REPENTANCE MAKES HEAVEN SMILE
Psalm 122:1-2, Matthew 24:42-44, Matthew 3:2-3
Today we light the Second Advent Candle, the purple candle, which symbolizes royalty, preparation, and repentance. As John the Baptist cried out in the wilderness, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” His message reminds us that a King from Heaven is coming, and that true preparation begins with turning our hearts back to God. This is something that makes Heaven smile. Our message today is titled: “Repentance Makes Heaven Smile.”
During children’s church, the teacher asked, “What makes God happy?” Kids shouted: “Singing!” “Preaching!” “Praying!” “Reading the Bible!” But one little girl softly raised her hand and said: “God smiles when we say sorry and try again.” The room went silent. Even the adults in the back felt the weight of her words. Later that morning, people began confessing and releasing burdens they had carried for years. A child had reminded the whole congregation of a powerful truth: “Repentance opens the door for Heaven’s smile.”
Heaven’s smile means God is pleased. It means His favor is resting on His people. It is a sign that something good is happening under His gentle approval. God smiles not because we are perfect, but because He is full of mercy and grace.
Jesus declares in Matthew 16:18: “I will build my Church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” The Church is not a human invention. The Church is designed by Heaven. Scripture shows us a living connection between Heaven and the Church, a connection in which Heaven responds, sometimes with joy, sometimes with sorrow, but always with attention.
John the Baptist stands between the prophecies of the Old Testament and the birth of the New Testament Church. His message of repentance creates a living connection between Heaven and God’s people. John calls people to repentance so they can welcome the Heavenly King, receive the Spirit from Heaven, become a community aligned with Heaven’s will.
John’s preaching prepares the soil out of which the Church will grow. He declares, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” This call invites us to realign ourselves with Heaven’s priorities.
Jesus continues in Matthew 16:19: “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven.” This reveals a divine partnership between Heaven and the Church. What the Church does on earth matters in Heaven. When the Church prays, Heaven listens.
When the Church repents, Heaven rejoices. When the Church worships, Heaven responds. When the Church gives thanks, Heaven delights. When the Church walks in holiness, Heaven is glorified. And when the Church remains spiritually healthy, obedient, prayerful, and faithful, Heaven releases power, revelation, protection, and breakthrough. The Church moves with Heaven, and Heaven moves with the Church.
A man once brought a broken chair to a carpenter. He said, “It is too damaged to fix, but I thought I could bring it anyway.” The carpenter smiled and replied, “You don’t understand my work. I specialize in restoring what people think is beyond repair.” Church, this is what repentance does. We bring God our broken pieces, our failures, our sins, our disappointments, not to be thrown away, but to be restored. And every time one of God’s children comes back to Him with a broken heart, Heaven smiles, because Heaven specializes in restoration.
The 2Corinthians 5:20 tells us that believers are Christ’s ambassadors. This means the Church represents Heaven in a broken world that urgently needs repentance. We carry Heaven’s message, Heaven’s values, Heaven’s authority. And when we reflect in Heaven faithfully, Heaven smiles.
A pastor once said, “Everyone who wants to go to Heaven, stand up!” The whole church stood. Then he said, “Everyone who wants to repent, stand up!” Only two people stood. He said,
“Look at that… everyone wants to go to Heaven, but not everyone wants to turn.” Church, we cannot skip repentance and expect revival. A repenting church is a powerful church.
When the Church honors what Heaven loves, Heaven rejoices and blessings flow. Repentance brings joy. When we turn our hearts back to God, a deep happiness rises within us, a joy the world cannot give. Repentance heals us. Repentance restores us.
Repentance renews us. Nothing makes Heaven smile more than people being saved through repentance. Jesus came to seek and save the lost. When even one sinner repents, Heaven celebrates.
When a whole church reaches the lost, Heaven rejoices even more.
When we repent, we expose the works of the devil. Sin hides in darkness, but repentance brings everything into the light of God’s presence. The devil loses his power over what is brought into the light. Repentance destroys his schemes. Repentance breaks his chains. Repentance silences his lies. And when Heaven sees the enemy defeated, Heaven rejoices even more.
