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Numbers 17:1–13, May 1, 2025 (Thursday)
- 열린교회BKUMC
- 5월 1일
- 3분 분량
"The staff belonging to the man I choose will sprout, and I will rid myself of this constant grumbling against you by the Israelites." (Numbers 17:5)
Today’s passage shows a sign that confirms who God has chosen to be priest—when Aaron’s staff sprouts. Though brief, this text clearly reveals that it is God who establishes order, and it is by upholding that order that a community draws the strength it needs to endure.
Why wouldn’t there have been problems in the community that came out of Egypt? Issues constantly followed them. Among those, the most serious was the question of responsibility, leadership, and how God leads the people through the one He has chosen—this is a central theme in the book of Numbers.
As a pastor, I naturally focus on church-related matters. But I’ve come to realize that I should also pay attention to what’s happening in the world and be aware of the broader context. Immersing myself in only one thing has sometimes made me ignorant of others. I used to be quick and sharp in picking up on things, but that’s not as easy anymore. In such a moment, AI appeared like a ray of light. Now, just typing a few lines on a computer feels like unlocking a tool that answers questions, summarizes articles, and even sparks new ideas.
In the past, I would have had to spend days reading a paper to understand it. Now, AI can summarize it in seconds. Recently, a lawyer sent a letter concerning the Oakland church, and AI quickly summarized the key issues and possible responses. It made me feel both impressed by the usefulness of this tool and slightly uneasy—wondering if we might eventually be consumed by it.
Whenever we face something new, we probably go through similar mixed feelings. The kind of attitude we choose in such moments often shapes our view of the world.
But over time, we’ve all found ways to adapt. People used to worry about young people being obsessed with smartphones or addicted to games. Yet in the end, people across all ages and generations now use smartphones without much difficulty.
Amid these shifts, it’s natural to feel nostalgic and miss the past. Sometimes, we are comforted by sentimental shows on TV that help us reflect on where we are now.
The world will certainly continue to change. At times, it might seem that we give up on conviction and justice in favor of convenience. Yet progress often comes with reflection and efforts to find stability. If past intellectuals shone in their time, the day may come when we are deeply moved by a younger generation equipped with new wisdom. And when our children—though often blunt—reveal their affection in tsundere-like ways, we realize we’re adapting well and finding security in the things we refuse to forget.
We are people who remember God’s love that spans thousands of years. Though church communities and the Jesus movement may no longer be in fashion for some, we find them deeply meaningful. We are living a life of filling the new upon a firm tradition.
The conflicts and challenges revealed in the book of Numbers reflect the same reality. While memories remain constant, the feelings we experience in today’s circumstances differ, leading to conflict. But ultimately, the narrative leads us to the conclusion that the Exodus was successful.
Yeolin Church is also being led toward a good conclusion. So I encourage you not to hesitate—share your hearts with one another.
Reflection
Are you encountering anything new these days? How are you adapting to it?
Intercessory Prayer
Please pray that Yeolin Church may continue to be a community where all generations love and support one another.
Please pray that Elder Park Jung-ja and Brother Moon Chan-ho will soon be able to join us again in worship.
Announcements
Picture Day at ChurchWe will be taking family pictures at church on Sunday, May 4th and Sunday, May 11th.The proceeds from these photo sessions will support our Christian Education Ministry — particularly to help fund this year’s Vacation Bible School (VBS), much like how we successfully hosted the Easter Egg Hunt.Please sign up to reserve your session!
Church Directory UpdatePlease complete the Google Form for the church membership directory!We will continue collecting responses this week. If you have not yet submitted your form, the senior pastor will contact you personally to assist with completing it.
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