Sunday Service on June 28, 2026

Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on June 28, 2026

Music Offering

Sermon: Right Intention and Motivation To Guide Our Lives  

The speaker opens with the well-known parable of the three stone cutters to illustrate the importance of intention and motivation in our daily work and lives. Despite performing the same labor, each stone cutter sees his work very differently: one sees only stone, another sees a wage, and the third envisions the cathedral his work will build. This parable underscores how purpose transforms mundane tasks into meaningful callings. The speaker connects this idea to scriptures such as Proverbs 16:3, Colossians 3:23, and 1 Corinthians 10:31, emphasizing that our work should be committed to God and done wholeheartedly.

The sermon reflects on two primary approaches to navigating life’s challenges: the visionary approach and an alternative grounded in Buddhist teachings. The visionary approach, likened to seeing the cathedral in the stonework, motivates many first-generation believers with hope despite hardships and incomplete outcomes. The speaker cites the long construction of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, completed after 144 years, as an emblem of perseverance and sustaining vision over generations.

To complement this, the speaker introduces the "dharma of the three sentences," a Buddhist teaching encapsulating the path to enlightenment: making the awakening mind the cause, great compassion the root, and skillful means the goal. The awakening mind involves the altruistic wish for enlightenment that benefits others, not just oneself. This framework parallels the speaker’s own experience in fundraising roles that emphasized selfless motivation along with goal-setting.

The spiritual journey includes constant reflection on one’s true intentions, distinguishing between external achievements and inner growth. Work and community hardships often obscure the “cathedral” vision but growth continues through struggles. The speaker acknowledges that the Japanese church’s efforts may have caused fatigue and misunderstanding but asserts these were born from sincere intentions to benefit the world.

The sermon concludes by emphasizing teachings from True Parents about the foundational role of marriage and family in building ideal communities of love, respect, trust, and mutual support. The ideal family is presented as the core of establishing heaven’s tradition on earth. The congregation is encouraged to seek these teachings with the awakening mind, deepening their relationship with Heavenly Parent and embracing the vision of true parents, especially in challenging times.

Highlights

• The parable of three stone cutters reveals how the purpose behind work shapes our perspective and motivation.
• Bible verses like Proverbs 16:3 and Colossians 3:23 inspire us to commit our work to God and pursue it wholeheartedly.
• The visionary approach gives hope by seeing the “cathedral” beyond present struggles, similar to the prolonged construction of Sagrada Familia.
• Introducing the Buddhist “dharma of the three sentences,” highlighting awakening mind, compassion, and skillful means as a path to enlightenment.
• Reflecting on motivations is vital; success is not just external but about growth and relationship with God.
• True Parents’ vision for ideal families rooted in love, respect, and unity is essential for establishing heaven’s tradition on earth.

Transcript

Slide 1

Today, I want to reflect on the right intention and motivation to guide our lives.

Before we explore this theme, I’d like to begin with a Sunday School-style introduction by sharing the well-known parable of the Three Stonecutters. A traveler meets three men doing the same work, yet each sees his life very differently. This leads us to an important question: which stonecutter am I?

The parable reminds us that the work of our hands should be rooted in purpose and calling.

The following Bible verse connects with this lesson.

“Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.”  Proverbs 16:3

Slide 2

A traveler comes upon three stonecutters and asks each the same question: “What are you doing?”

They use the same tools, breathe the same dust, and feel the same pain in their arms. The difference lies not in their hands, but in their hearts—in how far they lift their eyes.

The first man answers, “I am cutting stone.”

The second man answers, “I am earning a wage to feed my family.”

The third man answers, “I am building a cathedral.”

Slide 3

The first man sees only stone and sweat. To him, work is a burden—heavy, dull, and without meaning.

The second man works for a wage. His purpose is honest and good, but his focus remains on meeting today’s needs.

The third man sees the cathedral. The same tool that cuts stone now serves something lasting, and his labor takes on deeper meaning. He is not doing different work, but the same work with a different vision. Purpose turns exhausting labor into a calling.

“Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”   1 Corinthians 10:31

Slide 4

Let us lift our eyes to the cathedral—the Cheon Il Guk in our church.

Our work is part of God’s larger story of building Cheon Il Guk.

God invites us to see our daily labor or study not as gray stone to endure, but as part of His greater purpose.

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” Colossians 3:23 It is a well-known Bible verse that encourages working wholeheartedly and with purpose. It reminds individuals to do their best in all tasks, treating every responsibility as an opportunity to serve a higher purpose rather than just for human recognition.

Slide 5

I prepared a coloring page and reflection questions based on the parable of the Three Stonecutters.

I hope the children enjoy coloring the page and come up with creative answers to the questions.

