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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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A Prayer for Those Affected by the California Fires

09 Jan
A Prayer for Those Affected by the California Fires

1.9.25

A Prayer for Those Affected by the California Fires

God of Mercy, we come before you with heavy hearts as the fires rage across Southern California. We lift up in prayer all who are affected, trusting in your unending compassion.

For the Lost: We grieve for those who have lost their lives. Receive them into your eternal peace, and bring comfort to their loved ones who mourn.

For the Displaced: Be with those who have fled their homes, leaving behind familiarity, treasured memories, and the comforts of life built with love. May they find safety, peace amid the chaos, and trust in your abiding care.

For the Grieving: Hold close those who now face the overwhelming loss of homes, livelihoods, and entire communities. Surround them with your tender compassion and stir up the strength and kindness of neighbors, friends, and strangers alike.

For the Vulnerable: Protect all pets, livestock, and wild animals endangered by the flames. Guide them to safety, and bless the hands of those who rescue and care for them.

For the First Responders: Bless the firefighters, rescue teams, and emergency workers who risk their lives to protect others. Grant them courage, strength, and moments of rest as they face exhaustion and danger.

For Creation: We pray for the forests, fields, and all that you have made, scarred by the flames. Teach us to be wise and faithful stewards of your creation, and inspire us to work for its restoration and care in the days to come.

For the Community: In the midst of devastation, may hope take root. Let the generosity of strangers, the courage of neighbors, and the shared labor of rebuilding restore what has been lost.

God of comfort and restoration, let your healing presence fill the hearts of all who suffer. Strengthen them for the days to come, and may your peace, which passes all understanding, sustain them through the darkness.

Amen.

 
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Posted by on January 9, 2025 in Church, Community, Culture, Economics, Family, 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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When God is Silent (A reflection based on Job 23:1-17)

17 Oct
When God is Silent (A reflection based on Job 23:1-17)

10.17.24
Have you ever found yourself searching for God, only to be met with silence? I know I have. There are times when we call out to God, desperate for answers, but all we seem to hear is our own voice echoing back. This was Job’s experience, and it’s an experience many of us share, especially when we’re facing difficult times.

Job cried out to God in his suffering, but God was silent for what felt like a lifetime. In those moments, Job struggled, just as we do. But as I reflected on Job’s story, I wondered: What if God’s silence is actually a way of communicating? A God who shows up at the snap of our fingers would lose His mystery and power. But in the silence, we are given the space to express our sorrow, to wrestle with our questions, and to realize that we’re not in control.

In our world today, we’ve seen so much suffering—through hurricanes like Helene and Milton, through war in the Middle East, through personal losses and health struggles. When God seems silent, it’s easy to feel abandoned. But just like Job, we are not alone. Even in the silence, God is present through the people around us, through the community of faith that upholds us, and through the whispers of hope that remind us God is still here.

We may not always get clear answers, but we can take heart in knowing that even when we shout into the silence, God hears us. And sometimes, it’s in that silence that we find the strength to keep going, to keep believing, and to trust that God is still at work, even when we can’t see it.

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

Sela Finau

 
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Posted by on October 17, 2024 in Church, Community, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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Holding It Together When Everything’s Falling Apart

10 Oct
Holding It Together When Everything’s Falling Apart

10.10.24

Holding It Together When Everything’s Falling Apart

This past Sunday’s sermon, based on Job 1:1, 2:1-10, is a timely reflection on how we navigate life when everything around us seems to crumble. Job, a man who was blameless before God, loses everything—his wealth, his family, and his health—yet somehow holds on to his faith. How did Job manage to keep his integrity when everything in his life was falling apart? It’s the same question many of us ask when tragedy strikes.

Like Job, we’ve all experienced moments where life feels unfair, where suffering seems too great to bear. Whether it’s the sudden loss of a loved one, a devastating illness, or natural disasters like Hurricanes Helene and Milton, we find ourselves lifting our eyes to heaven and asking, “Why, God? It’s easy to feel abandoned or even angry in times like these. The book of Job reminds us that it’s okay to feel that way. But it also challenges us to hold on to our faith, even in the hardest of times.

This past week, as communities in the Carolinas, Tennessee, Virginia, and Florida begin the long process of recovery from Hurricane Helene, and with Hurricane Milton, we are reminded of the fragility of life. Many have lost homes, businesses, and even loved ones. But in the midst of this devastation, we also see signs of hope. Volunteers, emergency responders, and neighbors have come together to help clean up and rebuild. God is at work behind the scenes, bringing comfort, healing, and hope even in the darkest moments.

As we reflect on Job’s story, we are reminded that while suffering is a part of life, it does not last forever. Evil may have its moment, but God’s reign is eternal. In the face of loss, we are invited to hold onto the good, even when life presents us with the bad. God is still on the throne, still working, still present.

