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Tag Archives: love

Love That Came Anyway

22 Dec
Love That Came Anyway

Monday, December 22, 2025

1 John 4:9–10
Love That Came Anyway

As the year draws to a close, many of us look back. We remember moments of faithfulness and moments we wish we could redo. There were days we showed up fully and days we fell short. Some choices were life-giving; others shaped by fear, exhaustion, or uncertainty.

Scripture reminds us that God knows all of this—and still chose to send Jesus into the world.

God did not wait for humanity to get it right. God did not wait for us to be faithful, generous, or strong enough. Out of love, Christ was sent to help, heal, guide, and save us, right in the middle of our unfinished stories.

Advent invites us to hold our whole year before God: the good and the hard, the faithful and the messy. Love does not arrive as a reward. It comes as a gift. Jesus enters the world not because we are worthy but because God is loving.

As Christmas draws closer, receive this truth again: whatever this year has held for you, God has not given up. Love has come anyway.

Prayer:
God of mercy and love, receive all that this year has been. Thank you for sending Christ to meet us in our need, to guide us toward healing and hope. Amen.

 
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Posted by on December 22, 2025 in Church, Community, Culture, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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A Joy to Be Back!

04 Jun
A Joy to Be Back!

After three years away, I’m back in Taylor—and it feels good to be home. The warmth of Sunday’s welcome was more than I could have asked for, a reminder of just how much this community has shaped me. Time apart has a way of teaching you what really matters, and I’ve carried those lessons with me into this new chapter.

Living in Fort Worth gave me experiences I’ll always be grateful for, but I quickly learned how much I missed the rhythms of small-town life. Taylor moves at a different pace—a pace that feels more human, more gracious. After years of battling daily traffic and concrete sprawl, there’s something restorative about familiar roads, familiar faces, and a community that still knows how to pause and breathe.

One of the most memorable parts of my first Sunday back was the fish fry luncheon. The last one I attended was actually on my final Sunday here in 2022, so sharing another one on my first Sunday back felt like a beautiful full-circle moment. Good food, laughter, and the simple joy of being together reminded me again of the power of community.

I’ve also noticed how much care has gone into keeping things beautiful here. From the church grounds to the spaces that welcome people in, it’s clear that this community continues to take pride in being a place where people can feel at home.

While I’m still unpacking a few boxes and finding my footing again, I’m excited about what’s ahead. More than anything, I’m thankful for the chance to keep growing—with you, with God, and with this town I get to call home again.

Here’s to the season ahead: may it be full of faith, hope, love, and plenty of shared meals around the table.

 
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Posted by on June 4, 2025 in Church, Community, Life, Religion, Spirituality

 

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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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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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25 Apr

What does it truly mean to abide in Christ? It’s not just believing; it’s about staying connected, engaged, and completely relying on Christ. Just like my phone dies without being plugged in, we can’t live a vibrant Christian life without staying connected to our source – Christ and His church. And when we do, when we truly abide in Christ, we experience a joy and fulfillment that is unparalleled. The same is true when we care for the Earth, when we honor the incredible gift God has given us: this beautiful Earth. It’s not just a duty; it’s a source of joy and wonder, and a vital part of our spiritual journey.

Did you do anything special for Earth Day this year? Maybe plant a tree, pick up some trash, or simply take a moment to appreciate the wonder of nature? We have a committed gardener who comes to the church to work on the garden, and we’re grateful. We always have folks working on projects around the church and we’re blessed. Indeed, we are individually and collectively God’s ongoing work project.

The Psalmist reminds us in Psalm 24:1, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” We are called to be caretakers, not abusers. So, as we talk about abiding in Christ and strengthening our church connections, I also want to challenge you to consider how you can connect with and care for the Earth.

Here are some ideas:

  • Plant a garden: Even a small herb box on your windowsill can bring life and beauty. Someone gifted me a small potted aloe vera plant last year, and it enjoys the sunshine each morning by the kitchen window.
  • Volunteer for a local clean-up: Every little bit helps keep our parks and waterways healthy.
  • Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Simple steps can make a big difference.

We can extend this care to our own church grounds!

