Two Thieves - Morning Devotion on Apr. 29, 2024

The Two Thieves

Two robbers were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left.

Matthew 27:38

One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: "Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us!" But the other criminal rebuked him. "Don't you fear God," he said, "since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."

Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."

Luke 23:39-43

Who received the blessing of Jesus? It was not the twelve disciples who had followed him nor the religious leaders, who had believed in heaven, nor the people of Israel, who had been chosen through blessing. The right-hand thief, who shed blood with Jesus and died on the cross with him, received the historical blessing and went to paradise before the chief disciple.

Who Will Become the Friend of Golgotha?
October 19, 1958

The free world has been referred to as right wing, and the communist world has been referred to as left wing. This terminology has its origins in Jesus. At the time of Jesus' crucifixion, there was one thief on his left and one on his right. The thief on the right represented God's side and the thief on the left represented Satan. From here the world began to fight.

The View of Cosmic History and I
April 28, 1996

The mind is on God's side and the body is on Satan's side. The struggle expands from the individual to the family, clan, nation, and world, and the world will divide into religious and non-religious spheres. This is symbolized by the two thieves at Jesus' crucifixion. They represent the left and right wings, which fight against each other. Also, Barabbas, who escaped crucifixion, represents Islam, which fights against Christianity. Christianity lined up with the right wing and Islam lined up with the left wing; so this great separation takes place in the Last Days. We see the division of left and right wings in Korea and the division between religions in the Middle East. The world-level task is how to solve these divisions and unite the two sides.

Reappearance of the Second Coming and the Completed Testament Age
January 10, 1993

Sunday Service on April 28, 2024

Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on April 28, 2024

Sermon

The sermon discusses the themes of hiding and blaming in relationships, using the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden as a metaphor. The speaker reflects on his own experiences of hiding and blaming in his marriage and emphasizes the importance of pursuing intimacy and delight in relationships. Conflict is viewed as an opportunity for growth and closeness. Key Insights - The sermon explores the timeless themes of hiding and blaming, emphasizing their presence in both ancient stories and personal experiences. This highlights the universality of these struggles in relationships. - The speaker reflects on the consequences of hiding and blaming, suggesting that they hinder intimacy and prevent the experience of delight in relationships. This insight encourages individuals to address these destructive patterns. - Conflict is presented as an opportunity for growth and closeness. The speaker shares his realization that conflict can be a catalyst for pursuing intimacy, leading to a desire for more openness and vulnerability in relationships. - The speaker acknowledges the prevalence of suffering in the world, which prompts contemplation on the importance of pursuing delight in relationships. This insight highlights the potential for relationships to offer solace and joy amidst the struggles of life. - The unique nature of marriage is emphasized, as it provides an opportunity for two individuals to come together and create a story that is distinct to their relationship. This insight highlights the beauty and potential of marriage as a union of two unique stories. - The sermon encourages individuals to disrupt repetitive patterns and author a different story in their relationships. This insight emphasizes the power of choice and the ability to create a narrative that deviates from past experiences and generational cycles. - The prayer at the end of the sermon invites a sense of divine guidance and support in navigating relationships, acknowledging the need for kindness, grace, and wisdom in the pursuit of intimacy and delight.

Announcement

- Visiting the Veterans Museum in Korea was a significant experience for Bishop Dudley and Minister Mary as they found it interesting and informative. - The visit to the Han River Bridge was emotionally touching for Minister Mary, as it held personal significance related to True Mother's memoir. - Singing together with young people from America was a memorable and inspiring moment for Bishop Dudley, as it brought a sense of unity and connection.

Weekly Update on Apr. 25, 2024

Join us this Sunday, April 28, at 11:00 a.m. for a special Family Room service.  We are celebrating the 64th anniversary of True Parent's Holy Wedding with a banner and offering table.  Adults and children will fellowship together, sitting comfortably at tables.  We'll have some icebreakers at 11:00 and lunch at 11:30.  TFC is providing pizza and salad; please bring a side dish or dessert to share.  Gene Huneycutt will give a brief message. 

The Blue Dragon Tour is coming to Atlanta on May 17 - 19. If you missed President Dunkley's inspiring message in D.C., this is another opportunity.  

Create A Life You Love is a great way to introduce your guests to Divine Principle, Saturdays from 10:30 - 11:30, facilitated by Henri Schauffler.  Register here. 

Statewide ACLC outreach meetings are the first and third Mondays at 7:00 p.m. The next meeting is May 6. Here is the link to join the meeting.

Please join us for Morning Devotion from Monday to Friday at 6:00 a.m.
Here is the link.

We will join Dr. Achille and Capitol Family Church on the weekend.
Here is the link.  Passcode: 2027

Please feel free at any time to use the Cheon Shim Won (Prayer Room) at TFC to pray or meditate.  

Crucifixion - Morning Devotion on Apr. 25, 2024

The Crucifixion

And they crucified him.

Mark 15:24

Simon of Cyrene

As they were going out, they met a man front Cyrene, named Simon, and they forced him to carry the cross.

Matthew 27:32

A black man played an important role at the time of Jesus' crucifixion. When Jesus stumbled while carrying his cross to Calvary, a black person, Simon of Cyrene, took up Jesus' burden. That act was very significant; when the Last Days come; black people will be burdened with an important mission from God and will contribute greatly, to God's overall dispensation.

Corruption has come primarily from white society. Because of this I feel that some dynamic black spiritual leaders will be the hope of America in the future.

The Blessing
February 20, 1977

Jesus hoped to hear of someone who could bear the cross in his place, take the beatings on his behalf, and on the road of death of Golgotha suffer hardships and desperately call out in his place, "God! Father!" Although for 30 years he hoped to hear this kind of voice, when his hopes were dashed, how would he have felt?

We have to understand this heart of Jesus. We have to experience this pain of Jesus and be able to sympathize with his pain. Moreover, we should have the mindset that it is perfectly natural for us to go this path of death on which we will die many thousands of times for the sake of the humanity of the world.

When Jesus became fatigued while carrying the cross to Golgotha, there was none among his disciples who, like Simon of Cyrene, shouldered the cross in his place. There was not even one person like this among the people of Israel. This foreigner, Simon of Cyrene, participated in the tribulation of Jesus. Eventually Christianity emerged not as the religion of the Israelites. It became a religion of foreigners.

Today, we who have determined to believe in Jesus and go in search of God should be determined to carry out the same actions as Simon of Cyrene, even in our dreams. Although Simon of Cyrene could have made an excuse or rebelled, he silently obeyed and bore the cross in Jesus' place. We have to become this kind of person today

How did Jesus feel when he was looking at him? When the apostles with whom he had shared all his joys and sorrows had all disappeared, a foreigner named Simon of Cyrene suffered misery on his behalf. Looking at the situation, Jesus must have felt deeply embarrassed and sorrowful.

