Devotional: Stepping Into 2026 with Hope and Love

 

"If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" — 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)

As we close the chapter of 2025, we look back with gratitude. This past year may have brought moments of joy, challenges, growth, and even heartbreak—but through it all, God’s presence has remained constant. We give thanks for the lessons learned, the relationships nurtured, and the ways in which Christ’s love carried us through the ordinary and extraordinary days.

Entering 2026, we are reminded that God makes all things new. Like a fresh canvas, the coming year is an invitation to live with intention, kindness, and love. Jesus calls us not only to embrace hope for ourselves but to extend compassion to those around us. Every act of gentleness, patience, and generosity echoes God's light in a world that longs for it.

Let us step forward with hearts open to God’s guidance, ready to love more deeply, forgive more freely, and serve more joyfully. The old may be behind us, but the new is here—filled with opportunities to reflect Christ’s love in every encounter.

Prayer:
Loving God,
Thank You for carrying us through 2025, for Your faithfulness in the highs and the lows, and for the gifts of love, friendship, and growth along the way. As we step into 2026, fill our hearts with hope and courage. Teach us to walk in Your ways, to show kindness to the weary, and to shine Your love into every corner of our lives. Help us to live as new creations in Christ, trusting that Your Spirit will guide our steps and that Your joy will sustain us through every season. May our words, actions, and hearts reflect Jesus’ love, so that this year becomes a testament to Your grace and mercy. Amen.

Devotional: Holy Laughter for a New Year

"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens… a time to weep and a time to laugh." — Ecclesiastes 3:1-4

As we step into a new year, we carry the memories of the past: the joys, the losses, the surprises, and the lessons. Life is a series of seasons, some heavy and some light, and God meets us in every one. Even when plans go awry, laughter reminds us that we are not in control—God is. Holy laughter is a mark of trust, gratitude, and hope. It transforms ordinary moments into glimpses of God’s presence and grace.

This year, let us embrace both the tears and the smiles. Let us thank God for sustaining us through challenges, for the unexpected joys, and for the gentle reminders of love that appear in the simplest moments. Let us carry forward the gift of laughter and the courage to trust God with what comes next.

Prayer:
Gracious God, thank You for guiding us through the past year with patience, mercy, and love. As we enter this new year, help us to trust You more deeply, to rejoice in Your blessings, and to find holy laughter even in challenging times. Fill our hearts with gratitude, hope, and joy, that we may reflect Jesus’ love to those around us. Amen.

Devotional: Trusting God

 

Scripture Reference: Romans 8:28; Job 12:13-16; Isaiah 2:22; Jeremiah 17:5-8; Isaiah 40:31

 In times of hardship and injustice, our instinct may be to question God's sovereignty over our lives. We may create exemptions, thinking God couldn't have willed certain tragedies or challenges. Yet, the lives of Joseph, Job, and others in Scripture teach us a different perspective.

 Have you ever wrestled with doubts about God's control over difficult circumstances in your life?

How does the truth of Romans 8:28 impact your understanding of God's sovereignty?

 Joseph's life exemplifies unwavering faith in God's sovereignty. Despite betrayal, slavery, and imprisonment, Joseph never doubted God’s company. His conviction echoed the truth later expressed by Paul in Romans 8:28—that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.

 Consider areas in your life where you struggle to trust God's sovereignty? How can you surrender those concerns to God today?

Reflect on Isaiah's admonition to trust in God rather than in human strength or understanding. How can you cultivate a deeper reliance on God's eternal wisdom?

 As we meditate on Joseph's example and the truths from Scripture, may we find reassurance in God's unchanging character and faithfulness throughout every season of life. Let us anchor our trust in God’s love, knowing that God sustains us, empowers us, and leads us through every trial and triumph according to eternal love.

 Prayer:

Loving God, in moments of doubt and disillusionment, remind me of Your presence in every detail of my life. Help me to trust Your wisdom and timing, knowing that You work all things for my ultimate good and Your glory. Strengthen my faith to wait upon You with hope and endurance, believing that Your plans for me are perfect. Amen.

