Capture Your Thoughts

Jake & Ilse's Story

In this episode of the City Light Church podcast, we continue the Even Though series through Psalm 23 with a deeply personal conversation from Jake and Ilse as they share the story of losing their son, Axel. Through heartbreak, grief, and impossible decisions in the NICU, they recount how God met them in the middle of their darkest valley with peace, strength, and His presence. This powerful testimony reminds us that even in suffering, the Lord is still our Shepherd — faithful to guide, comfort, and carry us through what we could never survive on our own.

The LORD is My Shepherd

This week, we begin our new series, Even Though, with a message from Psalm 23 about trusting God in the valleys of life. David reminds us that faith does not deny the reality of darkness, pain, grief, or uncertainty. Instead, faith declares that the valley is not the end. Through the image of the Lord as our shepherd, we see that God is personal, present, protective, and faithful. Even when the path is hard to see, we are not left to walk alone. The Lord provides what we need, restores our souls, leads us through difficult places, and stays near to His people. Whatever valley you may be walking through, this message is a reminder that the Shepherd is with you—and He will not abandon His sheep.

Peace of Mind

In the final message of our Renew Your Mind series, we look at Philippians 4 and the promise of peace that comes through Christ. Paul reminds us that peace of mind is not found by ignoring anxiety, denying pressure, or pretending life is easy. It is found by rejoicing in the Lord, remembering that God is near, bringing our worries to Him in prayer, and refocusing our minds on what is true. This message is especially timely on Mother’s Day, speaking to the weight many carry—the pressure, anxiety, unseen sacrifices, and constant demands of life. God is not asking us to carry everything perfectly. He is inviting us to bring everything to Him. Through prayer, thanksgiving, and renewed thinking, we can experience the peace of God that surpasses understanding and guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Mind of Christ

This week in our Renew Your Mind series, we look at Philippians 2 and what it means to have the mind of Christ. Paul calls the church to a shared mindset rooted in unity, humility, servanthood, and complete obedience. In a world that pushes us toward pride, selfish ambition, and proving ourselves, this message invites us to follow the example of Jesus, who humbled Himself, took the form of a servant, and obeyed the Father even to the point of death on a cross. We’re reminded that the Christian life is not about becoming something we are not, but about living consistently with who we already are in Christ. This episode is a call to lay down pride, consider others, serve with sincerity, and choose obedience even when it costs us something.

Above Thinking

This week in our Renew Your Mind series, we look at Colossians 3 and the call to set our minds on things above. What we think about shapes what we love, what we love shapes how we live, and Paul reminds us that following Jesus means choosing a new direction every day. In this episode, we talk about what it means to seek Christ, put to death what no longer belongs, and put on the character of Jesus. From our thoughts and desires to our words, relationships, habits, and daily decisions, above thinking is not just a Sunday mindset. It is a way of life shaped by the peace of Christ, the Word of God, and the desire to do everything in the name of Jesus.