Canyon Hills San Luis Obispo

This week’s sermon explored the life-changing power of Jesus Christ’s resurrection, emphasizing its relevance to our everyday struggles and sense of purpose. Drawing from John 20, the message revisited Mary Magdalene’s encounter with the risen Jesus and highlighted how that moment sparked a movement that transformed history. Listeners were challenged to reflect on what lies at the center of their lives and consider how inviting Jesus into that space can bring clarity, grace, and transformation.

In this message we look at the significance of Palm Sunday and the start of Holy Week. Discover how Jesus’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem on a donkey fulfilled ancient prophecy and symbolized His mission as the peaceful Messiah. As we explore Matthew 21:1-11, we’ll reflect on the crowd’s cries of “Hosanna” and the challenge of maintaining true commitment to Jesus beyond the excitement of the moment. In this message, we’ll explore key themes to guide us through Holy Week: Let’s walk together from the cries of “Hosanna” to the victory of the empty tomb, engaging deeply and intentionally with the life and mission of Jesus. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow in faith and understanding during this sacred time.

In this message on Daniel 10, the message explores Daniel’s persistent prayer life during a time of mourning and fasting. It emphasizes that delays in answered prayer are not denials but can be signs of spiritual warfare. Prayer is described as both communication and communion with God. Common hindrances to prayer include spiritual battles, unconfessed sin, unforgiveness, selfish motives, and lack of concern for others. Listeners are encouraged to remain vigilant in prayer, despite distractions, and to pursue a deeper relationship with God through confession and forgiveness. The message concludes with a reminder that while answers may not come when expected, God is always at work behind the scenes, and trusting His timing is essential.

This sermon explores Daniel’s powerful prayer after 66 years of exile, as he seeks understanding of Jeremiah’s prophecy about Israel’s 70-year captivity. At 84, Daniel prays with deep confession and humility, acknowledging both his sins and those of his people. His effectiveness in prayer stems from honesty, repentance, and a genuine relationship with God. The message also delves into the prophecies of Daniel 9, revealing their fulfillment in Jesus Christ’s sacrificial death. It highlights how His death provides redemption and reconciliation with God, emphasizing salvation through grace. The sermon concludes by illustrating the precise prophecy of Jesus’ death and resurrection, inviting listeners to embrace His transformative power for personal faith and eternal life.

This message highlights God's sovereignty in Daniel 8, showing how He orchestrates history, including the rise and fall of empires like Medo-Persia and Greece. It underscores the importance of humility, warning that pride leads to downfall—seen in the story of Antiochus IV, who opposed God and was ultimately defeated. The sermon also acknowledges the reality of persecution for believers, offering reassurance that God will triumph over evil. Rather than inspiring fear, prophecy should strengthen faithfulness. In closing, the message encourages trust in God's control and unwavering faith in uncertain times, reaffirming that He holds the final victory.

Pastor Rich unpacks the prophetic visions of Daniel 7, marking the shift from historical narrative to divine revelation. He urges the congregation to engage deeply—bringing Bibles and notebooks—to grasp the powerful symbolism of the four beasts, representing earthly empires, and the ominous "little horn," a foreshadowing of the Antichrist. Despite looming tribulations, he reassures that God’s sovereignty prevails, Christ’s kingdom is eternal, and ultimate victory is His. With a call to persevere in faith and fix our eyes on Christ’s return, Pastor Rich leaves the congregation inspired to stand firm, no matter the trials ahead.

In this weeks message, we discussed the well-known story of Daniel in the lion's den, emphasizing that while God can rescue us, it does not guarantee we will be spared from every trial. The message highlights four key characters: the jealous instigators, Daniel who exemplifies integrity, King Darius who values loyalty, and God’s sovereignty throughout the situation. Pastor Rich encourages the congregation to guard against jealousy, embrace integrity, and recognize the importance of loyalty in their relationships. Ultimately, the big idea presented is that God is in control, and we can trust in Him during both trials and triumphs.

Pastor Rich Shepherd explores the story of King Belshazzar from Daniel 5, emphasizing his pride and disregard for God's authority, which ultimately led to his downfall. During a lavish feast, Belshazzar desecrated sacred temple vessels, provoking God's judgment, symbolized by a mysterious writing on the wall that Daniel interprets as a warning of his impending doom. The message urges believers to remember past lessons, maintain a holy reverence for God, and reflect on the example they set for others. Ultimately, Pastor encourages the congregation to learn from failures and stay anchored in faith, as God's grace provides strength even in weakness.

In today’s episode, Pastor Rich takes us on a deep dive into Daniel chapter four, where we witness the dramatic downfall of King Nebuchadnezzar—a man consumed by pride. From a mighty ruler to living like a beast for seven years, his story is a powerful reminder of what happens when arrogance takes over. This message unpacks the dangers of pride, how it can damage our lives and relationships (including our connection with God), and why humility is the key to true wisdom. Tune in for an insightful discussion on recognizing God’s sovereignty and learning to trust Him fully.