If among the twelve apostles there was just one person who had shouldered the cross in his place, then by looking at him, Jesus could have forgotten the hardships of death. He would have overcome his own agony by feeling sympathy for him. Nevertheless, because this did not take place, Jesus felt greater sorrow. You should understand this situation.

In the Christian world of today, there should emerge a denomination in the position of Simon of Cyrene. Yet, which denomination will take on that responsibility? Christians today should realize that Jesus could not become the Messiah of the apostles who had followed. He became the Messiah of a foreigner, Simon of Cyrene. They should build a church in honor of the position of Simon of Cyrene.

Let Us Become People Who Participate in the Glory of the Lord
June 16, 1957

Barabbas - Morning Devotion on Apr. 24, 2024

Barabbas

A man called Barabbas was in prison with the insurrectionists who had committed murder in the uprising. The crowd came up and asked Pilate to do for them what he usually did. "Do you want me to release to you the king of the Jews?" asked Pilate, knowing it was out of envy that the chief priests had handed Jesus over to him. But the chief priests stirred up the crowd to have Pilate release Barabbas instead.

Mark 15:7-11

Jesus was killed instead of Barabbas, a man who deserved to die. Perhaps you would not resent it if you were murdered in place of a righteous man, but if he were only a common criminal how would you feel? That's exactly how it happened with Jesus, but Jesus did not blame the man. Could you do such a thing easily? I think you are not confident. Jesus came as the Son of God but he was killed in place of the worst criminal, and not even by righteous men but by Roman soldiers who were only on a distasteful errand.

Would you be willing to die as Jesus did? What kind of value would result? It would mean that anyone on that level could he freed. By Jesus' forgiveness of Barabbas and the Roman soldiers, the lowest hell could be liberated spontaneously.

The Age of Repentance
September 1, 1978

Trial Before Pontius Pilate - Morning Devotion on Apr. 23, 2024

Trial Before Pontius Pilate

Meanwhile Jesus stood before the governor and the governor asked him, "Are you the king of the Jews?" "Yes, it is as you say," Jesus replied. When he was accused by the chief priests and the elders, he gave no answer. Then Pilate asked him, "Don't you hear the testimony they are bringing against you?" But Jesus made no reply; not even to a single charge -- to the great amazement of the governor.

Matthew 27:11-14

Jesus was pushed to walk to the cross and stand before the authorities and Pilate. He was convicted of the crime of "claiming himself to be the king of the Jews." At that time Jesus kept his silence and only after Pilate asked him, "Are you the king of the Jews?" did he finally reveal his identity.

The good and righteous people on the side of God should have considered it their life-long glory to serve and worship Jesus as their king. Instead, Jesus faced a trial before Pilate and was convicted as a criminal. When he faced the trial of Satan that could not be avoided, he broke his silence. Speaking on behalf of the agony of God, he spoke the truth as it was.

From this we can learn that even in the works of heaven, when Satan exposes the truth and inquires about it to God's side, God's side has no choice but to reveal the hidden heart. Conversely, when the saints on the side of God point out the hidden secrets inside the heart of Satan, he also has no choice but to tell the truth.

Jesus kept within himself the knowledge of restoration that he could not reveal to anyone. In his daily life, he not only propelled forward the dispensation of heaven through silent deeds of service, in the practical aspect of his life, he moved ahead of everyone to reveal the concealed truth about the path of restoration.

Let Us Bring Out the Value of Restoration
July 3, 1956

Sunday Service on April 21, 2024

Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on April 21, 2024

Musical Offering

Sermon - Power of Forgiveness

The speaker discusses the power of forgiveness sharing a personal story of forgiving his father. The key message is that forgiveness is possible when one understands the other person's situation completely.

Key Insights

• Understanding the other person's situation completely is crucial for forgiveness. By reflecting on their upbringing, experiences, and challenges, we can develop compassion and forgiveness.
• Personal stories and experiences can be powerful tools to illustrate the process of forgiveness and inspire others to seek forgiveness in their own lives.
• Resentment and anger can have negative effects on our physical and mental well-being. Forgiveness allows us to let go of these toxic emotions and experience healing and liberation.
• Forgiveness is not limited to forgiving others but can also include forgiving oneself and even God. Expressing our true feelings and seeking understanding can lead to a deeper connection with God and a sense of unconditional love.
• Forgiveness requires humility and acceptance of responsibility. When we acknowledge our own faults and mistakes, it becomes easier to forgive others and ourselves.
• Forgiveness is a transformative process that leads to personal growth and a stronger connection with others. It allows us to let go of the past and embrace love, compassion, and understanding.
• Reflecting on the lives of our parents and understanding their struggles can help us develop empathy and forgiveness towards them. This can lead to a deeper appreciation and love for our parents.

Sunday School - Moral lesson from Chinese parable "The old man lost his horse." (塞翁失馬 Sai Weng Shi Ma)

Sai Weng Shi Ma: The Chinese story 'The old man lost his horse' teaches us to have a positive attitude when facing challenges and difficulties.

Silver Lining: The story reminds us that sometimes bad things happen which carry a silver lining.

Good Fortune: The man's horse returned with a fine mare, increasing his fortune.

Dealing with Problems: The man had a good way of dealing with problems, believing that something good might come out of difficulties.

Weekly Update on Apr. 18, 2024

We will meet on Sunday, April 21 at 11:00 a.m. for our weekly worship service.  Ron Pappalardo will share a message about the Power of Forgiveness.  Mr. Asada is sharing a message with the Sunday school about overcoming difficulties from the Chinese parable of the Old Man Who Lost His Horse. Join Anne Nilson for a noon prayer in the Cheon Shim Won.  Please bring a dish to share for potluck lunch.  

Wednesday, April 24 is the 64th anniversary of True Parent's Holy Blessing and also the date of the 2024 Cosmic Blessing.  

The Blue Dragon Tour is coming to Atlanta on May 17 - 19. If you missed President Dunkley's inspiring message in D.C., this is another opportunity.  

Sharon invites parents and children to volunteer at the Cary Spring Daze Festival on Saturday, April 27 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.  You can help with crafts for 2 hours.  Here is the link to sign up: Spring Daze Volunteer – NC Eid Festival

Create A Life You Love is a great way to introduce your guests to Divine Principle, Saturdays from 10:30 - 11:30, facilitated by Henri Schauffler.  Register here. 

Statewide ACLC outreach meetings are the first and third Mondays at 7:00 p.m. The next meeting is May 6. Here is the link to join the meeting.

Please join us for Morning Devotion from Monday to Friday at 6:00 a.m.
Here is the link.

