Help My Unbelief!

 For many people, the summer of 2021 was very challenging. We all expected the pandemic would be in the rearview mirror by now and we would again resume "normal" living. However, the pandemic appears to be lingering beyond our expectations. Covid-19 has taken up a lot of time and energy in people's lives but the challenge becomes even greater when we experience unexpected situations. This has certainly been true for me this summer. My husband was diagnosed with prostate cancer. He has since undergone surgery and the prognosis is positive. However, the week before his surgery he was diagnosed with melanoma. Needless to say, this was an unexpected, unforeseen, and unwelcome situation. These circumstances have certainly challenged my faith. The struggle has taken its toll on me spiritually, physically, and emotionally. In my work as a mental health counselor, it has been difficult to encourage others while I am operating out of a place of personal discouragement. I am thankful for the many friends and family who have been praying for us. 

An Imperfect Faith

During this difficult season I am drawn to the story of the father in Mark chapter 9 whose son was possessed by an impure spirit. Prior to this encounter, Jesus' closest disciples had just witnessed the transfiguration and are now rejoining the others. In Jesus absence the father of the possessed boy had asked the other disciples to heal his son but they were unsuccessful. The father, quite distraught, brings his son to Jesus for healing. However, at this point the father's faith is on shaky ground. After explaining to Jesus the history of his son's dilemma the father says to Jesus, "But if You can do anything, take pity on us and help us." (Mark 9:22b NIV) Jesus responds, "If You can? Everything is possible for one who believes." (Mark 9:23 NIV) The text goes on to tell us, "Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" (Mark 9:24 NIV) Jesus subsequently goes on to heal the boy. The father's statement appears to be a paradox. How can belief and unbelief exist at the same time? What the father is actually asking for is more faith or a deepening of his faith. He is acknowledging that as a human being his faith is not perfect. The father is in need of Jesus' help not only to physically heal his son but spiritually and emotionally strengthen him. I can relate to this man's struggle. As a pastor, I receive no special favor from God and I am not exempt from trials. Life is not easy and our faith is often tested when we have no control over circumstances that negatively impact us and the ones we love. However, Jesus did not walk away from this man or his son. Jesus did not tell the father that because of his spiritual struggle, his son could not be healed. 

A Perfect Lord

We need to remember that like this father our faith is not perfect but Jesus is. Even the apostles in Luke 17 made a similar request like the father of this boy, "The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!" He (Jesus) replied, "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it will obey you." (Luke 17:5-6 NIV) So, I can move forward even in the uncertainty of what the future holds for us. I can rest in the assurance that Jesus will never leave or forsake me. (Hebrews 13:5) He will not judge me for what I perceive as an inadequate amount of faith. One of the members in our church family stated that he recently listened online to one of his brother-in-law's sermons. The point that stood out to him is a good word for us all. His brother-in-law preached that in times of uncertainty, "We don't know how but we do know Who!" May the Lord bless, keep, and sustain you in whatever difficulties and challenges you are facing or will face in the days ahead.

Peace and Blessings,

Pastor Sheree

I am because HE IS!

Have you ever been to a yard sale? I find it fascinating to see just how many items a person has collected, some of which are unusual, other items appear to be outdated. Regardless of what I think, each of those items for sale holds a particular value in the owner's eyes. Perhaps it was a gift from a dear friend. Maybe it was something passed down from a parent or grandparent. Now the items are up for sale many times for mere pennies. Why is something that once held value being sold for next to nothing? The reasons may vary. The owner may be downsizing in preparation for relocating. The person may be in need of money and the yard sale is a quick way to make a few bucks. There's a saying that goes, "one man's trash is another man's treasure." This saying has significant meaning in those rare instances where someone will purchase something at a yard sale only to later discover the item belonged to or was the creation of a famous person. As a result an item seemingly worthless becomes exceedingly valuable and sells at auction for an unbelievable price! The item derives its value from the person who created it. 

