigate and grow in our understanding of God and his guidance by examining a variety of important topics. Go to http://menlo.church/labs to get all the details and register! Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: menlo.church/studyguide82221

There are many kinds of churches, but Menlo Church is determined to be a Jesus church. In this talk we'll explore what that means. Some questions we'll tackle include: Some people say that Christianity is retreating and that church is a mess, so how do we overcome any mess and find the purpose and value? What does Jesus offer when I go to church? Gather with us as we delve into these questions in the first week of the sermon series on what it means to be a Jesus Church! Come to church four weeks in a row for the whole series! Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: menlo.church/studyguide81521

The divide between generations can seem impossible to bridge: different lifestyles, different ways of speaking, different approaches to faith. This week, we discuss how to bridge this divide and become givers. To pass down the faith, we need the older generation’s wisdom and empathy. To respect and learn, we need the younger generation’s honor and trust. Choose something to give to another generation. Give honor to those who have led or inspired you. Give time to a younger person by mentoring them. Give empathy by taking someone to coffee and listening to their struggles. Keeping our congregation informed about our Senior Pastor Search: https://menlo.church/news/senior-pastor-search Come spend time with your ministry team, learn the ways to volunteer and hear our vision for the year at our Volunteer Kickoff: https://menlo.church/volunteer-kickoff Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: menlo.church/studyguide8821

Proverbs asks us to learn from one another, rather than go it alone. In this talk, as we finish our Life Hacks series on wisdom, Pastor John Crosby examines the power of counsel and how to discern who to trust to give godly advice. Take some time to think about who you lean into for wisdom and counsel. Is there an area of your life that you need others' insight and encouragement to live a life pleasing to God? Also consider if there is an area where you resist counsel and make an effort to break down those barriers.

The book of Proverbs offers guidance for good living, but we also need to consider what motivates our morality and think about how to define what is good. In this message, we explore what wisdom looks like in our actions, as well as what the difference is between being right and being righteous. This week take some time to be mindful that righteousness is more than a principle. Remember that when we follow God, we give the world a glimpse of goodness. What tangible thing can you do this week that is a reflection of God's goodness? Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide71821

Work demands so much of our time and energy that we may begin to define ourselves by it. In an era driven by productivity and efficiency, what can we learn from the ancient wisdom of Proverbs? Together we’ll explore the intent of the text and confront the hard questions: is work a blessing or a curse? Do we have self-worth that is separate from our net worth? How can we practice a healthy work/life balance in a world of perpetual workloads? Join us as we define divine partnership in our work and spiritual lives, and what it means to invest in our souls. There is a purpose outside of profession, but we only see it when we apply wisdom to our work. How can you work to not become indifferent or idolatrous, but rather to be ready, resourceful, reputable, and risky? Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide71121

The ways of the world appear to be right, logical, and life-giving but often are actually destructive. Paradoxically, the way of Jesus appears to be hard, confusing, and counter cultural. But this way leads to a full life. This week, we explore these paradoxes and how to follow Jesus for a flourishing life. What is one area of your life you can surrender to experience the full life of Jesus? Maybe you need to delay a pleasure or gratification you indulge in. Do you need to step off the performance ladder and engage in service of others? Or maybe you stop the desire to accumulate “likes” from a big audience and invest in some gritty, authentic relationships. Reflect on this area of your life and take steps to surrender it to Jesus. We’re so excited to announce Menlo Kids will return to onsite programming on July 18! Now, we'll have three ongoing and engaging ways you can be a part of Menlo Kids: Menlo Kids Onsite, Menlo Kids Online, and Menlo Kids On-Demand. There is something for everyone! Head to http://menlo.church/kids for all the details. Find a sermon-based study guide for this week: http://menlo.church/studyguide7421

In this message, we explore the choices we make in our search for truth and wisdom and the difference that will make in our lives. Each of us has the choice to be on a path of arrogance and pride, or we can humble ourselves before the wisdom of God. When we come to know God more intimately, we choose the wisdom of God, which we see expressed most wonderfully in Jesus. This week, intentionally come before God in humility and listen to the voice of God in our lives. Pay special attention to times when you are trying to be in the driver's seat and, instead, read the Bible to access the wisdom of God.