We will join Dr. Achille and Capitol Family Church on the weekend.
Here is the link.  Passcode: 2027

Please feel free at any time to use the Cheon Shim Won (Prayer Room) at TFC to pray or meditate.  

Peter's Denial - Morning Devotion on Apr. 17, 2024

Peter's Denial

Peter followed at a distance. But when they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and had sat down together Peter sat down with them. A servant girl saw him seated there in the firelight. She looked closely at him and said, "This man was with him." But he denied it. "Woman, I don't know him," he said.

A little later someone else saw him and said, "You also are one of them." "Man, I am not!" Peter replied. About an hour later another asserted, "Certainly this fellow was with him, for he is a Galilean." Peter replied, "Man, I don't know what you're talking about!" just as he was speaking, the rooster crowed. The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly.

Luke 22:54-62

I want you to know that even Peter, who supposedly was Jesus' chief disciple, denied Jesus at the end of three years. This test of loyalty is the formula of faith that all men have had to pass through... You may wonder why you do this, but remember that this is the way I went.

The Tradition of the Unification Church
December 11, 1977

While Jesus was going the path of the crucifixion, the lonesome path to the summit of Golgotha, he looked back at Peter, who was the representative of the beloved twelve apostles. That was because Jesus feared that Peter, who should be the first one following him, might change his mind. You need to become the ones who experience again the sense of being gazed at by Jesus, who looked back at Peter with a loving heart despite having bitter grief in his heart over the fullness of his concern about God's will.

Yet three times Peter denied he knew Jesus. Therefore, he ended up standing in a situation where he was completely separate from the will of heaven and had nothing to do with Jesus. Although Jesus knew all of this, he wanted to find just one person on this earth who could defend him to the last and could deeply sympathize with him as he walked the path to death. So he turned and looked back at Peter, who was the best, most beloved disciple. You of today should understand that Jesus' intention to find one true person was buried deep in the gaze that he sent in the direction of the beloved disciple, Peter.

There cannot be any more grievous situation than this for Jesus, who came with the responsibility of carrying out the whole dispensation of God. Not even one person could understand his feelings of longing and lamentation, as he looked to find even one person who could inherit his mission as he headed for the path of Golgotha, the path of death, owing to the distrust of humankind. Jesus' heartrending feelings were beyond description. Only God understood Jesus' sorrowful heart and worried about his lamentable situation.

When Jesus reflected on the course of toilsome effort he had walked representing heaven, alone in bitter sorrow for his lifetime, the indignation with which he wanted to curse humanity and to call down scorn on the earth pierced him to the very marrow. But Jesus restrained himself and stopped to look back at Peter, who was following behind. You should know that unless you can understand such inner feelings of Jesus' heart, you cannot proudly stand in front of all humankind after inheriting Jesus' work for the dispensation of God.

What then would be the heart of Peter, who was watching Jesus finish his life by walking the course of tribulation alone? He must have been in awful misery, pining in desolation, not being able to forget the original nature of the love relationship he had with Jesus in the past. How Peter's heart must have ached, as he watched the grieving and innocent Jesus being insulted and rebuked and dragged in bonds. However, because Peter did not fully realize Jesus was the Messiah who came with the mission to save the whole of humankind, he ended in a situation where he could not step forward. Instead he thought only of himself. When servant girls came out to ask Peter whether he was one of the fellows who were with Jesus, he replied, "I do not know him" three times. You should know this clearly -- that aspect of Peter was the representative attitude of humankind on the earth. When we look back upon the circumstances of Jesus and Peter again, the fact that Jesus turned to look back at Peter, who had denied him three times, did not take place only between Peter and Jesus, but is revealed to have happened throughout the course of the whole of history.

When all humanity steps forward before Satan as true Christians on behalf of the will of Christ, they will definitely meet ungrounded accusations three times....

In what kind of situation should we stand when such a time of fierce battle comes upon the earth? We should not be standing in a situation similar to Peter's when he said he did not know Jesus. What should become those triumphant sons and daughters who can defend the course of blood, sweat, and tears that Jesus walked to the end? We should stand with Jesus, having repented of all of our excuses, circumstances, sinfulness, and inadequacy. Unless we can stand in such a position, we cannot take part in the glory of receiving the returning Lord.

Although Peter denied Jesus three times, Jesus truly turned himself around to look at Peter. Consequently, when Peter saw Jesus forget all about his own difficulties and sorrow to turn around and look at him, a complete revolution took place in his mind. Despite his three dreadful denials of knowing Jesus, when Peter saw that Jesus truly cared about him and worried about his future, he experienced an explosion of emotion within. At that moment he remembered and sensed the old relationship of having shared the joys and sorrows of the Lord. Peter became aware of his own identity on the spot.

Peter saw that Jesus, who determined to risk his own life to accomplish the will of heaven, was making a great effort to proudly cultivate the path of salvation for humankind without letting himself be overly affected by the resentment that he felt as a human being. Peter saw that even as Jesus walked the path toward heaven and death, he was still concerned about his well-being. This made Peter feel insufficient and inadequate internally In other words, when Peter contrasted the position of Jesus, who represents God, and his own position, which was to represent Jesus as the disciple who had pledged to render him devoted service, he saw that there existed a world of difference between his devotion to Jesus and Jesus' reverence for God.

What is more, although Peter had thought he believed in Jesus, at that moment he found out that his faith was based on self-centeredness rather than on heaven-centeredness, as was the case with the Lord. At the gaze of Jesus Peter received such a great shock as to be deeply ashamed of himself. He lamented over his unbelief.

What did Peter feel next? He felt his own disbelief and simultaneously the disbelief of Jesus' entourage. While watching those wicked ones around him tie Jesus up and enjoy themselves whipping Jesus Christ, who was innocent, and about whom anybody and everybody would say he was guiltless, Peter met the gaze of the persecuted Jesus and saw his sorrowful and lonesome heart. Bathed in Jesus' warm glow being sent in his direction, Peter felt the haughtiness of the surroundings. At that moment Peter made a righteous resolution to fight against the arrogant power of the surroundings until the time when the Lord would return to destroy the wicked.

There was a cosmic difference between the good, immutable attitude of Jesus who was heading toward heaven and the haughtiness of his surroundings. Through Jesus' brief gaze, Peter could liquidate his fatuous life history and determine to establish the standard of goodness by fighting against the environment and devoting himself to God all the more. Through Jesus' dying in silence for the sake of heaven, earth, humankind, and God's will, Peter came to respect the Lord naturally and shed penitential tears, weeping bitterly in the face of such a death.

As Jesus Christ turned to look for the last time, he realized that there was a disciple who understood him. At that moment the link that had been disconnected between God and humankind was being restored. Feeling insufficient and inadequate toward Jesus, who died before the will of God on behalf of heaven and earth, Peter alone shed the tears of contrition representing all humankind and the many disciples. After seeing that Jesus was being put to tribulations before being crucified, only Peter wailed, shedding tears. This created a standard by which Jesus could uphold the dispensation centering on the disciples and a new standard by which Jesus and humankind could connect.

