Quiet Blessings Upon the World

David concluded our series on James with a sermon on true wealth in a world that seems ruled by money. In one memorable moment, he said that the true power sustaining the world are not the plans of the wealthy, but the prayers of the faithful:

God’s blessing comes down so quietly and unknowingly. Numbers 11:9 says, “When the dew settled on the camp at night, the manna also came down.” When the people were sleeping in peace, God sent the dew and the manna quietly without disturbing their sweet sleep. And this is how believers’ prayers and God’s blessings are for the world. Our prayers look like nothing. But our prayers carry God’s blessings down upon the world. People may think that the world is ruled by rich men….But it is not true. The world is sustained and blessed by God through the believers’ prayers behind the curtain.

Pray Selfish Prayers

Erik preached on James’ guidance regarding prayer from Chapter 4: “You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.” His sermon made the case that if we really have faith in God’s grace and power, we shouldn’t be afraid to pray selfish prayers. It took inspiration from his quote by Richard Foster’s book Prayer: Finding the Heart’s True Home:

“we all come to prayer with a tangled mass of motives-altruistic and selfish, merciful and hateful, loving and bitter. Frankly, this side of eternity we will never unravel the good from the bad, the pure from the impure. But what I have come to see is that God is big enough to receive us with all our mixture. We do not have to be bright, or pure, or filled with faith, or anything. That is what grace means, and not only are we saved by grace, we live by it as well. And we pray by it.”

Word of Peace

David preached on James’ admonition in Chapter 3 to “tame the tongue.” Our model is Jesus:

Jesus is “a silent lamb,” but at the same time, he is “the Eternal Word.” However, Jesus’ word is not for arguing or striving. Jesus is “the word of peace” sent by God to us (Acts 10:36). All the words and deeds of Jesus originated from “peace,” and they are for “peace.” Not even a word from Jesus’ mouth is tinted with hating, cursing, grumbling, flattering, slandering, or gossiping. All the words from his mouth are for peace.

Faith with Shoes On

Deb preached on one of James’ most famous statements: “faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead,” (2:17). She calls this “faith with shoes on,” faith that’s ready to leave the house. Here is Deb’s conclusion:

Faith with shoes on is a living faith. It’s a faith that includes actions. It’s not a question of inner faith versus outer actions. The fact is, you need both. You can’t earn your way to heaven by chalking up a whole list of good works. But you also can’t agree with the idea of who Jesus is without letting that inner conviction work its way out through your hands and feet. Faith needs to have its shoes on if it’s going to go anywhere. 

As we wrap up our time of worship and put our metaphorical shoes on to go out into the rest of our lives, think about what situation you will face this week where God is asking you to live your faith outwardly. Is there a relationship that needs repair? A situation that needs God’s grace? A tough knot that needs God’s wisdom to unravel? May God lead each of us this week as we lace up our shoes of faith and follow him.

Amazing Grace in the Mirror

Erik preached on the short parable of the mirror in James (1:22-27). Here is part of his conclusion:

Doing, not just hearing, is the path to self-knowledge. But pay close attention, and you can learn even more about God. Can you see it, God’s grace? When you try and follow Jesus, you learn that you’re a sinner in need of God’s grace. Look a little more carefully, and you will see that you’re a sinner that is already receiving God’s grace. By God’s grace—forgiving us, helping us—sinners can see themselves following Jesus. Remember what we sang: T’was grace that taught my heart to fear; and grace my fears relieved. T’was grace that taught you that you were a sinner. T’was grace that taught you that you could be a saint.

Good Things Take Time

David shared this clever advertisement during his sermon on the opening verses of James. He added some encouraging commentary about perseverance and Christian integrity:

Cheesemakers should learn how to wait. It’s because cheesemaking takes time. Waiting and waiting, they should let time finish its work in order to get high-quality cheese. We must believe God who is working on us even when we are helpless and hopeless. In fact, that is exactly the time when we grow mature and perfect in God’s hand.