Let us continue to pray for those affected by these hurricanes and for all those suffering across the world. And may we, as a church, be a source of hope, light, and love in our community, showing that even when everything seems to be falling apart, we can hold it together through our faith in God. Because no matter what happens, God is always holding us together—whether everything around us is falling apart, or when we ourselves seem to fall apart.

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

Sela

 
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Posted by on October 10, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Economics, Family, Life, Philosophy, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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Prayer

03 Oct
Prayer

Growing up, prayer was an integral part of our family life. We gathered each morning and evening, young and old alike, to offer our prayers to God. The longer each person prayed, the longer we stayed together in the living room. It wasn’t uncommon for the youngest among us to fall asleep during our prayer time. Today, we continue to pray together whenever we gather as a family.

Prayer was more than just a ritual; it was a way to connect with God and with each other. It was a source of comfort, strength, and guidance.

As I’ve continued my journey as a follower of Christ, I’ve come to appreciate the transformative power of prayer even more. It’s not just a spiritual exercise; it’s a lifeline to God, a source of strength, and a means of experiencing God.

Intercessory prayer is equally important. Praying for others is a powerful way to demonstrate our love and compassion. But we can also be answers to prayers. By offering practical help and support to those in need, we become instruments of God’s grace.

The recent catastrophe in the southeastern states has been a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life, and the irrelevance of possessions. Yet, amidst the devastation, we’ve witnessed countless acts of kindness and compassion. People from all walks of life have come together to help those affected, offering shelter, food, and emotional support.

These individuals are answers to prayers. Their presence has brought hope and comfort to those who have lost so much. By stepping up and offering assistance, they have demonstrated the power of human kindness and the love of God.

As we continue our journey as followers of Christ, let us remember the importance of both praying and being an answer to prayers. By offering our time, our resources, and our compassion, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of others and reflect the love of God in the world.

Don’t let the busyness of life distract you from the importance of prayer. Make time to connect with God through prayer, and experience the transformative power of God’s love and grace.

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

Sela Finau

 
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Posted by on October 3, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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Submitting to God’s Wisdom

26 Sep
Submitting to God’s Wisdom

9.26.24

True wisdom comes from submitting our lives to God, trusting in God’s plan, and letting go of our own will.

James, the New Testament ethicist, challenges us to examine our lives and ask, “Who truly has wisdom?” He reminds us that wisdom isn’t just about knowledge or intellect. It’s about how we live our lives, how we interact with others, and how we respond to challenges.

In contrast to heavenly wisdom, earthly wisdom is rooted in pride, selfishness, lies, deceit, hate, and a desire for self-promotion. On the other hand, heavenly wisdom comes from God and is characterized by peace, gentleness, humility, love, mercy, and grace.

To cultivate heavenly wisdom, James encourages us to draw near to God, seek guidance, and trust in God’s plan even when we do not understand it. By doing so, we can turn away from the world’s destructive influences and embrace the peaceful, godly leadership essential for a thriving community of faith.

As we continue our journey as followers of Christ, may we seek wisdom from above and live our lives according to God’s will.

In Christ!

Sela Finau

Reflection based on James 3:13-4:8a from the New Testament of the Bible.

 
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Posted by on September 26, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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Scarcity Mindset: Finding Abundance in God’s Provision

25 Jul
Scarcity Mindset: Finding Abundance in God’s Provision

7.25.24

In Mark 6:30-56, we witness Jesus transforming a scarcity mindset into one of abundance. The disciples, overwhelmed by the needs of a crowd of five thousand with only five loaves and two fish, saw only their limitations. Yet, Jesus took their meager offering, blessed it, and miraculously provided enough for everyone, with leftovers to spare.

This passage speaks directly to our lives today. We often feel we lack the time, resources, or abilities to meet the demands around us. But Jesus shows us that when we bring our limited resources to Him in faith, He can multiply them beyond our imagination.

In our current reality, we see examples of this transformation: communities rallying together in times of crisis, individuals offering their talents and time to help others, and small acts of kindness growing into significant impacts. These are modern-day miracles of abundance born from faith and generosity.

As we move forward, let us break free from a scarcity mindset and embrace the abundance that comes from trusting in God. Let’s be generous with what we have, knowing that God can use even our smallest offerings to accomplish great things. In a world focused on lack, may we proclaim God’s abundant provision, living out His miraculous work in our lives and communities. Remember, with Jesus, there is always more than enough.

In Christ!

Sela Finau

 
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Posted by on July 25, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Economics, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, 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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Freedom

03 Jul
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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Posted by on July 3, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Economics, Family, Life, Philosophy, Postcolonial, Postmodern, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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