The desire to "guard your heart" is one that many of us have felt at one time or another. But only God can preserve life at its core, so in this talk we explore how following Jesus is the answer to a hurting world. Make the effort to live 'life in all its fullness' in a hard moment this week. The more you practice that, the more you can live this way in hard seasons and in good times.

In this talk, we'll explore how words have the potential to either cause damage or bring healing. We'll also think about what it means to be a community that uses the power of words to transform those near to us for good. Take time this week to put the idea "words matter" into action. Set aside 15 minutes a day to experience the healing power of God’s word by meditating on Scripture. In addition, spread good by doing something as simple as sending a friend a text of affirmation and encouragement.

In this talk, we'll explore the difference between being the smartest person in the room and the wisest one. We'll look to how God’s word in Proverbs can make us wiser--in ways that can change our entire lives. Join us as we introduce the power of a brief saying that can transform our character to be more like Jesus. Listen to our newly launched Menlo Meditations podcast every day this week to spend 2 to 3 minutes reflecting on this week's Proverb. Find it wherever you listen to podcasts. We are excited to be returning onsite and are striving to keep you and your loved ones safe. Go to http://menlo.church/WelcomeBack to get all the details you need for our onsite return.

The message of Jesus is for all people at all times, so how can Menlo Church be a church that is FOR the next generation in the same way that Jesus is for us? Especially since studies have found that 54 percent of Gen Z thinks church is unimportant. This week, we explore how we can start by practicing empathy to learn about the next generation and how Jesus meets them where they are. This week, commit to praying for one kid or student in their life every day

What happens when new scientific research meets traditional Christian doctrine? How should we think about the relationship between faith and science? How does the big bang theory fit within Genesis 1? What does quantum mechanics have to do with predestination and the omniscience of God? How does the anthropic principle square with a biblical notion of a designed and purposeful universe? To answer these big questions, we look to the lives and work of theologians and scientists throughout the centuries. They give us examples of how to be an intellectual devoted to both science and Christian faith, showing us that no contradiction exists between them when the truth is genuinely sought. We invite you to read and meditate on Psalm 19 this week asking God to reveal himself to you through his word and creation. Find a discussion guide for groups here: http://menlo.church/studyguide52321

Summary of sermon: Do we live in an era of fake news? Are conspiracy theories on the rise? If so, what should followers of Jesus do about it? How can you be a humble follower of Jesus in a "post-truth" world? This week, we’re going there... we're going to tackle these huge topics and more. Next Steps: Pray Psalm 139:23-24 each day this week. Join Transitional Pastor John Crosby at a community gathering on Zoom. He will share updates about the Senior Pastor search, Supplemental Investigation, and returning to campus, followed by a time for questions: http://menlo.church/chatswithcrosby Join us for our first Menlo Book Club! We'll read a book together, have conversations, and take next steps toward racial reconciliation: http://menlo.church/book-club  

This week, reconciliation thought leader and author, Brenda Salter McNeil, invites us to join other Christians on the journey toward racial reconciliation. McNeil explores biblical stories to help us question what we think we know about those who are different than us. And she clarifies that the movement of racial justice and reconciliation is God's movement. The week of May 17, we are launching the Menlo Book Club! Together we will read Roadmap to Reconciliation 2.0 by Dr. Brenda Salter McNeil, which will help us move from learning and having conversations about reconciliation to taking action. We hope you will join us in this important step as a church. Go to http://menlo.church/bookclub for details and to register. Resources: Racial Justice: https://menlo.church/racialjustice Menlo Book Club: http://menlo.church/bookclub Menlo Midweek: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_Fgqv0wpT8sq2jSivdTScJ_TCGfaNCSp

How do you to engage in culture? Specifically, as a Christian, how do you decide when and how to engage with tough public issues? As you know, as soon as you start engaging in conversation, it usually is interpreted partisan and political--and certainly not as biblical. In this talk, we'll explore four Christian responses to culture and how that impacts your world view. Yes, you read that correctly. We are talking about politics! Join us as we launch this first of four conversations about taboo topics--topics that everyone is thinking about but no one is talking about (the elephant in the room!). Consider what sort of leader Jesus wants you to be, what sort of leader you wish to follow, and ask yourself whether your answers speak to your ultimate identity as a follower of Jesus. Challenge yourself to push yourself to respond to culture from a different "box". AND, keep an eye out for a Menlo Midweek video on social media and YouTube this week when John Crosby will take a deeper dive into this topic with his daughter, who works in politics in D.C..