Our Value Comes From God Our Creator

God has a lot to say about our infinite value and worth. In Psalm 139 we read, "For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from You when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be." (Psalm 139:13-16 NIV) emphasis mine. Each and every person is uniquely created by God. His signature is imprinted all over creation. When the psalmist acknowledges that he knows full well that God's works are wonderful, it is because the psalmist has come to understand that he is one of God's wonderful works of creation. In fact Paul states in Ephesians 2:10, "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (NIV) The word "handiwork" is literally translated "work of art." Perhaps you've heard the expression, "God don't make junk!" This expression is very true for every good thing He creates is a masterpiece. In our culture and in our world, we tend to place value on an object or even a person based on appearances. Is the object new or used? Is the item cheap or expensive? Is the person young or old? The implication being if we deem something useless or worthless it no longer holds any value. If we consider a person too old or infirmed, physically or mentally challenged they are seen as no longer useful to society. Objects that are perceived as no longer holding value are often thrown into the trash or given away. Likewise, people who are seen as useless are often isolated or locked away in a facility. However, nothing that God creates can be labeled useless or without value and that includes human beings. As the psalmist declared in Psalm 139 because God created us we are fearfully and wonderfully made! The idea behind being fearfully made is not about something to be afraid of but rather conveys the idea of awe and wonder that the God of the universe could create in such indescribable and diverse ways. 

God Delights In His Creation

In my counseling practice I make it a point to tell every client if they remember nothing else from the session to remember they are valuable because they exist. God does not have to create nor is He forced to create anyone or anything. He delights in creating as we read in the Bible from the book of Genesis, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." (Genesis 1:1 NIV) Additionally, the phrase "And God saw that it was good" is repeated 5 times in Genesis 1 ending with "God saw all that He had made, and it was very good." (Genesis 1:31 NIV) when He saw the completion of His creation. God was expressing His approval, endorsement, and personal satisfaction of His work and the pinnacle of His creation was humanity. (Genesis 1:26-31) If this were not enough, God reinforced our value in sending His Son to die for the sins of the world and grant us eternal life. (John 3:16-17) I encourage you, the next time you find yourself questioning is there anything special about me? When the judgmental comments or the negative attitudes stir up a sense of worthlessness, remember this is not a yard sale or an auction where your value is determined by the highest bidder. You are fearfully and wonderfully made by a Sovereign God and there is nothing more valuable than what He has created. Therefore, you can confidently and boldly declare "I am because HE IS!

Peace in Christ,

Pastor Sheree

Another Man In The Fire

In today's world it seems like hope has become an unrealistic ideal. Nowadays when someone is questioned in the midst of a difficult situation and asked if a resolution can be found, the answer is often "I hope so." The response appears to lack optimism or belief that there will be an end to a particular challenge. For example, the ongoing covid pandemic has left many people physically, emotionally, and spiritually depleted and feeling like the pandemic will never end. There are many voices calling us to follow this person or that program to find the answers to our problems. Even the recent journeys into space by Jeff Besos and Richard Branson appear to suggest that space flight is "the final frontier" as the old Star Trek television series declared. The thinking is that if technology is able to get to the point of rocketing people to other planets, there is hope for the human race.

INTO THE FLAMES

 In the book of Daniel chapter 3, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were Jewish men who were set to watch over the affairs of the province of Babylon. The King at the time whose name was Nebuchadnezzar, set up an image made of gold on the plain of Dura in the province of Babylon. He then decreed that everyone should bow down and worship the image. The penalty for non-compliance was death in the form of being thrown into a blazing furnace. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego soon found themselves in a difficult situation as they refused to follow the King's decree and remain faithful to the one true God. The King summoned the three men giving them one last chance to comply. However, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stood firm declaring to the King, "King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and He will deliver us from your Majesty's hand. But even if He does not, we want you to know, your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up." (Daniel 3:16-18 NIV) Notice the firmness of their response in the midst of a situation in which their backs were against the wall. There was not a sense of "I hope we get out of this dilemma" or an attempt to try and negotiate with the King. The fact of the matter was even though Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego may perish, there was only one King they served and to whom they would bow down. King Nebuchadnezzar's fury at their response was matched only by the heat of the furnace which he ordered to be heated seven times hotter than usual. The flames were so intense that the soldiers who were ordered to throw Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego into the furnace were killed by the intense heat and flames. However, to the King's amazement a fourth person whom the King described as "looking like a son of the gods" was walking around in the fire. (v.25) Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were ordered to come out of the furnace and they exited unharmed. King Nebuchadnezzar then issued a new decree that any people or nation who spoke anything negatively against the one true God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego would be cut into pieces and their houses be turned into piles of rubble for he declared, "no other god can save in this way." (v.29) The King then promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the province of Babylon. 

