It’s interesting to me that in the crucifixion scenes of all the Gospels, Gospel of Luke is the only one that includes these red-letter words of Jesus: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34) In my research, I discovered there has been scholarly debate about this passage and whether it...
This Sunday, I’ll be teaching the “red letter” words of Jesus found only in the Gospel of Luke. It’s about an unexpected neighbor! When an expert in the law asks Jesus, “Who is my neighbor?” Jesus responds with a story so radical and unexpected, it would have completely shocked His audience. The Good Samaritan reveals...
In Gospel of Mark 7:24–30, we meet a mother desperate for her daughter’s healing. Her daughter is suffering, so the mother seeks the help of Jesus. The deep love and care of the mother for her daughter compels her to cross huge cultural and spiritual barriers. The risk was far worth the healing of her...
Do you recall singing a song with these lyrics: This is the air I breatheThis is the air I breathe Your holy presenceLiving in me It’s a worship song written by Marie Barnett. It’s been a profound song, leading me to think deeply about the life I’ve been given by God physically — and spiritually...
You may have already heard the sad — but sacred — news that our awesome and amazing sister in Christ, TC, has passed from this life into eternal life, now in the presence of our Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. She believed for healing in this life. She fought the good fight of faith...
This Sunday I’ll be teaching from Mark 10. Mark contrasts blind Bartimaeus’ story contrasts with the rich young ruler. Both encounter Jesus — but only one chooses to follow. Following Jesus is a personal decision, and it will cost us something. Watching this unfold, Peter says, “We have left everything to follow You.” Was that...
I am so grateful for the friendships we are making — encouraging, growing together as Jesus ‘ohana. While we continue to pray for those on our hearts and prayer lists, I believe even in the middle of so much hurt, there is still unshakable hope. Our resurrection celebration continues everyday of our lives! All around...
If you know me, you’ve probably heard me say this before: ”What is a Good Friday for us was a gory Friday for Jesus.” We can celebrate Good Friday on this side of the resurrection of Jesus because it was a day of suffering, sacrifice, and surrender for a crucified King. He experienced the weight...
Pastor Rod has been in ministry for more than 38 years. He has shepherded and overseen a variety of ministries, including children’s, youth, college, community/missions, discipleships/small groups, worship and the arts, as well as assisting and consulting with several church planters. Since moving back to Honolulu from Kansas City in 2000, Rod has served on Pastor Wayne Cordeiro’s executive team at New Hope O‘ahu. He has pastored the New Hope Mānoa ‘ohana since January 2015.