Jesus Who Looks Bach on Walking the Path of His Fate
February 10, 1957

Arrest and Betrayal - Morning Devotion on Apr. 16, 2024

Arrest and Betrayal

Returning the third time, he said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? Enough! The hour has come. Look, the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!"

Just as he was speaking, Judas, one of the twelve, appeared. With him was a crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests, the teachers of the law, and the elders.

Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: "The one I kiss is the man; arrest him and lead him away under guard." Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, "Rabbi!" and kissed him. The men seized Jesus and arrested him. Then everyone deserted him and fled.

Matt. 14:41-50

Had Peter or any of the twelve disciples been a friend of Golgotha, Jesus would not have died. God would not have had any grudges. If the twelve disciples had united and resolved to die with Jesus, a miracle would have occurred and Jesus would not have died. Jesus agonized for 33 years looking at the chosen people, and he shed tears for the three years of his public life for the sake of the people of the earth. Yet where did the people go who had put their hopes in Jesus? Where did the religious leaders go who had been observing him? Where did his disciples go, who had shared joy and sorrow as they followed Jesus during his three public years? Whenever they saw advantages to it, and in joyful times, they said that they were friends and disciples of Jesus and tried more than anyone to stand with him. At the end, their path had nothing to do with Jesus.

Who Will Become the Friend of Golgotha?
October 19, 1958

If Jesus' three chief disciples had banded together and offered to die in his place, he would not have gone to the cross. Even if Jesus had not been released, if his three chief disciples had died on the cross with him, then all four could have been resurrected, and at that very moment Jesus could have ascended into heaven. Through those four being resurrected on earth, all the spirit world could have descended from that moment on, working through the hearts of the people and making it easy to restore the whole world.

Because that foundation was not laid at the time of Jesus, there has been a great gap between this world and the spirit world. Up to the present only those who excelled the three disciples of Jesus and were ready to be martyred for the sake of God's will could be contacted by the heavenly realms of the spirit world. Because of the failure of Jesus' disciples, those people had to be martyred, shedding blood to restore what the disciples failed to accomplish.

Self Reflection
December 1, 1976

Sunday Service on April 14, 2024

Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on April 14, 2024

Musical Offering

Sermon - God Has Plans for Everyone 

The speaker shares his personal faith journey and encourages the second-generation to find God in their lives.

Key Insights

• Cultural shifts, doubts, and a perception of lack of relevance are some of the main reasons why young people are not coming to church.
• The poem "Footprints in the Sand" and biblical passages provide comfort and reassurance that God is with us, especially during challenging times.
• The speaker shares his personal struggles and experiences of failing in his CARP, UTS, and missionary missions, losing his father, and having conflicts with his family.
• Learning from the first generation's experiences can provide important lessons about encountering God through hardships and trials.
• Raising children in the church comes with challenges to develop their own faith and relationship with God.
• God has a plan for everyone, regardless of their circumstances or achievements. It is important to keep serving and unconditionally loving others.
• Finding God in our lives leads to true happiness, and it is a personal journey that each individual must undertake.

Transcript

Good morning Triangle families, I’m going to talk about “God Has Plans for Everyone”. Before that, let me ask you something: “why are young people leaving the church?” Church here means church in general. Not just our church. There are different reasons. Here are some of the main ones Google AI gave. Cultural Shift: Young people tend to value authenticity, inclusivity, and social justice more than previous generations. They may find some churches to be out of touch with these values, or even hypocritical. Deconstruction and Doubt: Young people are growing up in an information age with easy access to a variety of viewpoints. This can lead to questioning traditional beliefs. Relevance and Experience: Some young people feel that church services aren't relevant to their lives, or that the experience feels outdated. Is our church out of touch with inclusivity? We frequently highlight positive features of our church movements. For example, HJ Global news features loyal young second generations who pray with tears and testify True Parents with conviction. Is God exclusive? Does God only help those who share a specific religious belief in Him? Does God abandon us when we do not follow His guidance? Based on my more than 30 years of living by faith, I think God cares more for those who have a hard time and fall short of the church's expectations. I will present a well-known poem titled “Footprints in the Sand” and some biblical passages about dealing with failure. One night I dreamed a dream. As I was walking along the beach with my Lord. Across the dark sky flashed scenes from my life. For each scene, I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand, One belonging to me and one to my Lord. After the last scene of my life flashed before me, I looked back at the footprints in the sand. I noticed that at many times along the path of my life, especially at the very lowest and saddest times, there was only one set of footprints. This really troubled me, so I asked the Lord about it. "Lord, you said once I decided to follow you, You'd walk with me all the way. But I noticed that during the saddest and most troublesome times of my life, there was only one set of footprints. I don't understand why, when I needed You the most, You would leave me." God whispered, "My precious child, I love you and will never leave you Never, ever, during your trials and testings. When you saw only one set of footprints, It was then that I carried you." This is a beautiful poem telling how God cares us especially when we face challenges and difficulties. The righteous may fall seven times but still get up. Proverbs 24:16 Trust in the Lord with all your heart; don’t rely on your own intelligence. Know Him in all your paths, and He will keep your ways straight. Proverbs 3:5-6 Men always ought to pray and not lose heart. Luke 18:1 Many First generation members devoted their energy and time to obey and carry out the duties that True Parents assigned to them. I think they faced many difficulties and feelings of disappointment or failure. Second generation may think; “I do not want to repeat the same path as the first generation” seeing the suffering first generation. The beliefs and stories of the First Generation may appear to be irrelevant for later generations. However, they can teach important lessons about encounters with God through hardships and trials. My faith journey was full of struggles, challenges, and feelings of failure. I want to tell you about what I went through and what I learned. Maybe this can somehow relate to the lives of the second generation. I became a CARP member in 1989 as a first-year student at Hokkaido University. CARP center had more members until 1990 spring. Then we faced hard times. We witnessed on campus all day and night and got no new members. When I graduated in 1993, half of the CARP center members also graduated. That means the CARP center lost half of its members. During my CARP time, I tried hard to help my parents accept my faith. My father and I had more conflicts around the time of graduation. I was forbidden from returning home after graduation. We often think that faith can achieve anything. We agree on that, right? If we work hard with faith, we should be able to grow the membership and witness family and relatives. We often work hard to prove our faith. Then we often feel that our faith is lacking and kind of failure if we do not see the outcome we hope for. I left the CARP center with feelings of failure. A new mission given after CARP made me move forward. CARP graduates were asked to go to UTS. When I was preparing to enter UTS, I had an opportunity to help the CARP center with fund raising in Dec. 1993. 9 months passed after my graduation. The center had become much smaller since I left. Just before going to the UTS, I had an opportunity to reconcile with my father. I was working near my hometown to make money for UTS. He allowed me to come home. He drove me to the train station near home on the day I left for UTC. I felt I made one step forward and hoped to witness my parents. However, the one step and hope turned to big disappointment and feeling of failure by my father’s sudden death. Soon after, Cheong Pyeong providence began. As you are aware, it enables us to free and bless our ancestors in the spiritual world. It did not fully heal my grief and disappointment from losing my father. But it helped me cope and move on. At UTS, we were often told that many UTC graduates failed their mission from True Parents because they had weak faith. We felt like we had to succeed in the mission to show our faith. When I finished my studies at UTS, I was assigned to be a missionary in Israel. Like many of the first generation members, our church did not have the resources to support the missionaries’ living expenses. We had to rely on ourselves to get to the mission country and make a living there. I hope the current young missionaries will have everything they need for their missionary works. My wife was expecting a baby when I was in Israel. She was at home with her mother, luckily. I had no income or visa in Israel. I overstayed my tourist visit by three months. I remembered the stories I heard at UTS about how many UTC graduates failed their mission from True Parents because they lacked faith. I searched for a job desperately while doing missionary work. I had no job experience or computer skills at that time. I finally received a reply from one company for my job application. I worked there for a few days. It made me hopeful to continue living in Israel. But their project with a Japanese company fell through. I had to return to America. I left Israel feeling defeated, like when I left the CARP center and lost my father. The birth of our first daughter made me move forward. I learned about computers and got a computer job in New York City. I hated being asked “what are you doing” because UTS graduates were expected to do something else. I often wondered if God approved of my choice. One thing made me feel that God was behind me even though I didn't follow the mission from UTS. I lost my job after 3 years in New York City. I was unemployed for a year in 2003 with two kids. Government extended unemployment benefits around that time due to the economy. An Israeli company gave me a part time translation job. We could survive with unemployment benefits and the income from the part time job from the Israeli company. Soon after I got a job here in North Carolina, the part time job from the Israeli company ended. It was like Manna and Quail from Heaven in Moses story. I wondered what I could do in North Caroline. I decided to focus bringing up and teaching children. We were somehow taught that if we work hard with faith, our children will also be faithful and stay in church. When we got this Durham church in 2008, the Sunday school room was full of young children in Sunday school. I asked the children what brought them to church. The children come to church because of parents or friends. I wondered how the children can develop their own faith and choose to come to church when they grow older. One day when we were talking about church service, one of my children said that he would go to church and return home right after the service ends when he grew up. It is better than not going to church at all. But my children are still far from the point of coming to church by their own choice. Most children in Sunday school grew up, went to college, and became adults. We only see a few children in our Sunday school. Some events, like workshops and Il Shim program, gave me hope and a sense of progress. We went through a lot of difficulties during the Covid pandemic. But I had moments giving me hope regarding to youth education. We had remote Sunday school sessions to learn Divine Principle and True Parents’ life course with youth. We had several participants at most. We had well organized nationwide Il Shim program and blessing preparation sessions. The hope and a sense of progress did not last long. I could not see the result I wanted. We stopped having Sunday school online because we had fewer people. I could not see the change on my children’s attitude toward the faith after they completed the national Il Shim program and blessing preparation sessions.