A young man once drove down a long mountain road. He didn’t realize he had taken a wrong turn until he saw the sign: “Danger Ahead, No Way Out.” Immediately, he stopped the car, turned around, and drove back toward safety. Nobody said he was weak. Nobody said he failed. Turning around saved his life. That is repentance. It is not shame. It is not failure. It is simply the moment we see danger, stop, and turn back toward God. And every time a person makes that turn, Heaven smiles, and all of Heaven rejoices.
Repentance sets us free and restores our joy in the Lord. Repentance keeps the Church spiritually alive. Without repentance, worship becomes empty, prayer loses power, revival cannot last. But when repentance flows, healing, deliverance, and renewal come with joy.
Think of someone who has been carrying a hidden sin for years, something they hoped no one would ever discover. The secret didn’t stay quiet; it quietly drained their joy, stole their peace, and kept them distant from God. But the moment they confessed it and turned back to Him, the heaviness lifted, light broke in, and their heart finally breathed again.
People of God, today, if there is anything separating you from God, anything hidden, anything heavy, He is calling you to bring it into the light. One step of repentance can make Heaven smile and your heart come alive again. Repentance breaks the power of secrecy, heals what is broken, and restores our relationship with Him.
In closing, when the Church walks in repentance, Heaven rejoices. And as we come to the table of Holy Communion, remembering Christ’s sacrifice, receiving His grace, renewing our commitment, God is glorified. When the Church shares Holy Communion with sincere hearts, Heaven smiles with joy. Amen.
Rev. Dr. John Kabala, Pastor Sunday, 12/07/2025
LET EVERYTHING PRAISE THE LORD!
Psalm 150:6; Ephesians 1:12
I once asked the congregation what the word “Hallelujah” means, and I received a variety of answers. Some said it represents happiness; others believed it to be a phrase used to create excitement during worship. A few, with sincere honesty, admitted, “We don’t really know, but it sounds powerful!”
The word we often say as “Hallelujah” in standard English has its roots in the Hebrew word “Halleluyah,” which means “Praise the LORD.” It is formed from two parts: “Hallelu,” meaning praise, and “Yah,” a shortened form of “Yahweh,” the sacred name of God in Hebrew, often rendered in English as “the LORD.”
Therefore, “Hallelujah” literally means “Praise the LORD.” In other words, the phrase “Praise the Lord” and the word “Halleluyah” mean the same thing.
It is not just a word of excitement or emotion, it is a declaration of worship, a call for all creation to lift up praise to God. This joyful shout is a call to worship and to thank the God who listens, saves, and reveals Himself to us. It expresses not only praise to the Lord but also deep gratitude for His personal care in our lives.
In many churches, people shout “Praise the Lord” or “Hallelujah” during the worship or at the end of a song to show joy, thanks to God. It is another way of saying things like “Glory to God,” “Thank You, Jesus Christ,” “Hosanna in the highest,” “The Lord is great!”
When the Bible says, “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord” (Psalm 150:6), it means every living thing, humans, animals, birds, even the wind and the seas in their own ways, give glory to God. Everything doesn’t just mean everyone, it means “every part of creation that exists by His will” (Psalm 19:1).
God doesn’t limit praise to one group, one nation, or one kind of person, kings, nations, young men and girls, old men and women, and children, rich or poor, old or young, black or white, strong or weak, all are called to “praise the Lord” (Psalm 148).
The call to “everything” means we praise God in all circumstances, in joy and in sorrow, in victory and in trial. Paul said, “Rejoice in the Lord always.” (Philippians 4:4). When we praise through pain, it becomes an act of faith. Praise in good times shows gratitude, but praise in hard times shows trust. That kind of praise moves heaven and strengthens our hearts.
It is not only your lips that should praise the Lord, but also your whole being. Your heart praises through gratitude. Your hands praise through service. Your mind praises through obedience. Your life becomes a living song to God. Romans 12:1 says, “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, this is your spiritual act of worship.”
From sunrise to sunset, every breath is an opportunity to honor God. Psalm 34:1 says, “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” All creation exists because of God’s power, and our right response is to praise Him.
We live in a broken world where people praise all kinds of things. Some worship other human beings, famous celebrities, or even themselves. Others give all their time and attention to money, power, or possessions. Some go as far as honoring idols or evil things that do not give life. Many even treat their pets, hobbies, or favorite brands as if they were more important than God.
It is sad that people can spend hours talking about their favorite coffee, sports team, or new phone, but hardly spend a moment talking about their Creator, the One who gives them life and breath each day.