What if one of the keys to joy is available to you right now, but you don’t realize it? God gave us an ancient, mysterious, and magical practice that integrates our emotions, bodies, and souls. Wondering what this practice is? Drum roll... It is singing! In this talk, we explore how singing is something God’s people have done for centuries as a way to express joy in every circumstance. This week, allow your heart to sing for joy as you remember all that God has done. Then dig into your playlist or record collection and play a favorite tune or two or three--and sing out loud in the name of all that you are grateful for.

In the early church. believers were in the minority, so they faced enormous pressure on their faith and in their lives, not unlike what we face each day. In this talk, we explore how they handled that pressure and how they approached the call to have peace in the midst of impossible circumstances. We explore how to be led by the spirit, so we can grow in our relationship with God and receive the gift of peace and contentment. In the early church. believers were in the minority, so they faced enormous pressure on their faith and in their lives, not unlike what we face each day. In this talk, we explore how they handled that pressure and how they approached the call to have peace in the midst of impossible circumstances. We explore how to be led by the spirit, so we can grow in our relationship with God and receive the gift of peace and contentment. This week, how can you choose to be spirit-controlled instead of self-controlled? Take time to reflect on a time in your life when you may have been self-controlled. Then consider how you can lean into the spirit in the future.

Why is there so much suffering when God is all powerful and good? And how do we to chase joy in the midst of suffering? Today we consider what the Bible has to say about the co-existence of suffering and joy, and we’ll hear the story of a member of our Menlo Family who has experienced both. We’ll also hear practical ways to respond to suffering and chase joy. Take a moment this week to grieve something that has caused you to suffer, while also focusing on something in your life that helps you experience the joy that Jesus offers.

Experience great music, an inspiring message, and discover the joy that Easter morning brings! We will examine where fear and anxieties have crept into our lives and explore how to replace them with God's promise of joy and abundant life. Easter will kick off a new series of messages we're calling, “Chasing Joy!” Come to the next series, Chasing Joy, and be filled with joy in April.

Many of us are desperate for guidance and direction. Our lives are confusing and complex and we long to hear from God. The good news is that God still speaks. He longs to speak to our souls. But often his voice comes through whispers. If we want to hear the whispers of God, we have to step out of the whirlwind of noise. Practice Silence and Solitude. Let go of the addiction to noise. Leave the chaos of society.

What if you’re living the wrong story? What if day in, day out, you work and work to prove yourself, but proving yourself was never the point? What if? Let's imagine an alternative to looking around to size up your worth. Together, let's explore the idea of unsubscribing from comparison. This week, we invite you to go to our YouTube channel and watch our Menlo Midweek video when we will take a quick deep dive into next steps for unsubscribing from comparison: http://youtube.com/menlochurch  

Religious leaders in Jesus's day were more concerned about conformity and reputation than with reaching out to those who were far from God. But Jesus and his followers prioritized saving spiritual lives over "looking religiously obedient." This, of course, put Jesus on a collision course that led to him being nailed to the cross--which ultimately led to the promise of the empty grave. Take a moment to assess your favorite worship style or service. Then think through what both the most meaningful elements are to you and why and where worship feels out of place for you.

"Just a little bit more.” Those five short words often seem to sum up our culture and our endless pursuit of enough. Jesus, however, invites us to turn from this pursuit for more to a life of enough in him. In this talk, we will look at the practice of simplicity and ask how we can become people who first seek God’s kingdom while letting go of things that distract us from it. Look at your time and possessions and ask, “What can I remove today in order to create more space for the things Jesus values?”

