Pastor’s Message September 17, 2026

Two friends were hiking through the desert when they had a disagreement.  One friend accidentally slapped the other, who got hurt.  Instead of saying anything, he wrote in the sand, “Today, my best friend slapped me in the face.”

They kept walking until they found an oasis and decided to take a bath.  The friend who had been slapped got stuck in the mud and started to drown, but his friend saved him.  After almost drowning, he wrote on a stone, “Today, my best friend saved my life.”  His friend asked, “After I hurt you, you wrote in the sand and now, you write on a stone. Why?”  The other friend replied, “When someone hurts us, we should write it down in sand where the winds of forgiveness can erase it away.  But when someone does something good for us, we must engrave it in stone where no wind can ever erase it.” 

Forgiveness is about letting go of the wrongs others have done and the hurts we’ve felt.  It’s a gift from God.  It’s easy to ask for patience when we mess up, but we often don’t give it to others.  Instead of dwelling on what others have done to us, let’s remember our own mistakes and the times we’ve been shown kindness by God.

God came to us through His Son, not because we deserved it, but because of His love.  Even though we make lots of mistakes, God stays patient with us because of His constant love. 

Pastor’s Message September 10, 2026

There’s a story that came to mind this week.  It’s about a man on a boat.  He’s not alone, but he acts like he is.  One night, he suddenly starts cutting a hole under his seat.  The other people on the boat scream at him, demanding to know what he’s doing.  “What are you doing? Do you want to sink us all?”  The man responds that it is none of their business.  He explains that he’s paid for his ticket and that he’s not cutting under their seats.

It might be hard for the egotist to accept this response, but we must remember that we’re all in the same boat.  Disagreements can cause conflicts, and they can feel like a threat to our sense of peace and community.  How do we enter and move through conflicts as God’s beloved children? 

In the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 18, there’s a parable about a lost sheep.  A man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them goes missing.  Jesus asks, “Won’t he leave the ninety-nine and go to look for the one that is lost?”  We often interpret this parable as a message for those who don’t belong in the faith of the church.  However, what if it also applies to those who are isolated from the group because of their differing opinions?

What defines a holy society?  It’s a place where differences are embraced, and disagreements are respected.  The hallmark of a highly ethical and peaceful society is where people work together to accept disagreements, and reconciliation is actively pursued.  That’s the essence of God’s kingdom here on earth. 

God came to us through His Son, not because we were deserving, but because He loved us. Today, we are courageous enough to treat everyone with compassion and mercy, as we learned from our master.

Pastor’s Message September 3, 2026

Michelangelo was asked by the Catholic Church to paint the Sistine Chapel, and one of his most famous pieces is on the chapel’s ceiling—it’s called “The Creation of Adam.”  In the painting, God is reaching out to Adam, humanity, from the heavens to give him divine wisdom.

But here’s the thing: Adam is just reclining comfortably on the earth, not very interested in receiving God’s divine energy.  He even seems a bit arrogant!  The artist tried to show God’s gift of free will and His love to connect with humanity, but it seems like Adam and humanity just can’t seem to open up to divine things. 

We often assume that we can handle all aspects of life.  However, when our egos are inflated, we become obstacles to God’s abundance and His presence in the world.  The thing that limits us is our thoughts, decisions, and inclinations.

In Romans 12, Paul gives the early church advice on how to handle suffering—stay humble, be kind to others, and choosing good over bitterness.  Here’s verse 3: ^“For by the grace given me, I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.”

Today, we’re grateful for God’s grace that brings us through His Son, Jesus Christ.  It’s always a good feeling to know that God reaches us with His wisdom. 

Pastor’s Message August 27, 2026

I came across a story about a family who had two cocoons, one of which was about to hatch.  As they watched the first cocoon open, the butterfly inside was struggling, a reminder of the pain faced by new parents.  The butterfly worked its way slowly through a tiny hole, chewing at one end of the cocoon.  Once it was out, it lay there for about 10 minutes, completely worn out, and finally, it took flight on its beautiful new wings.

Inspired by the first butterfly’s struggle, the family wanted to help the second one have a smoother start in the world.  As the second butterfly started to come out of its cocoon, they carefully cut it open with a razor blade.  Sadly, the second butterfly never grew wings, and it died in about ten minutes. 

Later on, they learned that pushing through the small hole forces fluid from deep inside the body into capillaries in the butterfly’s wings.  This fluid makes the wings strong and ready for flight.  The lesson? The struggle is necessary to build strong wings.  Without the struggle, there are no wings.

It appears that struggling isn’t so bad after all.  The experience of our own struggles gives us wings to fly.   When we struggle, God supports us, enabling us to grow healthier and stronger, preparing us for His service. 

The Psalmist in Psalm 124:2-6 declares, “If the Lord hadn’t been on our side when people attacked us, they would have swallowed us alive…, the flood would have engulfed us…, and the raging waters would have swept us away.”  We have every reason to praise the Lord today.  Even in our struggles, God is with us, guiding us through His protection and plan.  Indeed, “our help is in the name of the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth” (verse 8).

