The Message from Hermese

Sermon based on Psalm 51:1-13, the Psalm for Lent 5B

As we go deeper into the solemnity in Lent, Jesus beckons us towards His Light. Enjoy this week's message - the message for Lent 4, Year B.

Reflection on the Gospel for the Third Sunday in Lent, Year B (John 2:13-22).

We are easily distracted...ever thought you had sent a message only, hours later to find the fully drafted message unsent? Or, ever been in church and gotten totally distracted during the sermon and not have a clue about what was being said? Well, beloveds, that's distraction. But, thankfully, we have a Saviour who knows us and is here to change our focus.

When God is fulfilling His covenant with us, He does it gradually. He knows that we can’t withstand the change included in that fulfilment all at once, so He must do it bit by bit. Perhaps the final step in that fulfilment is the change in name. Beloved, what is the new name that God has created for you?

Sermon for Lent 1B based on the Lesson, Genesis 9:8-17

No one likes to be pulled aside. Your mind begins to race from the moment you’re pulled aside. Sometimes, it’s good news, but most times, it’s not a good thing when you get pulled aside. What about when Jesus pulls us aside? Is it any different?

‘Lord, open our hearts that we may discern your presence, go where you lead us and act in the power of our baptism.’

This prayer spoke to me from the moment I first heard it last year during my studies. It captivated me. It touched something deep inside of me. As I continued reflecting on the prayer, I realised that the words that spoke to me most powerfully were ‘the power of our baptism’.

So what is the 'power' of our baptism?

God makes His marvellous works to be remembered by creating memories for us. He is mindful of His covenant with us, He feeds us, has shown us the power of His works, redeems us and ensures that what He does stands fast forever. Let us give thanks to the Lord with our whole heart in the assembly and in the congregation. (Inspired by Psalm 111)

Dear ones, repentance opens the door to the fulfilment of God’s promises to us. Repentance removes the barriers that separate us from God. Repentance is in fulfilment of God’s will that we will be reconciled to Him. Remember, we pray in the Lord’s Prayer: 'Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven'. As such, when we pray these words, we are reminding ourselves of the need for us to repent and to be reconciled to the Father.

God invites us to come and see so that we can be moved from doubt to belief.