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Monthly Archives: January 2024

Divine Interruption and Redemption

25 Jan
Divine Interruption and Redemption

1.25.24

In this week’s sermon, we delved into the story of Jonah, a prophet confronted with an unexpected divine assignment. Initially resistant, Jonah attempted to escape, only to be pursued by a relentless God. This narrative illustrates how God can use even reluctant individuals for a greater purpose, manifesting God’s grace.

The sermon challenged us to acknowledge the limitations of our understanding in grasping the complexities of God’s ways. While God redirected Jonah with a storm, not every storm in our lives is sent by God, prompting us to reflect on the storms we may have brought upon ourselves and the need for divine intervention.

As we embark on this journey with Jonah in the coming weeks, you’re invited to contemplate your own experiences of disobedience, recognizing God’s persistent pursuit and embracing the boundless mercy that seeks to redeem us, even when we attempt to run away.

Peace and grace, Pastor Sela

 
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Posted by on January 25, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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Following Jesus

18 Jan
Following Jesus

1.14.24

This past Sunday, we remembered the impactful legacy of The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The sermon connected the essence of walking with Jesus to our commitment to justice—a commitment that goes beyond mere words and becomes a daily practice. It’s about envisioning a world where love and God’s peace reign, where racial differences become a bridge bringing us together, and where an inclusive table is extended to everyone.

Inspired by theologian Karl Barth’s insight, we were reminded to approach life with both the Bible and the contemporary issues of our time. Following Jesus, as emphasized, isn’t a journey with closed eyes but one where we navigate with openness, inviting others to join us and extending help to those in need.

Reflecting on the call of the first disciples, we were reminded that God already sees and understands our challenges. Sometimes, the obstacles we face—symbolized by potholes and construction barriers—are perhaps redirections, urging us to slow down, read the signs, and engage more deeply with the world around us.

 
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Posted by on January 18, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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In the Beginning

11 Jan
In the Beginning

1.14.24

In the Beginning

On the dawn of a new year, our recent sermon explored the profound connection between our lives and God’s ongoing masterpiece of creation. Drawing parallels between baptismal and the cosmic dance of existence, the message emphasized our role as instruments of peace, bearers of hope, and reflections of God’s love.

Highlighting the shared Spirit that hovered over creation and descended upon Jesus, the sermon called us to navigate life’s wilderness as confident co-creators. It urged us to remember our identity, embracing the untamed beauty woven into our diverse existence—a testament to the freedom God has inscribed.

We were challenged to view ourselves not as passive actors but as essential brushstrokes in the ongoing creation narrative. The call is to live as children of God, carrying the name of Christ, and empowered by the Holy Spirit to be stewards of divine creation.

In every new beginning, the echo of Genesis 1 resonates: “Let there be…” The concluding message urges us to contribute our unique and beautiful expressions to the unfolding story of God’s love. The timeless reminder is clear: “In the beginning, God created. And in every new beginning, God invites us to co-create.” This call echoes through the canvas of the new year, inviting us to embrace our divine partnership in the ongoing work of creation.

 
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Posted by on January 11, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

New Year

04 Jan
New Year

1.4.24

As we approach the conclusion of the Christmas season, on Epiphany Day, January 6th, let’s delve into the traditional significance of Epiphany. This day holds particular importance as it marks the arrival of the Magi, symbolizing the revelation of Jesus’ identity to the world. This revelation signified the incarnation of God in Christ, recognized by the heavens and drawing homage from Gentiles in the East.

The conclusion of the Christmas season is further emphasized by the baptism of Jesus, an event unveiling him as the beloved Son of God.

As we embark on the journey of 2024, my hope is that God continues to unveil new perspectives, ideas, and pathways for us. May this new year serve as a reminder that we are all beloved children of God. If we stay on the path God is directing us, we can overcome whatever obstacles we encounter.

Wishing you a Happy New Year!

Sela

 
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Posted by on January 4, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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