Most of us are on the go constantly. It's easy to say yes to too many things and life easily gets overwhelming before we know it. Join us as we explore how Jesus offers a way of life that includes surrender and trust—offering us a way to enjoy our life in this world, as well as all of the work we accomplish with his help. Practice Sabbath. Schedule a day of rest so you can be renewed by life-giving time with God.

The average iPhone user touches their phone 2,617 times…a day! We obviously have a problem. We’re distracted--but we also long to be present with God and others. Join us as we unpack some practical ways to get present with those you love and the God you love. Each week in this sermon series, we’ll invite you to UNSUBSCRIBE from something that’s pulling you away from Jesus ---- and we’ll give you a spiritual practice to help you FOCUS on something that brings you closer to Jesus. Go to our website for resources: https://menlo.church/lent  

Generosity is one characteristic of a faith-filled life, but it is often lost in our focus to accumulate. This week we explore how Job's tough life shows how generosity is spiritually formative regardless of our circumstances. Think about one area of your life where you feel as though your generosity legacy is strongest, as well as an area of your life (giving, service, expressing kindness, passion for justice) where you would not currently be described as generous. What's one small step you can take to establish a legacy in the area where you can grow in generosity?

Do you want your important relationships to grow during this strange season, when people who you love are driving you nuts? Join us for this talk as San Mateo Campus Pastor Matt Stephan shares Bible-based, scientifically backed ways to make relationships grow. We invite you to put Jesus in charge of your life today. Take a few moments to ask Jesus for help. Tell Jesus that you want to put him in charge. If you’re asking for the help of Jesus for the first time, we’d love to partner with on your journey—to support you in whatever way we can. Whether you’re watching live right now or later in the week, lets be in this together. If you’re viewing live on our online platform, click ‘request prayer’ to speak with someone now or text Garden to 94000 to pray with someone this week.

Globally, nationally, and in our own homes it feels like we are experiencing more and more conflict. As Jesus-followers, how do we balance grace and truth in our everyday lives? How do we respond when we've been wounded by another? In this sermon we explore how to respond to conflict and pay attention to what God wants to teach us in the pain of disagreement. Identify a broken relationship in your world (think of someone you'd probably avoid) and think about how might you bless them, even if you stay disconnected? Consider what part of this relationship is your responsibility (as Paul says, "as far as it is up to you," so it's not all up to you).

The common-denominator in all of our relationships is us. We bring our “stuff” – impatience, pride, fear, selfishness and more. We want to change, but how do we change? And how does God help us? In this talk, we explore what the Bible says about change and how God helps us not stay stuck in our stuff. This week pursue community with people who desire change and are pursuing Jesus. Need some direction? At Menlo you can join a Life Groups or ask to have one of our trained Stephen Ministers walk beside you in a time of pain.

You can be attractive, successful, wealthy, and smart, but if you have unhealthy, broken relationships in your life, life will feel more like a drain and a mess. But what exactly do healthy relationships look like? Contrary to what many people think, they are not defined by a lack of conflict. Rather, they are defined by the ability to manage, address, and resolve conflict. In this talk, we explore how to manage, address, and resolve conflict so that you can live a life of happiness and joy. This week, be intentional about conflict and choose to have "a good fight" in a relationship that you would like to have deeper connection and greater intimacy.

Life is full of unexpected circumstances and events. Job loss, breakups, betrayals, and pandemics. These twists and turns of life are not what we ask for or expect. How we respond to these moments is the key to a flourishing and healthy life. We can respond by getting bitter and cynical or we can respond by releasing our expectations, and embracing how God wants to form us in the unexpected moments. Let 2021 be the year you release your expectations and expect the unexpected, believing that God wants to use these twists and turns of life to make you stronger and more resilient.  

Do you ever think life wasn’t supposed to be this way? What’s left when disappointment hits our dreams? Whether a relationship, a job, a living situation, or our faith in the goodness of God, life can feel like it's gone off course. In this talk, Rev. Crosby explores one of his favorite Bible Stories, a story filled with “it wasn’t supposed to be this way” people. Watch this for a different view of whether you’re living the life that was planned or you're embarking on a new direction, a “Plan B Life”. What might be a positive ‘next step’ in your relationship with God? Christmas is a time to celebrate God coming to be with us! This year, we have two online Christmas services, and we hope you will celebrate Christmas with us at one or both of these online services. Go to http://menlo.church to learn more and find digital invitations which you can send to your friends and let them know when you will be watching!