We all know the feeling of walking by an empty water bottle, a chip bag, or a cigarette bud. It may not be our trash, but caring for our church – God’s house – is a responsibility we all share. It’s not just the trustees’ job or the cleaning crew’s burden. When we see something, let’s do something about it. Taking a moment to pick up a piece of trash is a simple act of love for God and creation. It shows we care about our church community and the beautiful world God has entrusted to us. Let’s remember we are all stewards of this Earth.

Grace and peace!
Sela Finau

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

 

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Embracing the Light: Reflecting God’s Inclusive Love

14 Mar
Embracing the Light: Reflecting God’s Inclusive Love

3.14.24

“For God so loved the world…” (John 3:16) These words paint a powerful picture of God’s boundless love, a love that transcends any barrier we might imagine.

Just as God’s love embraces the entire world, we are called to expand our capacity for love. Consider the divisions in our community and the prejudices that create distance. God’s love knows no bounds, and we are called to reflect this love through compassion and understanding.

Reflecting on the sunrise as a metaphor for God’s love—a light that spills over every mountain peak and hidden valley, lighting every corner of the world. We are challenged to be beacons of this same light, welcoming those on the margins, fostering understanding, and building a more loving and just world.

Here are some questions to ponder as we move forward:

  • Does our love reflect God’s?
  • How can we better welcome those different from ourselves into our community?
  • Can we be a bridge of reconciliation, promoting understanding and fostering peace?

As we approach Holy Week, may we carry this message of God’s inclusive love in our hearts. May we shine our light brightly, a testament to the boundless love that embraces the entire world.

A summary of Sunday’s sermon based on John 3:14-21.

Sela Finau

 
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Posted by on March 14, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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Wednesday of the Fifth Week in Lent

13 Mar
Wednesday of the Fifth Week in Lent

Day 25: Gracious God, As I delve deeper into Lent, remind me of the transformative power of your all-encompassing love. Think of the conflicts that divide our world, the bitter arguments that tear families apart. Like the sunrise, your love reaches even into the darkest corners, offering hope and reconciliation. Grant me the courage to be a beacon of your love amid these divisions. Help me to see beyond differences and recognize the divine spark within each person. May your light shine brightly through me, a testament to the boundless love that embraces the entire world. Amen.

 
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Posted by on March 13, 2024 in Church, Community, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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Embracing God’s Grace: Reflections on Jonah’s Journey

16 Feb
Embracing God’s Grace: Reflections on Jonah’s Journey

2.16.24

This past Sunday was the conclusion of our series on the book of Jonah. The narrative’s powerful closing reminds us that God’s waiting grace is always ready to welcome us home despite our detours and disobedience. Jonah’s journey prompts self-reflection on our responses to God’s grace and our willingness to return when we veer off course.

Moving beyond Jonah’s story, we delve into a broader call to share God’s grace with everyone. The central message echoes that God’s enduring and universal grace extends to friends, family, neighbors, and even those of different faiths. The emphasis lies in embracing the transformative power of spreading this message and recognizing our role as vessels of God’s unmerited favor in our interactions.

As recipients of God’s grace, we are urged to actively extend the invitation to others. The call to action resonates strongly: become ambassadors of God’s grace in our communities and beyond. The closing questions challenge us to examine our inclusivity and confront misplaced anger, reminding us that God’s preferences lean towards grace over anger. The message encourages us to align our motives with God’s transformative love as we carry the lessons of Jonah’s journey into our daily lives.

 
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Posted by on February 16, 2024 in Church, Community, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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Advent Daily Prayer: 12.3.23

03 Dec
Advent Daily Prayer: 12.3.23

Week One: Hope

Sunday, December 3, 2023:

Gracious God, as we begin this Advent season and light the first Advent candle, we embrace the dual anticipation of celebrating the birth of Christ and eagerly awaiting His glorious return. Fill our hearts with the hope that comes from both the historical fulfillment of your promises and the promise of future joy in Christ’s presence. Ignite a flame of hope within us, dispelling any darkness in our lives. Amen.

 
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Posted by on December 3, 2023 in Church, Community, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

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