Your breath is a gift, when you breathe in, remember it is from God; when you breathe out, use it to Praise the Lord or use it to Halleluyah. Even the angels were created to praise our God, continually worshiping Him in heaven and proclaiming His glory.
Praise flows from the mouths of Christians who truly recognize the goodness of God. When we remember His blessings, His forgiveness, and his constant presence in our lives, our words turn into worship, and our hearts cannot stay silent.
Even creation knows how to give thanks. The birds sing, the oceans roar, and we lift our voices, all testifying that God is good. Have you ever seen a dog wag its tail after getting food? That’s doggy praise! If a dog can show gratitude for a meal, how much more should we praise God for His goodness every day!
As long as we are living in this world, God deserves all the glory, and He will be praised with Hallelujahs forever! Praise is not optional; it is our destiny! You don’t have to teach a bird to sing or a baby to giggle, they just do it! In the same way, you don’t have to force a thankful heart to praise; it just overflows. We use our mouths for many things, cheering, complaining, and talking, but often forget they were made to praise God with Hallelujahs. If we can shout for a team or sing for fun, we can surely praise our Savior. Can you imagine a fish saying, “I am tired of swimming, I want to try mountain climbing”? It doesn’t work, because that’s not what they were made for! In the same way, we weren’t created just to work, eat, and sleep, we were created to “praise the Lord,” to “Halleluyah.”
“Praise the Lord” is like a special code that shows who you belong to; it identifies you as a child of God. When you say, “Praise the Lord,” you are declaring your faith and showing that your heart belongs to Him. It is a sign that you know who your Father is and that you are proud to give Him glory.
When you are born again, worship becomes part of your new nature. You don’t just learn to praise; you are made to praise! That’s why even when life gets hard, something deep inside you still wants to say, “Thank You, Lord.” Praise is what connects heaven to earth through your voice. Just as a heartbeat shows that your body is alive, praise shows that your spirit is alive in Christ.
So, when we say Praise the Lord or HalleluYah, we are not just speaking a word, we are speaking our “spiritual language.” It is the sound of heaven living inside us. As long as you are alive, lift your voice and praise the Lord with countless Hallelujahs because you are not done yet!
When we praise, something changes inside us, chains are broken, minds are renewed, and miracles happen. All of creation praises God naturally: the birds sing, the sun rises, and the flowers bloom as He designed them to. No matter your age or stage in life, praise God! If you are young, thank Him for your strength; if you are older, thank Him for your endurance. Celebrate the Lord with joy, lift your voice, clap your hands, and give Him praise!
As we prepare for Holy Communion, let’s remember, this is a moment of praise. When we take the bread and the cup, we are not just remembering what Jesus did; we are praising Him for it. His body was broken, His blood was shed, so that we could live, and that’s a reason to praise! So today, as we share Communion together, let everything that has breath, and every thankful heart, praise the Lord! Amen!
WILL THE LORD FIND FAITH ON EARTH?
Luke 18:1–8; 2 Timothy 3:14–4:3
One night, a thief broke into a small-town bank after weeks of careful planning. His heart raced with excitement as he finally managed to open the heavy door. But when he stepped inside, he was shocked, the place was completely empty. There was no cash, no gold, nothing of value. On the wall, he found a note that read, “This bank has gone digital. All money is online now!” The thief sat down in disbelief and said, “I worked so hard for nothing! I should have believed in online banking!”
Just like that thief, many people today put their trust in things that don’t last. Jesus warned about this in Luke 18:8, where He asked one of the most serious questions in the Bible: “When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?”
Jesus’ question comes from the story of a woman who kept asking a judge for help until he finally gave her justice. In the same way, Jesus wants to know if people will keep their faith when He returns. He doesn’t ask because He doubts, but to help us grow stronger in our faith. He wants us to have a faith that lasts, a living trust in God that keeps shining even when life is hard or dark.
Right now, all around the world, more and more people are asking, “Is God real?” and “Can we trust the Bible?” In schools, on TV, and online, people often laugh at faith in Jesus or treat it like something old and unimportant. Because of this, many also ask, “Does the church still matter today, or has it lost its purpose?”
At the same time, others wonder, “How can we get ready for Jesus to come back? Is there really life after death? Can anyone be sure they will live forever with God?” Some even say sadly, “Nothing is getting me to heaven!”