 

Sermon Notes: Joseph's Dreams

Dreams are the architects of our reality, shaping our aspirations and propelling us towards extraordinary achievements. They are the seeds planted in the fertile soil of our minds, blossoming into tangible accomplishments. Just as a captain charts a course for his ship, our dreams provide the roadmap for our lives. In this message, we will explore the significance of dreams, the challenges we may face in pursuing them, and the essential role of God in turning our dreams into reality.

The Significance of Dreams

Dreams are more than mere wishes; they are the blueprints for our destiny. They ignite our passions, fuel our determination, and give our lives purpose. When we dream, we tap into a realm of limitless possibilities. Like a compass pointing north, dreams guide us towards our true potential.

Overcoming Obstacles

The path to realizing our dreams is seldom smooth. Obstacles, setbacks, and self-doubt may arise, attempting to derail our progress. Yet, these challenges are not roadblocks but opportunities for growth. With perseverance, resilience, and a steadfast belief in ourselves, we can overcome any hurdle. Remember, every setback is a setup for a comeback.

The Role of God

Joseph's dreams came from God that's why they became a reality.  When our dreams are godly, God works for our good. God is the ultimate architect of our lives when our dreams align with the divine grand plan. By seeking God's guidance, surrendering our will to God's, and trusting in God's perfect timing, we invite blessings upon our endeavors.

Dreams are not merely illusions; they are the blueprints for our destiny. With God as our compass and perseverance as our guide, we can navigate the challenges and reach the heights of our aspirations. Let us dare to dream big, work diligently, and trust in God's perfect timing. For in God's hands, our dreams can become a magnificent reality.

Remember, every great achievement began as a dream. So, dream boldly, believe passionately, and watch your dreams unfold.

Devotional: From Suffering to Spiritual Fruit

 Joseph's life mirrors the truth Jesus taught about spiritual growth—like a seed that must die to bear fruit (John 12:24). Despite enduring betrayal and unjust suffering, Joseph remained steadfast in his faith and obedience to God.

Joseph's hardships weren't meaningless; they were integral to God's larger plan to bring about salvation and preservation during a time of famine (Genesis 50:20). Similarly, our own trials can serve as opportunities for God to cultivate spiritual maturity and fruitfulness within us.

When we face difficulties, it's tempting to question God's plan or feel overwhelmed by our circumstances. However, Joseph's example reminds us that God is at work even during our struggles. As we trust in God’s promises and remain faithful, God uses every trial to shape us into vessels capable of bearing spiritual fruit.

Just as Joseph's suffering led to the preservation of many lives, our perseverance through trials can lead to greater spiritual maturity and a deeper understanding of God's faithfulness. Let's embrace each challenge as an opportunity for growth, knowing that God's purposes for us are good. Our loving God uses every circumstance to mold us, strengthen our faith, and ultimately fulfill divine plans, the building of God’s kindom through the transformation of our lives.

Prayer:

Lord, in times of trial, help us remember Your promise that all things work together for good for those who love You (Romans 8:28). Give us the strength and faith to endure, knowing that through our suffering, You are shaping us into vessels of Your grace and truth. May our lives bear fruit that glorifies Your name. Amen.

Celebrating Love: A Reflection on Marriage and God's Love

 

"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." John 13:34-35 (NIV)

Dear friends,

As we celebrate this season of love, I want to take a moment to reflect on the profound gift of love, both in marriage and in the greater love of God. On Valentine’s Day, we often celebrate the love we share with our spouses, but let us also remember the ultimate source of love, the love that flows from our Creator.

In marriage, we experience a reflection of God's love for us. The love between spouses is meant to be a picture of the unwavering, sacrificial love that God shows God's people. As it is written in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." These words remind us that love in marriage, like God's love, should be unconditional and enduring.

But above all, let us not forget the depth of God's love for us. John 3:16 tells us, "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." This divine love is not bound by time or circumstance; it is freely given, without expectation, and is the foundation of all the love we share with others.

On this Valentine’s Day, may we celebrate not only the love between us as spouses but also the love that God has lavished upon us, a love that empowers and transforms.

