September 4, 2020

By Rosella Shishido, Communications Ministry Coordinator

This week my small group did the spiritual exercise known as Lectio Divina, which is Latin for “divine reading.” It’s a contemplative way of reading the Bible. We soaked in God’s Word by listening to a passage of Scripture four times. Then after each reading, we answered the question provided, which made us think about the passage in a different way each time. We spent a few minutes in silence after each question, and then shared with each other what we heard from God.

We listened to JOHN 17, a powerful chapter, I believe, because it’s a record of Jesus praying to God the Father.

I’ve read this chapter many times before, but apparently not well enough to stick because when we listened to it four times that evening, I was so moved by it that it felt like I was reading it for the first time.

“What word or phrase strikes you” was the first question. The first part of verse 9, I told the group, where Jesus says to God the Father, “I pray for them.”

Whoa. Just think about that.

Even before that evening with our small group, I already know that Jesus prays for those who follow Him. But somehow, as we basked in His presence, immersed in John 17, “I pray for them” took on a significant meaning.

“How is your life touched by this word” was the second question. I told the group that it was comforting and reassuring to know that Jesus covers me with prayer, especially at a time when it feels like I’m on shaky ground because of a recent medical diagnosis. The reminder that Jesus prays for me gave me a sense of being in Jesus’ inner circle, where I am safe and protected. And the thought of the Savior of the world, the Son of God Himself praying for me just blows my mind. 

“Is there an invitation or challenge for me to respond to” was the third question. My answer was yes, and that’s based on how verse 23 stood out for me, where Jesus prayed: “I in them, and You in Me, so that they may be brought to complete unity.” The invitation I heard from that verse is to abide. Abide in the Lord.

And the last question: “How will I carry this word into my daily life?” Well, for me, to abide in the Lord means that no matter what happens, even when life throws me a sucker-punch, I am to stay with God. I am to remain in Him. Dwell in Him. Submit to Him. And act in accordance to His will.

Not always easy, that’s for sure. But it is in those times that I need to remember that Jesus is praying for me.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, we praise You for dying for us and for rising from the dead to save us from our sins once and for all. Scripture says You’re at the right hand of God praying for us. Thank You so much!

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SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

By Jenny Sung, Executive Coordinator

I recently went to the UCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) office with my father as I’m sponsoring him for permanent residency in the U.S. Going through the interview process with my dad made me think back to my own naturalization process for U.S. citizenship. I was born in Peru, then became a citizen of South Korea until my mid-twenties.

As a high school and college student, from boarding school to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, my life in the U.S. was always dependent on visas. I distinctly remember the separate lines at the airport for citizens versus foreigners when coming back into the U.S. after travel. Each time, I was keenly aware that I was a foreigner, not a citizen. I remember the first time I came back into the U.S. after I became a citizen. The officer who checked my passport said, “Welcome back to the United States.”

Whenever I read this verse in the book of Ephesians, it strikes a particular chord in me: 

So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family. Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself. (Ephesians 2:19-20)

The law of Moses in the Old Testament distinguished between Jews (the people of Israel) and non-Jews. But with Jesus as our Cornerstone, He broke through all barriers and separation: “You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people.” As believers in Jesus Christ, we are all citizens of God, a part of His family. Together we are His house. 

Our identity rests solely in Jesus. He bore all our sins and died on the cross so we can be reconciled to God with no barriers whatsoever. For anyone who can relate to struggles of identity or belonging, know that your belief in Jesus secures your identity and sense of belonging. Jesus is your Cornerstone. You are God’s beloved. 

Prayer: Dear Jesus, thank You for calling us Your children, for inviting us into Your household by removing the barrier of sin and separation, and calling us into a loving relationship with You. May we invite others into your household to know you in a personal way. In Your precious name we pray, Amen.

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SEPTEMBER 2, 2020

By David Chang, Director of Ministry Support

I was having a conversation with one of my spiritual mentors. The topic was: “How can I know God more? How can I hear him better?” He reminded me that God is ever-present with me and is always trying to communicate with me. It is on me to pay attention. I need to be quiet and listen more. I need to think less and feel more. I need to remember that communication is not just exchanging data; it is also exchanging feelings. 

“Don’t think too much” was another thing he said.

Wait, you’re talking to an Asian male raised by parents, one of whom is an immigrant from the old country. A land where emotions are not openly demonstrated or verbalized. You’re talking to someone who admires the ever-stoic Mr. Spock from Star Trek. You’re talking to someone who has been trained to be a computer engineer, a bank executive, and a healthcare insurance executive.

My mentor explained to me that since I was born, people and the world have changed me. He said that I need to try and discover the person that God has created. 

In the Psalms it says:

Oh yes, You shaped me first inside, then out; You formed me in my mother’s womb. I thank You, High God—You’re breathtaking! Body and soul, I am marvelously made! I worship in adoration—what a creation! You know Me inside and out, You know every bone in my body; You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, how I was sculpted from nothing into something. (Psalm 139:14, The Message)

I need to rediscover that I am not just body, I also have soul. I am not just thought, I also am feeling. In order to more fully know God, I need to not just think about God, I need to know how I feel about God. Throughout Scripture, we read about people dealing with their feelings about God and with God. St. Augustine said, “Noverim Te, noverim me,” which is Latin for “May I know God, may I know me.” John Calvin’s opening phrase in his “Institutes” is “Our wisdom… consists almost entirely of two parts: the knowledge of God and of ourselves.” 

So I’m going to try and know my feelings when I’m reading the Bible, when I’m praying, when I’m reviewing my day. Am I feeling cared for, loved, frustrated, or angry. I am going to trust that God already knows my feelings, and He wants me to know His.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the way You’ve made me with both thoughts and feelings. Help me to know more about Your feelings. Help me to know the person that You have wonderfully created me to be. In Jesus name, Amen.