Now there is one more question that I struggle to answer in my mind. “Are your children going to receive Blessing?”. In secular world, “My child entered ivy league college.” “My child is a doctor.” These achievements make the parents be proud of themselves and receive a lot of praise from many people. In our church, “My child is in GPA.” “My child received Blessing.” “My child is a missionary.” These achievements make the parents be proud of themselves and receive a lot of praise from many people.

I asked myself; “Am I raising children for my pride and to receive praise from people?” Two memories came to my mind. One is when I visited my grandmother in Japan. She was at a nursing home. She suffered from dementia. She lied at a bed. I was not sure if she remembered me. When she saw me and children, she said to me, “You became a good father.” She gave me money as she used to do when I was young. I was touched that she was still giving in her such condition. The other is when I asked my mother what she wanted for her birthday. She answered me; I do not need anything. It is filial piety that you and your wife get along and live happily.”

We think that filial piety requires to do something like bringing witnessing result, fundraising result, fulfilling mission, receiving Blessing, etc.

God guided me and lifted me up despite I was not enough and could not accomplish many of what I was expected to do.

I asked God; “I know you helped and guided me. How about my loved ones? How can they find God?”

I am not spiritual and not sure that it comes from God or myself. But the answer is; God is everyone’s God. God has plans for everyone as he had for me. What I need to do is to keep loving and serving unconditionally with all my heart as my grandmother presented me.

I would like to remind second generation that someone in our community is praying for your happiness regardless you come to church or not, receive Blessing or not, make donation or not. I hope everyone find God in his or her life. It is the way to find true happiness.

Weekly Update on Apr. 11, 2024

We will meet on Sunday, April 14 at 11:00 a.m. for our weekly worship service.  Mr. Asada will share the message that God Has Plans For Everyone.  Parents and children will join the Sunday service. No Sunday school. Join Anne Nilson for a noon prayer in the Cheon Shim Won.  Please bring a dish to share for potluck lunch. 

Wednesday, April 24 is the 64th anniversary of True Parent's Holy Blessing and also the date of the 2024 Cosmic Blessing.  

The Blue Dragon Tour is coming to Atlanta on May 17 - 19. If you missed President Dunkley's inspiring message in D.C., this is another opportunity.  

Sharon invites parents and children to volunteer at the Cary Spring Daze Festival on Saturday, April 27 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.  You can help with crafts for 2 hours.  Here is the link to sign up: Spring Daze Volunteer – NC Eid Festival

Create A Life You Love is a great way to introduce your guests to Divine Principle, Saturdays from 10:30 - 11:30, facilitated by Henri Schauffler.  Register here. 

Statewide ACLC outreach meetings are the first and third Mondays at 7:00 p.m. The next meeting is April 15. Here is the link to join the meeting.

Please join us for Morning Devotion from Monday to Friday at 6:00 a.m.
Here is the link.

We will join Dr. Achille and Capitol Family Church on the weekend.
Here is the link.  Passcode: 2027

Please feel free at any time to use the Cheon Shim Won (Prayer Room) at TFC to pray or meditate.  

Garden Of Gethsemane - Morning Devotion on Apr. 11, 2024

In The Garden Of Gethsemane

Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, "Sit here while I go over there and pray." He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. Then he said to them, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me." Going a little farther; he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father; if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will."

Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. "Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?" he asked Peter: Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."

He went away a second time and prayed, "My Father; if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done." When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. So he left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing. Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour is near; and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us go! Here comes my betrayer!"

