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Attending to the Foundation

21 Nov
Attending to the Foundation

Attending to the Foundation

11.21.25

Over the past week, I’ve been thinking a lot about foundations. It started during my recent drives to Austin, where I noticed all kinds of new construction — large homes, small homes, commercial buildings, and even tiny houses tucked along the roadside. Each one different in size and purpose, yet every one relying on the same essential element: a solid foundation.

That image stayed with me, especially as I walked alongside two families who lost their loved ones in the past couple of weeks. Being present at the end of life, sharing prayer with families, offering comfort, and holding space for both grief and gratitude — these are sacred and humbling moments. They remind me how fragile life can be, and how deeply we all need something steady beneath our feet.

Pastoral ministry stretches across many areas: tending to worship and preaching, supporting the spiritual needs of individuals and families, guiding mission and outreach, and ensuring that the ministries entrusted to my care continue to grow in healthy and faithful ways. As an ordained elder, I’ve vowed to a ministry of Word, Sacrament, Order, and Service — a calling that touches every part of church life. And like any foundation, this work requires regular attention to stay grounded and strong.

In recent days, I’ve become more aware of my own emotional fatigue. Ministry is meaningful, but it is also demanding. To serve well, I have to make space for rest. With Thanksgiving week approaching, I’ve chosen to take this week to renew my energy, to refresh my spirit, and to tend to my own foundation. My hope is that others will do the same — to spend time with loved ones, to breathe a little deeper, and to reconnect with what matters most.

And Advent is just around the corner — a season of preparation, anticipation, and hope. I look forward to walking through it with renewed strength, ready to prepare my heart — and help others prepare theirs — to receive the promise of Christ once again.

Wishing you a meaningful Thanksgiving week with the people who bring life and joy to your days. May gratitude guide your steps, and may rest restore your spirit.

Peace, Sela

 
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Posted by on November 21, 2025 in Church, Community, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality

 

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Washed and Ready

16 Jan
Washed and Ready

1.6.25

Washed and Ready

Water is life. We take it for granted, but without it, we can’t survive. We’ve seen the devastating impact of its absence—from the freezing conditions four years ago that left many of us without water for days to the wildfires in California, where the lack of water allows flames to rage uncontrollably. In many parts of the world, people walk miles just to access clean water. Without water, deadly diseases spread, crops fail, and life grinds to a halt.

This week, as we reflect on the Baptism of the Lord, we are reminded that water holds not only physical power but also deep spiritual significance. When Jesus stepped into the Jordan River, He entered fully into our human experience. His baptism wasn’t about repentance but about identifying with us, affirming the life and mission He would fulfill. God’s voice declared, “You are my Son, my beloved; with you I am well pleased.”

Like Jesus, we too are baptized. Through the waters of baptism, we are named and claimed as God’s beloved children. But here’s the question: Are we just washed, or are we also ready? Baptism isn’t a one-time event that washes us clean—it’s a call to a lifetime of discipleship, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Are you living as someone who is ready? Ready to follow Christ? Ready to be a witness to God’s love? If not, what’s holding you back? Fear? Doubt? Forgetfulness of who you are in Christ?

This week, I invite you to remember your baptism. Remember that you are beloved by God. And if you feel stuck or unready, seek the Spirit’s power to renew and commission you once again. Together, let us live as people who are both washed and ready—ready to serve, love, and reflect the grace we have received.

Sela Finau

 
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Posted by on January 16, 2025 in Church, Community, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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Christ the King: Unmoved by Human Loyalty

27 Nov
Christ the King: Unmoved by Human Loyalty

11.27.24

Christ the King: Unmoved by Human Loyalty

This past Sunday, we marked Christ the King Sunday by reflecting on John 18:33-37, where Jesus declares that his kingdom is not of this world. His kingship stands apart from earthly power, grounded instead in truth—a truth that does not shift with human loyalties or fleeting allegiances.

As followers of Christ, we are challenged to honor his reign not only in our words but also in our daily actions, standing firm in love, justice, and grace—a love that calls us to serve, reconcile, and give generously. His kingship calls us to live not for fleeting gains or convenience but as witnesses to his truth in all aspects of our lives.