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SEPTEMBER 1, 2020

By Julie Lockyer, Scheduler and Receptionist

I have always been afraid of having gray hair. I didn’t want to look old. If I looked old, I would feel old. I thought I would wait until at least 60 before even trying to grow it out. 

After my granddaughter Harley Rose was born, my life took a different direction. I am now putting a lot of time into helping take care of her. I want to be one of the people who directs her in life. I didn’t want my daughter to have to hire someone to raise Harley while she was at work, so I decided it was time to go part-time. Helping to raise a child is a lot of work, especially when you are older. I don’t have the energy like I used to, but I love every minute of it. 

I get to read to Harley, take her to the backyard to play, teach her what a bird is and the sound it makes. I make sure I say please and thank you so when she learns to talk, she will say them to others as well. I have been blessed to be such a big part of her life. By the end of the day I am exhausted, and things that I thought were important aren’t anymore. 

Coloring my hair was one of them. It became a chore having to color it every four weeks! I couldn’t see myself doing this for another five years, so back in October of last year, I decided to grow it out. I lightened my hair to make the process more natural looking. 

Now I am loving my silver! I am embracing my new look! Many young girls pay to color their hair gray. Mine is free. I don’t care what others think. This is me and this is who God created. Psalm 139:14 says, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” 

We tend to look at wrinkles, gray hairs, and sagging skin as growing old. At one time I did as well. Now I look at is as honor! I have earned it! Our beauty is not in the eyes of the beholder. It is what God sees in us. Our beauty is from the inside. It’s how we honor God in the things we say and do. Proverbs 16:31 reminds me that “Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.” 

Prayer: Lord, help me to see myself the way You see me. Thank You for every single gray hair on my head. As I get older, may I get wiser in my ways. Help us to see ourselves as you see us. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen!

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August 31, 2020

By Matt Yamamoto, Director of High School Ministry

“Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time? It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns. Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions. But suppose that servant is wicked and says to himself, ‘My master is staying away a long time...’” (Matthew 24:45-48)

With COVID and social distancing stretching into its sixth month and the death toll rising around the world, I have noticed that talk of the end times has been popping up here and there, some jokingly and some more seriously. It’s hard not to ponder such things when we are looking at planetwide turmoil.

When I was a kid, I was fascinated by the book of Revelation. The angels, the demons, the calamity, the anti-Christ, the apocalypse, and the Second Coming all fueled my overactive imagination as a young boy. I honestly did not think I would reach adulthood because I was convinced that Jesus was going to reestablish His Kingdom before I turned twenty.

I look back on it now, and I can’t help but chuckle at myself. I would read these chapters because I wanted to be able to recognize the signs and selfishly prepare myself for the coming disasters. As I have grown older and matured in my faith, I’ve come to understand that it is not about me, but we are all called to put the needs and concerns of others above our own.

I have no idea whether or not we are in the end times. We probably aren’t, but as I read the passage above, I can’t help but wonder what if Jesus DID come all of a sudden? What would He find me doing? Would He find me being obedient and doing His will, or will He find me complacent about it because I feel like I have all the time in the world?

With COVID in full swing, there is no shortage of good that we can do in the world. My challenge to us all is to treat this time like we are expecting Jesus to come back at any second, taking advantage of whatever time we have to do His good work in the world and spread His good Name and love to everyone. My hope is that when we meet God, whether in this world (during the end times) or when we meet Him in heaven, that God would greet us, “Well done, faithful and wise servants.”

Prayer: Dear God, please help us to make use of our time wisely––to pray and read the Bible regularly, and also to live out our faith every day so people see You in us. We want to be confident and ready for that time when we’ll finally see You face-to-face. In Jesus’ Name we pray, Amen. 

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AUGUST 28, 2020

By Rosella Shishido, Communications Ministry Coordinator

One of the most memorable trips I’ve taken is a visit to Highclere Castle in Hampshire, England. The trip was a generous gift that I’ll always be grateful for. If you’re a Downton Abbey fan like me, you can imagine how fascinating that visit was.

Highclere Castle is better known as Downton Abbey, the mansion and the estate of the fictional Lord and Lady Grantham in the popular British TV series of the same title, set in the early 20th century. Totally loved that show because of the story, the characters, the relationships, the castle itself, the fashion of that time, and the glimpse into the life of the British royals. 

I was on a self-guided tour of Highclere Castle, along with hundreds of other visitors. I got to see and be in the main state rooms that looked so familiar because of the many Downton Abbey scenes shot there, and some of the bedrooms, the artwork, and the staff quarters. 

Highclere is huge and towering, three levels as far as I could tell, not including the tower section. It boasts of 250 to 300 rooms, most of which are not open to the public.

But you know what I believe is even bigger than Highclere? It’s the “Father’s house” that Jesus referred to in John 14:1-4 as He comforted His disciples:

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in Me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with Me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.”

I’m not sure if Jesus is referring to literal rooms in those verses. But what I do know is that He has prepared a place in Heaven for “His own”­­–– the redeemed, those who have committed their lives to follow Jesus. As 2 Timothy 2:19 says, “The Lord knows those who are His.” 

Those Bible verses speak of so much hope! Not only because there’s a place reserved for Jesus followers, but also because Jesus said “that you also may be where I am.” He wants us to be with Him! In Heaven! A place that could fit every person who had ever lived and who had believed and put their faith and hope in God’s saving grace. Just imagine how big Heaven is! Clearly bigger than Highclere or any other castle.

At this time, when it so easy to lose hope because of the pandemic and the restrictions it has imposed on our lives, Jesus’ promise to His disciples is a promise we can hold on to, something to look forward to.

But if you haven’t made the decision to follow Jesus, take that step today. Then claim His promise of hope.

