Back to Basics: An Invitation to New Life

Vineyard Church of Ann Arbor Sermon Podcast

Back to Basics: An Invitation to New Life - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - a2vc.org. Like us on fb.com/vineyardannarbor or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - vimeo.com/annarborvineyard

Summary: Pastor Donnell begins with the universal struggle of feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from God, especially when life seems to offer only exhaustion and disappointment. He reminds us that in these moments of despair, our natural responses—like fear and control—may feel necessary but ultimately leave us unfulfilled. Instead, the invitation Jesus offers is not to seek more control or avoid hardship but to embrace a new life through surrender and trust in God's Spirit. Using Ezekiel’s vision of the valley of dry bones, Pastor Donnell illustrates how God brings life to what seems dead. He shares a poignant story of someone finding hope and renewal amid hardship, showing how God's Spirit works through ordinary people and unexpected grace. This new life, he explains, does not erase struggles but offers a way through them, fostering resilience, healing, and hope that even the most barren areas of our lives can be restored. Concluding with practical steps, Pastor Donnell encourages the congregation to begin each day with a prayer of surrender, inviting the Holy Spirit to bring new life into their day-to-day challenges. He emphasizes that this journey is a pilgrimage toward love, trust, and a closer relationship with Jesus—a journey that transforms us and brings life to even the driest parts of our souls.