From the Pastor's Desk

I hope you have had a blessed week and are looking forward to the weekend. A couple of weeks ago, while visiting one of North America's national parks, I was awestruck by the wonders of God's creation. Despite nature being greatly affected by sin, we can still marvel at the beauty of God's creative power thanks to His grace. Standing in a valley surrounded by hills, mountains, rivers, trees, and incredibly large rocks, all I could think about were the trees. There is something special about trees, have you ever stopped to marvel at a tree? I know I have many times. Whether you have or not, please join me in the following short exercise. 

Imagine a vast expanse of rolling hills dotted with a variety of trees, each one unique in its shape, size, and character. Among these trees stands a magnificent oak tree, its branches spread wide, casting a protective shadow over the surrounding landscape. This oak tree has weathered many storms, its thick trunk standing tall and firm against the elements. Just as this oak tree draws sustenance from the earth, the sun, and the rain, we as Christians must draw our strength, resilience, and vitality from somewhere. 

The oak tree's roots run deep into the soil, anchoring it securely and providing the essential nourishment it needs to grow and thrive. Similarly, we are to be rooted and grounded in God's love and grace, enabling us to stand strong in our faith and weather the storms of life. But what is our source of strength, resilience, vitality, and nourishment? Jesus gave us a promise which we find in the book of John. Jesus said, “there’s another one coming who is going to be your helper”, He was talking about the Holy Spirit of course. We are living in the Holy Spirit’s era! The beautiful thing is that the Holy Spirit is God Himself, He dwells in our hearts, He wants to transform our lives and also points us to Jesus. But how can we cultivate a deeper connection with the Holy Spirit and allow His presence to fill and nourish our souls?

Here are some practical steps to consider: 
Cultivate a spirit of humility and openness; surrender your will and desires to God, inviting the Holy Spirit to dwell within you and guide you in all aspects of your life; acknowledge your need for His wisdom, strength, and comfort; engage in spiritual disciplines – setting aside time each day for prayer, meditation, reading Scripture, and worship – these spiritual practices create space for the Holy Spirit to work in your heart, transforming you from the inside out; walk in obedience – listening attentively to the Spirit's prompting and obey His leading, even when it goes against your own desires or plans; trust that He knows what is best for you and will guide you on the path of righteousness. 

Just as the oak tree stands firm and unyielding in the face of adversity, so too can we stand strong in our faith when we are rooted in the filling of the Holy Spirit. Let us commit to inviting the Spirit to dwell in us daily, so that we may grow, flourish, and bear fruit for God's Kingdom. 

May the Holy Spirit be like a deep well of living water within us, refreshing and renewing our spirits, and sustaining us through life's challenges and triumphs. Let us be like the oak tree, standing tall and strong, a testament to the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

Blessings,  David Peñate