Prayer: I praise You, Lord,  because You’re trustworthy and always true to Your promises. Thank You for the hope of Heaven. And thank You, Jesus, for dying on the cross, for taking the penalty for our sins, and for making it possible for us to spend eternity with You. Amen.

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AUGUST 27, 2020

By Patty Kamahele, Administrative Assistant

“Because He has inclined His ear to me, therefore I shall call upon Him as long as I live.” (Psalm 116:2)

I should have known something was up when our chair lift reached the top of the mountain at a ski resort we visited. The run had a black diamond and a sign that warned, “If you don’t think you can ski down safely…don’t be afraid to tell your friends No!” All of my friends were very advanced skiers (black diamond type). I was an intermediate. But I thought, “Hey, I should give it a try” (which could have been my famous last words!).

My friends had no problem as they took off over the edge of the precipice, so I carefully headed down behind them. We literally had to jump over a cornice to start our descent. Well, I jumped and landed fine, but then I started to build up speed and it was a long way down! Faster and faster I went until I no longer had any control. I fell and began tumbling head over heels (like the cartoon characters who fall in the snow and end up like one giant snowball with just arms and legs hanging out)!

As a newer Christian at the time, I always wondered if I would really call on the Lord’s Name if I was in trouble. Well, I was in trouble! I cried out, “Help me, Jesus!” And at that moment, I literally came to a dead stop. What?! In the middle of a mountain when I still had a couple of hundred yards to go until I reached the bowl of the run? Yes, and it was miraculous for me. When I looked back, I saw that I had narrowly missed a huge boulder in the middle of the run.

My friends, wondering where I was and seeing me tumbling and then stopping, zoomed over to see if I was okay. They, too, were amazed that I had suddenly come to a halt where I did. One friend was a paramedic, and he checked all of my bones and ligaments. Although I ended up sore and bruised from head to toe the next day, I was otherwise fine. Thank You, Jesus!

Where do we go when we are in need of help? I was so glad I went to the Lord that day. Now please keep in mind that we don’t have to be careening down a huge mountain to call out to Him. Every obstacle or challenge we face in this life, no matter how big or small, is important to the Lord. He wants us to reach out to Him. He wants us to call upon His Name. And as our Scripture verse for today reminds us, it should be a lifelong pursuit.

May I encourage you to call upon the Lord with any need you may have? He is there with arms wide open to comfort you, to enfold you, to assure you that He is with you.

Lord, thank You for Your tender mercies and loving care. When we find ourselves in need of help, may we call upon You for You are always there and Your ears are always open to our cry. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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AUGUST 26, 2020

By David Chang, Director of Ministry Support

A while back, my spiritual director told me a story about lions that still informs my relationship with God. He shared a story from a missionary who lived among the Maasai, an indigenous ethnic group in Tanzania. 

The missionary was trying to describe the concept of faith to the tribal elder. The westerner described how faith in believing God was like a hunter trying to stalk a lion. The hunter would have to carefully put himself or herself in a position where there was a clear path so he or she could sight and down the lion from a safe distance. The missionary believed that we must pursue God as a hunter stalks a lion, with our diligence and skill.

The tribal elder smiled and told the missionary that their concept of God was a little different. The elder said that they, too, thought of God as a lion, but instead of us pursuing God, God was pursuing us. Unlike a hunter who could be pursuing the lion for sport, the lion hunts for survival. If the hunt is not successful, the lion would starve, so the lion puts everything into the hunt. It uses all of its cunning, all of its strength, and all of its determination. And then when the lion gets close, it takes hold of its prey in its arms and never lets it go. (The Maasai refer to the forepaws of an animal as its arms.)

I love this picture of God. It is God pursuing me; not me pursuing God. This is freeing. It keeps me from being anxious and worried that I’m not doing a good job of loving God. It reminds me that there is nothing I can do or not do that will cause God to love me any less or any more.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord our God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6)

Prayer: Dear Lion of Judah, thank You for hunting me down, chasing after me, and holding onto me with Your arms. Help me to rest in the truth that You will never leave me. Help me to relax in the knowledge that You will never forsake me. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

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AUGUST 25, 2020

By Julie Lockyer, Scheduler/Receptionist

It was Dec 13, 2000. My dad had been in the hospital for almost a month. He would take one step forward toward recovery, but then two steps back. He was now in an induced coma so his body could rest and try to heal. There came a point when the doctors didn’t think he was going to make it because his kidneys started shutting down. With all he had been through, it was time to let him go. We weren’t sure when, but we knew the time would be soon. 

I woke up the next morning with a strange peace about me, and I had a feeling it would be the day my dad would go to be with God. I called work to tell them I couldn’t come that day. I told my kids what I was feeling and gave them the choice to either go to the hospital to spend time with Grandpa, or go to school. My son wanted to come with me, while my daughter decided to go to school. She hated seeing her grandpa hooked up to all those machines. I respected both of their decisions. 

I dropped Jena off at school, and Jason and I went to see my dad. I was glad we did. The day started out just fine. My dad was stable. Nothing to worry about, but then at about midday his heart rate started going down. The nurse came in and explained what was happening and that this was going to be the end. She said his heart may stop and start up again, but that was to be expected, and then it would stop again for the last time. That’s what she thought. 

My dad’s heart did stop and start and stopped again. But that wasn’t the end. Dad’s heart started back up again! The nurse was amazed! This kept going on for a long time. We laughed because I realized my dad was only going to go when he was ready. 

I knew in my heart that my dad didn’t want to leave me alone. I think he kept fighting to hang in there for me and his grandkids. I didn’t want to see him suffering, so I told him how much I loved him and that he had been the best dad that he knew how to be. I told him that I would be okay. 

Within a couple of minutes his heart beat for the last time. 

I am so glad that when God woke me up that morning He gave me the discernment to go to the hospital. I got to spend precious time with my dad before he went home to be with Jesus. It is something I will never forget.

