Grace is free… can faith be costly?

ALOHA! This Sunday we continue our Summer Sermon Road Trip through Genesis with one of the most challenging and thought-provoking stories in all of Scripture: Abraham and Isaac on Mount Moriah (Genesis 22:1-14). We often speak of God's grace as a free gift, and it is. But following God sometimes asks something of us. Faith can require trust when the future is unclear, courage when the road is difficult, and perseverance when we would rather turn back. In this week's story, Abraham faces a test that has troubled and inspired believers for generations. Together we’ll explore what
costly faith really means, what this story does—and does not—say about God, and how God's mercy ultimately has the final say. Please join us this Sunday at 9 a.m. in the Chapel, or on Facebook Live as we continue this journey of faith together!

LAST SUNDAY we heard the story of Hagar and Ishmael (Genesis 21:8-21), another challenging story that tells us that life does not always unfold according to our plans. “This wasn’t supposed to happen!” we hear people say. Families face challenges, relationships become complicated, and sometimes the road ahead seems uncertain. And that certainly can sound familiar! This powerful story reminds us that God sees us, hears us, and remains present even in life's wilderness places. Have you reminded yourself of that this week?

LAST SUNDAY we also celebrated Father’s Day with a fabulous Hot Dog Feast with all the trimmings! Our thanks go to all who brought side dishes, set up, cooked, and cleaned up—we fathers and father-figures are grateful!

COMING UP AT ST. TIMOTHY’S:

• Our Ministry Minutes series begins this Sunday! David Caldwell will talk about our Bishop’s Committee. Each week through August during the announcements time, we’ll be hearing from a leader of one of our various St. Timothy’s ministries to let you know what’s happening and how you can participate.
• The Confirming Faith Adult Sunday School class meets again this Sunday. Our topic is the Bible. We’ll meet after worship in the Vicar’s office.
• Our Music Ministry, Zachary Hamada and our amazing choir, will be offering another Jazzikapila Concert on July 5, this one celebrating the music of America as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence! Save the date and plan to join us after worship.

BELOVED SIBLINGS IN CHRIST, I am grateful for the many ways you share in the life and ministry of St. Timothy’s. Please continue to pray for our leaders and ministers, for me as your vicar, and for every member of our St. Timothy’s ʻohana. May God grant us faith for the journey, hope for the road ahead, and the assurance that God’s presence is always with us.

Aloha Ke Akua!
Rev. Pete+