November 6, 2024

A Note from Pastor Y.O.

Dear Beloved Church Family,

Last week, we turned to a profound story of love, hope, and the remarkable bonds we share with God and each other. The story of Lazarus’s resurrection in John 11 is often remembered for the miraculous act of raising a man from the dead. Yet, woven throughout this narrative is another powerful theme: the importance of relationships in our lives and how they can draw us closer to God’s glory.

We began our time together by reflecting on the significance of the people we hold close. Family—both blood and chosen — shapes us, supports us, and sometimes even stretches us. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us, “Iron sharpens iron, and one person sharpens another.” Like Martha and Mary, our family can sometimes frustrate us or not act as we’d expect, but their place in our lives is divinely purposeful. God has woven them into our journey, each relationship carrying lessons and blessings for us to uncover.

I shared that I come from a large family, where we love each other deeply and sometimes clash just as deeply! Family dynamics can be complex, yet they teach us patience, understanding, and how to navigate the joys and challenges of relationships. I know many of you understand this deeply, as you, too, have siblings, parents, or friends who can both lift you up and drive you up a wall!

When Mary and Martha sent word to Jesus, they expected an immediate response. They didn’t imagine that Jesus would delay. Yet, in a surprising twist, Jesus did wait. In this waiting period, He had faith in God’s perfect timing and purpose. “This sickness will not end in death,” He declared, affirming that even delays can lead to glory. Jesus’ response teaches us the patience and trust to lean on God’s timing rather than our own expectations or worries.

We often want God’s answers right now, especially when we’re faced with pressing challenges. But this passage reminds us that the Lord is never late. He moves in ways and on a timeline that we can’t always understand, but that always works toward a greater purpose.

In one of the story’s most poignant moments, Jesus calls Lazarus out from the tomb, an act that astonished everyone present. Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” (John 11:40). What a call to all of us! Jesus invites us into a faith that doesn’t depend on seeing immediate results but on believing in the power and presence of God at work in our lives.

As we enter this season of gratitude, consider how God might be inviting you to trust Him deeper—especially in situations where answers seem delayed or hidden. Perhaps there is someone you’re praying for or a situation that feels stagnant. Like Mary and Martha, bring it to Jesus. Release it into His care, trusting that He knows exactly when and how to answer.

I close with the following questions for your reflection:

1. Who are the "iron-sharpening" people in your life?

2. Are there areas in your life where you need to surrender control to God’s timing?

3. How might you grow in trust this month, believing that “you will see the glory of God” even in unexpected ways?

May we continue to be a church that reaches out, supports one another, and believes in the power of prayer. Blessings to you all this season!

With love and blessings,

Pastor YO 
Lead Servant