Right after my dad died, the nurse came in and said I needed to step out for a few minutes but could come back in when they were done with what they needed to do. I told her I didn’t need to go back in because I would see my dad again in heaven. The peace I was feeling was from Jesus. It was nothing like I ever felt before. 

During his month stay in the hospital, my dad had many setbacks. It was a very emotional time; so many ups and downs. But this I know––through it all there was Jesus. He is with us in the good times, the bad times, and the rough times. He is with us ... ALL THE TIME.

Here’s a song that resonates so much with me because of how Jesus stood by me through that time. It’s called “THERE WAS JESUS.” May it bless as it did me.

“It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” (Deuteronomy 31:8)

Prayer: Lord, Thank You for loving us and being there through all of our circumstances. Thank You that we can cry out to You when we are hurting. Thank You for hearing our cries and bringing us peace and comfort. We may not always experience Your presence, especially in the midst of a difficult time, but we know because of Your love for us …. there Is Jesus! We love You, trust You, and cling to You at all times––through the good and the bad. In Jesus’ Name we pray, Amen!

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AUGUST 24, 2020

By Julie Lockyer, Scheduler/Receptionist

It was November 2000. A day that will always be etched in my heart. 

I was looking forward to picking up my dad from the hospital. He just had surgery to remove a blockage in his colon three days earlier. But then I got a call from the hospital saying he had sepsis and that I needed to come right away before they wheeled him back to surgery. The excitement I had earlier in the day had turned into fear. Would I make it in time to see him? 

I hopped into my car to rush to the hospital. But on my way there, the car started to slow down and all of a sudden it stalled on me!

Even with the engine dead, I was able to get off Likelike Highway and turn onto Kam IV Road. I let my car coast down the street and was able to park it under a tree. Across the street was a school, where I was able to make a phone call to one of Dad’s friends to ask her if she could pick me up and drive me to Dad’s apartment, so I could grab his car to go to the hospital. She said yes.

I made it to the hospital just in time to see him before they took him into surgery. By then I was frustrated and scared. When could I come up to breathe? My dad only had a 50% chance of making it through. It was a time for praying and pleading with God to please save him. The doctor came out a couple hours later and told me my dad made it, but he was still in bad shape. It was going to be a wait-and-see journey ahead.

Looking back now, I see how God had His hand on the situation the whole time. My car stalled on me but God guided it to stop under a tree in a safe area. It was a little before 4pm so the school across the street was still open for me to make the phone call. I also happened to have my dad’s keys on me so I knew what I could do next. There were so many other things God did during that time to help me get through it. I wish I could share them all. I realized how much God loved me. 

I was Daddy’s little girl. How was I going to survive if he passed away? I was a single parent with two young children and had to go through this pretty much alone. But I realized I wasn’t alone. God was beside me. 

As we go through life’s challenges, it’s helpful to remember that God is always there for us. We may not see it in the midst of a crisis, but when we look back, we will realize how God carried us through it. 

It’s like that popular poem “Footprints in the Sand,” where the writer sees two pairs of footprints in the sand––one belonging to God and one belonging to the person. But then the footprints dwindle to one pair. And that’s because, as the poem goes, those were the times when God was carrying us during the crises of our lives. 

God was lifting me up and got me through that rough time in my life, and He will get you through yours too! 

God promises He will be with us: “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)

Prayer: Thank You, God, for always being there for us through the storms. Thank You for the people you bring into our lives to encourage us and remind us that You are carrying us through the trials of life. I thank You, Lord, for helping me to see that You were there with me when I was going through such an emotional time in my life. Help us all to remember that we are Your children and that You love us and will always be there for us! Amen!

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AUGUST 21, 2020

By Karen Makishima, Director of Family Life Ministries

Today is my 44th wedding anniversary! That’s right; Kimo and I have been married since 1976.

Some of you may be saying, “Wow, you look too young to be married for 44 years! You must have gotten married when you were sixteen.” 

And my answer to that would be, “Yes, that’s correct!”  

So now you may be asking yourself, “How did a 16-year old manage to stay married for 44 years?”  

Well, Kimo and I were not wise way beyond our years. I attribute our marriage remaining intact to Jesus, Whom the Bible also refers to as the Good Shepherd. Many times Kimo or I had wandered into territory that may not have been healthy for our marriage, but the Lord kept bringing us back to the right path. He knew what was best for us.  

We read about this Good Shepherd in Psalm 23 that was written by King David, one of the heroes in the Bible because of his humility, love, faith, and devotion for God. David, who spent many years as a shepherd before becoming king, penned this Psalm, or song of poetry, to share his deep feelings. It is kind of like a diary entry. As with all poetry, this Psalm must be read with the heart as well as the mind. David used the analogy of the Good Shepherd as the Lord, and the sheep as those who follow Him.

PSALM 23

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.

He makes me lie down in green pastures,

He leads me beside quiet waters,

He refreshes my soul.

He guides me along the right paths for His name’s sake.

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.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.

You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

Surely Your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life,

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

As a shepherd boy, David knew what it was like to take care of sheep that can get into heaps of trouble without a shepherd. You see ....

• Sheep lack a sense of direction; they get lost easily. They tend to wander into brooks of rushing water. As they wander in the stream, their thick wool coats absorb the water, and they drown. Sheep tend to be followers, so even if one falls off of a steep cliff, the rest will follow. The sheep desperately needs to hear the voice of the shepherd to stay on the right path.

• Sheep cannot find food or water. Left to themselves they will eat poisonous weeds and die.   

• Sheep are defenseless.

In his book Living the Psalms, Charles Swindoll wrote: “Most animals have a rather effective means of defense–– sharp claws; teeth; speed; ability to hide; keenness of smell, sight and hearing; great strength; ferocity. But sheep are awkward, weak and ignorant; they have spindle legs and tiny hoofs, and are pitifully slow, even devoid of an angry growl. Defenseless! The only sure protection for the sheep is the ever-watchful shepherd.” 