Slide 6

I would like to continue exploring the right motivation and perspective to guide our lives.

I mentioned that there are generally two ways to approach life’s fundamental questions in my last sermon. The parable of the Three Stonecutters teaches the visionary approach, which often lifts us up and gives us hope to keep moving forward.

When I joined the church, I was deeply inspired to help build the kingdom of heaven on earth, where the following Bible verse becomes a reality.

‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

Revelation 21:4

I was like the third man in the parable of the Three Stonecutters, and I believe many first-generation members felt the same. 

As life goes on, we may find that reality turns out differently from what we first envisioned.

Even within our church communities, many people continue to suffer. Mourning or crying or pain continues.

At times, it is hard to see the cathedral we once believed we were building.

It can feel like the Sagrada Família in Barcelona, Spain—once called an “eternally incomplete” cathedral.

Yet recently, the final cross was placed atop its central tower.
Its structural completion was celebrated on June 10, 2026.
For generations, the builders preserved the cathedral’s vision until its completion 144 years later.

This visionary approach can be difficult, especially when the gap between vision and reality feels wide, or when we feel isolated because we cannot hold on to that vision with conviction and passion.

Honestly, I sometimes find it difficult and tiring to uphold the vision. I still believe a visionary approach is powerful and necessary for us, but I also think we can use another approach and the approach reinforces and preserves the vision.

Slide 7
I’d like to introduce a Buddhist teaching on the approach to enlightenment called the “Dharma of the Three Sentences” as that alternative approach. You may wonder why I’m bringing a Buddhist concept into a Sunday service. I believe the core teachings of all religions share important similarities. It can be beneficial to those who prefer a problem-solution type of approach. I also found that the “Dharma of the Three Sentences” closely resembles what I learned in fundraising training during my CARP years.

Slide 8
The “Dharma of the Three Sentences” condenses the entire Buddhist path into three core principles.

1. Make the Awakening Mind the cause.

2. Make Great Compassion the root.

3. Make Skillful Means the ultimate goal.

Three short sentences map the cause, the ground, and the fruit of an awakened life.

Slide 9

What is the awakening mind? According to “Dharma of the Three Sentences”, it is the sincere wish to reach enlightenment for the benefit of all beings, not for oneself alone. The teaching explains that our intention should first be grounded in this sincere wish. Great compassion and love should then guide and motivate our actions. Finally, we should make every effort to achieve goals that benefit all beings.

Slide 10

Fundraising training taught me the importance of doing my best with the right intention and motivation. Like businesspeople, we set external goals and worked hard to achieve them. However, our purpose was different. Our goal was to deepen our relationship with God and serve the people in the areas where we were assigned to fundraise. We continually reflected on whether our motivation was truly to benefit others. With gratitude, we worked day and night to serve God and people. I believe we were practicing the teaching of the “Dharma of the Three Sentences.” 

Slide 11
Setting an external goal matters because it helps us examine our intentions and motivations more clearly. Still, what matters most is what we learn and how we grow. Life on earth is a training ground. Even when it becomes difficult to see the cathedral we once believed we were building, we can still learn and grow through hardships. Even if someone struggles to believe what our church teaches, they can continue to grow by holding the right vision, intentions, and motivations.

Intentions and motivations cannot be seen from the outside. Those who criticize our church may not understand the intentions and motivations behind its efforts. The Japanese church may have worked too hard and made many people tired, misunderstood, and hurt. But I believe its intentions were sincere and aimed at benefiting Japan and the world. True Parents taught us the right vision, intentions, and motivations for our life on earth, especially in marriage and family life. I hope young people can recognize the goodness of this vision and learn the intentions and motivations we should bring to marriage and family life from True Parents.

Slide 12
I would like to conclude with True Parents’ words.

“The ideal family is the model for living together in peace. The ideal family is the nest where we live and learn to become one. There we have the foundation of love and respect between parents and children, shared trust and love between husband and wife, and mutual support among siblings. For this fundamental reason, you should receive the Holy Marriage Blessing from the True Parents and establish Heaven's tradition of ideal families.”

When you search for these words in Google Chrome, it provides a response and suggests follow-up questions. You can easily explore True Parents’ teachings on marriage and family. As you do, please remember to let the Awakening Mind be your reason for seeking them.