Matthew 26:36-46

Jesus prayed at Gethsemane: "Father, let this cup pass from me. Not as I will, but as thou wilt." When he prayed that, his attitude was that of a Son who loved only his Father. On the cross he loved even his enemy and prayed for him. There had never been such a man in all history previous to him and there has never been such a man after him. That is the sign of his having loved the whole of mankind. That is what made Jesus the greatest.

The Formula for God's Providence
December 14, 1971

We should be aware of the lonely situation in which Jesus prayed alone at Gethsemane, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will." (Matt. 26:39) This situation is not confined to Jesus. Furthermore, the situation in which Jesus was crucified, embracing sorrow, also is not restricted to Jesus alone. His situation is our situation and one in which humankind has to participate today.

The reason Jesus prayed and felt sorrowful was not because he was to die; nor was it because of his fate of having to cross the hill of lamentation. Worried about his responsibility to successfully achieve the destiny of history he embraced the heartbreak of heavenly love. Jesus looked at his followers, who were to usher in God's love upon the earth, and considered: how could he, who was sent representing God's love, transform them into the substantial beings of God's love? He also knew the fact that should he die, humankind would be fated to cross a hill of grief. We should understand that Jesus was not a man who felt sorrowful only for his own sake or experienced heartbreak only on his own behalf.

Jesus Who Is to Establish Heaven's Love
February 24, 1977

The deepest sorrow in God's heart in all of history was Adam's becoming a fallen man. Next to it was the death of Jesus. Jesus' subsequent resurrection made it possible for the Christian faith to bring salvation, but even this was in the spiritual area only. Jesus prayed three times in the deepest anguish, almost on the verge of death. He said. "Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; but not as l will but as thou wilt." Many theologians explain this by saying that this was an expression of human weakness because, though he was predestined to die on the cross, Jesus was still a human being. If that is true, he should have courageously and joyfully faced the situation.

The New Messiah and You
March 20, 1972

Jesus appealed alone before God in tears in the Garden of Gethsemane, without being accompanied by even his own disciples. He was totally sinless, without any wrongfulness, and he only hoped to live as the Son of God. We should feel the heart of Jesus, who walked the path of bloody tears.

Today at the point when we hasten to bring a victory to heaven, we should reflect upon whether we are truly ready to climb the same hill of universal tears with Jesus, which he has already climbed. Ever since humans left the bosom of God due to the Fall, human history continued in tears. To be freed from this, we should walk a path of tears. This does not apply only to the course of God's providence, but also to a people or a nation.

We call someone who sheds tears for a nation or its people a prophet. A nation does not come about automatically. It comes about through a history of tearful, trouble-filled stories made by such prophets. Similarly, unless you too climb the historical hill of tears, you can never receive a day of victory. Jesus shed bloody tears while walking on the path of Golgotha, the path of a pioneer, after having climbed hills of tears for 30 years. Today, if you are to be the ones who would take responsibility to fulfill the will of God and liberate Jesus, you should shed bloody tears that no one recognizes, springing from the bottom of your heart.

If there are disciples who are shedding tears for brothers and sisters and the world, and further, if they are unceasingly shedding tears for heaven without being able to stop, a condition for victory will be made. Once Jesus looked down at Jerusalem and could not help but shed tears, yet no one understood his heart. Because he did not have even one friend who could cry with him when he wept in sadness, Jesus had to die on the cross…

Do you love your family? If so, you should sweat for the family. If you love your people, you should sweat for the people. If you love the world, you should sweat for the world. We should also take after the example of Jesus, who prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane for all of humankind, building an altar alone while others did not know about it. We should become a second Jesus who can shed sweat and tears for all of humankind.

Let Us Be a Victor for God
June 30, 1957

Holy Spirit - Morning Devotion on Apr. 9, 2024

The Holy Spirit

Again Jesus said, "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." And with that he breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit."

John 20:21-22

By what means can we unite Christianity throughout the world? By the Holy Spirit -- hence the name "Holy Spirit Association." Not by fists or bayonets, but by the Holy Spirit. We cannot unite by human power, but by the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit Association for the Unification of World Christianity
May 1, 1981

Without receiving the Holy Spirit, we cannot understand or receive salvation. Why should we need the Holy Spirit to come upon us? The Holy Spirit moves our mind to a relationship with Christ and eventually God, but why specifically do we need the Holy Spirit? What steps should take place as she helps to bring us to heaven and God? The first thing the Holy Spirit helps us to do is repent.

The Age of Repentance
September 1, 1978

The Holy Spirit is in charge of obtaining pardon from heaven for our sinfulness. This is because humankind does not have a direct relationship with either God or Jesus, who are in heaven. Therefore, we need to receive the cooperation of the Holy Spirit who is working on the earth. The way to redemption has been opened because of the crucifixion of Jesus, but the one who actually toils to take charge of our sins is the Holy Spirit, the Holy Spirit stands in the position of a mediator for our sake, representing us miserable sinners.

What kinds of ordeals is the Holy Spirit going through? The exertion of Jesus, who passed away on the cross while responsible for our sins, and the ordeals of the Holy Spirit, crying with us when we cry and are hung on the cross, is very much with us.

Even today, Jesus is undergoing the crisis of crucifixion for your sake. You should understand this deeply. When the toils of Jesus and the exertion of the Holy Spirit are joined as one with us in the center, and we reach the standard that God requires, then all the sins that we have committed on the earth will be redeemed...

Consequently when we face evil and go forward, we should recognize that because of our sins, the Holy Spirit has labored on the earth on our behalf, and Jesus died on the cross on our behalf. Wherever we go, we should realize that we are sinners who cannot be unshackled from the grievances of heaven. Therefore, by offering all of our minds and bodies to take the burden of heaven's toil, we should rely on the Holy Spirit and assist Jesus in his work.

Why Did Jesus Become the Lamb Who Bore All the Sins of This World?
July 11, 1956

When Jesus came, the male element or essence was given to him as the male Word of God. But there was no woman on earth to whom the female element could be given. So when Jesus was working in spirit after his crucifixion, this female element of God worked with him as the Holy Spirit.

On Prayer and the Spirit World
March and April 1965

We study about the Holy Trinity -- God, the Holy Son, and Holy Ghost. What exactly does that mean? We say God, Holy Son, and Holy Ghost, but there is something lacking -- the holy Christian, making the family So the Holy Ghost must he the spouse to the Holy Son, and with those two united in divine love, multiplication can come about, giving birth to children in the Holy Family.

Our Present Mission
August 4, 1974

Church - Morning Devotion on Apr. 5, 2024

The Church

"My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father; just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me."