When we (the sheep) stay near the shepherd (the Lord) and listen for the sound of His voice, then He will lead us on the right path. This path isn’t void of danger or heartache, but the promise is that the Shepherd will be with us. We will not be alone. 

Kimo and I praise God for His ever-watchful care us, His sheep. We are committed to Him and to each other.

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for being the Good Shepherd and for desiring us to stay on Your path.  Help us to hear Your voice and obey. In Jesus’ Name we pray, Amen.

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AUGUST 20, 2020

By Pastor Tim Shaw

The Apostle Paul wrote his letter to the Philippians while he was on lockdown. He writes this letter to his friends from inside a Roman prison. He’d been thrown in jail because of what he believed about Jesus Christ. Paul was probably one of the most unlikely champions of the Christian faith and yet, in spite of extreme difficulties, he and his friends ended up planting churches all across what is now modern-day Turkey and Greece. 

When we first meet Paul, his name is Saul and he was busy persecuting the first followers of Jesus. One day on his way to the city of Damascus, where he intended to arrest any followers of Christ, Paul meets the risen Jesus. That encounter begins to change this man from a person, who was violently opposed to Christianity to a person who dedicated the rest of his life to telling others about the hope he now had. 

From a Roman prison, Paul writes, “Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.” (Philippians 1:12-14)

Prison was not Paul’s natural habitat. This was not his Plan A for his life. Paul finds himself in lockdown.

Since March 2020, we know a little bit of what living in lockdown is like. It’s true that most of us are not living our lives chained to a guard, but because of the COVID-19 pandemic we do understand what it’s like to live with restrictions to which we’re not accustomed. As we watch the number of COVID positive cases grow here in Hawaii, we realize that we may need to further restrict what we can do in order to once again flatten the infection curve. I think Paul has some things he can teach us about living in lockdown.

What does Paul do? He writes letters to encourage others. One might expect that people should be writing encouraging letters to him while he was in prison. But Paul, being an other-centered person, is interested in building others up even during this difficult season in his life. His witness for Christ continues to take place even while being locked down. He could have focused on the opportunities that he’d lost but instead he focuses on the opportunities he now has for the spread of the gospel. 

First, he realizes that he has an opportunity to share Christ with others in the prison. As a result, many INSIDE the prison have come to put their trust in Jesus. Paul does not focus on what he’s lost. Instead he sees the lockdown as an opportunity. Second, Paul’s activity for the gospel in prison has encouraged other believers to boldly share the hope they have in Jesus. How we respond to adversity will either put backbone and courage in other believers or it will have the opposite effect.

The impact he was able to have because he focused on the opportunities and not the obstacles are far reaching. His faith gave hope and encouragement to his friends in Philippi. Members of the palace guard became curious about Jesus and some put their faith in Christ. The witness of his life on lockdown spread throughout the corridors of power in Rome. His decision to look for the opportunities has had an impact on the millions of people who have read and reflected on his letter to the Philippians, and you and I are included in that number.

None of us like COVID-19. This pandemic has had and is having a terrible impact on the lives of countless numbers of people here in Hawaii and around the world. The obstacles are great but so are the opportunities. 

What opportunities to impact your world with the hope of Jesus do you have today?

Prayer: Lord, we thank You for setting us free through the power of the good news of Jesus. We admit that we do not like the restrictions that have been placed on us. The obstacles in our lives can feel overwhelming. Would You please give us the strength and the courage to recognize and act on the opportunities that are before us? If we are discouraged, would You lift our heads? If we are immobilized by fear, would You embolden us? Come, Holy Spirit. Fill us afresh with Yourself that our lives might shine the light and hope of Jesus today. Amen.

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AUGUST 19, 2020

By Chaz Umamoto, Coordinator of Worship Ministry Support

Luke 12:7 “But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.” (NKJV) 

You would only know my most secret quirk if we were best friends or we’ve traveled together. Here’s your fast-pass into the weird rollercoaster that’s my life. This is what you would find out about me after more than the first month of meeting in a community group.

I like to pluck my facial hair, specifically my mustache. It’s something I’ve done ever since high school, and there is really no rhyme or reason why I do it, but I do it so often that it’s like hunting for sport. Zero hair on my upper lip, and maybe this is why I’m still often get mistaken for a high schooler or a college student. I’m lucky my sweet Sarah has put up with this quirky habit of mine after nine years. 

In Luke 12:7 we see how God knows us so intricately that He has numbered every hair on our head. (And perhaps even the ones on our face?) To me, it’s clear that God doesn’t just see us; He also takes a detailed interest in who we are on the inside. 

This is a good reminder for me when I’m engaging my community, and especially since I just started a small group of my own. If I am to model Christ, I need to do more than just remember names. I need to deep dive and take an interest in people more than myself. What’s your name? Where are you from? What are your interests? What do you do for work? What are the dreams that God has put on your heart? 

We can’t discover other people’s quirks until we establish a safe place of trust and where we can have a basic understanding of who they are. 

I know we have a tendency to categorize and put in order the world around us, which makes it hard to love people sometimes because of their imperfections. But the character of God shows us that love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things (1 Corinthians 13:6-8).

I’m sure we all secretly desire to be known more, that others would take the same kind of interest God has in us. But I think that needs to starts with us. We need to model the characteristics of God just as Jesus did. And for me that’s what it means to be Christ-like.

Prayer: Father God, You are love, and Your love is amazing. You know us and care for us like no other. Fill us fresh with Your desires, and show us what it means to love as you do. In Jesus, Name, Amen.

