“My only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.” (Acts 20: 24)

Dear Church Family,

I am Pastor Sophia. I have a question for you.

If you’re at the grocery store and you see two checkout lines, which one do you choose?

I think I already know the answer! Most of us instinctively head for the shorter line. If your favorite chair is waiting for you at home… well, that’s probably where you’ll end up after a long day! We like things that are easier, faster, and more convenient.

There’s nothing wrong with comfort. But sometimes the easiest path isn’t the best path. The quickest choice isn’t always the most faithful one.

In Acts 16 and 20, the Apostle Paul had carefully planned his journey, but God had another destination in mind. Instead of clinging to his own plans, Paul chose to follow the Holy Spirit’s leading—even when it meant uncertainty, inconvenience, and stepping into the unknown.

Because of Paul’s willingness to trust God, countless lives were changed.

That story invites us to ask an important question:

Am I more committed to my comfort, or to Christ?

Our world offers us endless ways to make life easier. We can order groceries without leaving the house and even ask technology to help us write emails or plan our schedules. These tools are wonderful blessings when used wisely. But convenience can quietly become the goal of our lives if we’re not careful.

Jesus never promised us the most comfortable life. He promised us His presence.

The good news is that before Jesus ever asked us to follow Him, He first came to us. He left the glory of heaven, entered our broken world, and gave Himself on the cross out of love for us. Our commitment to Christ is never about earning God’s love. Our commitment is our joyful response to the One who loved us first.

Yes, Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church also faces challenges in finance and attendance. Thank you, God, who continues to baptize new members. I strongly believe that every act of love, every prayer and offering offered, every hand extended in service builds up our church into a community church that reflects the love of Christ to our neighbors.

So, take a few quiet moments and pray,

” I want to commit myself to be in union with Christ’s offering for us.”

I look forward to worshiping with you this Sunday as we discover how God often does amazing things through ordinary people who are simply willing to say, “Yes, Lord.”

Sophia (Seung Hae) Yoo-Hess
43987 Little River Turnpike, Chantilly, Virginia
Office) (703)3274461