This week, as we celebrate Thanksgiving, let us give thanks for the blessings we enjoy—family, food, shelter, and the presence of God in our lives. But let us also pause to remember those for whom this season is difficult. Some will not gather around tables this year: people without homes, those in war-torn regions, families grieving loved ones, and individuals spending their first Thanksgiving without someone they cherish. Let us also reflect on the complex history of this holiday, honoring the Native Americans whose experiences of this day may differ greatly from the celebration many of us know.

As we give thanks, let our gratitude inspire action. Let us remember the values of Christ’s kingdom by extending generosity to the needy, hope to the grieving, and love to all. And as we move into Advent next Sunday, we prepare to welcome Christ—not only as the infant born in Bethlehem but as the King whose reign of peace and truth is already breaking into our world. In this season of preparation, may we open our hearts to Christ’s love, living as witnesses to his justice, grace, and truth.

Wishing you a Thanksgiving filled with gratitude, reflection, and hope! And may you have a meaningful beginning of Advent!

‘Ofa atu,
Sela Finau

 
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Posted by on November 27, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Economics, Family, Life, Philosophy, Postcolonial, Postmodern, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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A Call To Discernment: Standing On Truth Amid Misinformation

25 Oct
A Call To Discernment: Standing On Truth Amid Misinformation

10.25.24

As election day approaches, it is critical that we, as Christians, remember our responsibility to seek truth and uphold integrity, not just in how we vote, but in how we process information. In a time when misinformation is rampant—both in society and, sadly, sometimes even within the church—we must be vigilant in discerning what is true and what is false.

Paul’s words in Philippians 2:12 remind us, “Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling.” This is a call to personal responsibility. While we are in community with one another, each of us must take responsibility for our actions and our beliefs. It can be tempting to follow the crowd or to accept information from sources we trust without verification. Yet, as people of faith, we are called to a higher standard.

John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, offered wise counsel regarding elections: “I met those of our society who had votes in the ensuing election and advised them: (1) To vote, without fee or reward, for the person they judged most worthy; (2) To speak no evil of the person they voted against; and (3) To take care their spirits were not sharpened against those that voted on the other side.” Wesley’s advice goes beyond just political elections—it is a model for all areas of life where we must make decisions based on character and truth, rather than gossip, slander, or misinformation.

It can be hard to stand firm when those we have long trusted present ideas or narratives contrary to what we know to be right. But our call as believers is to diligently seek the truth, not just accept what is easy or convenient. As Proverbs 14:15 reminds us, “The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps.” We must not be simple in our understanding, but prudent and discerning, willing to do the hard work of separating fact from fiction, even when it challenges those closest to us.

This election season, may we commit ourselves to truth—not just the truth we hear from others, but the truth we seek with diligence and prayer. May we remember that our ultimate allegiance is to God, and that standing for what is right may sometimes put us at odds with the majority. Still, we must stand.

May we pray for wisdom, discernment, and courage as we exercise our rights and responsibilities in this pivotal time.

In Christ! Shalom, Salaam, Paz, Pax, Peace, Melino!

Sela Finau

 
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Posted by on October 25, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Economics, Family, Life, Media, Philosophy, Podcasts, Postcolonial, Postmodern, Religion, Spirituality, Student life, Theology

 

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Jesus on Rejection – Shake it Off

11 Jul
Jesus on Rejection – Shake it Off

7.11.24

In Mark 6:1-13, Jesus teaches his disciples a powerful lesson about handling rejection. He tells them that if they encounter rejection, they should shake the dust off their feet as a testimony against those towns. This act symbolizes moving on from those who refuse to listen without letting rejection hinder their mission.

Shaking the dust off was about letting go of negativity and hurt and moving forward. Yes, you got rejected, but don’t dwell on it. There’s work that needs to be done. There’s a whole group of people who have not heard the Gospel. Our purpose isn’t defined by those who reject us. Jesus advises us not to get caught up in the rejection but rather to concentrate on the mission and the people who do want to listen.

If you’ve ever come to my home, you would typically be expected to take your shoes off. This is not only a cultural thing for me but also about cleanliness. Think about it: you walk all over town, stepping on everything imaginable. Unlike our clothes, which we wash regularly, when did you last wash your shoes? Exactly. Never. Then, you’re just going to walk into the house with all that dirt and filth? It’s pretty disgusting when you think about it.

This concept follows Jesus’s example. When you leave a town or a home where you stepped on something unpleasant, you don’t want to take that with you to the next place. You should shake it off.

There is no need to carry baggage to the next home or town. Leave your baggage behind and travel light. Jesus’ message is clear: don’t let the load you’ve been carrying weigh you down.