In today’s world, people often choose what feels good instead of what is right in God’s eyes. It takes strong faith to do what is right when the world says, “Do whatever you want.”
Some believers start with strong faith but slowly turn away from God when life feels easy. They stop praying often, reading the Bible, or helping others, because it seems easier to rest than to stay spiritually awake. But the Apostle Paul told Timothy, “Continue in what you have learned and firmly believed.” That means we should stay close to God’s Word and hold on to the truth, even when others let go (2 Timothy 3:14–4:3).
Nowadays, many people believe science or technology can solve every problem, and they forget that real hope and peace come from God, not from machines or inventions. With all the news about wars, diseases, and disasters, people are filled with fear instead of faith. Instead of trusting that God is in control, they worry and panic!
Many care more about what others think on social media than what God thinks. They would rather please people than stand for truth, even if it means compromising their faith. In some places, believers are mocked, ignored, or even punished for standing up for their faith. It is not easy to stay strong when the world tells you that your beliefs are wrong or foolish.
“When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?” Jesus didn’t give a direct answer to His question, but His words suggest that genuine faith may be rare when He returns. Yet He wasn’t trying to discourage us, He was calling us to self-examination. It is an invitation to look within and ask, “Will He find faith in me, in my home, in my church, in my nation?”
When Jesus returns, He will not care about your job, your car, your house, or how successful your family looks. What He will look for is faith, faith that never gives up, keeps praying, trusts God’s Word, and stands for truth even when others walk away. Jesus’ question, “Will I find faith on the earth?” is not meant to scare us, but to wake us up. It reminds us to keep our hearts warm, our lamps burning, and our eyes fixed on Him. So, stay faithful, because when He returns, faith will be what truly matters.
Faith is not just sitting back and relaxing. No, real faith is active trust. It is not passive. Faith moves. Faith prays. Faith obeys. Faith steps forward even when the path ahead is foggy. True faith moves your heart to pray, your hands to serve, and your life to trust God fully, even in the waiting. It is the kind of faith that keeps the lamp burning while waiting for the bridegroom, even when the oil costs more than before, even when the waiting is long, and the night feels endless.
Faith doesn’t sit down and say, “Well, I have done enough.” Faith keeps pressing on. It kneels in prayer when everyone else gives up. It holds onto God’s promises when everything around says, “It is over.” Faith is not only believing that God exists, even the demons know that much, but trusting in Him every single day. Faith walks through the valley and says, “You are still my Shepherd.” Faith stands at the Red Sea and says, “God will make a way.” Faith looks at the cross and says, “Even here, love wins.”
When faith is alive, it changes how we live. It shapes how we think, how we give, how we forgive, how we worship. The world says, “See it, then believe it.” But faith says, “Believe it, and you will see it.” Because faith is not a feeling, it is a decision to keep trusting the One who will come back to bring us home.
At least in America, people have the freedom to believe and worship openly. But in many other countries, believers face great challenges just to follow their faith. Some have to gather in secret, worshiping quietly and carefully because it is dangerous to be known as a Christian. Yet even in those difficult places, many still pray, sing, and praise God with joy sometimes in the middle of war, poverty, or persecution. Their courage reminds us not to take our freedom for granted and to keep our own faith strong, no matter the circumstances.
God’s people, don’t give up! Your light matters, even if it feels small. Keep praying, keep loving, keep believing, and keep worshiping God. When Jesus comes back, He will find faith, and He wants to find it in you and me.
Don’t let the world take away your joy or your fire for God. When Jesus returns and the sky shines with His glory, you will be able to smile and say, “I was waiting for You, Lord!” And maybe you will run into His arms and finally hug the One who died for you and never gave up on you.
As we close, let us remember that our freedom to worship is a precious gift. Let’s use this time wisely to serve God with all our hearts. One day, this freedom may be taken away, but today we can still work faithfully for His Kingdom, so that when Jesus returns, He will find us ready and standing strong in faith. Hallelujah!
Let’s pray together
Lord Jesus, thank You for reminding us to keep our faith strong, even when the world grows dark. Help us to pray like the persistent widow never giving up, never losing heart. Strengthen our trust in You, and let our lives shine with hope, love, and faith until the day You return. In Your holy name we pray,
Amen.
