Without Jesus in our lives, we wouldn’t experience hope—hope that does not disappoint. Jesus Christ redeemed us from sin and death through His sacrifice for us, and because of His love we now have the hope that so many Native people long for. All they need is the trusting heart of a child.

If there is one word that describes the work of Lutheran Indian Ministries in Hawaii, it is COMMUNITY.

On the island of Oahu, where churches and communities are becoming more disconnected, Vicar Clarence DeLude (Native Hawaiian) works to create missional communities and bring church bodies together.

Once I took the focus off of myself and put it on Christ, He revealed in me my sin. It was through repentance that the weight was lifted off of me. And because of that freedom, I found myself taking Jesus outside of the church. I started sharing the healing that only the Gospel can bring with other hurting people.

When I feel like my problems are too big and the weight of the world seems to rests on my shoulders, it is on those days God reminds me He is with me. I am not big enough or strong enough to do everything needed to help the Native peoples of our nation, Lutheran Indian Ministries isn't big enough, but God is.

How many times is our faith put to the test? Whether it’s because we lack trust or are fearful and lose hope as we look for the worst in every situation, our lack of faith can cripple us until we are unable to move forward. We can even get to the point that we may think “even God wouldn’t (or couldn’t) help us."

God says that “the gospel… is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16).  Do I believe that?  Do I believe that when I pray for an unbelieving friend or relative?  Do I believe that God is able to save them through the Gospel?

For me, there is something healing about digging in the dirt. My parents both came from a family of farmers. Perhaps, it is part of my DNA. Sometimes I wonder what it was in creation that spoke to the man, Jesus. Taught to work with wood by Joseph, His earthly father, did He sometimes run His hands over a well-finished piece of furniture and enjoy its smoothness or pleasant lines and craftsmanship?

This Week in Native American News (2/23/18): Team Indigenous, Metis Tour, and Neon Tipis

So when you're feeling lost, or you think you have your life perfectly planned out, know that the Lord is with you. Watching, teaching, guiding you down the path He created you for. And He promises to be with you wherever you go!