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AUGUST 18, 2020

By Patty Kamahele, Administrative Assistant

Our staff members have been so blessed that many of you have responded to the First Prez devotionals with such encouraging and affirming words. Your kind thoughts truly mean so very much to each of us.

Recently we received one that expressed how the devos are used in her life and at the end she wrote, “He makes all things beautiful in His time.”

Wow! For a couple of reasons that stopped me in my tracks. One was because my husband sang the song, “In His Time” as I walked down the aisle at our wedding many years ago. (He recorded it ahead of time because he felt he wouldn’t be able to sing it live due to the special emotions of that day.) It turned out so beautiful and that song will always hold a very special place in my heart.

Another reason was that it caused me to reflect on that very verse found in Ecclesiastes 3:11:

“Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end.”

When we were married that beautiful Maui day, we couldn’t possibly see the scope of what God had planned for us … and still has planned. In the same way, we cannot see the whole scope of God’s work in the midst of what we may be going through individually, as a country, and as Christians seeking to follow Him. We only need to trust that He has a plan. That He can make beauty out of ashes. That He can strengthen us in our walks with Him. That everything is in His time.

Please take a few moments to ponder the words of the song. You can also CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO IT. It’s an oldie but a goodie.

In His time, in His time.

He makes all things beautiful in His time.

Lord, please show us every day

As You’re teaching us Your way

That You do just what You say

In Your time.

(©1978 Maranatha! Music. By Diane Ball)

Prayer: Lord, You truly make all things beautiful in Your time. You have planted eternity in our hearts to cause us to yearn for the day when we will see You face-to-face. And then ALL things will be truly beautiful beyond comparison and imagination. In the meantime, help us to stay in love and fellowship with You and Your Word. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

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AUGUST 17, 2020

By Julie Lockyer, Scheduler/Receptionist

Years ago when my kids were younger, I was driving them to school when my son said, “Mom, I forgot my backpack at home.” He had put his backpack on the ground outside the front door to tie his shoes but forgot to pick it up again. 

I love my son, but I wanted to teach him to be a little more responsible, so I said, “It was your responsibility so now you have to go through the day without it.” 

Little did I know that backpack was going to save me from a potentially dangerous situation.

As I was driving back home, I noticed that the car behind me was unusually too close, so close that I could see the male driver’s face. I turned into the parking lot of the townhouse where we lived at, and he turned in as well. I felt really uncomfortable. I knew the people who lived in our area, and I knew he wasn’t one of them. 

When I parked in my stall, he parked about three stalls away. Red flags rose up inside of me. As I was getting out of my car, God reminded me that my son’s backpack was by the front door. I sensed that I was to grab the backpack and get back to the car quickly, so that the man would think I was just picking something up from someone’s house. I am so glad I listened to God’s voice. 

I followed the sidewalk leading to my unit, grabbed the backpack by the front door, turned around, and saw the suspicious man coming down the pathway toward me. I think he was more startled that I was walking back toward him. I asked him who he was looking for, and he said someone’s name, but then he walked back to his car and left. 

I found out later on that he was a known criminal in the area! I don’t know what his intentions were, but I do know that had my son’s backpack not been by my front door, I would have just entered the house and not even thought about locking the door behind me. I was so thankful that my son forgot his backpack that morning! I was also grateful that God made me aware of the situation and that He prompted me to grab the backpack and turn around. 

Sometimes we think a word from God might be silly or a little strange, so we tend to brush it off. But we need to listen to what He is saying and follow it. I’m sure glad I did! God gave me discernment that day and protected me.

“Show Your marvelous lovingkindness by Your right hand, O You who save those who trust in You from those who rise up against them. Keep me as the apple of Your eye; hide me under the shadow of Your wings.” (Psalm 17:7-8)

Prayer: Lord, thank You for always being there for me when I need You! I may not always feel You by my side, but I know You are always watching over me. Help me to be still and hear Your voice in every situation and to follow your lead. In Jesus Name, Amen!

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AUGUST 14, 2020

By Pastor Steve Peich

A few years back there was research done on what married Christian men believe about doing work around the house. The study showed that Christian men strongly believe in doing equal work around the house. However, when researchers looked further, they found that the women are still doing most of the work, by far! What’s going on here? 

As I have stated previously, my working definition of biblical wisdom is this: The skillful and godly application of God’s values, purposes, and truth in the many practical affairs of everyday life. In this third devotional on biblical wisdom, I want to reflect on the notion of application in the practical affairs of everyday life. 

Wisdom is not just knowledge, it’s applied knowledge. Consider what Jesus says at the end of His monumental sermon on wisdom, which we call, The Sermon on the Mount. He says in Matthew 7.24: “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise person who built their house on the rock .....”

Notice Jesus doesn’t say, “everyone who hears these words and really believes them, or gets really excited about them, is like a wise person.” No, the wise person is the one who puts Christ’s words into practice. And this is always expected of wisdom in the Bible: to end up out of our heads and into our hands; into the minutiae of everyday life. As I have alluded to previously, wisdom is not so much about intellectual prowess, but about competence––the ability to rightly and effectively apply the God’s truth in concrete ways.

In the wisdom writings of the Bible, you see issues covered like work, relationships, leadership, money, justice, speech, sex, listening, emotions, enabling, and even being opinionated! For example, Proverbs 18.2 says: “A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing their personal opinion.” What would happen to the Twitter-sphere or Facebook, or what would happen to cable news and political dialogue, or to our work spaces and even our churches if we applied the wisdom of this one verse in our everyday affairs?

We, evangelicals, tend to be very passionate about the Word of God. We emphasize it in so many different ways, and this is a good thing. In fact, for many churches it is often the centerpiece of the worship service. But over the past 36 years of ministry I have noticed something interesting. We love the ideas of the Word, but struggle deeply to love putting them into the actions of our daily lives. 