HOPE IS ALIVE

The challenge for us is how do we react when faced with impossible odds? When a season of life seems like it will never end, where do we turn? When we are figuratively speaking "facing the fire", where is our source of hope? There is "another man in the "fires of life." His name is Jesus. He stands with us when others are against us. He supports and upholds us when the bottom drops out from under us. And even when we are staring death in the face as did Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, there is another who walks with us through the "valley of the shadow" and delivers His followers safely to their eternal home. "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." (Isaiah 41:10 NIV) Rejoice! Hope is real and alive in Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior for no other god can save in this way!

Peace and Blessings,
Pastor Sheree

We Remember

 "And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is My body given for you; do this in remembrance of Me." In the same way, after the supper He took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you." (Luke 22:19-20 NIV)

The scene is a familiar one. A family is gathered around the table sharing a meal. However, this gathering feels different. There is a sense of heaviness in the hearts of those at the table. Nonetheless, there is some discussion, a little bit of laughter, and a few tears. The family recognizes the next day their lives will change forever. They had hoped and even prayed that the circumstances could be different. However, the family has to acknowledge that someone they love has made a choice which may not be popular or ideal but necessary. This scene has been repeated over time across this nation as families released their loved ones to go and serve their country overseas. Every year we set aside the last Monday in May to give thanks and remember the sacrifice made by men and women to protect and preserve the freedoms we enjoy in this country. The shed blood of these soldiers reminds us of the high price of freedom. Sadly, those lost in conflict will never sit around that family table again. Their loved ones will have to live the rest of their lives, clinging to their shared memories. How will they carry on without that person? 

A New Family Gathering

Over two thousand years ago there was another family gathering. This meal also felt different. There was a sense of heaviness as the Leader of the family told them He was going away to die for a higher purpose. He tried to help them understand that His death would set them free in a way they could never imagine. They would experience a freedom that reached beyond their present circumstances into the realm of eternity. The family recognizes their lives were going to change forever. What would they do without Him? How would they carry on? The good news is they would be with their Leader again, not on this earth but in the new world He promised to create in which all of His family would dwell. He would rise from the dead so they would not solely be left with memories but with His Presence. Furthermore, they would be able to carry on in His absence by the power of the Holy Spirit which He would send to them.

 

Eternal Victory

Unlike human conflicts and battles, Jesus fought a battle on another level. It was a spiritual battle for the soul of humanity. Additionally, unlike human conflicts where the battle is not always victorious, Jesus won the victory for all time and eternity! When we remember that last meal Jesus had with His disciples and His subsequent crucifixion, we recognize the high price He paid for our salvation. Each Memorial Day we remember with sadness the lives lost, but in Jesus Christ we remember with gladness the lives won by His resurrection. On Memorial Day we give thanks for the sacrifice of others and everyday we give thanks to God for freedom and eternal life in Jesus Christ!

Thanks be to God!

Pastor Sheree

God So Loved The World

On April 20, 2021 former police officer Derek Chauvin was found guilty on all three counts against him for the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. For weeks tensions, especially within the black community, ran high as Chauvin went on trial and the subsequent guilty verdict was returned by the jury. Following Chauvin's conviction, there was a collective sigh of relief and the feeling that justice had finally been served related to the mistreatment of people of color by primarily white police officers. The reactions within the black community varied from shouts of joy and praises to God to others breaking down in tears. Many felt that true justice was a long time coming for people of color and there was some uncertainty as to whether there would actually be any type of conviction. For many there was a sense that justice has been lacking regarding any police officer ever being convicted of unnecessary brutality towards people of color. There were references to the "blue wall" wherein fellow police officers typically did not testify against their own brothers or sisters in blue. However, Derek Chauvin's case was very atypical as fellow police officers could not in good conscience condone the excessive use of force which led to George Floyd's death. 

The God Of Justice

The Bible tells us that God is a God of justice, "For the Lord is righteous, He loves justice; the upright will see His face." (Psalm 11:7 NIV) "For I, the Lord, love justice; I hate robbery and wrongdoing." (Isaiah 61:8a NIV) Furthermore, the Bible tells us that we will experience the consequences of our choices, "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life." (Galatians 6:7-8 NIV) We have all seen or heard about instances where it appears a person gets away with some terrible crime or injustice and appears to escape the consequences. However, while that criminal may not experience punishment this side of heaven, nothing escapes the sight of our omniscient God. Paul states in Romans 12:19, "Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay, says the Lord." (NIV) 

The God Of Love

On the other hand, God is also a God of mercy, grace, and love. We read in the Gospel of John the familiar words, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16 NIV) While much of the focus has been and continues to be on George Floyd and his family, is there any thought about Derek Chauvin? One commentator on a popular daytime talk show expressed her desire to see Derek Chauvin "burn in hell." Is that God's desire? John 3:16 doesn't appear to support such a desire. I am in no way excusing what Derek Chauvin has done. Indeed his actions were cruel, malicious, heinous, and disgusting. I am not biologically related to George Floyd so I cannot begin to imagine the family's overwhelming pain and grief as well as satisfaction with Chauvin's conviction. However, Jesus tells us we are to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. (Matthew 5:43-48) How many believers who are praying for the Floyd family and their healing can honestly say they are praying for Derek Chauvin? 