Sunday Service on June 21, 2026

Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on June 21, 2026

Music Offering

Sermon: True Conversion 

The speaker explores the multifaceted concept of conversion from a spiritual and personal transformation perspective, particularly within the Christian context. The speaker begins by clarifying the three meanings of conversion: changing one’s religion or belief, repenting from wrongdoing and embracing good behavior, and a deeper transformation involving a change of life values and a turning back to God. The primary focus is on this third, more profound meaning. Several biblical and historical examples illustrate this deep transformation, such as St. Augustine and John Newton. St. Augustine's internal struggle with lust and his eventual spiritual awakening through a moment of divine intervention portrays the painful yet redemptive nature of genuine conversion. Similarly, John Newton’s dramatic conversion from a slave trader to a minister after a storm at sea highlights the miracle of grace. The conversation transitions to Peter, a disciple with multiple conversion experiences marked by fear and failure before ultimately embracing courage and faith after the Pentecost. The speaker emphasizes that true conversion is not instantaneous but a gradual process marked by repeated struggles, doubt, and repentance. The narrative references the apocryphal texts (specifically the Acts of Peter) to emphasize the human fears and reluctance Peter faced, culminating in his return to Rome despite the threat of crucifixion. This act symbolizes the moment of true conversion—not the absence of fear, but the decision to trust God amidst it. The speaker stresses that true conversion often manifests as peace and quiet assurance rather than dramatic spiritual displays, referencing Elijah’s encounter with God in the “gentle whisper” rather than in the wind, fire, or earthquake. A significant insight is drawn from the experiences of those overcoming addiction, who find God by embracing their weakness and powerlessness rather than through extraordinary visions. The Holy Spirit's work is described as a quiet, persistent reshaping over a lifetime rather than brief moments of ecstatic transformation. The message concludes with a heartfelt prayer on Father’s Day, linking the father's role symbolically to one who faces struggles and suffering yet continues on a path of faith and service, reflecting the love and sacrifice central to conversion and Christian life. Highlights

• Introduction of the three meanings of conversion: religious change, repentance, and life transformation.
• St. Augustine's confession reveals internal spiritual struggle and eventual transformation.
• John Newton’s conversion from slave trader to hymn writer after a life-threatening storm.
• Peter’s multiple conversion experiences illustrate the ongoing nature of spiritual growth.
• Reference to the apocryphal Acts of Peter highlighting Peter's fear and ultimate courage.
• True conversion occurs in quiet, peaceful moments, not grand spiritual spectacles.
• The Holy Spirit continually reshapes believers throughout their lifetimes, especially in weakness.

Sunday school on 6/21: Bible study - The Parable of the Lamp on a Stand

Core Teaching

• Central scripture — Matthew 5:15 and Mark 4:21, where Jesus teaches that a lamp is meant to be placed on a stand, not hidden under a basket
• Key metaphor — The lamp represents God's truth, love, and guidance, and believers are called to let that light shine openly through their actions

Key Takeaways

• Faith isn't private — it's expressed through visible, everyday acts of love and courage that benefit the people around you.

Sunday Service on June 14, 2026

Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on June 14, 2026

Music Offering

Sermon: Spiritual Law

Script of the sermon created by Hanna Nilson and presented by Pastor Bob Huneycutt

The speaker opens with a reflection on poetry and its spiritual depth, introducing a poem by Steve Garnaas-Holmes that speaks about the unseen grace and healing power within each individual, bestowed by a higher beloved power. The speaker clarifies a scientific detail about the speed of human thoughts, emphasizing that our physical bodies are composed primarily of water, air, and light, and connecting this to our spiritual essence, or soul, which exists simultaneously in the physical and spiritual realms. The soul's purpose is to seek happiness in a good and loving environment. The speaker then shares insights from a conversation with David Miller, a psychologist and healer, highlighting that "we are love"—an intrinsic truth rooted in divine origin. This theme is further developed through the teachings of Reverend Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Unification Movement, who viewed love as the fundamental spiritual law linking physical and spiritual worlds. Moon emphasized living for the sake of others as the path to peace and spiritual harmony, advocating unconditional love and forgiveness, even towards enemies. Biblical reflections on love from Jesus’ teachings complement this spiritual framework, citing verses such as John 15:13 and Corinthians 13:13 to illustrate the essence of self-sacrificial and perfect love. A scientific anecdote about monkeys solving puzzles collectively is used to explain the phenomenon of collective consciousness and the communal impact of practicing love, which leads to better health, stronger families, and improved society. The speaker shares a candid and vulnerable personal confession about the complexity of love within family relationships, acknowledging how easily one can hurt those closest to them despite good intentions. Examples with his son and wife illustrate the daily struggles and the importance of forgiveness and making amends repeatedly as part of human frailty and growth. The message concludes with encouragement to internalize that true power comes from within as love itself, underscoring a communal affirmation and prayer that calls for hearts to be cleansed of selfish desire and filled with selfless love for others. Highlights

• Introduction of a poignant poem by Steve Garnaas-Holmes exploring grace and healing power flowing through us.
• Clarification on the speed of human thoughts being 150–250 miles per hour and linking physical body composition to spiritual essence.
• Discussion with David Miller highlighting the core truth, "We are love," and the soul’s connection to divine love.
• Reverend Sun Myung Moon’s teaching that true love is the spiritual law unifying physical and spiritual worlds.
• Biblical quotes emphasizing self-sacrificial love and perfect love casting out fear.
• Story of monkeys and puzzle solving illustrating the power of collective consciousness and communal love.
• Personal confession on the difficulty of loving those closest and the importance of repeated forgiveness and healing.