“WHEN TEARS BECOME PRAYER”
Jeremiah 8:18 – 9:1, 1` Timothy 2:1-7
In the nursery hospital, a baby’s cry breaks the silence. The sound is small, just a little “waa waa,” but it changes everything. Nurses rush closer, parents lean in, and care is given immediately. The baby has no words, no English, no French, no grammar, only baby language, only tears. Yet those tears speak louder than any language. They say, “I need you.” And just like that, help comes. The title of the sermon today is: “When Tears Become Prayer.”
Bible history shows us that God’s people have often prayed with tears, tears that spoke louder than words. Hannah, the mother of Samuel, wept bitterly in the temple. The priest thought she was drunk, because no words came from her mouth, only silent cries. Yet God heard and answered. David, the psalmist, declared, “You have put my tears in Your bottle” (Psalm 56:8). He knew that every tear was recorded by God as a prayer. Even Jesus, standing at Lazarus’s tomb, allowed His tears to flow. Those tears spoke volumes of His compassion and love, carrying more meaning than any sentence could.
From the prophets of old to the saints of today, the history of God’s family has always included moments where tears became prayer. When our mouths close, heaven opens. When our voices are weak, our tears rise as petitions before God’s throne.
Sometimes life feels so heavy that tears just fall on their own. Yet, in God’s eyes, tears are not wasted. They become prayers. God understands the language of tears, and He changes them into prayer that brings healing and salvation.
In Africa, I have seen a child cry after being caught eating sugar, saying, “Mama, it wasn’t me!” while the sugar is still on their lips. Those tears are not prayers, that’s drama! In America, I have seen kids cry at Walmart when the toy doesn’t come home with them. They roll on the floor, shouting like the world is ending. That’s not prayer either, that’s protest! But real tears, tears from the heart, reach God’s throne. In other words, our deepest feelings, prayers, and cries go straight to God in heaven. It shows that God listens, not only to our words, but also to what is inside our hearts.
Jeremiah’s weeping was not weakness but intercession. They were prayers for his people. He cried for their sins and pain, not for himself. Tears can be truer than words. We can hidwn and cry. That’s okay. The Holy Spirit knows how to turn your tears into words before God. Romans 8:26 says, “The Spirit helps us in our weakness with cries that words cannot express.”
In Africa, if you step on a Lego block in the dark, you don’t have a long prayer. You just cry out, “Yooooo!” In America, when you spill coffee on your new white shirt on the way to work, you shout, “Lord, why today?!” Both are short prayers, but God still hears.
In the entire world, wars, violence, poverty, sickness, disasters, sorrow, and hunger are causing millions to weep. Families are grieving the loss of loved ones, children cry in fear, and nations cry for peace in the midst of economic crises. Even in wealthy nations, people cry silently, in depression, in loneliness, and in broken relationships.
At the same time, there are tears of faith, worship, and longing, people crying to God for revival, healing, and a new beginning. And the good news is, God hears them all. God will never ignore, because they reflect His own heart of compassion.
When trouble comes to the family, African mothers pray with tears, so loud that even the neighbors know the prayer request. In America, mothers cry at graduations, not just because their child made it, but because student loans are finally done. Those tears are mixed prayers: “Thank You, Lord!” and “Help me, Lord!”
When you cry before God for your life, for your family, for your church, for your nation, those tears are powerful prayers of intercession. They are the beginning of healing, salvation and victory.
In Africa, even at funerals, after crying, someone always cracks a joke: “Uncle left without paying me back!” And suddenly people laugh through their tears. In America, at thanksgiving, after crying about politics at the table, somebody burns the turkey, and everyone laughs together. Tears don’t last forever. God knows how to turn them into joy.
When we go through deep pain, confusion, or even joy that is too big for words, the Holy Spirit takes our silence and turns it into prayer that reaches God’s heart. It is like the Spirit takes our broken words, our unfinished prayers, and our raw feelings, and makes them into a perfect prayer before God (Romans 8:26).
In rural Africa, when the rain fails, farmers look at their dry fields and cry. They bring their sorrow before God in song and tears. Later, when the rain finally comes, they see those tears as prayers God answered, turning sorrow into joy and harvest.