John 17:20-23

Why has Christianity spread all over the world? Because Jesus' sacrificial spirit is the mind of the providence, and that is the basic spirit of God's providence -- that is, to make oneself a sacrifice for other people. Christianity has received much persecution, but the more it received persecution, the more it prospered. Jesus did not leave any ideology like Marxism, but by the spirit alone he made such great effects in the world.

People of the world are dying and desperately suffering. If they are your brothers and sisters, then you have to reach out to them and cry out for them. True Christians should be willing to sacrifice their own lives for the salvation of the world and all humankind. Many Christians are seeking for their own personal salvation; they are crying out for "my salvation" and "my heaven." This is contrary to God's truth and contrary to God's ideal. We should steadfastly give, love, sacrifice, and live for the sake of others.

Jesus' Standard of Goodness
January, 1985

Why is Christianity today divided into numerous denominations? It is because people have impeded the Christian spirit that teaches us to love our enemies. The Christian spirit that teaches us to love our brethren has been forgotten.

From a perspective centering on Jesus, the Presbyterian Church, the Methodist Church, the Holiness Church, and all other denominations are brothers to each other.

God's Fatherland
September 19, 1999

We frequently hear that the church is the body of Christ. Does this mean that those buildings of wood or stone are the body of Jesus? What is the body of Jesus? Not the building but the people of the congregation are the body of Christ. When Jesus was crucified 2,000 years ago, Jesus' body was in the position of the people. Ever since the crucifixion, Jesus’ body has been represented by the people who have united spiritually with Jesus. All through the New Testament Age believers in Jesus have served in the position of the body of Christ.

If the believers are the body of Christ, then could there be more than one church? There are many different denominations and kinds of Christianity, which indicates that Jesus' body has been divided up. This is not acceptable in the sight of God. When we see the current situation from the viewpoint of God and Jesus Christ, the existence of so many denominations in the name of Christ is heartbreaking. It is just as though Jesus' body itself had been torn apart. The heart of Jesus Christ is grieved when he sees that his own body has been so shamefully divided. Christianity today is in the position of Jesus' body, but when there is one mind, how can there be 1,000 bodies? There should be one mind and one body....

Jesus wanted to give his inheritance to the Christian world, to his brethren. He wanted to give each Christian the conviction, "God is my God, and mankind are my brothers. This land belongs to me and I am responsible to God to re-create it in God's way" Those people who are denominational and sectarian leaders and only interested in promoting their own sectarian purposes are outrageous. We should inherit Jesus' philosophy and ideology instead. Denominationalism is just a roadblock for God. We need to break away all the barriers of sectarianism if we are to really reach the people.

Living Sacrifice
May 8, 1977

Sunday Service on April 7, 2024

Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on April 7, 2024

Musical Offering

Sermon - Pursuit of Happiness 

True happiness comes from serving God and others. Seniors are the happiest group. Family, friends, and faith community become more important as we get older. Jesus created a community centered around God's love. God is with us in our struggles. We need each other and our community. God will never abandon us. We can bring hope and joy to the world.

Key Insights

• Seniors are the happiest group because they have financial security, family, and friends around them. They also tend to care less about what others think of them.
• True happiness comes from serving God and serving others. It is not solely dependent on personal happiness.
• As we get older, family, friends, and faith community become more important to us. These relationships provide joy and fulfillment in life.
• Jesus created a community centered around God's love, emphasizing the importance of community in finding love, comfort, and fulfillment.
• In times of struggle and despair, God is closest to us. We should support and be there for each other in our darkest times.
• God will never abandon us, as seen through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. His love fills the universe, bringing hope and happiness.
• By investing ourselves in our community and spreading love, we can bring hope and joy to the world. Our actions have the power to make a positive impact.

Announcement

John Pace announces the release of his booklet "God Eternal Life and Conscience" as a gift on his 70th birthday, hoping to share his life experiences and the teachings of Reverend Sun Myung Moon. He emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one's own life and seeking the truth.

Key Insights

• John Pace's booklet "God Eternal Life and Conscience" serves as a gift on his 70th birthday, aiming to share his life experiences and the teachings of Reverend Sun Myung Moon. It is an effort to witness and present the truth to others.
• John Pace emphasizes individual responsibility for one's life, stating that nobody else can save or fulfill a person's life except themselves and God. He encourages taking ownership and seeking the truth.
• John Pace believes that seeking the truth is crucial, as it allows individuals to understand their purpose and destiny, including the existence of the spiritual world. He highlights the importance of personal growth and self-realization before transitioning to the spiritual realm.
• John Pace expresses his willingness to face disagreement and criticism when sharing his beliefs. He understands that each person has the responsibility to seek and accept the truth based on their own efforts and willingness to explore.
• John Pace's booklet contains a speech by Reverend Sun Myung Moon titled "God's Homeland and the Peace Kingdom Are Built on the Foundation of the Realm of His Liberation and Release." He finds this speech to be a clear and comprehensive explanation of life, God, good and evil, marriage, and family.
• John Pace's family birthdays and upcoming 70th birthday celebration serve as a reminder of the passage of time and the reflection on one's life. He acknowledges the happiness that comes with age and the opportunity to share his experiences and insights with others.

Sunday School: Bible Study - Elijah vs. the Prophets of Baal

Elijah's Contest: Elijah, a prophet of God, challenged the prophets of Baal to a contest on Mount Carmel to prove who is the true God.

King Ahab: King Ahab, the seventh king of the northern kingdom of Israel, was an evil king who worshipped the false god Baal.

God's Power: After the prophets of Baal failed, Elijah prayed to the Lord and fire came down from heaven, proving the power of the one true God.

People's Faith: The people turned back to God after witnessing the miracle, realizing the Lord is the one true God.

Weekly Update on Apr. 4, 2024

We will meet on Sunday, April 7 at 11:00 a.m. for our weekly worship service.  Bob will share a message on The Pursuit of Happiness.  Mr. Asada is teaching the Sunday school about Elijah and the destruction of the idols.  Join Anne Nilson for a noon prayer in the Cheon Shim Won.  Please bring a dish to share for potluck lunch.  We will have a community meeting after lunch.  

Samuel Mundula is leading a yoga class on Saturday, April 6 at 7:00 p.m.  Bring a yoga mat if you have one. Feel free to bring board games to play after the class.   

The Pilgrimage to Korea to meet True Mother and the Cosmic Blessing 2024 is from April 18 - 27.  Please help us sponsor representatives from NC, Syun, WonGin and the Dudley couple, by donating at this GoFundMe page.   

Create A Life You Love is a great way to introduce your guests to Divine Principle, Saturdays from 10:30 - 11:30, facilitated by Henri Schauffler.  Register here. 

Statewide ACLC outreach meetings are the first and third Mondays at 7:00 p.m. The next meeting is April 15. Here is the link to join the meeting.