Sunday School: Lesson about being kind, patient, and trusting God through the folktale “The Ugly Duckling"

The presentation retells the classic fairy tale of The Ugly Duckling as a vehicle for a children's faith lesson. A duckling who looks different from his siblings faces teasing and loneliness, but ultimately transforms into a beautiful swan — framing the narrative around God's love, patience, and purpose.

Core Teachings

• God's intentional creation — Every person is made unique on purpose, and those differences are something to celebrate, not hide from.
• Kindness over cruelty — The lesson contrasts unkind words (which "hurt hearts") with kind words that make people feel loved, tying directly to the teachings of Jesus and True Parents.
• Trust and patience — Just as the duckling grew into a swan, children are encouraged to trust that God has a plan and isn't finished with them yet.

Sunday Service on May 24, 2026

Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on May 24, 2026

Music Offering

Sermon: Truth And Spirit Will Set You Free

The speaker delivers a deeply personal and reflective sermon centered around the theme "The Truth and Spirit Will Set You Free," drawing from Christian and Unificationist teachings. Beginning with the biblical phrase John 8:32, where Jesus refers to himself as the truth, the speaker revisits its meaning in the context of the Unification Church and its teachings. The phrase evolved from a simple motto of pursuing knowledge in the speaker’s college days to a dual pillar of the church’s renewal, combining truth and spirit, as emphasized by True Mother in 2012 after True Father's passing. Initially skeptical about returning to the “crying church” days full of spiritual fervor, the speaker explains their gradual transformation in understanding both the truth and spirit pillars. Over more than a decade, they came to see the truth not only as the Divine Principle but as a revelation centered around True Mother’s identity as the “only begotten daughter,” a concept that generated much controversy and misunderstanding. The speaker recounts how intellectual study of True Mother’s words felt insufficient without spiritual experience. A turning point came at a short three-day workshop in Las Vegas (2023), where spiritual prayer helped reconcile intellectual doubts and allowed a new appreciation of True Parents as a loving, equal couple rather than hierarchical figures. The discussion deepens with the speaker's personal encounters with spiritual prayer, liberation rituals for ancestors, and recognition of the interconnectedness between earthly and spiritual worlds. A vivid dream about a humiliating incident is interpreted as a spiritual message urging perseverance in prayer and humility. The speaker contrasts Christianity and Unificationism, noting that Christianity’s endurance isn’t solely due to biblical truth but the experiential presence of the Holy Spirit, drawing equivalencies with Pentecost. They emphasize that to truly know and understand Heavenly Parent, one must combine theological truth with spirit-filled experiences. Through reading Korean epic histories and recognizing the faith and prayer lives of national heroes, the speaker further affirms that greatness comes from God’s presence in the heart. They recommend the study of specific Unification Church texts for truth and experience of prayer for the spirit to advance spiritually. Finally, the speaker humbly declares their own spiritual progress as evidence that True Mother’s vision—to move forward with truth and spirit—is being realized, encouraging others to embrace this path for communal and individual spiritual growth. Highlights - Introduction of "The truth will set you free" from John 8:32 and its original meaning in Christianity. - Historical context of the Unification Church as the "crying church" emphasizing spiritual passion in the 1960s. - Revelation of True Mother’s identity as the “only begotten daughter” reshaping church theology. - Spiritual breakthrough at the three-day workshop in Las Vegas, bridging faith and understanding. - Commencement of daily 5 a.m. prayer life inspired by newfound spiritual commitment. - Realization of the importance of liberating ancestors and spiritual interconnectedness. - Discussion on Christianity’s endurance tied to both truth and the experiential Holy Spirit.

