In this message from Sunday, March 8, 2026, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer continues Church of the Messiah’s Lenten sermon series, Steps, with a sermon titled Defects of Character. Preaching from Philippians 3:7-14, Pastor Katy reflects on Paul’s willingness to let go of everything that once defined him so that he could know Christ more deeply. This sermon explores what it means to release not only obvious sins, but also the excuses, emotions, habits, and identity markers that keep our hands too full to receive God’s grace. This message offers a practical and deeply personal invitation for anyone longing for healing, honesty, and spiritual growth. Through the image of opening our hands before God, Pastor Katy reminds us that we cannot hold onto everything and still fully embrace Jesus. Whether you are walking through Lent, exploring recovery themes, or simply longing to live more freely as Christ’s beloved, this sermon offers hope, clarity, and a faithful next step.