Hey everyone! It’s Ron, and I’m back with another blog entry for you. It’s been a wild ride lately, and I want to dive into some thoughts that have been swirling around in my head since our last podcast. Trust me, there’s a lot to unpack!
Hope and I have been through quite a journey. After spending nearly three decades on the East Coast, we ventured out West in 2018, following what we felt was a calling. And let me tell you, it hasn’t been easy. The West Coast is a different beast altogether. For one, the weather is stunning—sunshine and mild temperatures—but it comes with its own challenges, like wildfires.
I remember the eerie feeling of having to evacuate when the fires were getting too close for comfort. We packed up our essentials, and as I glanced around the house, I realized how much I took for granted. It’s amazing what you prioritize in moments of crisis. We grabbed photos, mementos, and family heirlooms—things that matter most when everything else could be gone in an instant.
Now, with all the recent fires in California, I’ve seen a lot of chatter about divine judgment and the state of the world. I get it. The world feels chaotic, and it’s tempting to point fingers. But here’s the thing: God’s judgment isn’t about sending fireballs from the sky. Instead, it’s more about God stepping back and letting people face the consequences of their own choices.
I’ve been here long enough to know that many folks in California don’t even have a basic understanding of who God is or what the church represents. I’ve had conversations that left me stunned, where people didn’t even know what a church was! It’s a unique mission field we’re in. This isn’t the Bible Belt, where even unchurched folks have some familiarity with Christian culture.
As I’ve been preaching and ministering here, I’ve learned to adjust my approach. You can’t just grab a mic and make sweeping statements; you have to understand your audience. When Roe v. Wade was overturned, I felt the pressure to take a stand publicly. But I had to consider the diverse opinions of those in my congregation. Instead of making a statement, I chose to teach about the sanctity of life through scripture. And guess what? It resonated with people who were on the fence about the issue.
That’s what it’s all about—bringing light into dark places. The fires and tragedies we face are opportunities for us to show compassion and love, not judgment. I believe God’s heart breaks for those who are suffering, regardless of their beliefs or choices.
So, as we navigate these challenging times, let’s remember to be the light in our communities. People are searching for hope and answers, especially in times of crisis. And we have the chance to point them in the right direction.
Thanks for reading, and I hope you’ll join me in praying for those affected by the wildfires. Until next time, stay real, stay relevant, and keep the faith.
Much love,
Ron