Sunday Service on May 17, 2026

Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on May 17, 2026

Music Offering

Sermon: Epic Journey of the Holy Spirit

The speaker presents a detailed narrative on the journey and significance of the Holy Spirit from biblical times to modern spiritual awakenings, focusing particularly on its role in the spread of Christianity and the fulfillment of eschatological prophecy. It begins by recounting the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, empowering the apostles to spread Jesus’s message globally. The discussion highlights the feminine nature of the Holy Spirit in Hebrew tradition and its role in rebirth through Jesus. It explores the historical spread of Christianity from the Middle East to India, Africa, and Europe, noting the institutionalization of the church that constrained the original spirit’s dynamism. The presentation then shifts to the relative dormancy of the Holy Spirit during the institutional church’s dominance and the Protestant Reformation, which viewed spiritual gifts as belonging only to the apostolic era. A dramatic revival of the Spirit occurred in 1906 during the Azusa Street Revival in Los Angeles, sparking the Pentecostal and charismatic movements. This revival is interpreted as a sign of the Lord’s return, especially significant because it took place in the “east” (geographically closer to Asia) and amid a convergence of religious and cultural movements. Parallel to this revival in the West, a similar spiritual awakening occurred in Korea, culminating in the Great Pyongyang Revival of 1907. Despite persecution, Korean Christians fervently sought the Holy Spirit and became central to the preparation for the second coming of the Lord. The speaker outlines the suffering under Japanese occupation and the role of key figures such as Reverend Ho and Son Ahung, who are portrayed as pivotal in preparing for the Lord’s return. The narrative culminates in the description of the “marriage supper of the Lamb,” a prophetic event from Revelation symbolizing the union of the returning Lord (represented by Reverend Moon) with God’s begotten daughter (Hakja Han). This event signifies a new era focused on family salvation rather than individual salvation, establishing the foundation of God’s kingdom on earth through true parental figures. The marriage is depicted as a pivotal moment in providential history, celebrated with traditional ceremony and joy despite surrounding turmoil. Highlights

• The Holy Spirit descended on the apostles at Pentecost, empowering them to spread Christianity worldwide.
• The original Hebrew word for Holy Spirit, Ruach HaKodesh, is feminine, symbolizing wind, breath, and spirit, connected to rebirth through Jesus.
• The 1906 Azusa Street Revival in Los Angeles marked a powerful outpouring of the Holy Spirit, birthing Pentecostal and charismatic movements.
• Three prophetic signs indicate the early 20th century as the time of the Lord’s return, aligning with spiritual awakening and global ideological shifts.
• The 1907 Great Pyongyang Revival in Korea was a significant spiritual awakening, marking Korea as a chosen nation for preparing the second coming.
• Reverend Ho and Son Ahung played critical roles in preparing for the Lord’s return despite persecution during Japanese occupation.
• The “marriage supper of the Lamb” symbolizes the union of the returning Lord with God’s begotten daughter, heralding a new era of family-centered salvation.

Sunday School: Bible study - The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builder 

• Central message: Jesus uses this story to teach that listening to and practicing His teachings creates a lasting, resilient foundation for life
• God's Word is framed as the "rock" — the strong foundation everyone should build upon
• Genuine wisdom comes through patience, study, planning, and listening to others' wisdom

Sunday Service on May 10, 2026

Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on May 10, 2026

Music Offering

Sermon: Courage To Dream

The speaker delivers a heartfelt sermon centered on the theme of "Courage to Dream," presented on Mother's Day as a tribute to mothers and particularly to Mother Moon, the founder of Unification movement. Reflecting on the profound role of parenthood, the speaker emphasizes the unique courage required to pursue one’s dreams despite fear and adversity. Drawing inspiration from historical figures, religious icons like Jesus Christ, and personal experiences, the sermon explores various dimensions of courage—physical, moral, emotional, social, intellectual, and spiritual. The speaker connects courage deeply to the heart, highlighting that true courage arises from emotional conviction and love. The sermon references the dream of the heavenly parent, the Creator, and underscores the importance of actively participating in this divine vision of unity and goodness. Through poetic expressions, the speaker conveys vulnerability, pain, hope, and healing—elements intertwined with the courage to dream and persevere. The message culminates in an acknowledgment of True Father’s teachings about transcending fear by focusing on love and serving a higher eternal purpose. The speaker calls the community to embrace courage not only for themselves but in service to the heavenly parents’ dream of an ideal world. Highlights

• Introduction of the theme "Courage to Dream" inspired by the heavenly parent's vision and Walt Disney's quote.
• Franklin D. Roosevelt’s definition of courage: "not the absence of fear, but the assessment that something else is more important than fear."
• Explanation of six types of courage: physical, moral, emotional, social, intellectual, and spiritual.
• Jesus Christ’s courageous acceptance of his fate and his unwavering faith during his walk to Jerusalem.
• The speaker shares original poetry expressing the themes of vulnerability, pain, healing, and hope.
• True Father’s teaching that focusing on loving God diminishes fear and inspires living for a higher eternal purpose.
• Closing prayer emphasizing gratitude for heavenly parents, True Parents, and Jesus Christ, and a call to celebrate parenthood and courage.