The God Of Eternal Life

Although Mr. Chauvin will serve time in prison that is not the worst of his punishment. He will one day stand before a Holy and Righteous God who will determine Chauvin's eternal fate. My prayer is that behind those prison walls, a faithful believer will share the gospel with Derek Chauvin and give him the opportunity to repent of his sin and seek the forgiveness found in Jesus. Mr. Chauvin's failure to do so will result in a consequence that is far more "deadly" than murdering another human being, and that is separation from God forever. In Matthew 10:28 Jesus tells His followers, "Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell." (NIV) As unpleasant and counterintuitive as it may seem, we need to pray for those towards whom we feel hate, do not like, or with whom we may disagree because Jesus died for them as well as for us. The Bible tells us no one is righteous (Romans 3:9-20) "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23 NIV) However, there is hope, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23 NIV) Yes, God so loved even Derek Chauvin that He gave up His only Son. We as Christ's followers are not called to excuse, forget, or feel warm fuzzies towards Mr. Chauvin or his behavior but we are called to pray for his salvation and proclaim the gospel to all people so that they may recognize and experience how much God so loved the world.

To God be the glory!

Pastor Sheree

Victory!

When we hear the word "victory" what thoughts come to mind? We may think about a military conflict where the goal is to totally defeat the identified "enemy." We may think of a sporting event, for example the Boston Marathon or some team competition wherein those participating seek to cross the finish line or win the coveted trophy/award. Victory may also be demonstrated in battling back from a devastating disease or disability and going on to pursue life's goals. A victory in mental health can be experienced in overcoming a fear that has kept a person from feeling emotionally healthy. There are many ways to define a victory and each definition is unique to the individual in their particular situation or circumstance. However, what does true victory look like from a spiritual perspective?

Spiritual Victory

 The people of Israel celebrated a spiritual victory in Exodus chapter 12 where they were delivered from the bondage of slavery to Egypt after the last plague. Thus was established the recognition and remembrance of the Passover seder which the Jewish people celebrate every year. Joshua and the Israelites saw the walls of Jericho collapse in the book of Joshua chapter 6 as he encouraged the people to complete the work that Moses had begun in leading them to the Promised Land. As of this writing, we are entering Holy Week. It is the time when Christians celebrate the most foundational spiritual victory of their faith--the resurrection of Jesus. The gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) present the events that led up to the crucifixion of Jesus and His subsequent resurrection. The victory of Jesus is monumental in conquering sin and death so that our relationship with God could be restored and His followers could receive eternal life. 

Resurrection Hope

We will experience many victories in our lifetime and yes, even some defeats but the resurrection of Jesus will never be undone by anyone or anything. "The death He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life He lives, He lives to God." (Romans 6:10 NIV) "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. (1 Peter 1:3-4a NIV) Christian artists Elevation Worship have a popular song entitled "See a Victory." The refrain goes, "I'm gonna see a victory, I'm gonna see a victory, For the battle belongs to You, Lord." The Israelites were released from the bondage of slavery, the walls of Jericho fell, and Jesus Christ lives! When God is involved, the victory is assured. May you experience afresh this Easter the hope believers have in the greatest victory ever!

Have a blessed Resurrection Day! 

Pastor Sheree

Easter Resurrection Empty Tomb Christian Faith

What's Your Dream?

