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Holding It Together When Everything’s Falling Apart

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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Prayer

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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Submitting to God’s Wisdom

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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Faith in Action

Faith in Action

9.6.24

James 1:17-27 offers a deeper understanding of faith in action. The passage emphasized listening to God’s word and putting it into practice, including controlling anger and serving others.

The message encourages us to:

Acknowledge God’s gifts: Everything we have is a gift from God.

Listen and learn: Be quick to listen and slow to speak.

Control anger: Resist the temptation to react angrily.

Serve others: Actively participate in serving our community.

Following Sunday’s Worship Service, several of us went out to feed our friends on the street. The line of people waiting for food was a testament to the need and the blessing that the church’s service provided.

This act of service mirrored Jesus’ example of going into the community rather than waiting for people to come to him. It was encouraging to see other churches also participating in this ministry, demonstrating a shared commitment to serving our community. This served as a reminder that we are not alone in our efforts and that God is with us in our shared mission.

Thank you to everyone who participated, whether through your monetary gifts or your hands and feet. 

 

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Scarcity Mindset: Finding Abundance in God’s Provision

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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How is it with your heart? A Reflection from Mark 6:14-29

How is it with your heart? A Reflection from Mark 6:14-29

7.18.24

This past week, Rev. Sia Puloka, from Tonga, shared a powerful message based on Mark 6:14-29 titled “How is it with your heart?”

The passage recounts the tragic story of John the Baptist’s execution. John, a courageous prophet, preached repentance and the coming Messiah. He dared to challenge Herod Antipas, a ruler in Judea, for marrying his brother’s wife, Herodias. Consumed by resentment, Herodias had been plotting John’s downfall for quite some time.

Rev. Puloka’s message uses this story as a springboard for introspection. In a world obsessed with material gain and fleeting trends, the story compels us to examine the true desires of our hearts. Are we chasing after things that offer temporary satisfaction, or are we yearning for a deeper connection with God?

Rev. Puloka emphasized that our hearts hold immense power. Just as Herodias’s vengeful heart fueled her desire for John’s demise, our words and actions can significantly impact those around us.  We are entrusted with a great responsibility: to teach our children, friends, and community values to guide them toward a righteous path. Are we fostering a sense of purpose and encouraging them to pursue what truly matters, or are we getting caught up in the pursuit of fleeting things?

As Rev. Puloka reminds us, the good news is that God has chosen us. We have been selected to be messengers of this good news, the news of the Kingdom of God, a realm where love, justice, and peace reign supreme. This role requires a heart filled with compassion and integrity that reflects God’s light.

The story of John the Baptist serves as a stark reminder that one day, we will all stand accountable for our actions. With that knowledge in mind, it’s crucial to ask ourselves: “How is it with your heart?” Is your heart brimming with love and kindness, or is it burdened by negativity and selfishness? Take some time this week to reflect on Rev. Puloka’s message (if you watch it online, apologies for the sound). Let it be a catalyst for positive change, a chance to guide your heart on the path God has chosen for you – spreading the good news and living a life that reflects God’s love.

In Christ!

Sela Finau

 

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Jesus on Rejection – Shake it Off

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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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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Giants In Your Life? You’re Not Alone!

Giants In Your Life? You’re Not Alone!

6.27.24

Ever feel like you’re facing a giant? A mountain of a problem, a fear that looms large, a situation that seems impossible to overcome? This past week’s message focused on life scenarios, using the epic story of David and Goliath from 1 Samuel 17.

We all have moments when we are frozen by fear because of intimidating giants. It can feel overwhelming, leaving us wondering how we’ll ever conquer it. Indeed, we cannot be victorious on our own. 

David accepted the challenge because he knew who had his back. No weapons or army could overcome the giant, but David had firsthand experience. God had delivered him before from the paws of bears and lions, and David had faith that God would deliver him again. David’s courage was a result of his faith.

Here’s the good news for us today: when we put our faith in God, we’re not alone in the fight. We’re equipped with the courage and strength to face anything, no matter how big the giant seems. God is with us, always. 

And here’s another powerful thought: what if we stopped focusing on what we don’t have or have to lose and started thinking about what we have to gain? Imagine facing your giant with that mindset—excited about the possibilities, fueled by faith. Your faith is a game-changer, helping you overcome any obstacles.

Whatever giants you face today, don’t let fear hold you back. Step forward in faith!

In Christ!

Sela Finau

 

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A Reflection on the Kingdom

A Reflection on the Kingdom

6.20.24

The parable of the growing seed from Mark 4:26-34 reminds us that positive change, like the Kingdom of God, starts small.

We reflected on Father’s Day and how seemingly insignificant gestures of love from fathers shape their children’s lives. These seeds, like the one in the parable, have immense potential.

Juneteenth, celebrating enslaved African Americans’ emancipation, offered a powerful parallel. News of freedom was declared in 1863, and it took over two years to reach everyone in Texas. This delay highlights the importance of sharing good news persistently.

As Christians, we share the Gospel, a message of hope and love for all. The tiny mustard seed, seemingly insignificant, grows into a strong plant. Our efforts, like planting seeds, may seem small but can blossom into something remarkable. The Kingdom of God may seem small at first, but it holds the potential to transform lives and communities.

May we embrace the power of starting small. And remember that we’re called to plant, sow, scatter, share, and leave the growth to God.

Peace and grace,

Sela Finau

 

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