Sunday school: Moral lesson from Chinese story “The Old Man Lost His Horse"

The Story Arc

• The loss — The old man's horse runs away, and neighbors quickly assume it's bad luck, but the old man stays calm and withholds judgment.
• The surprise return — The horse comes back with a wild horse, turning apparent misfortune into unexpected good fortune. The old man's response remains balanced: "Maybe it is good, maybe it is bad."
• A new challenge — The son is injured riding the wild horse, introducing the idea that even positive situations carry risks.
• Hidden protection — The son's broken leg prevents him from being conscripted into war, revealing that what seemed like a setback was ultimately a form of safety.

Core Moral Lessons

• Don't judge too quickly — Circumstances change over time, and initial reactions often don't reflect the full picture.
• Emotional resilience and patience — Children are encouraged to practice calm, thoughtful responses rather than reacting impulsively to setbacks.
• Gratitude and perspective — Some benefits only become clear later, which fosters patience and a broader view of life's events.

Sunday Service on May 3, 2026

Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on May 3, 2026

Sermon: Judge Not

The speaker delivers a heartfelt and deeply personal message centered on forgiveness, grace, judgment, and the Christian journey through trials and transformation. She begins by recounting a tragic family event where two young relatives were shot, one fatally and another who survived miraculously, underscoring themes of faith, prayer, and divine intervention. She emphasizes the importance of not judging others by their current struggles or appearances, reminding listeners that everyone is on a spiritual path and that God's grace extends to all, regardless of where they are in life.

The speaker draws heavily on biblical narratives, particularly the conversion of Saul to Paul, to illustrate how God chooses individuals despite their past transgressions to fulfill His divine purpose. She implores the audience to focus on judging the "fruit" or actions of others rather than condemning their personhood. The message encourages compassion, prayer, and active ministry in the world, highlighting the need for Christians to labor in the "harvest" by reaching out to those who are lost or hurting.

Throughout, the speaker shares personal anecdotes about her family, struggles with judgment from others, and the power of spiritual transformation. She calls for believers to resist the temptation to judge harshly, to forgive generously, and to embrace their calling with zeal and humility. The message concludes with a powerful exhortation to serve an all-powerful, all-knowing, and omnipresent God, who has predestined believers for holiness and redemption, urging perseverance and faithfulness in the Christian walk.

Highlights

- The speaker humbly opens by sharing a family tragedy involving two young relatives who were shot, highlighting the power of forgiveness and faith.

- A miraculous sign of life is seen when a supposedly brain-dead great nephew moves and closes his eyes during prayer, affirming the power of the anointing.

- Emphasis on judging fruit, not people — “Judge not, but judge the fruit,” encouraging accountability balanced with grace.

- The transformation of Saul to Paul is used as a key biblical example of God’s redeeming power and calling despite a troubled past.

- Clarification on Christian living: drinking a little is permissible but drunkenness is condemned, illustrating boundaries in faith.

- Personal testimony of resilience and spiritual growth despite family hardships, urging listeners not to judge but to pray.

- A strong theological affirmation of God’s omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence, underscoring the foundation of faith.

Sunday School: Bible study - The Parable of New Cloth and New Wineskins

Jesus's parables about new cloth and new wineskins illustrate how his teachings call for an inner transformation of the heart, not just outward rule-following.

New cloth on an old shirt — Sewing unshrunk fabric onto worn clothing makes the tear worse; this symbolizes how surface-level fixes can't address deeper spiritual needs

New wine in old wineskins — Fermenting wine expands and bursts rigid, aged skins; the metaphor underscores that Jesus's message requires a heart ready to grow and stretch

Core lesson: Mixing the genuinely new (grace, inner change) with the rigidly old (rule-keeping, pretending) doesn't work — transformation must go all the way through.

Old vs. New Contrast

"Old" mindset — Focused on external appearances, selfish habits, rule-following without heart change, pride or shame as motivators.

"New" mindset — Jesus changes the heart first; real love, forgiveness, honesty, and courage flow outward from that inner renewal.

Historical context provided: Many people in Jesus's time equated faith with strict rule adherence; Jesus redirected focus toward God wanting genuine relationship over performance.

Sunday Service on Apr. 26, 2026

Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on Apr. 26, 2026

Music Offering

Sermon: Our life’s value depends on what we choose to value.