I think this happens because loving ideas keeps me safe, keeps me from getting muddied by the world of reality. I don’t get tired and worn out when I love ideas, but it does sometimes wear me out to live out the ideas of Christ in a not so Christ-like world. I love the idea of blessing people who hate me, but it wears me out to bless those who hate me. It wears me out to love my enemy. It wears me out to help the drug addict or to share my faith with non-Christians. You get the idea.

But the world doesn’t change when we just love ideas. Relationships don’t change. Kids don’t change. The poor don’t change. Politics don’t change. We don’t change when we just love ideas.

You see, the truly wise soul is the one filled with stories and scars of God’s truth applied in an ungodly world. As writer and professor Alan Deutschman once wrote: “It doesn’t matter what you know, if you can’t do what you know.” 

Bottom line, when I find myself loving the idea of peace, but not actually making peace; or loving the idea of discipleship, but not actually making disciples; or loving the idea of justice, but not actually doing justice, then I’m missing the whole point of being a person of godly wisdom. Eventually, folks, the word has to be made flesh.

Bottom line, listening to the word and studying it and getting excited about it and singing it and even weeping over it is great, but it’s still not wisdom if it does not end up in our actions. 

Prayer: Lord, fill me with Your Spirit and wisdom to be a person of action; a person who finds joy in making manifest the purposes, power, values, and character of Your Kingdom in my everyday world. Give me the courage and the energy to withstand the scars that may come as I demonstrate the wisdom of Your ways in an ungodly world. Use me as an instrument for Your glory. Amen.

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AUGUST 13, 2020

By Pastor Steve Peich

Not too long ago I was watching a science show hosted by scientific mega-mind Neil DeGrasse Tyson. In this episode he was talking to younger scientists who were excited about the seemingly “endless possibilities” of replacing our human parts with new and artificial robotic parts. One of the young scientists spoke of how such strides will be able to prolong our lives, perhaps by hundreds of years! Tyson didn’t share their excitement. He paused a moment and then asked, “But do we have the wisdom to walk well with such advances?” What did he understand that they didn’t?

Yesterday I gave my rendition of what biblical wisdom is: The skillful and godly application of God’s values, purposes, and truth in the many practical affairs of everyday life. Today I want to focus on why I use the word “godly” in my definition. 

Look at James 3 below, where James writes about having “wisdom from above.” He teaches us that Biblical wisdom is filled with and leaves behind a “godly footprint.” 

James 3.15-18  Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom… But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.

Notice how wisdom is more than just knowing the right thing, but it is living out and leaving behind the right character, peace, righteousness, humility, mercy, fruitfulness, and more. Wisdom doesn’t simply leave behind smart ideas in its wake, but it leaves behind more of God’s will, God’s values, God’s love and peace, and people are the better for it.

Why make this point? Because to be wise is not simply to be right, but to be right in the right way, at the right time, for the right reasons, to the right degree, to the glory of God and the good of all.

For example, my dad was “Joe Mechanic.” This guy could build a car engine blindfolded, and of course he would try to teach me how to fix engines. He would tell me what to do, but then would get immediately and fiercely frustrated with me when I didn’t do it correctly. He would often tersely bark out: “No, you don’t do it like that, you do it like this! For crying out loud!” 

Now he was right of course in his correction, but he was not wise. Why do I say that? Because his correction was to the wrong degree, meaning, it was over the top and it left behind in me humiliation and discouragement.

What do you leave behind when you are “right” in an argument or when you speak about politics, racial relations, or the church? What is left behind in the hearts of others when you correct or even rebuke them? More of God’s values, character, and peace? Or something else entirely? You may, in fact, have greater knowledge and be absolutely right in making your point, but do you have God’s wisdom as you make it? 

Prayer: Lord, help me not only to be right, but to be wise. May my expressed ideas, opinions, and corrections be filled with Your character and leave behind more of Your love, peace, and goodness in others. Amen.

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AUGUST 12, 2020

By Pastor Steve Peich

“Joyful are those who find wisdom, and those who get understanding, for her income is better than silver, and her revenue better than gold. She is more precious than jewels, and nothing you desire can compare with her.” (Proverbs 3:13-15)

In the 20th century, Richard Buckminster Fuller was an American architect, systems theorist, and futurist; one of those super geniuses. One of the things he is known for was something called the “Knowledge Doubling Curve.” He noticed that until 1900 human knowledge doubled approximately every century. By the end of World War II, knowledge was doubling every 25 years. Today on average, human knowledge is doubling every 13 months! For me this is dreadful news because it means that by the next fall I will be twice as dumb as I am now. Not good.

Needless to say, in today’s age we are flooded with information. However, as biologist E.O. Wilson observed years ago: “We are drowning in information, while starving for wisdom.” Do you share in his observation as you look at our world or your own life?

By our Scriptures today, we see that wisdom has been a priority for the people of God for millennia. But what is it exactly, and why is it so highly valued in the Scriptures?

From my study of the Scriptures, I would define wisdom as: The skillful and godly application of God’s values, purposes, and truth in the many practical affairs of everyday life.

Let’s break this down a little. Why do I define it as being, in part, about skillfulness? Because it is in the basic meaning of the Hebrew word for Wisdom (חָכְמָה – Hakma). For example, in Exodus 35:10, after God has given all the directives about building the tabernacle, Moses said to the people: “All who are skilled among you are to come and make everything the Lord has commanded…” The word ‘skill’ is the same Hebrew word for wisdom.

Part of my point here is that wisdom, in part, is a word that describes someone who excels at their craft; namely, a craftsman. And this is what I think the Bible and the Lord calls us up into when they make this big push for wisdom: to be a Craftsman at life with God. That is, the ability to be skillful at creating a life well lived in Christ. And as educator Kenneth Robinson has said: “Nothing is so influential as a life well lived.”