We often confuse happiness with joy. Happiness is situational, and dependent on outside circumstances. Joy, on the other hand, is a deep and pervasive sense of well-being and care, regardless of the circumstances. In this sermon, we explore where joy comes from and how we can have joy in any season because God is with me. Practice being present with God, realizing that this moment is a gift, that God is near, and his goodness and love follow you. Christmas is a time to celebrate God coming to be with us! This year, we have two online Christmas services, and we hope you will celebrate Christmas with us at one or both of these online services. Go to http://menlo.church to learn more and find digital invitations which you can send to your friends and let them know when you will be watching! Do you want to give to those in need? Throughout November and December, we are partnering with local organizations to offer serving opportunities that adults and kids of all ages can safely do together. Learn more and sign up online at http://menlo.church/serveyourcity To watch with us live on Sundays at 8:30, 10 and 11:30am PST, head to http://menlo.online.church We would love to get to know you better and help you get connected with Menlo Church. Text “MenloNext” to 84576 Get connected through Life Groups: http://menlo.church/groups Thank you for your continued generosity: http://www.menlo.church/give Connect with us by joining one of our Facebook Groups at https://www.facebook.com/menlochurch/groups Join today so you can jump into one of the conversations that are going on all week. Head on over now so we can encourage you, pray for you, and walk alongside you. If you need resources to help meet the hardships and challenges that are arising due to the COVID-19 crisis: https://menlo.church/care-and-support-during-covid-19 Send us your prayer requests: https://menlo.church/prayer-requests-online For racial justice resources and next steps, go to http://menlo.church/racialjustice Kids (preschool through grade 5): https://menlo.church/menlo-kids Students (grade 6-12): https://menlo.church/students Website: http://www.menlo.church Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/menlo.church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/menlochurch

This week we delve into the feeling of being lost. In a year that feels like "The Year of the Lost" for so many of us, we will use the story of how the Good Shepherd left the 99 to go find the one lost sheep. Through this story, we will explore how the Christmas story is the announcement of God's Rescue Operation to bring home all his lost sheep. Please join us for our online services for Christmas this year! And even though we will be watching digitally, you can invite your friends and family to join you. Go to our website http://menlo.church to find digital invitations, which you can send to your friends and let them know when you will be watching! Christmas is a time to celebrate God coming to be with us! This year, we have two online Christmas services, and we hope you will celebrate Christmas with us at one or both of these online services. Go to http://menlo.church to learn more and find digital invitations which you can send to your friends and let them know when you will be watching!

Why do we sing about peace at Christmas? Why do angels sing with joy? In an anxious world, there is a secret to life that can empower you to live unafraid. We invite you to watch this message and celebrate this Christmas truth: The good shepherd is with us. This sermon is woven in segments throughout the service, combined with worship music. This week, practice turning your mind to Jesus and acknowledging that he is with you, whatever you may be doing. Weekend Setlist: • House of God Forever - Jon Foreman • God With Us - All Sons and Daughters • O Come, O Come Emmanuel - Kim Walker-Smith • Hosanna - Hillsong • God I Look To You - Bethel • Hark - Hillsong Peace Project Do you want to give to those in need? Throughout November and December, we are partnering with local organizations to offer serving opportunities that adults and kids of all ages can safely do together. Learn more and sign up online at http://menlo.church/serveyourcity To watch with us live on Sundays at 8:30, 10 and 11:30am PST, head to http://menlo.online.church We would love to get to know you better and help you get connected with Menlo Church. Text “MenloNext” to 84576 Get connected through Life Groups: http://menlo.church/groups Thank you for your continued generosity: http://www.menlo.church/give Connect with us by joining one of our Facebook Groups at https://www.facebook.com/menlochurch/groups Join today so you can jump into one of the conversations that are going on all week. Head on over now so we can encourage you, pray for you, and walk alongside you. If you need resources to help meet the hardships and challenges that are arising due to the COVID-19 crisis: https://menlo.church/care-and-support-during-covid-19 Send us your prayer requests: https://menlo.church/prayer-requests-online For racial justice resources and next steps, go to http://menlo.church/racialjustice Kids (preschool through grade 5): https://menlo.church/menlo-kids Students (grade 6-12): https://menlo.church/students Website: http://www.menlo.church Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/menlo.church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/menlochurch --- Musicbed Sync ID: (MB014RCECFXJCWL) Musicbed Sync ID: (MB01EKBUICB4NLC)