"The Boy and the Stone"

Summary

The sermon addresses the profound question of what gives life true value, emphasizing that value is not passively assigned but actively chosen by individuals. Drawing from biblical scripture, specifically Matthew 16:21 and Proverbs 23:7, the message highlights how where one places their treasure reveals the condition of their heart and how internal beliefs shape outward character. The speaker contrasts two primary religious approaches: Christianity’s visionary, narrative-driven framework centered on God’s redemptive plan, and Buddhism’s problem-solving, suffering-alleviating methodology. The church’s approach is described as a hybrid, blending visionary narratives with problem-solving elements to address human restoration and happiness. A central story, “The Boy and the Storm,” illustrates how the value of one’s life depends on where one places themselves — just as a stone's worth depends on its placement. Although the story may seem unrealistic, its moral lesson is vital and encourages openness toward visionary narratives. The sermon also uses the analogy to highlight how hopelessness and lack of self-value can lead to violence, both outwardly (such as terrorism) and inwardly (such as suicide), emphasizing the importance of discovering genuine worth in oneself and others. The speaker touches on difficult theological concepts such as the distinction between “blessed” and “non-blessed” children of God, clarifying that this teaching is not intended to foster superiority but to build genuine confidence grounded in faith and continuous growth rather than arrogance. The sermon ultimately calls listeners to live as beloved children of a Heavenly Parent, recognizing their intrinsic worth and shining their value in daily life. It ends with a prayer that encourages reflection on the Heavenly Parent’s role in imparting true value amid life’s busyness. Highlights

• The value of life depends on what we choose to treasure, supported by biblical verses.
• Christianity uses a visionary narrative approach; Buddhism uses a problem-solving model.
• Story “The Boy and the Storm” teaches that life’s worth depends on where one places oneself.
• The church sometimes uses warning methods similar to doctors advising patients for their own good.
• Hopelessness from lack of self-value can lead to violence, both outwardly and inwardly.
• True faith fosters confidence and growth, not arrogance or superiority.
• True value comes from connecting to the Heavenly Parent and recognizing life as a divine gift.

Presentation slide

Transcription

Slide 1
My message today is primarily intended for those in our audience who are still seeking personal value and direction in their lives. While those who hold the Divine Principle as absolute truth may wonder why I am presenting these core teachings from an objective view. My goal is to make these concepts accessible to everyone. While the parenting task would certainly be simplified if these truths were universally accepted, I believe this approach serves our entire community.
I would also like to request that the children remain present until I share a short video story. I have prepared coloring pages and a craft activity for them to enjoy afterward.
Today we are exploring a deeply personal question: what gives our lives true value? Today’s sermon topic is: Our life’s value depends on what we choose to value.
The central idea is that value is not assigned to us; we actively choose what to treasure.  

Slide 2
Let us read two Bible verses.

For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

Matthew 6:21 

Where is your treasure right now? Let us read the next verse.

For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.

Proverbs 23:7

This verse connects inner belief to outer character — what we think in our hearts shapes who we become. Our internal values are not hidden; they show up in our actions and choices every day.

These two scriptures form the foundation for everything we will discuss today. They tell us that our focus determines our destiny and our beliefs determine our character. Keep this in mind as we look at how different traditions approach the questions of life.

Slide 3

There are generally two approaches to religion. One is visionary and narrative-driven, while the other centers on problem-solving frameworks. Christianity exemplifies the visionary and narrative approach, emphasizing God's plan to redeem humanity and establish a heavenly kingdom. In contrast, Buddhism serves as an example of the problem-solution model, focusing on methods to alleviate suffering and attain enlightenment.

What type of approach does our church use? In my view, we take a hybrid approach. The Divine Principle begins by stating, "Every human being is striving to achieve lasting happiness and overcome adversity." It then explores the origins of happiness and highlights a significant inner conflict present in everyone, which leads to issues within society. Afterward, the approach alternates between visionary perspectives and narrative elements to address human restoration.

Visionary, narrative-based approaches can be difficult for individuals who favor intellectual or logical reasoning, especially when the story does not align with their rational framework.

I would like to emphasize that many stories teach us valuable lessons. I am using parables and folktales to teach children moral lessons at Sunday school.

Slide 4
I would like to present a brief video that connects to today's sermon theme, which is the value of life. The video tells the story of a young boy who wonders about the value of his life, titled "The Boy and the Stone".

The father tells his son that a stone's value depends on where it's placed, just like one's life. He says, "Your life's worth is determined by where you put yourself; the choice is yours."

This teaching aligns with what is expressed in the Bible verses I shared today.  How we value ourselves and where we place ourselves determines our worth and our life’s course. Let us watch a short video of the story.

Slide 6
"The Boy and the Stone" is not a realistic story when viewed critically. Who would allow a child to travel alone with such a valuable stone? It's far too risky—bad people could hurt the child or steal the stone. However, if you dismiss the story as unrealistic and refuse to listen, you'll miss the important lesson it teaches. Similarly, we shouldn't close our hearts to visionary, narrative-driven methods.