Otherwise, you’ll get held up. The baggage and filth you carry will prevent you from fully experiencing the goodness of the next home and town. Don’t become self-reliant, as that will surely weigh you down. When we have everything on our checklist checked off, we don’t allow for the Holy Spirit to move. We have no need for God when we rely solely on ourselves.

Some of us still carry baggage from 10-20 years ago. And it’s not getting any lighter. Some of us have not been able to shake off the dust, the hurt, the pain, the negativity, the gossip, the negative thinking, the trauma from childhood, the abuse, the mistreatment, the worrying, the illness, the bad vibes, the overeating, the overspending, the laziness, the disrespect, the anger, the suicidal thoughts, the loneliness, the darkness we’re in, or the rejection from various sources. We just can’t shake it off. Today, Jesus is calling you to shake it off and bring to him what you have not been able to shake off.

Sela Finau

 
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Posted by on July 11, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Economics, Family, Life, Philosophy, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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Divisions: A Reflection based on Mark 3:20-35

13 Jun
Divisions: A Reflection based on Mark 3:20-35

6.13.24

Jesus, caught in the whirlwind of family concerns, religious criticism, and a hungry crowd, offers powerful lessons on navigating division and finding true belonging.

First, Jesus confronts the limitations of blood ties. He reminds us that family extends beyond genetics. It’s about shared values and a commitment to a higher purpose. Staring at the crowd, eager to learn, he declares, “These are my real family – anyone who does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.”

This is a profound message, dismantling barriers and widening the circle of who we call family. It’s not about who you’re related to but about aligning with Jesus’ teachings and striving for a God-centered life.
Next, Jesus addresses the accusations of demon possession launched by the religious elite. He dismantles their claims with logic. Imagine, he says, a house divided against itself – it crumbles. So, how could Satan empower Jesus to heal and teach if his goal was destruction? This simple analogy exposes the absurdity of their accusations.

But this episode also highlights the deep divisions Jesus faced. The accusation of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit – attributing his good works to evil – is a stark reminder of the hostility he encountered and those doing God’s work.

Yet, through it all, Jesus shines a light on navigating division. He emphasizes finding common ground, focusing on those open to his message and the unifying power of faith. This faith, our faith, has the power to tear down the walls we build and embrace a broader definition of family, connecting us to a higher purpose.

Sela Finau

 
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Posted by on June 13, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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Finding Light in Our Brokenness: A Reflection

06 Jun
Finding Light in Our Brokenness: A Reflection

Finding Light in Our Brokenness: A Reflection

June 6, 2024

This week, we reflected on the life of Vincent van Gogh, an artist who poured his heart and struggles onto the canvas, creating beauty that continues to inspire us today. We, too, are called to share our light, not for personal gain, but to illuminate the world with the love of Christ.

Even when we feel broken and flawed, God’s grace can shine through us, touching the lives of those around us. Our limitations shouldn’t discourage us; instead, they can become an opportunity to experience the paradox of faith, where our weaknesses can be transformed into strengths. It is often in our brokenness that God’s light shines most brightly.

As Paul reminds us, we may face trials, but we are never truly defeated. By choosing to follow Christ and share in his sufferings, we become vessels of hope, beacons of God’s love in a world that desperately needs it.

Surrendering our self-centeredness allows God’s transformative power to work through us. For instance, letting go of arrogance and embracing humility can be as simple as listening to others without interrupting or being open to constructive criticism. In doing so, we find confidence in knowing that even in our weakness, God’s strength is made perfect.

Let us be like those cracked clay jars radiating the magnificent light of Christ. Let our light shine, not for our own glory, but to illuminate the path for others and draw them closer to the radiant love of God.

Sela Finau

 
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Posted by on June 6, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Family, Life, Philosophy, Postmodern, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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Let the Fire of Faith Light Our Way

24 May
Let the Fire of Faith Light Our Way

5.24.24

This Pentecost Sunday, as we celebrate the birth of our church family, a powerful feeling washes over me. It’s a feeling of choice. We can choose to be filled with the Holy Spirit, not the worries and negativity of the world, but with the love, truth, peace, and courage that come from above. This incredible energy empowers us to continue Christ’s work, to serve those around us, and to be a beacon of hope in our community.

