Don’t you just love what God is doing in our church family? His aloha is so beautifully expressed through our genuine relationships. The care and compassion you show one another brings a spiritual vibrancy to our gatherings. Our worship overflows—not just in our music and singing, but also in our times of prayer, fellowship, and having a meal together after service.
I believe we will all continue to grow in Christ together, as we continue loving and serving one another. I believe as we are obedient in this as a family of God, we will witness His love and life to those around us. As John writes:
“Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”
John 13:34-35 NLT
I’ve met people who see the church—and Christians—as hypocritical, judgmental, and “holier than thou.” Many have stopped attending because they were hurt by spiritual leaders or believers. When I hear their stories, I try to listen deeply and respond with empathy. I also admit that I’m both a Christian and a spiritual leader who has made my share of ignorant and unwise choices in my words and actions toward others.
But I also share that the beauty of the gospel is that Jesus came for imperfect people—people like me. He is patient to forgive, gracious to restore, and powerful to change our hearts. The church, at its best, is not a gathering of perfect saints but a family of redeemed sinners learning to love like Him. My hope is that, over time, hurting and wounded hearts can find healing and that we, the church, can truly reflect the grace and aloha of the Jesus we love.