Do you ever wonder what’s at the core of being a Christian Are Christians people who believe? Are Christians the people who behave a certain way? Spoiler alert: the answer to both of those questions is no. In this message, we explore what really makes a Christian. This week, think of someone you know who needs to experience the grace that God has shown you.

As we wrap up our study of Acts, we are living proof later that the church is unstoppable. Two thousand years later, we are part of the greatest human movement in history. So what's next? Watch this message to explore how we can continue the work of spreading the good news of God’s grace to the ends of the earth. To grow in your relationship with Jesus and help lead this movement, pick one thing that challenges you this week: share your faith with someone, give your time or money to a good cause, or care for someone in need. Do you want to give to those in need? Throughout November and December, we are partnering with local organizations to offer serving opportunities that adults and kids of all ages can safely do together. Learn more and sign up online at http://menlo.church/serveyourcity To watch with us live on Sundays at 8:30, 10 and 11:30am PST, head to http://menlo.online.church We would love to get to know you better and help you get connected with Menlo Church. Text “MenloNext” to 84576

As the first church began to grow and include people from different backgrounds, the early disciples had to confront their own thinking and see that God’s grace was available to anyone and everyone. Through honest discussions and prayer, the disciples learned what it would take to be a radically inclusive community. Today, we explore the idea that the church doesn’t exist for itself, but for others. Think about who you can you offer radical acceptance to in your everyday life. And, this week, make the effort to extend a welcome to someone outside your circle.

Regardless of who won or lost the election, the church wins or loses based on how followers of Jesus love others. For Christians, it's not ultimately about who's in leadership, it's about who we ultimately follow. It's about discipleship and apprenticeship to Jesus. In this talk, we explore how we are called to love others, even in these divided times. Who do you need to show kindness to today? Who can you show radical acceptance to this week? We invite you to pray about who you want to be a blessing to this week and that each of us will be a blessing to our neighbors.

Most of us want to be a part of something big and great. We want to be a part of a group that is on mission—changing the world for the better. We want to make a difference. The problem is, to pursue a mission, we have to set our egos aside. The first church shows us how to lay down our egos for the sake of the mission, serving others instead of serving ourselves. Do you want to give to those in need? Throughout November and December, we are partnering with local organizations to offer serving opportunities that adults and kids of all ages can safely do together. Learn more and sign up online at http://menlo.church/serveyourcity

There is something in our world that feels normal – but it really might kill you. Join us as we study one of the weirdest, most mysterious, and ultimately most gracious passages in all of the Bible. To watch with us live on Sundays at 8:30, 10 and 11:30am PST, head to http://menlo.online.church We would love to get to know you better and help you get connected with Menlo Church. Text “MenloNext” to 84576 Get connected through Life Groups: http://menlo.church/groups Thank you for your continued generosity: http://www.menlo.church/give Connect with us by joining one of our Facebook Groups at https://www.facebook.com/menlochurch/groups Join today so you can jump into one of the conversations that are going on all week. Head on over now so we can encourage you, pray for you, and walk alongside you. If you need resources to help meet the hardships and challenges that are arising due to the COVID-19 crisis: https://menlo.church/care-and-support-during-covid-19 Send us your prayer requests: https://menlo.church/prayer-requests-online For racial justice resources and next steps, go to: http://menlo.church/racialjustice

