Things we have built into habits, we can easily do again, but things we rarely do, we may struggle to even remember how they're done. If we build a discipline of studying, internalizing, and applying Scripture, we will have solid ground to stand on when faced with difficulty. After all, God's words gave Joshua the confidence to lead a nation, and Paul the confidence to preach even after being tortured and jailed. Similarly, we can persevere through the toughest of situations and the greatest of doubts, if in these times we fall back on Scripture, which recounts many who have faced similar situations, and where God offers wisdom on many things.

We often seek personal ambition and greatness, but Jesus teaches a different path—one where true greatness is revealed through serving others. In Mark 9:30-37, when the disciples argue about who is the greatest, Jesus teaches them that greatness lies in humble servanthood. Using a child as an example, he shows that welcoming and serving the powerless is like welcoming him. Through this, Jesus calls us to reflect his humility and love, showing us that true honor comes from uplifting the lowly and serving others.

In our spiritual development, whether seasoned believer or curious seeker, a part of our discipleship process involves some changes, namely in the area of our priorities. As societies and people have changed over time, so too have our priorities and their associated concerns. Nevertheless, we habitually continue to structure and revolve our lives around the “main thing,” so to speak. It is seemingly a natural course of action to focus on our priorities, but as we grow in our faith, we might find that our priories are not necessarily the priories of the father. As we deepen in spiritual maturity, we learn that how Jesus modeled discipleship in his obedience to the father is the same calling for us in the present: called to grow concern for God’s concerns, and to lay our own at the foot of the cross.

When we cry, especially unexpectedly, it's a signal to pay close attention. While we may see it as a moment of weakness that requires a tangible solution, God sees it as something more precious - an expression of our heart that reveals more about ourselves and calls not for a solution, but for a safe and loving space to be in. If we want to cultivate a community that encourages such safe and loving spaces, it's crucial to let go of our tendency towards efficiency and problem-solving and learn to be present in the moment, and to love others simply by listening and wasting time together.

As we gather together for Retreat Sunday Service, we visit the theme of rest. In this day and age, especially in a competitive city like New York, it is easy to become anxious and stressed out.

However, in his letter to the Philippians, Paul invites us to rest, to let go of the things we can't control and give them up to God. In turn, this frees up our minds to be present with what God has put in front us. Today, then, let's allow God to free us from being mired in our failures, our regrets, and our mistakes, and instead focus on what we can influence, what we can do now, for the people we love, and for God's glory here and forever.

At today's “Desserts in the Sun”, Dr. Sammy speaks about Jesus' wisdom for anyone who worries too much. Worrying, especially about things we can't control, often dominates our minds with negative thoughts. Jesus teaches that worrying adds no value to our lives and instead contributes to our problems. Rather than trying to think more positively, Jesus advises us to stop negative thoughts in their tracks and, instead, focus on today's concerns. By letting go of worry, we can create space for God's purpose and dreams for our lives.

The benediction, traditionally, is a word of blessing bestowed to a congregation at the end of a worship service. Although the benediction is a regular practice, its significance goes beyond serving as just a good word, but as a means to also cultivate moral discernment. Insofar as we attempt to navigate our weeks, relationships, and resources, the benedictions we receive on a weekly occurrence can help to develop our reliance on the Father to guide our decisions, differentiate between what’s a blessing or a curse, and respond rightly to how we can best add value in the eyes of the Father.