Today, on Thursday morning, as I write this message for you, it’s raining outside after many days of hot weather.  It’s wonderful to live under the care and guidance of our Creator.  Let’s all praise the Lord!  Amen.

Pastor’s Message August 20, 2026

There’s a well-known story about Augustine and his devoted mother, Monica.  When Augustine was exploring ancient philosophy, she constantly prayed for him to convert and sought guidance from a holy man to point out its flaws.  The holy man, seeing Augustine’s intelligence, assured Monica that he, too, had been a follower of those beliefs.  He believed Augustine’s intelligence would prevent him from deceiving himself.  This advice brought tears to Monica’s eyes.  The holy man then said, “Live as you are. It’s impossible that the son of such tears should be lost.”

The holy man was right.  After years of internal struggle, Augustine became a Christian.  When Monica heard of her son’s conversion, she felt she fulfilled her last wish and died nine days later.

Not only Augustine, but I (we) too have benefited from such prayer.  As I grew up, my mother kept praying for me while I wandered through internal struggles.  I am who I am today, not only because of my search, but there were always people who prayed for me.  And now, it’s our turn to pray for them as well.

Matthew 21:22 says, “If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.”  Jesus explains that prayer requires deep trust in God rather than doubt.  God knows our hearts, and He will fulfill His will in His own time.

If you’re concerned about someone you love, keep asking God for help.  There are times when it might feel like God is not listening, but that is not true.  Don’t give up; keep asking and keep trusting.

Pastor’s Message August 13, 2026

About three weeks ago, my family and I went to watch a movie called “Odyssey.”  It was probably the first time in recent months that all five of us had gotten together since we’ve been busy with our daily schedules.  “Odyssey” is a movie based on Homer’s Greek epic poem.  It tells the hero Odysseus’s 10-year struggle to return home after the Trojan War.  The movie depicts numerous symbols that represent the human journey.  As he makes his way back, Odysseus encounters mental and emotional obstacles that are described as monsters, gods, and his own flaws.

As I explored the story and its meaning, I couldn’t help but see connections to ancient biblical characters, especially Jacob.  Jacob left his family because things were chaotic at home.  As he left, he made a serious promise in Genesis 28:20-22: ‘If God will be with me and watch over me on this journey, providing food and clothing so that I can safely return to my home, then the Lord will be my God.’ 

At first, Jacob was just a simple, self-centered individual, always thinking about himself.  Even his vow sounds selfish, too. 

What’s truly remarkable about Jacob’s dream at Bethel is that God first appeared to him.  Even before he had asked for blessings, God promised Jacob (and us) that He would always be with him (us) and never leave until He fulfilled His promise.  As Jacob grew older, he started to see God’s new purpose for him and became a man of faith.

How are you feeling on your spiritual path today?  Are you finding yourself lost amidst the challenges and obstacles? Just remember, we’re all on this journey together, and we are returning home.  The search for home is a deep quest for self-discovery, personal growth, or spiritual development.  Ultimately, this journey will lead to peace, identity, and a return to our true selves.  God bless you all! 

Pastor’s Message August 6, 2026

About a month ago, my mom in Virginia called me and asked, “Why don’t you call me as often as you used to?”  I tried to recall how long it had been since our last call. It had been about a month.  Around the time the World Cup started, I called her to remind her to watch a game, but then I forgot to call her again.  She simply wondered if we were doing well.  The next week, I called her to check on her, and she thanked me for calling her, as if she were thanking her pastor.

We often discuss significant events to strengthen our relationship, such as charming occasions.  However, changes in our daily lives are often driven by small acts of care we show to ourselves and others.  What are some small things you can do to help yourself and those around you?

Growing up in church, I used to listen and sing hymns during worship since I was young.  One hymn that stands out to me is “Sweet Hour of Prayer” from the United Methodist Hymnal 496.  It says,  “Sweet hour of prayer! That calls me from a world of care, and bids me at my Father’s throne make all my wants and wishes known. In seasons of distress and grief, my soul has often found relief, and oft escaped the tempter’s snare by thy return, sweet hour of prayer!”

Even small things, like a quick prayer, can help us and remind us of the One who blesses us.  So, why don’t you say it now? 

When we acknowledge our limitations with just “two loaves of bread and two fish,” Jesus says to us, “you have everything you need.”  With God, all things are possible.  In Christ, we have discovered a new hope that transforms our lives and brings us closer to the divine.

Pastor’s Message July 30, 2026

A few years back, someone approached me after worship to share his thoughts on my sermon.  I had been talking about anger management, and it can mess our lives.  He told me that it felt like I had just preached it for him that Sunday.  It was wonderful to hear that God had touched his heart through me that day. You never know how God might use us to reach people.

I came across a story last week about a woman.  There was this old man in her town who had a special habit.  He would wander the streets of the town, and whenever he saw a child, he’d stop and give a picture of Christ to them.  It’s an image of Jesus with a flock of sheep.  The back of the picture has “Psalm 23” written in a shaky hand.  Even after 40 years, she still has the picture. 

In his own unique way, he was gently planting seeds of faith in the children on his street.  She shared his dedication helped build a foundation for her own faith.