Through segregation and the Civil Rights struggle, Black Americans wept and prayed with tears for justice. Those tears reached God’s heart and weren’t wasted. From their cries came songs of freedom, unshakable faith, and strength for change. Today we rejoice, for the God who turned their tears into victory is the same God who turns our tears into songs of joy. People of God tears carry the voice of the heart. God sees them, God gathers them, and God answers with comfort, hope, and healing.
When you run out of words but are overflowing with emotions, remember this: your prayer is not finished. God never ignores your tears. The Holy Spirit gathers them like treasures, transforms them into prayers, and carries them before the throne of God. From your tears, God brings hope. From your sorrow, He brings healing. From your breakdown, He brings joy. God sees every tear. He responds with love, care, and compassion. His answer may not always be what we expect, but He always gives His presence, reminding us, “You are not alone in this valley.”
So, People of God, your tears are not wasted. He sees them. He hears them. He keeps them. And in His perfect time, sorrow will turn into strength, silence will turn into a song, and every tear will become a testimony of His faithfulness.
Let’s pray together
Lord, we thank You for reminding us today that our tears are not wasted. You see them, you collect them, and You turn them into prayers before Your throne. Teach us to trust You, even when words fail and only tears remain. May every tear we shed draw us closer to You, until our weeping is turned into rejoicing. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
“IN THE MIDST OF REPENTANCE”
Psalm 85:1-9, Colossians 2:13-15
There was a cowboy named Madria. He was known for drinking, gambling, and getting into fights. One day, he joked, “If I ever walk into church, the roof will fall down!” But things changed. He stole a horse and got put in jail. While he was in jail, a pastor from the United Methodist Church came to visit the prisoners. The pastor didn’t come to judge anyone. He brought each person a Bible and some food.
That day, Mardria started reading the Bible. One verse really touched his heart. It was Matthew 4:17: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” That verse hit him like a strong wake-up call. Madria whispered, “Lord, if you can forgive someone like me, I want to belong to you.” When he got out of jail, he didn’t go back to stealing. He went back to church. After that, people in town started calling him Preacher Madria. He preached wearing his boots and cowboy hat, always telling others, “No one is too far from God’s love.” That’s the power of repentance; it brings us back home to God.
Remember, he walked into a church, the roof didn’t fall; Madria fell at the foot of the cross of Jesus Christ! Because when God’s love hits you, it doesn’t break the building; it breaks you in the best way possible – and builds you back brand new.
The power of repentance is more than just saying “I am sorry.” It is a spiritual transformation, a deep shift in our mind and heart. It is when we stop running, fall into grace, and find a new direction right in the middle of the mess. It is waking up daily and saying, “God I am still turning. I am ready today; I am still becoming who You have called me to be.” That means we may have to repent not just of bad actions, but also bad attitudes. Not just of what we have done, sometimes of what we didn’t do when God asked.
In the Bible, repentance is both a doorway and a pathway, it starts our journey with God and keeps us on the right road. It is powerful because it reconnects people to God, repositions us for His purposes and restores our joy and peace (Psalm 85).
Just like David in Psalm 51, when he cried out after his sin with Bathsheba, “Create in me a clean heart, O God…” That wasn’t after God forgave him, it was in the midst of his repentance that God began to work in him again. Remember, one of the two robbers hanging beside Jesus on the cross decided, in his last moments to repent. Jesus spoke the words, “Today, you will be with me in paradise,” to a repentant criminal on the cross. Jesus responded with mercy, showing that “sincere repentance, even at the end of life, can lead to salvation.”
In the midst of pain and death, repentance became the turning point. It is a reminder that God doesn’t cancel our journey when we fail, He redirects it through grace. Repentance isn’t the end, it is the turning point where grace enters, healing begins, and your story starts to change for the better.
So today, if you find yourself in the middle of a mess, don’t wait to clean up before coming to God. Come to Him in the midst of repentance. Because that’s where His mercy meets us. It acknowledges that repentance is not a one-time event but a continuous process of turning from sin and towards God. It is like taking out the trash: you don’t just do it once and say, “My house is forever clean!” You keep doing it, because life keeps piling stuff up.
“YOU ARE LOVED, SO LOVE YOURSELF”
Luke 10:25-37, 1 John 3:1
Last Sunday, we talked about Freedom in Christ. As we celebrated America’s independence remember, “freedom is never free.” Brave men and women fought and died so that this nation can be free. In the same way, our spiritual freedom was not free. Jesus Christ paid the highest price on the cross. American freedom gives us rights and liberty, but Christian freedom gives us true life and eternity.
