Faith in Action

Gratitude & Thanksgiving

This month, we pause our journey through the Gospel of Mark to reflect on Gratitude and Thanksgiving. Following our week of prayer and fasting—which led naturally into Vision Sunday on July 27, 2025—we have discovered so many reasons to give thanks to God.

Faith in Action (Hebrews 11)

Our first message will draw from Hebrews 11, the chapter that beautifully demonstrates faith in action. We’re grateful for living faith—faith that trusts unseen promises. Hebrews recounts heroes like Noah, Abraham, and Moses, who stepped forward in obedience without visible assurance.

Before Jesus ascended, He asked His disciples if there was anything He could do for them. Their response?

“Increase our faith!” (Luke 17:5)

That deep longing for trusting hearts sets the tone for our opening message—faith that both sees and acts. I am greatly encouraged by these faith heroes.

Noah: Building an Ark of Faith

By faith, Noah received God’s warning of something unseen and built an ark in reverent obedience (Hebrews 11:7. For 120 years he persevered, likely mocked and isolated—but remained steadfast in trust. His obedience saved his family and preserved hope for generations. As one commenter reflected, Noah became “an example of righteousness for generations to come”.

Modern-Day Faith Hero: Gary Haugen & IJM

Gary Haugen, an American lawyer and Christian, heard God’s call to act against global injustice. In 1997–1999, he founded the International Justice Mission (IJM) to partner with governments in rescuing those trapped in slavery, trafficking, and violence. Under his leadership, IJM has conducted undercover rescues, brought perpetrators to justice, provided after-care to survivors, and reformed legal systems worldwide—embodying faith in tangible, life-changing action: a modern echo of Hebrews 11’s generational faith.

A Gentle Challenge: As we begin this season of gratitude, here’s a question to reflect upon—gently, honestly, courageously:

“Where is God inviting you to step forward, even when the path isn’t yet clear? What might your ‘ark-building’ look like? Your ‘undercover rescue’?”

Let this be our prayer: that our faith would not rest in ideas alone, but rise into action through obedience, compassion, and courage.

Closing Invitation

May this season of Gratitude and Thanksgiving awaken deeper trust within us—faith that sees, responds, and perseveres. Like Noah responding to an unseen command, and like IJM responding to injustice with compassion and resolve, may our faith become a blessing not only for us, but for generations to come.