Holding onto our identity in the midst of a crisis

Kia ora whānau,

Last Sunday we looked at the story of Daniel and his three friends as we continue to reflect on going through times of crises. These young men were ripped away from their homes and their culture and forced to learn a new language. It was a tremendous time of upheaval for them. But after 60-70 years of exile, Daniel still hung on to his Jewish identity, was still worshiping the God of his ancestors, and was still keeping his people's rhythms and practices that allowed him to connect with God.

We are in an age of tremendous upheaval. I believe that the Spirit of God is at work in our world desiring to reconcile people to himself and to each other. It is messy, but it is a sign of God's kingdom among us. As we seek to be God's people in the midst of all that is happening, we must keep in mind the people that have gone before us (like Daniel and his friends) and learn from them.

Keep your eyes on Jesus,

Mark