The Joyless Sin

Preaching on the 10th and final commandment ("don’t covet anything belonging to your neighbor”), Erik defined covetousness as the combination of envy and greed. He shared this memorable quote from Joseph Epstein: “Of all the deadly sins, only envy is no fun at all.” Acknowledging that envy feels terrible might be the first step to letting God save us from covetousness!

Believing the truth can be as hard as telling it

Our guest preacher Steve Nordbye, shared this timely warning in his sermon this week:

“We are most likely to think and believe the worst about those with whom we are in conflict or competition. It is therefore with those people that we are most at risk in bearing false witness or believing it from others.”

Is This the Price of My Integrity?

Here is a striking question that Deb posed in her sermon on the Eight Commandment against stealing:

I remember once, many years ago, I was grocery shopping, and the cashier gave me back too much change. It was something like $1.00. The first thought that crossed my mind was, Oh, hey, it’s my lucky day! But then another thought came to me. And it’s one of those thoughts that has stuck with me over the years. Is this the price of my integrity? $1.00? If I’m going to compromise my integrity, shouldn’t it be for more than that?

The Spirit of Hot Air Balloons

In his sermon on Sunday, David gave us a terrific illustration about God's spirit in each us. We wanted to share it: 

An air balloon is a giant air bag made of fabrics. When hot air is blown into the bag, the air fills its inside and inflates the balloon to the full. Then, the air balloon begins to float in the air. I think this air balloon is like the man created by God in the beginning. Genesis 2:7 says, “The Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.” God first formed a man from the dust. But the man was not completed yet. Just his outer container was prepared. The man made of the dust was like the air bag made of fabrics. Only when God breathed the breath of life into his nostrils, the man became a living soul. This is like the air balloon fully inflated with hot air inside. When air is blown into the bag, the bag gradually turns into its real form. When it is fully inflated, the bag takes exactly the shape that was in the maker’s mind. And in order to remain in the beautiful shape and even to fly in the sky, the air balloon should keep supplied with hot air. If the air inside the bag gets cold or it leaks out, the balloon will be disfigured and fall to the ground. This is also the case for man. God designed him to be “God’s image” (Genesis 1:26-27). And this image is revealed when the man is full of God’s spirit.

Matthew Hayes: A Man of Dignity and Grace

This short memoir recounts anecdotes from the life of Matthew Howard Henry Hayes, who went to be with the Lord on October 25, 2019. These stories were compiled by ICC’s founding pastor Rev. Lorraine Anderson (retired), who says, “Matt Hayes has always been about life, choosing life over death every minute of every day.”

Celebrating the Life of Monet Lim, 1990-2019

Monet Lim, daughter of Ellen and David Jun, went to be with the Lord on Friday, May 10, at the age of 28.

We hope you will join us at ICC for a service of remembrance to celebrate Monet’s life on Saturday, May 18, at 6:00 p.m., to be followed by a reception.

Please be in prayer for Monet’s family.

David's Ordination

Today, we celebrated the ordination of Rev. David Nakmoo Jun at ICC. A native of Chungnam Nonsan, Korea, David has been assisting with the ministry at ICC for many years, and also pastors a small Korean-language congregation, Allston Korean Church.

David’s candidacy was approved by a vote of the Samuel Stillman Association of the American Baptist Churches of Massachusetts (TABCOM) in January. Today, TABCOM Executive Minister Mary Day Miller presented David with a certificate documenting his ordination by the denomination. Many Stillman Association clergy were present for today’s service, which included a sermon by Rev. Jon Hevelone of the First Baptist Church of Arlington.

David Nakmoo Jun received his ordination certificate from Mary Day Miller, executive minister of TABCOM.

Many clergy from the Samuel Stillman Association were among those in attendance at the ordination service.

The sermon was given by Rev. Jon Hevelone of First Baptist Church of Arlington

What would a Baptist gathering be without food? After the service, we enjoyed a variety of Korean dishes prepared by David’s wife Ellen Haekyung Jun.

Judy's Update from Goma

Judy Kee continues her travels in Congo and send the update below. We pray for her and look forward to her return this coming week.