In the same direction of last Sunday’s sermon, today, I want to tell you something simple but powerful: “You are loved, so love yourself.” The book of Luke 10:25-37 tells us the story of the Good Samaritan. A teacher of the law asked Jesus, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus said, “What is written in the law?” The man replied, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind; and love your neighbor as yourself.”
The expression of “Love your neighbor as yourself” means you can’t love your neighbor if you don’t love yourself first. Imagine if the Samaritan hated himself. He might have said, “I am worthless. I have nothing to offer. Who am I to help this man lying on the road?” But instead, he saw himself as someone who could help. Someone with value. He poured oil and wine on the wounded man, put him on his own donkey, and paid for his care.
The Good Samaritan had confidence in himself, a sense of worth, and compassion, knowing that he could do something to help. Loving yourself is not arrogance or selfishness. It is humility to accept God’s love. James 2:17 says, “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action is dead.” You can say, “I have faith that God loves me,” but if you don’t act like it, that faith is dead.
You act like you are loved by taking care of yourself. Think about your phone. If it is always at 1%, what do you do? You charge it! You don’t say, “It’s okay, I will let it die.” No, you charge it because it is useful to you. In the same way, if you keep running on empty, spiritually, mentally, physically, you will not be able to help others. Self-care is not selfish. It is necessary.
Many times, we love others but forget to love ourselves. We forgive others but hold on to guilt about our own mistakes. We encourage others but speak badly to ourselves in our minds. But God is saying today: “My child, you are loved. Love yourself too.”
When you understand that God loves you it will give you strength too, this means taking care of your mind and body. When you make mistakes, don’t keep blaming yourself forever. Ask God for forgiveness and move forward. Don’t think you are useless. You are precious to God. When you know God loves you, you will have love to give others. When you love others, people will see that God’s love is real in your life. And when you love yourself as God loves you, you honor Him, because you are His creation (1 John 3:1).
Today, we are posted a special Mother’s Day sermon from our pastor, Rev. Dr. John Kabala: RESTORATION IN THE VALLEY OF WOMEN – Psalm 23:4-6; Acts 9:36-43. We want you to have the opportunity to read it in its entirety and pray that you will be blessed and uplifted as we have been by what he had to share on Mother’s Day Sunday.
Good morning, Church, and Happy Mother’s Day!
Today, we give thanks to God for the beautiful gift of mothers those who gave us life, those who raised us, those who prayed for us, and those who stood in the gap with love and wisdom. Whether you are a biological mother, a spiritual mother, a grandmother, or someone who has mothered others through kindness and care, we celebrate you today. It is a special day to say thank God for the mothers!
From a biblical and spiritual perspective, we celebrate mothers because, God values motherhood. Jesus Himself honored His mother (John 19:26–27). So, today’s sermon will be on the “Restoration in the valley of women.”
Motherhood is often seen as a special calling from God because it shows His loving, giving, and life-creating nature. When a woman gives birth, she joins with God in creating life. This is not just something physical, it is also spiritual. God gives mothers the job of caring for and helping shape their children, both in body and in spirit (Psalm 139:13–14).
A mother’s love is also like God’s love kind, patient, and full of care. Being a mother is not only about raising children, but also about teaching them to love, serve, and obey God. That’s why mothers are also spiritual teachers in the home.
Motherhood is more than a job. It is a holy mission. Through a mother’s love, prayers, and care, God can bring healing and new hope. A mother helps rebuild what is broken and plants good things that can bless many generations.
Mother’s Day is a beautiful opportunity to celebrate the love, strength, and faith of women and mothers. But it is also a day to recognize that not every woman experiences joy on this day. Some grieve. Some feel forgotten. Some are hurting in silence. Injustice doesn’t pause for holidays. This reminds us that many women are still walking through the valley of suffering, struggle, tears and silence even on days meant for celebration.
They smile on the outside, but inside they are tired, broken, or carrying silent pain. They experience physical, emotional pain, in places that should be safe homes, relationships, or even church settings. A woman in a village in the Democratic Republic of Congo was beaten by her husband for years yet kept quiet to protect her children. One day, a church women’s group heard her story, prayed with her, and helped her find a new beginning.
