Up Close: Moving One Step Closer to Him (2026-27)

Jesus does not invite us merely to know facts about Him or admire Him from afar. He invites us into a relationship with Him. In John 10, Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep personally. Those who draw near to Jesus learn to recognize His voice, trust Him, and follow where He leads.

Up Close is an invitation to cultivate that kind of intimacy with Christ.

This year’s theme builds on the journey of learning not only understanding our identity in Jesus or what we believe, but how we live in relationship with God. Like breathing, intimacy with Jesus is not a one-time experience reserved for retreats, church services or special moments. It is a continual, life-giving rhythm of listening, trusting and responding to Him.

In a world filled with noise, distractions and competing voices, following Jesus begins with drawing near enough to recognize His voice. The closer we grow to Christ, the more clearly we understand His heart, experience His presence and align our lives with His purposes. Through worship, Scripture, prayer, community, and personal reflection, we are invited to take intentional steps toward a deeper relationship with Christ and discover what it means to walk with Him day by day.

The invitation is simple: Come close to Jesus. Learn to recognize His voice. Follow where He leads.