Carrying the Message

 Star Date: 08.17.2025

At my day job, my teammates often ask, “What’s the message?” It’s a question that reminds me of Ezra, called to open the scrolls and bring hidden truths to light. This week’s message blends the courage of Jeremiah, thrown into a cistern for speaking God’s truth, with the perseverance of Derek Redmond, who finished his Olympic race with his father’s help despite injury. Both stories show us that no matter how deep the pit or how heavy the struggle, God lifts us up and carries us forward.

I was blessed to attend the Saturday service, giving me the opportunity to share today’s message. Our deacon wove together these two powerful stories:

First, the prophet Jeremiah. He was thrown into a cistern and left to sink in the mud simply because he spoke the truth God gave him. Despite mistreatment and abandonment, he stood firm in his calling.

Second, Derek Redmond at the 1992 Olympics. In the middle of his 400-meter race, Derek tore his hamstring and fell to the ground. His Olympic dream seemed shattered. But he got up, and with the help of his father, hobbled across the finish line. The world remembers that moment—not for a gold medal, but for perseverance, courage, and love.

These stories fit together beautifully. Life will knock us down. People may not always understand or support us. But like Jeremiah, we are called to speak the truth. And like Derek Redmond, we must rise again, even when our strength feels gone, trusting that God—our Father—will come alongside us and help us reach the finish.

So when my teammates ask, “What’s the message?” I’ll be ready with this:
Even when you fall, God will not leave you in the pit. He runs to you, lifts you up, and walks you across the finish line.

“But the Lord is with me like a mighty warrior; so my persecutors will stumble and not prevail.” — Jeremiah 20:11

Just as Ezra brought hidden truths into the light, let us carry these lessons forward—speaking courage, rising with perseverance, and trusting God to guide each step of our journey this week.  Have a great day.