Think about it – a church, like a cherished bonfire, needs constant fuel to keep burning brightly. But the mistake we sometimes make is trying to keep that fire all to ourselves. A fire needs fresh logs to keep it roaring, and the Holy Spirit’s power thrives when we share it with others, with open hands.

Just imagine a clenched fist. It holds nothing, offers nothing. It’s only when we open our hands, receptive to the Holy Spirit, that we can receive its gifts and, in turn, share them with the world.

So, the question for each of us is this: will we be a part of that flame? Will we let go of our limitations, trust in God’s guidance, and allow the Holy Spirit to transform us into instruments of God’s love?

Saying “Yes” to the Holy Spirit means letting go of the need to do it all alone and embracing the amazing purpose we have in the world – to live out God’s mission. Let’s not keep this fire of faith to ourselves but let it burn brightly within us as we share it with others.  Let’s share our resources, our time, our talents – all the things that fuel the fire of our church and our community. May it empower us to be a force for good and a source of hope.

Let’s become active participants in the incredible legacy of our church, carrying the torch of faith, love, and service into the future.

Here’s to a week filled with the warmth and light of the Holy Spirit, shared with open hearts and open hands!

Peace!

Sela Finau

 
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Posted by on May 24, 2024 in Church, Community, Family, Life, Philosophy, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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Two Paths

16 May
Two Paths

5.16.24

This past Sunday, our message was based on Psalm 1. It’s a powerful Psalm that guides us on the right path by allowing us to meditate on God’s teachings and will enable them to become a constant presence in our daily lives. 

The Psalm used the image of a strong, wise tree planted by a refreshing stream to represent someone who embraces God’s word. This tree flourishes because it’s nourished by the life-giving water. It’s a powerful analogy for the way our lives can be enriched when we truly focus on God’s message. We gain strength, purpose, and the ability to weather any storm.

The Psalm also reminds us of those who choose a different path. They’re described as “chaff,” easily blown away by the wind. I don’t think any of us want lives that are empty and without lasting value.

Indeed, God’s word can be a source of strength, helping us live lives that make a difference. It’s not just about personal fulfillment; it’s about the positive influence and guidance we can offer to others. By following God’s path, we can create a legacy that continues to bless future generations.

Hopefully, the sermon prompted all of us to consider our path. Are we truly aligning ourselves with God’s will? It’s a question we can all ask ourselves. The choices we make today shape our tomorrow, and I believe we all want a tomorrow filled with purpose.

Lastly, the sermon connected the role mothers play in our lives to the nurturing stream that sustains the flourishing tree. Their love and guidance are like that life-giving water. As we celebrate mothers, let’s also recommit ourselves to following God’s path. It’s a path that leads to a life filled with purpose, and remember, God, like a loving parent, watches over us every step of the way.

Grace and peace!

Sela Finau

 
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Posted by on May 16, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Family, Life, Philosophy, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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Love, Faith, and Belonging

09 May
Love, Faith, and Belonging

5.9.24

This week, our journey through 1 John concluded with powerful messages of love, faith, and belonging.

The importance of loving others struck a chord. John reminds us that loving God is inseparable from loving our brothers and sisters. Our faith must be reflected in our actions; belief translates to right living. We are called to walk the talk, following God’s light and avoiding the darkness of false teachings. John makes it clear: we stand with God or the enemy.

This concept of unity resonated throughout our message. For this author, everything connects back to God’s love. To love God is to love all that God has created without limitations or qualifications. This message felt particularly timely, reflecting on the recent actions of the General Conference. John’s words were a reminder that our love should extend to everyone, regardless of their identity.

John also offered encouragement. Our faith in Christ can conquer fear and doubt, granting us victory in this world. This victory comes not from our own strength but through Christ alone. Following God’s commandments isn’t a burden but a path towards living a life filled with love.

The Easter season was a focus, reminding us of the hope and new life offered by Christ’s resurrection. We are called to be “Easter people,” carrying the message of Christ’s love into the world. John’s message also addressed belonging. Ultimately, we belong to God, not to any specific denomination or church. This world is temporary; our true home lies with Christ and his Kingdom.

Our message concluded with a powerful image. Water and blood, essential life elements, symbolize Christ’s sacrifice. This sacrifice gave birth to the Church, our spiritual mother, who sustains and guides us on our faith journey. Through baptism, we are connected as a body of believers, a part of God’s family. We are invited to embrace the new life offered by Christ and live according to his teachings.

Sela Finau

 
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Posted by on May 9, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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