We arrived here safely with no delays at the Beni airport and Dr. Jo met us at the Goma airport. What a busy city full of people, motorcycles, minibuses, and pedestrians: one million population and growing. The traffic was heavy at 5 p.m. through town getting to his home lakeside. I found that the grief over the loss of Lyn’s presence here overwhelmed me as we walked into their familiar yard and her rose garden. She is mentioned here often, and their shared vision for Heal Africa continues to be Jo’s inspiration. That eased my heart. Sleep was difficult for me as the pillow was unyielding and the dreams and thoughts were many.

Today we went to Heal Africa for morning Friday prayers in the Tabernacle (church) for an especially long worship service complete with a sermon: dual preaching in English and Swahili. We toured the hospital and saw the construction on going here. Two of our former students from the Baptist church came to see Nancy and me. “We are here because you are here, Madame."

Thursday, after we left the Beni airport, there was a conflict that occurred with our further details. The need to be courageous and persist in the work at CME Beni is a constant need with this continued civil unrest.

On Thursday morning, the young doctor who is medical director, Dr. Baraka, told us his dreams for leadership development that he is using currently. He is a very wise young man guided by God in so many ways.  I recorded a testimony from him in English for you all to hear.

The passages of Scripture we have been reading daily have greatly aided my prayers, like forgiveness, deliverance from evil, loving our neighbors, etc., all fall into the realm of prayer needs here. I realize that there are no safe places in the world. Safe meaning security that is sure. There is always conflict, stealing, murder, deception as part of the kingdom of the principalities and powers over which Jesus declared victory. Joshua 1:7-9 certainly applies in all those confrontations with the GIANTS  around us. Thanks for praying.

This is now rest time.  Perhaps there will be more folks coming here to see us. Three things will last forever - faith, hope and love - and the greatest of these is LOVE.

Reflections after Charlottesville

He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him. But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes. 1 John 2:10–11

As I reflect on the events that happened in Charlottesville, Virginia, I am saddened by the radical exhibit of deep-seated, sinful hatred that was so viciously displayed and caused the death of a young woman who was a supporter of social equality and promoted anti-racism. We all know that racism has always been a part of the legacy of America, and it started long before the theft and enslavement of Africans.

Hate groups such as the KKK, neo-Nazis, and “alt-right” nationalists promote ethnic cleansing and the annihilation of human beings. Fear and loathing of marginalized people, along with the negative portrait of certain culturally ethnic communities, are major tools of oppression, and this lays a foundation that becomes a breeding ground for the ideology of white supremacy. These people do not know God because they walk in darkness. If they knew God, they would know that there is no master race; there is no superior race; there is only the human race. God created it and the only one that is superior in this entire universe is Him.

Although my heart hurts because of Charlottesville and the casualties that happened there, I find myself saying that the entire United States of America has been awakened by the political and social alarm of racism and white supremacy. Americans have wiped the scales from their eyes and are no longer blind to the realities of bigotry. The voice of Americans is being heard, and it is shouting loud and clear: not again! Hate can no longer be tolerated, and we will stand strong against those who live in the dark world of human oppression, discrimination, and racial inferiority. As an Alabamian who saw the civil rights movement up close, I cried a heartfelt cry that we are here again. As a pastor, I prayed long and hard for our people, our country, and asked Christ to give me the strength to stand and not waver in these dark, turbulent times. God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of sound judgment.

So, here I stand, yet again, in the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ and the biblical sword of truth in my hand, with prayer in my heart and a voice that speaks out against the dark cowardice voice of racism.

Will you stand with me?

Rev. Doris Hooks

Clothing Drive Underway

We're collecting clothing to help re-stock the clothing exchange at Brighton Congregational Church. Business attire is especially helpful to people who need to look their best for a job interview. We've got 4 bags - please help us get to 10!

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Starts January 18

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is an international initiative where Christians worldwide are reminded of Jesus’ prayer for his disciples that “they may be one so that the world may believe” (John 17:21). Locally, UniteBoston is coordinating seven consecutive evening gatherings of prayer and worship from January 18-25.