Join us in this episode of Lions & Last Days as we explore the powerful story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from Daniel 3. Discover their unwavering faith in the face of Nebuchadnezzar’s fiery furnace and how their courage speaks to us today. We’ll discuss idolatry, trust in God, and practical ways to stand strong in life's challenges. Be inspired by their faithfulness and gain insights to persevere in your own trials. Tune in for encouragement and spiritual tools to overcome adversity!

No matter what’s happening in the world, one truth remains—God is in control! In this episode, Pastor Rich unpacks a powerful lesson from the Book of Daniel, where Daniel faces a life-threatening challenge with unwavering faith. Instead of panicking, he seeks God’s wisdom, gathers his friends to pray, and trusts in divine insight. Through the interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, we see the rise and fall of earthly kingdoms, but one thing is certain—God’s kingdom stands forever. Join us as Pastor Rich encourages us to lean into prayer, surround ourselves with wise companions, and trust God’s wisdom, especially in uncertain times.

Pastor Rich Shepherd begins a new series on the Book of Daniel, emphasizing that God is in control and that trusting Him leads to overcoming life's challenges. He explores how Daniel and his friends maintained their faith and holiness while facing trials in a foreign land, highlighting their commitment to God's Word despite pressures to conform. The pastor encourages the congregation to deepen their holiness and trust God amid uncertainties, illustrating how God's favor and wisdom guided Daniel's journey. Ultimately, the message emphasizes that through faith and obedience, God works all things for good, calling believers to draw closer to Him.

In this message, Pastor Fern talks about the passion and perseverance of the Thessalonian church, reflecting on how the Apostle Paul was motivated to spread the gospel out of love for Christ, not for mere quotas. He emphasizes three key actions for maintaining loyalty to the mission: striving to please God over people, nurturing new believers, and living in a way that is worthy of God. Pastor Fern stresses the importance of supporting and nurturing fellow believers, illustrating how our lives should serve as testimonies of our faith. Ultimately, he calls on everyone to live with intention in their spiritual walks, encouraging reflection on how we handle trials and how we impact those around us.

Today’s message, "When You Give," reflects on Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 6, emphasizing the importance of the heart’s motive in giving. It warns against seeking human recognition and encourages a sincere, personal approach to generosity. Practical steps include addressing selfishness, cultivating gratitude, and embracing tithing and offerings as acts of faith that advance God’s kingdom. The message ultimately highlights that true giving reflects our relationship with God and empowers the church to fulfill its mission.

In today's message, Pastor Rich continued the "Set Apart" mini-series, focusing on prayer from Matthew 6. He emphasized that prayer, fasting, and giving are vital to spiritual growth. In our time we highlighted prayer as heartfelt communication with God, built on trust and reliance—not just routine words. We outlined key elements of effective prayer, including honoring God, submitting to His will, seeking provision, extending forgiveness, and asking for protection. We’re encouraged making prayer a daily habit and engaging with God continually.

In week 1 of our new series, "Set Apart," we take a deep dive into the spiritual discipline of fasting, drawn from Matthew 6. Highlighting Jesus’ call to give, pray, and fast, we explore fasting as a powerful yet often neglected practice. While feasting is common, fasting is rare—only 17% of American Christians practice it. In this message, we unpack its biblical roots, clarify its purpose as a spiritual pursuit (not a diet or social media detox), and offer practical steps for starting a 21-day fast on January 6. Through personal stories and encouragement, this message inspires the congregation to embrace fasting as a pathway to spiritual renewal, a deeper connection with God, and answered prayer.

In concluding the Christmas series "The Nativity Experience," Pastor Rich highlights that true peace can only be found in Jesus, contrasting the popular notion of "Peace on Earth" with the reality that Jesus provides "On Earth Peace." This message explains that peace is a divine gift and introduces four major disruptors of peace: unavoidable circumstances, unbearable people, unexplainable problems, and uncontrollable worry. To activate God's peace, he emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus' lordship, inviting Him into every situation, and keeping one's focus on Him. Ultimately, genuine peace, resting in the midst of life's chaos, is attainable through faith in Jesus.

In today’s message, Pastor Rich highlights the shepherds’ humble yet vital role in the Christmas story, drawing a powerful connection to Jesus, the Good Shepherd, who came to lead and save humanity. He reminds us that what seems insignificant on earth is deeply valued in heaven and calls us to align our lives with God’s priorities. The message concludes with an inspiring challenge: to share the transformative power of Christ and stay open to His guidance, knowing we are all part of God’s greater story.

In today’s message, Pastor Rich reflects on Mary’s vital role in the Christmas story as part of "The Nativity Experience" series. He highlights that God chose Mary for her humility, purity, and unwavering trust in the supernatural. Mary, a humble woman from an unlikely place, faithfully honored God’s ways. Pastor Rich inspires the congregation to embrace humility, give thanks to God in advance for answered prayers, and persevere through challenges. He reminds us that true faith is shown through trust and obedience, even in the face of uncertainty. Above all, he offers reassurance that Jesus is always with us, turning the impossible into the possible.

In our new series, The Nativity Experience, we’ll explore the characters of the Christmas story, uncovering powerful truths they lived out during challenging times—far from the picture-perfect scenes on Christmas cards. Together we’ll discover how these lessons still apply today.