What if you learned something about prayer so deep and so challenging that it changed everything about the way you pray? Join us for week four of our study of the first church to learn what was special about the way that they prayed! Join us in 90 days of prayer and fasting. Find out how you can do that on our website at http://menlo.church/prayer-and-fasting To watch with us live on Sundays at 8:30, 10 and 11:30am PST, head to http://menlo.online.church We would love to get to know you better and help you get connected with Menlo Church. Text “MenloNext” to 84576 Get connected through Life Groups: http://menlo.church/groups Thank you for your continued generosity: http://www.menlo.church/give Connect with us by joining one of our Facebook Groups at https://www.facebook.com/menlochurch/groups Join today so you can jump into one of the conversations that are going on all week. Head on over now so we can encourage you, pray for you, and walk alongside you. If you need resources to help meet the hardships and challenges that are arising due to the COVID-19 crisis: https://menlo.church/care-and-support-during-covid-19 Send us your prayer requests: https://menlo.church/prayer-requests-online For racial justice resources and next steps, go to: http://menlo.church/racialjustice    

God's plan for bringing his Kingdom here on earth is the Church; a community of imperfect people gathered together to spur one another on toward love and good deeds. In today's message, we'll unpack a few verses from Acts 2 that describe a world-transforming community. The mission of Menlo Church is to help people find and follow Jesus and we believe that happens best in a group. During this time of shelter in place, Life Groups are still meeting virtually. We'd love to help you get connected! Join a Life group here: http://menlo.church/groups Connect with us by joining one of our Facebook Groups at https://www.facebook.com/menlochurch/groups Join today so you can jump into one of the conversations that are going on all week. Head on over now so we can encourage you, pray for you, and walk alongside you.

Welcome to Menlo Church. This weekend we continue a journey through the very first church in the book of Acts. Could you use some good news right now? It turns out that is what the word "gospel" means. We think of it as a churchy word, but in biblical times it was a word used outside the church to communicate "life-altering good news." In this sermon, we explore how the first church was committed to this message and when they put first things first, their gospel was top priority. Baptisms: We have baptisms coming up! (Yes, even in this time of social distancing and digital church.) After all, now more than ever, we need the opportunity to proclaim that God chose you, loves you, and calls you into his kingdom. So, if you are ready to take that next step, go to our website to learn more. http://menlo.church/baptism Prayer & Fasting: If you’d like to be part of our community's healing and join us in 90 days of prayer and fasting, find out how you can do that on our website at : http://menlo.church/prayerandfasting

Welcome to Menlo Church. This weekend we continue a journey through the very first church in the book of Acts. Have you ever wondered, “How do I find my purpose in life?” In this week’s sermon we consider that God has a purpose for each of us. We explore the God-given and God-empowered purpose for his church and his followers. This is not a purpose accomplished by striving and performing but by living in our identity as children of God. Join us in prayers for our community and church! Today we begin fasting and 90 days of prayer. For more information, to sign up for fasting, for a Zoom link to weekly prayer, and for a weekly prayer guide, go to our website: http://menlo.church/prayerandfasting

We’re in a year of chaos and living under the weight of isolation, racial unrest, the pandemic, and ongoing weariness. How can the church be an expression of God’s heart of love, justice, mercy, and missional purpose in these times? Join us as we kick off a series seeking to answer those questions by taking a journey through the Book of Acts and looking at the very first church. In this first talk in the series, we will explore who God is and what role prayer played in the first church (hint: It’s not the only thing they did, but it is one of the first things—and they did it a lot!) What we put first determines how we work, parent, and handle our money and our time. Our priorities shape who we are and what we do. Join us as we explore the role of prayer in our modern day lives and church, looking through the lens of the past. Join us in prayers for our community and church! Starting September 27 we begin fasting and 90 days of prayer. For more information, to sign up for fasting, for a Zoom link to weekly prayer, and for a weekly prayer guide, go to our website: http://menlo.church/prayerandfasting

What is your role in the church? In this talk, we explore how God wants everybody to play their part in the community, especially in the church. In our culture, people overwhelmingly are on a quest for autonomy, to be free to do what they want, when they want to. While this may seem like a noble desire, it is an empty destination. Fulfillment is not found in isolation, but is found when you are an integral and important part of what God is doing in the church. God promises that you will find your purpose in life and fulfillment in life when you find your role in the body of Christ. Do you want to be a part of what God is doing in the church? We want to hear from you! http://menlo.church/serveinthechurch - the Formstack will go to Taylor K and she will pass along to each campus Connections person. The form is very generic so this is a blanket "I want to serve" and it is our job to help them figure out where.