Have you ever looked at part of your calling as living life in this particular way? What is a well-crafted life in Christ for you? To be sure, we Christians are not called to be perpetual novices about life, about the way of the soul, about the way of bringing God’s peace and justice into our troubled world, etc. We all called to be Craftsman. 

How does such a notion affect you? Does it excite you, challenge you, or make you nervous? What would change in your life, your relationships, your impact on the world, as a result of being more skillful and wiser in living? In what particular area in your Christian life would you want to be more skillful and effective?

“Lord, may Your wisdom fill me, shape me, and come through me today in service to others. Show me not only where I need to grow in skillfulness in living, but show me how I need to get there. In Your Glorious Name I pray, Amen.”

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AUGUST 11, 2020

By Roslyn Catracchia, Director of Worship

A few weeks ago, I experienced something thrilling. I flew to the island of Molokaʻi in the tiniest plane you can imagine! Just me and a friend, who happens to be a pilot. It was an unforgettable experience.  What made it even more special was that it was something of an unexpected holy time of reflection for me, as we shared stories of faith with each other, high above the city, far above the clouds, way beyond my cares and concerns of life, here at home and around the world. For that morning, while we were up in the sky, my heart was unbound by all the problems of the world. 

The fellowship was priceless. The view was stunning. And then at one point, we started to head right into the clouds. It was a small plane, we weren’t going fast like a jet. If a plane could stroll or mosey, that’s what we were doing. We approached the cloud. I knew we were gonna enter it in a moment. And once we did, we were completely surrounded by the enormous white puff ball for what felt like an eternity! Okay, maybe not an eternity, but it felt like at least five minutes. We couldn’t see a thing, but my pilot friend wasn’t worried at all. He knew where we were going. He could see all the instruments in front of him, and he knew his plane inside and out. My heart wasn’t racing, although to be honest, I was a little nervous. Excited, but nervous. I couldn’t see anything! But I trusted him. And he wasn’t afraid. 

That’s kind of how it feels for me going through these uncertain times. I can’t see through to the other side.

At one point, as we were coming out of the clouds, I began to see dimly at first, what I thought looked to be something solid. I thought it might be land. But then I could see it was the ocean, beautiful as could be, and the sun shining strong and clear high in the sky. It was there all the time, but I couldn’t see it before, the clouds were so thick. 

All in all, we were in the clouds for less than 30 seconds. But it felt so much longer! And we made it out on the other side. If you want to see what I saw, watch the video below.

We ARE gonna make it out on the other side of COVID. One thing we can be sure of is that God’s light is shining, even though we cannot always see it or feel it. It can feel uncomfortable. I thought about that when Pastor Tim was preaching about the “liminal space” this past Sunday. A liminal space is…

“a particular spiritual position where human beings hate to be, but where the biblical God is always leading them. The Latin root “limen” literally means “threshold,” referring to that needed transition when we are moving from one place or one state of being to another. Liminal space usually induces some sort of inner crisis: you have left the tried and true (or it has left you), and you have not yet been able to replace it with anything else.” Ruth Haley Barton

Like flying through thick clouds and not being able to see what’s on the other side. Will we ever come out on the other side of these clouds? Of course we will. It is a doozie of a “cloud,” but we will certainly emerge at some point. Our faith may even be stronger on the other side!

“For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.” (1 Corinthians 13:12)

I know, I know, the apostle Paul was talking about heaven in that letter to the Corinthians. But I find it reassuring that while now we see dimly, at some point we will see clearly. God is trustworthy

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I pray for a blessing of extra grace poured upon us. Help us to get through these cloudy times. Give us the confidence daily that my friend had as he flew straight into the clouds, unworried that he couldn’t see for a while. Thank you that You are trustworthy. Always!  Amen.

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AUGUST 10, 2020

By Julie Lockyer, Scheduler/Receptionist

When COVID-19 hit, my job came to a complete standstill. Without people coming the church campus, there were no bulletins to print, no reports to do, no more scheduling of rooms for church events––all of my duties were gone. Then we were told we needed to stay home. The gates were locked, the building was closed, and golf was shut down. 

Fortunately the First Prez staff was quick on their feet and got our online services up and going. Most of us got even busier with all the online things that needed to get done. But I was feeling down. I felt like I was being left behind. We had this amazing thing happening with online church and devotions, but I wasn’t a part of it. It was no one’s fault; it is just the way things were going. And it all had to happen quickly.

Not too long ago a wonderful friend of mine posted a video on Facebook. It is Eric Whitacre’s Virtual Choir 6: Sing Gently, a beautiful piece made up of 17,572 singers from 129 countries. You can watch it here. 

It starts off with a few people singing then more and more singers start coming into view. As the singers come on the screen, the individual pictures get smaller and smaller so more can be added. The pictures and words, which were once apart, start connecting to each other, their voices resounding as one. It is such an amazing piece! So beautiful and peaceful. This video reminded me of a puzzle coming together. Different parts coming together as one. 

I knew I had to write about this. It reminded me of how I felt without having people in my life, not being able to come into work, and my work responsibilities coming to an end. I realized I felt like a missing piece to a puzzle. I needed to be connected! 

Roman 12:4-8 says “For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.”

God has given us talents. If one is taken away we can use another talent. Don’t give up! I hung in there and now I have new job responsibilities. I feel connected again. My puzzle piece just needed to be shifted a little. Sometimes God needs to take the puzzle apart and move our pieces around a bit but when He puts us where we belong, the picture He creates is even more amazing than the first one! 

Prayer: Lord, thank You for opening my eyes to see how You have brought me from one place to the next. Thank You for always being there for me even when I can’t see it! Help me to encourage others the way You encourage me. Thank You for reminding me that You have created all of us differently and yet we are of one body and You can use us in mighty ways. Thank You for loving me the way You do! In Jesus Name I pray, Amen!

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