Hope in Our Hands
It is wonderful to see our children leading us in worship today. Their energy, sincerity, and joyful participation show us that God loves the praise of His children. As we come together, we remember that God is already with us, welcoming us into His presence.
Our children did not reach this moment by themselves. Every song, Scripture reading, and prayer reflects the support of parents, loved ones, Sabbath School teachers, Children's Ministries leaders, mentors, and our caring church family. Today, we celebrate both the children and everyone who has helped them grow in faith.
We want to thank our Children's Ministries team, led by Gemma Chan Apelo, and our dedicated Sabbath School teachers: Mary Rem Gomez, Lynna De La Cruz, Erin Bandong, and Madie Robles (Beginners); Ember Tibudan, Mabel Joy Chan, and Rhodora Galang (Kindergarten); Gemma Apelo, Maria Yda Steele, Kim Liwanag, and Maybel Balceta (Primary); and Aimee Mariano, Maribel Babao, Ashley Corrales, and Shalyn Ranches (Juniors). Thank you for planting seeds of faith every week.
Yesterday, I was struck by a devotional reading from Psalm 107, especially verse 38: "He blessed them with many children and kept their cattle from decreasing in number (TCW)." The psalm, though its author is unknown, celebrates how God restores His people after hardship and brings them back from exile. In verses 33 to 38, God is shown as the one who turns deserts into fruitful land, builds communities, gives abundant harvests, and blesses His people with many children.
The mention of children is not just a small detail. It is the result of God's restoring work. After times of uncertainty and loss, children show us hope, renewal, and God's faithfulness to future generations.
As we see our children serve today, let us remember they are not just the church of tomorrow. They are an important part of God's work right now. Every child in our church reminds us that God is still building His kingdom through each generation. Truly, He has given us hope to hold.
"Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever” — Psalm 107:1.
-Pastor Lim