We can feel disconnected, lonely, and misunderstood in the best of times, let alone during shelter in place. How do we lean into community when we are weary, zoom-fatigued, isolated and wearing masks? In this message we discover how communing with Jesus changes how and why we commune with others. We discover the power of community and that God’s grace toward us helps us in practical ways. If you feel disconnected or lonely, we have a 7-day devotional made just for you. Go to our website to find a daily guide to help you discover how communing with Jesus changes how and why we connect with others: http://menlo.church/Jesus (this is also the study guide for this sermon)

What is the most important thing about you? What do you value? What matters most? Who are you? In this message, we tackle these big question about us as individuals, and about Menlo as a church. It turns out, whatever you value most, that’s what you organize your life around. Join us as we learn to organize our lives around Jesus.

Are you in a tough situation? Feeling lost, alone, or living in a storm? This week we explore how Jesus is more than enough, regardless of the situation you are in. We delve into how God invites us to participate with him in the work he is doing and when we do what only we can do—and trust God to do what only he can do—miracles happen. To explore this, we go through the Bible’s story of Jesus feeding five thousand.

This weekend Eugene Lee, our Executive Pastor, speaks to our church family about our current state as a church. He also addresses how we navigate the days ahead, and why it’s important to keep our eyes on Jesus.

This weekend, Pastor John Ortberg will share his farewell message.

This week we continue our series, “I Love You, But You’re Driving Me Nuts” and talk about the two main issues that trip us up in our relationships—“Saying or doing things we shouldn’t” and “NOT saying or doing things that we should.” If we are willing to examine them, each of these relationship issues can also be tools to reveal what is really in our heart.

Thanks for joining us as we are kicking off our series "I Love You But You Are Driving Me Nuts"! Matt Stephan, our San Mateo Campus Pastor, will be helping us take steps towards having healthy relationships and living in community.

Today we hear a message from guest speaker Rev. Eugene Cho. Eugene Cho is a Pastor, President and CEO of Bread for the World and Bread Institute, Founder of One Day’s Wages, and author of his newest book, Thou Shalt Not Be a Jerk: A Christian’s Guide to Engaging Politics.

God calls us to love, care for, and value every generation as a part of the family, as we seek to be an intergenerational faith community. In this service, we get to celebrate what God is doing in the lives of young people at our church, and hear about how God is calling us to show up for the next generation in this season.

In this message, we explore race, racism, the ministry of reconciliation, and that God only invented one race—the HUMAN race. God made people, nations, languages, and cultures, and all are one in Christ Jesus. Menlo Church senior pastor John Ortberg also points out that the Bible never condemns the sin of racism because it had not yet been invented. For resources and next steps, go to http://menlo.church/racialjustice

This sermon is a powerful, hopeful dialogue between John Ortberg, Hurmon Hamilton, from New Beginnings Community Church, and Gary Gaddini, from Peninsula Covenant Church. They discuss faith, race, and justice; they talk about how Jesus can be a model for engaging with those who are suffering; and you will discover how to operate as God’s agents right now. For resources and next steps, go to http://menlo.church/racialjustice

God’s Kingdom calls on us to grow our awareness and compassion for issues of social justice and anti-racism. In this conversation, John Ortberg converses with Efrem Smith (Co-Pastor at Bayside Church Midtown and Co-owner of Influential LLC) to help address racial injustice and the current state of our nation. For resources and next steps, go to http://menlo.church/racialjustice

God’s Kingdom calls on us to grow our awareness and compassion for issues of social justice and anti-racism. In this service, John Ortberg addresses racial injustice and the current state of our nation. For resources and next steps, go to http://menlo.church/racialjustice