June 30, 2024 | "Who Is This?" | Asbury-St. James UMC, Charleston, SC

Have you ever felt like you're navigating life’s potholes, both literal and metaphorical, without a clear path? This morning at Asbury-St. James United Methodist Church in downtown Charleston, Pastor Tim Shaw delivered a sermon that truly resonated with those of us grappling with life's uncertainties. His message, based on Mark 5:21-43, was more than a recitation of scripture-it was a call to embrace faith as a transformative force in our modern lives.
Pastor Tim began with a simple yet profound truth: every day we get out of bed, we take a risk. Life is full of uncertainties, and sometimes it feels like we’re constantly stumbling over obstacles. Whether it's the physical potholes scattered across Charleston or the emotional and spiritual ones we encounter, the struggles are real and often overwhelming.
He drew us into the story of Jairus, a synagogue leader whose 12-year-old daughter was gravely ill. Despite his social status and religious standing, Jairus was helpless in the face of his daughter’s suffering. In a moment of desperate faith, he sought out Jesus, believing that only His touch could save his child. As Pastor Tim recounted Jairus’ plea, we could see ourselves in his shoes, searching for hope in our moments of crisis.
Then, there was the woman who had suffered from a bleeding condition for 12 years. She had spent everything she had on doctors who only made her worse. But she, too, took a risk of faith. She believed that if she could just touch the hem of Jesus' robe, she would be healed. And she was right. Her faith, though tested and battered, led to her miraculous healing.
Pastor Tim’s recounting of these stories wasn’t just about ancient miracles. It was a powerful reminder that faith is about action and risk. It's about stepping out, even when we’re unsure of the outcome. He emphasized that in our fast-paced, modern world, we often seek quick fixes-temporary solutions that leave us empty. True faith, however, calls us to go deeper.
As he shared personal anecdotes and engaged with the congregation, Pastor Tim made it clear that these biblical accounts are not relics of the past but living examples of how faith can transform our lives today. He spoke directly to those of us who feel distant from traditional church practices, inviting us to see the church not as an institution but as a community where faith is lived out in tangible ways.
One of the most touching moments was when Pastor Tim reminded us that Jesus didn't just perform miracles; He met people in their pain and walked with them. Whether it was a father fearing for his child’s life or a woman ostracized and suffering, Jesus’ response was the same-compassion and action. This message is incredibly relevant in today’s society, where so many of us feel isolated and misunderstood. Pastor Tim’s words were a balm, offering us a vision of a faith that heals and a community that supports.
He humorously touched on the modern conveniences that often distract us from deeper spiritual engagement. Pastor Tim acknowledged that while we’re all busy, making an effort to connect with our faith and community can lead to profound changes in our lives. It’s not about perfect attendance or blind adherence to tradition; it’s about finding a faith that is alive and active in our daily struggles.
Towards the end of his sermon, Pastor Tim posed a challenging question: “What do I do now?” This wasn’t just a rhetorical question but a real-life prompt for us to reflect on where we turn when our own quick-fix remedies fail. He shared stories of church members who have faced significant challenges and found hope and healing through their faith.
He spoke of how modern technology, like live streaming services, has expanded the reach of the church, allowing people to find solace and community even when they can’t be physically present. This is especially pertinent for younger generations who are more inclined to connect digitally. Pastor Tim highlighted the importance of these new avenues, acknowledging that while the method of delivery may change, the core message of faith and community remains the same.
In conclusion, Pastor Tim’s sermon was a heartfelt invitation to embrace a faith that is personal, active, and transformative. He encouraged us to come as we are, with all our doubts and fears, and to find a community ready to support us. His message was clear: faith isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about taking the first step, however small, towards a deeper connection with God and each other.
As we move forward, let’s carry this message with us. Let’s take that risk of faith, just as Jairus and the bleeding woman did. Let’s reach out, touch the hem, and find healing and hope in a community that’s ready to walk with us through life’s potholes.