Isn’t it amazing how giving a child a picture of Jesus can lead them to faith?  It’s like a tiny seed growing into a big shrub!  Often, great good comes from small, seemingly unimportant beginnings.

We’re surrounded with joy, happiness and love, but most people have no idea.  Today, let’s focus on the small acts we can do to nurture them, so we can witness the kingdom of heaven unfolding.

God is always with us.  The Spirit created the church on Pentecost, and the same Spirit is shaping our lives each day.  The Spirit gives us strength when we’re weak and reminds us that nothing can keep us from God’s love, which is ours through Christ Jesus.

 “I cried and cried. But then I remembered something you said in one of your sermons…”  Fred Craddock was stunned.  She had remembered something he had said in one of his sermons?!  It was enough for him to realize that you can never predict how a seed will grow or where it might take root.

I was raised on Bible stories and sermons, and it’s true that those words found me, brining comfort when I was at my lowest point.  

What words resonate with you today?  What words, insights do the Spirit bring to you today?  Psalm 139:1-2 tells us about who we are before God: “Lord, you have examined me. You know me. You know when I sit down and when I stand up. Even from far away, you comprehend my plans. You study my traveling and resting. You are thoroughly familiar with all my ways. There isn’t a word on my tongue, Lord, that you don’t already know completely.”

God knows you and is familiar with all your ways.  He loves you as a precious child, and His Word frees us from frustration, filling us with hope.  Peace and hope are yours in the name of Christ.

Pastor’s Message July 16, 2026

Years ago, a member of the church I was serving came to share the most important spiritual advice she’d ever received.  I was hoping and expecting her to mention one of my sermons, but she talked about her nail artist instead.  This nail artist was from South Korea.  While she was getting her nails done, she would share stories about her life, the difficulties she faced, and how she managed to overcome them.  Her story really touched her, helping her see life in a whole new way.

God communicates with us in so many ways!  It might be through the Bible or sermons, but sometimes, even your nail artist can be a channel for God’s message.  

God often uses people and paths we might not expect to help us see the world in new and inspiring ways.  Sometimes, God even uses conflicts in life to speak to us.  For example, in Genesis, we see the story of Jacob and Esau, who were always struggling against each other.  However, when God’s people turned to God, God brought them together in blessings, even amidst the conflicts.

Even when things get complicated, there’s a way to find wholeness in the end.  Romans 8:6 reminds us, “To set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.”  What we focus on really matters.  The attitude that comes from the Spirit brings wholeness.

 Life without God’s word would be like life without spiritual guidance, meaning, and direction.  God’s meaning is all around us.  So, what’s inspiring you today?  Where do you want to focus your mind?

Pastor’s Message July 9,2026

 I came across an old story about a little boy who was helping his dad in the garden.  Dad asked him to collect some rocks from a particular spot.  As Dad watched, he saw the boy was having a tough time pulling up a big rock in the dirt.  The boy tried his best, but finally gave up, saying, “I can’t do it.”  Dad asked, “Did you use all your strength?”  The boy looked a bit down and replied, “Yes, I used every ounce of strength I have.”  The father smiled and said, “No, you didn’t. You didn’t ask me to help.”  Then, the father walked over, and together, they pulled that big rock out of the dirt.

Often, we feel ready to tackle challenges and lead the way with our own skills.  But life requires more than just our own efforts.  In fact, we did not bring anything to our world with our abilities when we were born.

Isaiah 43:2-5 describes God’s boundless power, beyond what we can even imagine: “when you go through the waters, I will be with you; when you go through the rivers, they won’t sweep you away.  When you walk through the fire, you won’t be burned, and the flame won’t touch you. I am the Lord your God, the holy one of Israel, your savior. I have given Egypt as your ransom, Cush and Seba in your place. Because you are precious in my eyes, you are honored, and I love you. I give people in your place, and nations in exchange for your life. Don’t fear, I am with you. From the east I’ll bring your children; from the west I’ll gather you.”

Freedom and strength are found in being united with Christ.

Pastor’s Message July 2, 2026

About two weeks back, Miran and I caught up on an old film from almost 20 years ago—The Devil Wears Prada.  It starred Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway, who played two key roles.  Meryl Streep was a symbol of power in the fashion world while Anne Hathaway was hired as her assistant, dreaming of climbing the career ladder under her.

I wanted to share a scene that really caught my eye in the movie.  Meryl, the boss, is going through a divorce, and Anne, her assistant, visits her in her fancy hotel room in Paris.  The boss opens up about feeling defeated and worried about what the news and her enemies will say about her personal life.

That made me think about how we all want to protect our image, no matter how successful we are.  What do you do when you feel defeated?  Are you worried about your reputation?

Psalm 13:2 brings up a question we might all wonder: “How long will my enemy keep defeating me?” It can be tough to see God’s goodness when things are at our worst.  But David reassures us on verse 6, “I will sing to the Lord because He has been good to me,” even when his enemies were celebrating his downfall.

What does it feel like when your enemy is thriving right before your eyes?  And he’s not even someone with integrity, and all those years you’ve been trying to live by God’s word?  The key difference between those who worry about their reputation and those who trust God’s promise is that we leave it up to God and rely on God who has been good to us and will work for us.