Message Overview:

We were fortunate to have Sean and Becky Folkert share their incredible story of love, adoption, and reconciliation during Sunday’s message. Their story resonated deeply, reminding us of the divine interventions in our lives and the call to serve others selflessly. Their journey began with a heartbreaking loss which led them to foster and adopt four indigenous children, leading to an extraordinary family bound by love and purpose. We heard how they encountered their children’s late mother’s best friend at a family camp, an event they see as divine intervention. This inspiring couple serves with the North American Indigenous Ministries in Canada, carrying out impactful work and bridging gaps within the community.

We delved into profound themes of ministry, reconciliation, and cultural understanding. Ephesians 2 was discussed, emphasizing our unity with Christ and others in the body of Christ. We also examined the history of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in Canada, showcasing the relentless efforts of First Nations Elders to mend relationships.

Takeaways from Sunday’s Message:
1. God often uses our deepest pain as the launching pad of our greatest calling.
2. Reconciliation in Christianity goes beyond ending hostility; it involves restoring harmony and unity with Christ and others in the body of Christ.
3. Healing, unity, and reconciliation are not just aspects of Christianity but a call to action for all believers.
4. As believers, we are called to work towards healing past wounds and fostering a harmonious future.
5. Serving others selflessly is a divine calling that brings us closer to God and helps us understand His purpose for us.

Devotional Guide:

Day 1 - Ephesians 2:1-10

Today, reflect on your reconciliation with God through Jesus Christ. In our sinful nature, we were dead but God, in his mercy, made us alive through Christ. Let’s remember the gift of salvation and God’s grace that transcends all human understanding. Meditate on God’s love that reaches out to us even when we were his enemies. Pray for the strength to extend this grace to others in your life.

Day 2 - Ephesians 2:11-18
God’s plan for reconciliation goes beyond individual transformation; it extends to unifying all believers in Christ. This message emphasized unity and harmony within the body of Christ. Reflect on how you can promote unity and harmony in your local church community. Pray for a spirit of understanding and empathy to navigate the differences within your church community.

Day 3 - Joshua 9
The message touched on the themes of trauma and hurt from past actions, using the example of the Gibeonites in Joshua 9. Reflect on any personal experiences of hurt and consider how you can find healing through forgiveness and reconciliation. Pray for the strength to forgive those who have hurt you and seek reconciliation where possible.

Day 4 - John 17:20-26
The unity of believers points to the glory of God. As Jesus prayed for unity among his followers, consider how you can contribute to the unity of the church. Reflect on your relationships with other believers and identify areas where you can foster deeper unity and harmony. Pray for God to reveal any divisions or strife within your relationships and give you wisdom on how to promote unity.

Day 5 - Romans 5:6-11
The Fulkert’s story of adoption mirrors our own adoption into God’s family through reconciliation. Reflect on your own journey of faith and how God has adopted you into His family. Pray for a deeper understanding of your identity in Christ and thank God for the gift of adoption into His family.