On the occasion of the 500th anniversary year of the beginnings of the Reformation, the theme “Reconciliation – The Love of Christ Compels Us” (2 Corinthians 5:14-20) has been chosen by the World Council of Churches.

Here is a schedule of local gatherings. Please join in as you are able!

Wednesday, January 18, 7:00 pm at River of Life Church, 440 Centre Street, Boston MA 02130: Jamaica Plain Churches, including River of Life Church, Heart Change Fellowship, Bethel AME Church, and the Community of St. Egidio

Thursday, January 19, 7:00 pm at St. Mary Orthodox Church, 8 Inman Street, Cambridge MA 02139: Orthodox Churches, including the Coptic Orthodox Church of Boston and St. Mary’s Orthodox Church

Friday, January 20, 7:00 pm at Congregation Lion of Judah, 20 Reed Street, Boston MA 02128: Pabellon de la Fe Church, and churches involved with Bless the City Boston

Saturday, January 21, 12:00-4:00 pm at Holy Name Church, 1689 Centre Street, West Roxbury MA 02132: Theme: Joint Ecumenical Gathering, hosted by the Archdiocese of Boston and many local partners – Facebook event link

Sunday, January 22, 8:00 pm at MIT Chapel, 48 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge MA 02139: Taize prayer in the MIT Chapel, including MIT Lutheran/Episcopal Ministry

Monday, January 23, 7:00 pm at Symphony Church, 971 Commonwealth Ave (3rd floor), Boston MA 02215: Brookline/Brighton churches, including Symphony Church, City Church, and Abundant Grace Church

Tuesday, January 24, 7:00 pm at the Paulist Center, 5 Park Street, Boston MA 02108: Catholic/Lutheran joint gathering, including the Paulist Center and University Lutheran

Wednesday, January 25, 5:45pm at Trinity Church, 206 Clarendon Street, Boston MA 02116: Episcopal Boston/Cambridge Mission Hub gathering, including Trinity Church

Prepare a Shoebox of Gifts for a Child

ICC will be part of Operation Christmas Child this year, preparing shoeboxes filled with gifts that will be distributed to children in more than 100 countries, where they will be distributed by pastors and community leaders who want to share the gospel and bless children.

The ICC community will prepare shoeboxes and will also serve as a drop-off location for others in the community who want to participate. 

Here are some suggestions for preparing a box.

Include a "wow” item

Start with a medium to large item that will capture the child’s attention the instant he or she opens the box. Ideas include: soccer ball with pump, stuffed animal, toys (puppets, trucks, etc.), doll, musical instrument, outfit, or shoes. 

Other suggestions

Toys: Include items that children will immediately embrace such as toy cars, yo-yos, jump ropes, balls, toys that light up and make noise (with extra batteries), etc.

School Supplies: pens, pencils and sharpeners, crayons, markers, notebooks, paper, solar calculators, coloring and picture books, etc.

Non-liquid Hygiene Items: toothbrushes, bar soap, combs, washcloths, etc.

Accessories: T-shirts, socks, hats, sunglasses, hair clips, jewelry, watches, flashlights (with extra batteries), etc.

Crafts: Make your own items such as hair bows, finger puppets, and friendship bracelets. Download instructions here.

A Personal Note: You may enclose a note to the child and a photo of yourself, your family, or group. If you include your name and an address, the child may be able to write back.

Do not include

Used or damaged items; war-related items such as toy guns, knives, or military figures; chocolate or food; out-of-date candy; fruit rolls or other fruit snacks; drink mixes (powdered or liquid); liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins; breakable items such as snow globes or glass containers; aerosol cans.

Candy specifications: During 2016, the following types of candy can be included in shoebox gifts: hard candy, gummy bears, caramels, taffy, and gum—as long as its expiration date is at least six months after National Collection Week: Nov. 14-21, 2016. Starting in 2017, no type of candy can be included in shoebox gifts.

Toothpaste specifications: Toothpaste can be included this year as long as its expiration date is at least six months after National Collection Week: Nov. 14-21, 2016. Starting in 2017, toothpaste cannot be included in shoebox gifts, but a child’s oral hygiene can still be improved by regular use of a toothbrush alone.