 What do you think of when you hear the word "dream?" For some, the image of sleep may come to mind. Sleep experts say that everyone dreams but we don't necessarily remember them. For others, to dream is to consider what the future may hold. We all have some desire to see the fulfillment of our dreams, for example owning our own home, or getting married, or owning a certain type of car. In the Bible, dreams are a part of the biblical narrative. Joseph dreams that he will one day have authority over his parents and brothers. (Genesis 37) He is also able to interpret the dreams of Pharaoh and Pharaoh's baker and cupbearer. (Genesis 40-41) Moreover, not only did Daniel dream but he was also able to interpret the dreams of King Nebuchadnezzar. (Daniel 2-9) In the New Testament, the Lord spoke to Joseph twice in a dream, once telling him to take Mary as his wife because she was carrying the Savior of the world. (Matthew 1:20-21) The second time Joseph was warned by an angel to flee to Egypt after King Herod threatened to kill Jesus as a child. (Matthew 2:13-15) 

Eternal Dreams

The month of February has been declared Black History Month. Perhaps more than any other year, Black History Month has been more highlighted following the deaths of George Floyd and other Black Americans who needlessly lost their lives. Out of these tragedies the "Black Lives Matter" movement gained new energy in an attempt to end racism and violence against Black Americans. Prior to the "Black Lives Matter" movement, there was another man who had a dream. His name was Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In many ways, Dr. King's dream for equality was the first "Black Lives Matter" movement and his non-violent methodology brought about the Civil Rights Movement, and the eventual signing of the Civil Rights Act in 1964. Over 2,000 years ago another man had a dream. He was the God-man, Jesus Christ. However, unlike the dreams of humanity which can be at times fleeting, Jesus' dream became an eternal reality. His "dream" was to redeem us from our sins and reconcile us back to God through His death and resurrection. Prior to His death, Jesus prayed that His followers would be one as He and the Father are one. (John 17:22-23) Jesus desired complete unity among His people so the world would know Him by our love for each other. (John 13:35) 

Desiring God's Dream

There is nothing wrong with dreaming about what our hearts may desire, however what is the reality that most of our dreams will be fulfilled? In a world that is fallen, broken, and tainted by sin, the attempts to achieve racial harmony between blacks and whites could be considered an unachievable dream. However, if the church truly takes to heart Jesus' eternal vision we can move closer to the "oneness" that truly reflects the heart of God. So, what is your dream? The temporary satisfaction of our individual desires or the eternal vision of loving God with our entire being and loving our neighbor as ourselves? "We love because He first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother or sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And He has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister." (1 John 4:19-21)

Peace,

Pastor Sheree

 

"Comfort"

 Every year I think about and pray for a word to focus on during the upcoming year. Last year's word was "rest" but I have to admit that last year was definitely not restful. However, the concept of rest can also focus on resting in the Lord in the midst of all the chaos and confusion that played out in our world last year. This concept of resting in the Lord was definitely needed in 2020. Many have verbalized a need for "hope" in 2021. The word I was given for the year is "comfort." I believe "comfort" is an appropriate word in the year ahead. In times of trouble and distress we all seek some sort of comfort. When we are sick and struggling to function we need the comfort of other's care or the relief we can experience from medication. When we have lost a loved one to death, comfort from the support of others can help us through our grief. "Comfort" is a very significant concept in God's word. 

God's Word Is A Source Of Comfort

The Old and New Testaments have many examples of the importance of comfort. In the midst of their struggles, Isaiah prophesied in chapter 40, comfort and deliverance for the Israelites through a soon to come Messiah. Many during this pandemic have experienced suffering and have sought relief. The psalmist provides encouragement during hard times and declares, "My comfort in my suffering is this; Your promise preserves my life." (Psalm 119:50 NIV) Moreover, one of the most familiar psalms speaks of God's comfort through one of the most fearful times in our lives--death, "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff they comfort me." (Psalm 23:4 NIV) Some versions of the Bible translate "darkest valley" as the "valley of the shadow of death." Both the rod and staff of the shepherd were used to bring comfort to the sheep through protecting them against predators and gently guiding and keeping the sheep close to the shepherd. Fast forward to the New Testament and Jesus in His person represented God's comfort to those who were in bondage to sin. In Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, comfort is a part of the Beatitudes, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." (Matthew 5:4 NIV) Comfort is not solely something we receive, but also something we give to others. God calls us to follow His example and be comforters as Paul states in 2 Corinthians, "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God." (2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV) 

An Ultimate Comfort Will Come

Our ultimate comfort will be realized with the creation of a new heaven and earth when we will no longer need comfort but we will be comfortable in the presence of our Lord forever as we read in Revelation, "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." (Revelation 21:4 NIV) Its a New Year and as in previous years, there will be triumphs as well as tragedies, pleasure as well as pain, celebration as well as suffering. We will all need comfort at some point during the year but there will be times as well when we will be comforters to others. I will wait with expectation upon the Lord to see how the word "comfort" unfolds in my life this year.

The comfort of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you in the year ahead!

Pastor Sheree