With love and blessings,

Pastor Richard

God’s Faithfulness in Every Season

 

Scripture: Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV)

"Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness."

As we step into 2025, we can be confident in God’s faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23 is a beautiful reminder that God’s love and compassion never fail. No matter what we’ve faced in the past or will face in the future, God's faithfulness is constant. Each morning, we are given a fresh supply of grace and mercy, and each new day is an opportunity to experience love anew.

This year, let’s focus on God’s unchanging nature. While the world around us may change, God remains faithful. God's love is not dependent on our circumstances but is always present, always available. No matter the season of life you find yourself in, God's faithfulness is sure.

Let this year be one where we grow deeper in our understanding of God’s unwavering love. Let us live with the assurance that God is with us every step of the way, and His mercies are new every morning.

Prayer:
Loving God, thank You for Your constant love and faithfulness. I trust that You are with me in every season and that Your mercies are new each day. Help me to rely on Your unfailing love and to see Your hand at work in my life. Thank You for being my faithful companion as I begin this new year. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Renewed Strength

 Scripture: Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)

"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

The beginning of a new year can often be a time of feeling both excited and exhausted. The weight of past struggles and the uncertainty of the future can cause us to feel weary. Yet, Isaiah 40:31 gives us a powerful reminder that when we place our hope in the Lord, our strength is renewed.

God’s strength is limitless, and promises that those who hope will rise above their circumstances. Like an eagle soaring high above the storm, we too can rise above the challenges we face. God doesn’t just give us strength to endure; God provides a strength that allows us to soar.

As we embark on 2025, let’s remember that our source of strength is not our own. We are invited to rely on God’s abundant grace and power. When we feel weak, God lifts us up. When we feel tired, God refreshes us. Let this year be a year of renewed strength, as we trust in God's provision and ability to carry us through.

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for being my source of strength. When I feel weary and worn, I will place my hope in You. Renew my strength and help me to rise above my challenges. I trust that You will carry me through this year, and I look forward to the strength You will provide. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Hurricanes and Floods: Where is God?

Natural disasters—earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, wildfires—strike across the globe, bringing suffering and loss. In their wake, people often ask: Why did this happen? Why does God allow such devastation?

Growing up in Lima, Peru, I witnessed the Rimac River overflow three times, causing floods that devastated my community, leading to loss of life and property. In times like these, some claim natural disasters are God’s punishment for sin. However, this belief misrepresents God’s nature and reflects an ancient understanding of natural forces, where disasters were seen as divine retribution. But in reality, hurricanes and other natural events are part of the Earth's processes. Even hurricanes, despite their destructive power, contribute to the environment by replenishing drought-stricken areas, dispersing seeds for new plant growth, and redistributing heat from the equator.

God created a beautiful, diverse planet, full of wonder. As the song "So Will I" beautifully says, "I can see Your heart in everything You've done." Yet, in the midst of this beauty, suffering exists. Natural disasters occur, often prompting us to ask, “Where is God?” The Bible writers acknowledge that even in times of catastrophe, God is not absent. Rather than seeing disasters as acts of divine judgment, we should focus on how God’s presence is revealed in the compassion and support we offer one another during crises.

God’s presence is manifested not by preventing disasters, but by being with us through them. In moments of pain, God is present in the love and care we extend to others. When we provide food, shelter, or emotional support, we reflect the heart of God—just as Jesus did. The Gospel of Matthew tells us that God’s love extends to all, both "the evil and the good," and that rain falls on "the just and unjust alike" (Matthew 5:45). Disasters are not punishments; they are part of the natural world.

When disasters strike, rather than questioning God’s motives, we should consider how the Divine works through us. God is revealed in the kindness and compassion we show when we help those in need. As followers of Jesus, even small acts, like offering a cup of water (Matthew 10:42), make God’s presence known. Through our response, we embody God’s love, making the kingdom of God visible in a hurting world. In the face of tragedy, we find God not in the cause, but in the response—in the hands that rebuild, the arms that comfort, and the communities that restore hope. Through these acts of grace, God transforms suffering into healing.

So Will I (100 Billion X) Benjamin Hastings / Joel Houston / Michael Fatkin