If you are a doctor, what should you do when a patient tells you they don’t understand your explanation of their condition and refuse to take the medicine or treatment you suggest?

Should you reassure the patient that you genuinely care about their health and want them to live well? Or should you warn them that not taking the medication or treatment could be life-threatening?

Our church occasionally, or perhaps frequently, uses warnings to guide members. This approach may not appeal to young people. Sometimes warning methods are essential such as when doctors must advise patients who decline medication or treatment. As you may recall, God used a warning method. He told Adam and Eve that if they ate fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, they would die.

What I would like to emphasize is that the value taught in stories can be effective and useful even if we do not understand the story itself.

Slide 7
Are you familiar with the following story?

Adam and Eve fell. All descendants were born in Satan’s lineage. Blessing changes the blood lineage. Children born from Blessed parents are God’s children without sin.

Some may say; “The story feels unrealistic, so I can’t buy into it or see myself playing a role in it.”

What value and lesson can we learn from the story?

Our lives are valuable because we are considered God's children. This belief doesn't mean we think we're more important than others. When we appreciate our own life as a gift from God, we also learn to respect and value the lives of those around us.

A true patriot isn't simply someone who loves their own country; rather, it is a person who respects other nations just as much as they cherish their own.

A true child of God values others as God's children.

When we understand that our existence originates from a higher cause—often referred to as God—we can discover the true value and meaning of our lives.  

Slide 8
When individuals are unable to understand the genuine value of their lives, it resembles the analogy presented in the story "The Boy and the Stone," where a precious gem is overlooked at the marketplace. In such circumstances, people may experience diminished motivation and develop a sense of hopelessness due to this lack of self-appreciation.

Feeling hopeless can be extremely risky, as it may lead to acts of violence. In many cases, mass killings or terrorist incidents are linked to a sense of despair.  

Slide 9
Suicide bombings sometimes occurred in Israel during the 1990s. While I was there in 1998, one happened near where I stayed.

Israeli settlers right next to Palestinian area lived in a well-maintained area with new homes, greenery, and flowers, thanks to sprinklers, while Palestinian homes outside the settlers’ area were old and surrounded by desert. The stark contrast could make young Palestinians feel hopeless, which made them vulnerable to recruitment by terrorist groups for suicide attacks. 

Slide 8
My story is not for judging Israel or Palestine. My point is that when feelings of hopelessness lead to violence directed outward, it can result in harming or killing others. When feelings of hopelessness lead to violence directed inward, it can result in self-harm or suicide. It is crucial that we discover genuine worth in ourselves and in those around us.

Slide 10
Some may say: “I understand that we teach the importance of understanding that our existence originates from God. Wait a minute. Our church distinguishes between Blessed and non-Blessed children. We teach that people are not in God’s lineage—they are in Satan’s or the servant’s lineage—unless they receive the Blessing or are born as Blessed children.”

Do we view those outside our church as less valuable? Are we guilty of looking down on them? Many young people believe that religious individuals are arrogant and see themselves as superior, but this perception is inaccurate.

In last Sunday school, we talked about the difference between confidence and bragging. Confidence means believing we can grow and improve. It keeps us receptive—so we listen, learn, and become better over time.

Bragging, by contrast, is insisting we’re better than others. It tends to block listening and learning because it feeds ego, not growth. Real faith builds confidence and moves us to keep improving as sons and daughters of Heavenly Parent.

True Parents blessed evil people like Hitler.

Some may say, “How can we verify this? I’m not convinced.”

Yes, there is no way to prove that Hitler received Blessing unless you have a spiritual ability to communicate directly with Hitler in the spiritual world. We have the book compiled with messages from historical figures in the spiritual world. But their similar tone makes it hard to verify their authenticity. I understand it is hard to believe that Hitler is really praising True Parents just from the book.

The story of Hitler’s Blessing shows that our belief is that everyone is a child of God and deserves God's blessing, regardless of their actions.

Why is Blessing so special?

We uphold marriage as a holy covenant, a divinely ordained union between a man and a woman, God’s son and daughter and with gratitude we cherish our spouses as God’s beloved children and as precious gifts from His hand.

Slide 11
How do you think the value of Blessing, as God intends it, helps nurture a strong marriage and a healthy family?

Going back to the doctor–patient example, what is the patient’s responsibility?”

Patients can choose to trust the care they’re given, or they can seek understanding for how and why it brings healing.

Even if you don’t fully accept our church’s stories, you can still receive the goodness of the values behind them—and put those values into practice in your own life. 

Please remember how we value ourselves and where we place ourselves determines our value and our life's course.

Let us live as sons and daughters of Heavenly Parent and shine our value!