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Freedom

Freedom

7.3.24

It’s the season of celebrating independence and freedom with fireworks and barbeque. And, I hope you have a fun and safe celebration. But the concept of freedom extends far beyond the fight for national liberation.

Mark 5:21-43 tells a story that speaks directly to the yearning for freedom in our own lives. Here, we encounter two remarkable individuals facing immense struggles. A woman had been battling a relentless illness for twelve years, her life completely restricted by it. Imagine the desperation, the feeling of being trapped in a situation beyond your control.

The other story features a father desperate to find healing for his young daughter. Both individuals represent the very real struggles we face today. Maybe you’re battling a chronic illness, fighting to overcome an addiction, or grappling with the loss of a loved one. These experiences can feel like a prison, robbing us of the freedom to live life to the fullest.

What’s even more striking is how both individuals, despite societal constraints, pushed through the crowd to reach Jesus. The woman, considered unclean by religious law, disregarded societal norms to reach out for healing. Jairus, a synagogue leader, likely faced criticism from his community for breaking religious taboos to seek Jesus’ help. Perhaps, like the woman, he too had a change of heart, questioning who truly deserves God’s grace.

Two people in search of their freedom received it from Jesus that day. This story emphasizes that true freedom isn’t about status, wealth, or position. It’s about having faith in Jesus’ healing power.

Jesus’ message: Do not give up. Do not be afraid. Only believe. 

Healing comes in many forms, not always as we expect. While some receive miraculous healing in this life, others find comfort in knowing that greater healing awaits us in heaven. So, don’t be afraid to bring your burdens to Jesus. He can set you free, offering hope and a path toward wholeness in this life and the next.

Sela Finau

 

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Welcome

Welcome

7.6.23

This past Sunday, our message was based on Matthew 10:40-42. Jesus said, “Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me.” These words emphasize the interconnectedness between Christ, his messengers, and the One who sent him. They reveal that when we extend a warm welcome to someone, we are not only receiving them but also receiving Christ himself. When we don’t accept them, especially those who are messengers of Christ, we also reject Christ and God. 

The act of welcome is rooted in hospitality and extends far beyond our church walls. The message of welcome transcends time and culture. It carries profound significance in today’s society, often marked by division, exclusion, and fear of the stranger. As followers of Christ, we are called to break through these barriers and actively embody the true spirit of welcome.

This week, we celebrated as a country Independence Day. We remember that not long ago, millions of immigrants traveled to this country via Ellis Island, where they were welcomed. A part of their story, which has become our story as a country, is etched on the Statue of Liberty with the following words:

The New Colossus

“Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame,

 With conquering limbs astride from land to land;

 Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand

 A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame

 Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name

 Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand

 Glows worldwide welcome; her mild eyes command

 The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.

 “Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!” cries she

 With silent lips. “Give me your tired, your poor,

 Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,

 The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.

 Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,

 I lift my lamp beside the golden door!”

 Emma Lazarus

 November 2, 1883

 

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Independence Day

Independence Day

6.29.23

As we approach July 4th, many of us will celebrate the day in some way with friends and family. Let’s pause for a moment to reflect on the significance of independence. And may we, as Christians, remember our profound freedom in Christ. Beyond political liberation, our faith grants us freedom from sin, guilt, and fear. Through Christ’s sacrifice, we are set free to live purposefully and experience forgiveness and grace. This freedom empowers us to face challenges with courage and love others unconditionally. As we commemorate this special day, may we reflect on our responsibility to promote justice, equality, and compassion, while sharing the transformative power of Christ’s love. Embracing our freedom in Christ allows us to honor the true spirit of independence and experience everlasting liberty.

Happy Independence Day!

 

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