Please join us for Morning Devotion from Monday to Friday at 6:00 a.m.
Here is the link.

We will join Dr. Achille and Capitol Family Church on the weekend.
Here is the link.  Passcode: 2027

Please feel free at any time to use the Cheon Shim Won (Prayer Room) at TFC to pray or meditate.  

I Have Much More to Say to You - Morning Devotion on Apr. 4, 2024

I Have Much More to Say to You

"I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you who is yet to come."

John 16:12-13

When the day that he was to die on the cross was near, after having lived thirty years or so, Jesus gathered his beloved disciples and said, "I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear." This tells us that the disciples did not comprehend what Jesus meant. Therefore, each of us should become the bride, not the disciple who does not understand what Jesus means. We should become the one who comprehends the meaning of Jesus' sayings. Establishing the standard of character with which she can step further to reach the wife's position, a bride holds herself accountable for the mission Jesus left unfulfilled and becomes the person who can let Jesus rest.

Let Us Be the Ones That Jesus Wants
February 17, 1957

Why didn't Jesus tell us the whole, unvarnished truth? He knew the whole truth and he was in the position to tell the world, but he couldn't tell the world. Why? It is because there was no model for him to present, no substance. He was not able to give the formula. That is why Jesus knew the truth but he could not fulfill it, so he could not speak it. He could not leave behind him the tradition of true men and women. He had to fulfill certain stages, certain steps of that truth.

That is why the only alternative for Jesus was to come again. By, the fact that he said, "I must return," it shows that he knew the truth but he could not fulfill it in his own time.

True Parents' Birthday
February 25, 1985

I Am the Vine; You Are the Branches - Morning Devotion on Apr. 3, 2024

I Am the Vine; You Are the Branches

"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father's commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you."

John 15:5-12 

Jesus came as the Tree of Life, the true olive tree, to graft fallen mankind onto him, and to give them true life. Through him, all mankind had a way to become direct heirs of God.

God's Day
January 1977

Everyone, including God and all mankind, wants to be under the dominion of love. When true love is at the center of the universe, all beings want to come to the center. Grandparents, parents, children, as well as God and the rest of the universe, want to dwell at the center with love. Everyone would like to get as close as possible to each other there. Like potatoes connected to the same vine, everybody is connected to the universal center.

Original Family and the Family of Today
March 8, 1987

Because of the Fall, humankind did not start out with the true seed of true life, but rather with the seed of false life. Since we are all wild olive trees, we need the bud of the true olive tree. We need to be cut off and engrafted into the true olive tree. This is the only way to go back to God. If you accept the fact of the human Fall, then you have to admit this conclusion.

If the Fall had not occurred, beginning from Adam's children and grandchildren, generation after generation would have lived a true way of life and automatically dwell in the Kingdom of God on earth as well as in heaven. There would have been no wild olive trees. Every single tree would have been a true olive tree. But due to the Fall, every single tree became a wild olive tree. This meant the central bud, trunk, and root all became false, directly connected to Satan's lineage rather than God's lineage. The purpose of God's history of salvation is to show clearly how to cut out Satan's involvement in human life. In other words, it shows how to get rid of the wild olive tree root, cut off the wild olive tree bud and trunk, and engraft into the true olive tree's bud, trunk and root. That has been the history of salvation.

Total Calculation of Gods Historical Providence
December 25, 1994

Peace I Leave With You - Morning Devotion on Apr. 1, 2024

Peace I Leave With You

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not he afraid."

John 14:27

As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city; he wept over it and said, "If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace -- but now it is hidden from your eyes."

Luke 19:41-42

All people in the world long for peace and for a unified world. But where does such a world of peace and unification begin? This is the critical question. We know that had mankind and God become one in the beginning, then a world of peace and unification would have come into being. Then why was this world of peace and unification lost? Because of the Fall. The center of the world of peace and unification is God Himself. Therefore, by following the same direction as God, the world of peace and unification would have been established automatically...

There is a war between the mind and body going on within you continually. Whoever speaks of peace without recognizing this doesn't really know what he is talking about. When God looks at humankind, longing for peace and unification, He sighs. Without finding the base of peace and unification within ourselves, how can peace and unification dwell with us?

How can a human being, born out of the absolute holy God, be so imperfect? Something must have happened between God and man, some separation must have occurred, something went out of order. We can suppose something went wrong within the relationship. Satan came in between, causing us to inherit false love and lineage.

In the Bible, Jesus explained by saying that those who want to die will live, and those who want to live will die. How is it that when I want to die, I can live? Now we understand that to die means to suppress all the satanic attributes and raise up even the faint and small godly attributes within me -- and then I will live. If there is anyone who truly wishes for godly attributes and peace, there is no other way to go except to let the satanic part of oneself die and he reborn to the life of God.

The Ideal Family is the Base for Peace and Unification

July 24, 1994

Before the unification of the world can be achieved, the unification of the country, the unification of the family, and the unification of the individual must precede. The unification of the individual means the unity between the mind and body in love. On this foundation husband and wife can achieve unity in love, and unification of the country and the world will follow. This is the only way to realize world peace and a new civilization.

Absolute Values and the New Cultural Revolution

November 28, 1986

Originally human beings were meant to live with their mind and body united, responding to the complete love of God. It is because human beings were created to be God's sons and daughters, resembling Him that their mind and body should not fight. Instead, they should create true unity. God's mind and body are not in conflict: Almighty God could never have any conflict within himself.

The human ideal of unified mind and body is realized when a person is fully possessed of the true love of God. The words, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God" (Matt. 5:9) also promise that the ideal of unity of mind and body is to be attained on the basis of our relationship with our Heavenly Father.

It was due to the human Fall that people lost the standard of unity and harmony of their mind and body, and have thus been living in self-contradiction and conflict. Moreover, the battle of the mind and body within the individual has expanded to the level of the family, society, nation, and world. Cain's killing of his younger brother Abel originated from this. All the conflicts and wars that the world has witnessed since the beginning of history have been, in essence, the battle between the Cain side, which is relatively on the side of evil, and the Abel side, more on the side of goodness. The struggle between the Cain and Abel sides should be terminated and everything restored to its original state.

Likewise, the confrontation between our mind and body should be brought to an end, and harmony and unity regained.

We have to apply the principle of individual mind-body unity to the global level. Since the root of human problems is not merely, political, social and political solutions alone will always be insufficient. While most societies are politically governed, religion lies at the root of most national and cultural identities. In fact, religious loyalties far outweigh political loyalties in the hearts of most people.

It is now the time for religion to exert genuine leadership in the world. I believe that religious people should feel responsible for the situation of humankind, and for resolving the vinous inequities of this age. Profound self-reflection is surely prerequisite to this.

Inaugural Address of the Inter-religious and International Federation for World Peace

February 6, 1999