In this week's Lord of the Rings–inspired episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we explore what it means to “let go of the ring” and to release what God has placed in our hands so that His mission can move forward. Just as the One Ring carried both power and burden, we often hold tightly to gifts, influence, or comfort that we were never meant to keep for ourselves. Join us as we unpack how surrender, generosity, and obedience unlock the true adventure of faith! This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church
In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we throw back to a previously recorded episode when Pastor Elijah Merrill sat down with Pastor Sam Abraham from Inspire Wesleyan Church. They talk about Operation Christmas Child and the incredible impact it has around the globe. OCC is a fantastic opportunity to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ, along with some Christmas joy, to millions of children and families around the world! Tune in to find out how you can get plugged in and give a gift with kingdom impact this holiday season. Please visit the Crosswinds website for 2025 Operation Christmas Child information and dates!Visit us online: crosswinds.churchOperation Christmas Child: samaritanspurse.org/occInspire Wesleyan Church: inspirewesleyanchurch.com
In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we delve into three vital aspects of the Christian life: justification, sanctification, and works. How do they fit together? What role do faith and obedience play in our walk with Christ? Join us as we explore how God saves us by grace through faith, continues to transform us into the likeness of Christ, and calls us to live out our faith through good works that flow from His Spirit at work within us. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church
In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we talk about the incredible truth that no matter where you’ve been, what you’ve faced, or how many times you’ve stumbled—God's not done with you. As long as you have breath in your lungs, He is still at work, redeeming, restoring, and shaping your life for His purpose. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church
In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, Craig Cooper and Elijah Merrill conclude their ongoing series of discussions on Keith Drury's book, Holiness for Ordinary People. God calls all believers to a life of holiness as we become increasingly conformed to the image of Christ. What does that look like for ordinary people? Keith Drury's book answers that question! This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow pastor on staff at Crosswinds, Elijah Merrill, the Technical Arts Director.Visit us online: crosswinds.church
In this episode of Crosswind Unleashed, we reflect on the unexpected passing of Charlie Kirk—his life, his passion, and the world's response to this tragic loss. Times like these confront us with questions and emotions, and lead us to consider our own faith in action. How do we respond as believers with boldness to our calling, and how, in the midst of fear or risk, can we learn to listen more deeply to God's Spirit guiding us? This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church
In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we share what’s ahead for the fall, including our upcoming series Touchdown In Christ, a series going through the book of Colossians. Join us as we talk about the heart behind this series, the opportunities God is opening up, and how you can be a part of what He’s doing! This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church
In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we tackle the tension many Christians feel between what’s “sacred” and what’s “secular.” Does God only show up in church services, worship music, and Bible studies? Or is He present in your workplace, your hobbies, your creativity, and even your everyday routines? We’ll unpack the idea that labeling something as “secular” can unintentionally suggest God isn’t there — but Scripture reminds us He is present in all things. Join us as we explore how to live with an awareness of God’s presence everywhere and invite Him into every part of our lives. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church
In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we dive into how God desires to use every season for His purpose, how to discern what He’s teaching you right now, and what changes might be needed to align your life with His plan. Together, we’ll explore practical steps for redefining your current reality through God’s perspective and embracing the unique work He’s doing in you today. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church
In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, Craig Cooper and Elijah Merrill continue their series by discussing Keith Drury's book Holiness for Ordinary People. God calls all believers to a life of holiness as we become increasingly conformed to the image of Christ. What does that look like for ordinary people? Keith Drury's book answers that question! This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow pastor on staff at Crosswinds, Elijah Merrill, the Technical Arts Director.Visit us online: crosswinds.church
In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we explore Ecclesiastes 3:11 and what it means to be created with "eternity in our hearts" and a longing for something beyond this life. Discover how this God-given desire points us toward His eternal kingdom, shapes our daily choices, and reminds us that our souls were made for more than the temporary. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church
In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we unpack what it truly means to be “on fire” for Christ and why passion for Jesus is more than just an emotional high—it’s a daily surrender. Inspired by John Wesley’s quote, "I desire to be set on fire for Christ, so others would watch me burn and be inspired to ignite their passion for Him," we explore how this vision still speaks powerfully today. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill and Pastor Vanessa Samuels.Visit us online: crosswinds.church
In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we explore the profound truths packed into the ancient statement of faith, the Apostles’ Creed, and what it says about God, Jesus, the Church, and our hope for the future. Whether you’re new to the creed or have recited it for years, this episode will encourage you to reflect on what you believe and why it matters. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastors Betty Ryan and Vanessa Samuels.Visit us online: crosswinds.church
It’s our 200th episode of Crosswinds Unleashed! Join us as we celebrate God’s faithfulness over the journey so far and look ahead to what’s still to come. This week, we continue our book study of Holiness for Ordinary People by Keith Drury. For this episode, focused on holiness and gender, Pastor Craig Cooper and Pastor Elijah Merrill are joined by fellow pastors on staff at Crosswinds, Betty Ryan and Vanessa Samuels.Visit us online: crosswinds.church
In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we talk honestly about the journey of healing from toxicicity. Whether it’s spiritual, emotional, or relational toxicity, the damage can run deep, but the hope we have in Christ runs deeper. We’ll explore how God brings restoration, how to set healthy boundaries, and the powerful role forgiveness plays in our freedom. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church
In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we dive into Psalm 111:10—"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." What does it truly mean to fear God in a healthy, biblical way? And how does that reverence lead to a life of true wisdom? Join us as we explore how putting the Lord first reshapes our thinking, decisions, and daily walk, and discover why real wisdom always begins with trust and awe of our Creator. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church
In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we explore the powerful reality of dual citizenship—how, as followers of Christ, we are both citizens of our earthly nation and citizens of heaven. What does it mean to live with that tension? How should our heavenly identity shape the way we engage with culture, politics, relationships, and everyday decisions? Join us as we dive into Scripture and reflect on how embracing our true home can transform the way we live, love, and share the hope of the gospel right where we are. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church
In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, get a glimpse of our new sermon series at Crosswinds, starting next Sunday, July 6th, called Endless Summer. This series will be a journey through God’s unchanging promises that bring peace, purpose, and hope in every season of life. No matter what comes, His faithfulness endures. Let’s celebrate the God who is with us, for us, and leading us forward. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church
In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, Craig Cooper and Elijah Merrill continue their series by discussing Keith Drury's book Holiness for Ordinary People. God calls all believers to a life of holiness as we become increasingly conformed to the image of Christ. What does that look like for ordinary people? Keith Drury's book answers that question! This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow pastor on staff at Crosswinds, Elijah Merrill, the Technical Arts Director.Visit us online: crosswinds.church
In this episode of Crosswinds Unleashed, we explore what it means to live out your faith not just on Sundays, but in the everyday moments of life, from the places where we live, work, go to school, or play. Discover how ordinary routines become sacred when lived with purpose and surrender. Whether you're doing laundry or leading meetings, God's presence is with you. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow Crosswinds Pastor and co-host Elijah Merrill.Visit us online: crosswinds.church