Luke 22:39–46 NLT
Yesterday we looked at the tension we all struggle with: control versus surrender. Most of us want God’s plan, but we want it delivered with our timing, comfort, and preferences. The garden of Gethsemane shows us that God’s plan doesn’t work that way, it requires full surrender.
After the Last Supper, Jesus went as usual to the Mount of Olives, the place He always met the Father. Before facing the cross, He returned to prayer. He told His disciples, “Pray that you will not give in to temptation,” reminding us that prayer is our first line of defense when life tests our faith.
Jesus then stepped away, knelt down, and prayed alone. His prayer was honest: “Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me.” But His surrender was complete: “Yet not My will, but Yours be done.” In that moment, Jesus showed us that the greatest act of trust is not performing a miracle, it is yielding our will to God.
Surrender is strength. It is alignment with God’s wisdom, God’s plan, and God’s timing. We cannot hold on to our plan and God’s plan at the same time. Surrender requires releasing comfort, expectations, timelines, and the desire to control outcomes.
And when Jesus surrendered, heaven responded: “An angel from heaven appeared and strengthened Him.” Strength came after surrender, not before. God didn’t remove the cup, He provided the strength to drink it.
The message was simple: surrender is the doorway to clarity and peace. When we release our grip, God reveals what we could not see while holding on. His plan becomes visible on the other side of our “yes.”
So today: trust God, yield to God, release control. The plan you’re praying for is waiting on the other side of surrender.
Peace and blessings,
Pastor Eddie
(Based on Sunday’s sermon, September 27, 2026)
Weekly Prayer
Father, teach me the strength of surrender. Help me release my grip on my plans, my expectations, and my desire for control. Align my heart with Your will. Give me the courage to say, “Not my will, but Yours be done,” and the faith to walk wherever You lead. Meet me on the other side of obedience with Your peace, Your clarity, and Your strength. Amen.
Weekly Prayer Request
The family of Mel Cook, Rick Mielke, The Musick family, Keith Newnum, Brian Williams and The family of Bob Wilson.
* If you would like to add someone to the weekly prayer list please reply or send an email to tuxedo.park@sbcglobal.net
Announcements
Each One, Reach One! Yesterday I encouraged all of us to check in on someone from the congregation that we haven’t seen in a while. So go ahead, think of that one person, send that text, make that call, and brighten their day. Who’s on your list?
Doctoral Achievement & Pastor Appreciation Luncheon: Join us on next Sunday, October 4, 2026, as we celebrate Pastor Eddie’s doctoral achievement and honor his faithful ministry during Pastor Appreciation Month. A church‑wide luncheon will follow Sunday morning worship. All are invited to attend and share in this moment of gratitude and celebration.
Zumba w/ Suzanne is back!: Sessions will resume next Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. Come ready for movement, energy, and fellowship as we start up again.
Bread & Word: (Food Pantry and Clothing Center) will be open on the following Thursdays: 10/8/26, 10/29/26, 11/12/25, 12/3/26 and 12/17/26.
World Mission Offering: This month, we join all American Baptist churches in supporting the World Mission Offering. Our gifts help share Christ’s love in over 70 countries through health care, education, refugee support, and more. Please consider giving to this global mission.
Monthly Fellowship Calendar
- 🦃 🍂 Thanksgiving w/ the Smiths Sunday, November 22, 2026.
- 🎄 ✨ Christmas Eve Service Thursday, December 24, 2026 @ 6:00 p.m.
Clothing Closet
The Clothing Closet is seeking donations for any of the items listed below.
Gently used items are acceptable. Bolded items are sorely needed.
Laundry Detergent
Bath Towels
Pillowcases
Sheets
Hooded Sweatshirts (size: Small, Medium, Large)
Men’s Jeans (waist size: 32-38)
Men’s Jeans (waist size 30-32)
Men’s Sneakers (size: 9-12)
Women’s Tennis Shoes (sizes: 8-9 ½)
Men’s T-Shirts (size: Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large)
Boost & Ensure Empty Bottles
Sweat Pants