The church must be a voice of justice and restoration, not just celebration. Jesus didn’t ignore the suffering of women. He healed them, defended them, listened to them, and gave them purpose.
In the world, women, especially single mothers, often struggle to feed and care for their families without help. In Detroit, a single mother of three works two jobs and still barely pays rent. But every Sunday, she comes to church with her children, trusting that God will provide and somehow, He always does.
In many places, women are still treated as less valuable than men. They are denied education, leadership roles, or equal pay. A young girl in Afghanistan wants to become a doctor, but her school is shut down because she is a girl. Yet, she studies at home, hoping that one day God will make a way.
People of God, we can make Mother’s Day not only a day of flowers and cards but also a day of prayer, advocacy, and care to restore women who are suffering in this world.
In conflict zones, women and girls are often victims of terrible crimes like rape, violence, and forced marriage. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, a teenage girl was captured during war by soldiers from Rwanda a neighboring country but later escaped. She found a healing home where Christian women helped her rebuild her life.
This is the calling for women of faith, to help restore and support other women and young ladies who feel lost. Church must pray for women in war zones or abusive homes. Support shelters or programs for struggling mothers.
In different countries, some women carry deep pain from abortion, abuse, or past mistakes but are afraid to speak because they fear judgment. One young woman had an abortion in college and kept it secret. She felt too guilty to serve in church and thought God wouldn’t forgive her. But at a women’s Bible study, someone shared a similar story. She cried and realized she wasn’t alone. That day, her healing began, and she saw that God’s grace can forgive all mistakes. This is the role of the Church, to encourage and welcome people who feel lost.
Women who are abandoned by husbands, family, or even the church feel forgotten and alone. A woman who served faithfully in her church was pushed aside when her marriage ended. But another sister invited her to join a Bible group, and her joy began to return.
Women in leadership in church, at work, or at home often face criticism, disrespect, or unfair expectations. A female pastor in the U.S. was told she was “too emotional” to lead. But she kept preaching, serving, and loving her people. Today, her church is growing and successful.
In the French United Methodist Church, we have women and girls who have run away from war, injustice, persecution, and pain. Many of them are struggling to care for their families and children. They need help, love, and support to live with dignity, like every human being deserves. The Church is one of the few places where they can find healing. People of God, if you have time, resources, or even just a listening ear, you can make a big difference. God calls us to care for the broken and show His love through our actions. When we truly honor mothers, we commit to building a world where all women are safe, valued, and free.
Women like Dorcas (Tabitha) in Acts 9 restored their communities through acts of service. Helping the poor, comforting the grieving, cooking meals, or caring for the sick and bringing healing. Her sewing needle became a spiritual weapon. Her clothes were like sermons in fabric. She didn’t preach but her kindness preached louder than a microphone.
In conclusion, people of God, every woman and man here can be a vessel of restoration. Whether you are a parent, sibling, or friend, God has placed something holy in you. Like Dorcas, you can bless your family, community, and church. By standing up and serving women who are struggling or suffering, your faith and love bring healing and that is the true spirit of Mother’s Day.
Let’s pray together: Dear God, we lift up every woman who is walking through a valley right now; a valley of pain, of fear, of silence, or loss. Wrap them in Your love. Remind them that they are not alone. Give them strength to stand, hope to keep going, and faith to believe again. Turn their tears into testimonies and their pain into purpose. Use us, Lord, to support, love, and walk beside them. We believe that You are the God who restores. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Excerpts from “SING HEAVEN’S HALLELUJAHS”
Psalm 30:4-5, Revelation 5:11-14
Resurrection means there’s new strength, new vision, new love, new pardon, new engagement, new passion, new joy, new reconciliation for every believer and new “Hallelujahs.” Even when life is hard, we don’t give up because our Savior got back up, so we shout “Hallelujah!”
Church don’t worship your God like you are still in prison, worship like someone who is been set free, Hallelujah! When Jesus rose from the grave, He didn’t just walk out alone He broke the door open for you too! Clap like freedom is yours! Sing and dance like the chains just fell off your feet! Smile like God gave you a second chance!
Sing together with angels in Heaven because the chains of the past are broken, chains of sin no longer hold you, chains of guilt, chains of fear, they don’t own you anymore. So, lift your hands, lift your voice and worship your God like your chains are gone! Whatever your chain was, Jesus has the key, and He already opened the door!
Embury United Methodist Church 