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Childrens of God
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You can help too the poor people
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Life’s knots need Jesus
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Gratia Church Holds Special Sunday Service and Bids Farewell to Pastor Julia and Pastor Walker
SF Gratia Church gathered for a special Sunday service on August 30, worshiping together and bidding a heartfelt farewell to Pastor Julia and Pastor Walker as they prepare to leave San Francisco.
During the service, Pastor Walker delivered a message from Acts 11:19–21 titled “Church in Antioch.” As his final Sunday message before leaving, the sermon carried special meaning as he shared his prayer and hope for the future of Gratia Church.
Through the example of the church in Antioch, Pastor Walker highlighted several characteristics of a church that God can use to advance the gospel.
First, he reflected on how the church in Antioch grew out of persecution. Because of persecution, believers were scattered to different places. Yet wherever they went, they carried the gospel with them. What appeared to be hardship ultimately became an opportunity for the gospel to spread and for God to begin a new work.
Pastor Walker encouraged the congregation to remain centered on God in every circumstance and to trust that God can turn difficulties into opportunities. Even when the road ahead is uncertain, believers can trust that God is working and can open a new chapter according to His purpose.
He also pointed to Barnabas as an example of a leader who encouraged and strengthened others. Pastor Walker emphasized that church leaders should have a heart to encourage people, recognize what God is doing in them, and help them grow.
Another important characteristic of the Antioch church was its commitment to raising up leaders. Barnabas went to Tarsus to find Saul and brought him to Antioch, where Saul could use his deep knowledge of Scripture to teach and strengthen the believers. Pastor Walker encouraged the church to recognize gifted people, give them opportunities to serve, and continually develop new leaders.
Finally, the church in Antioch had a global vision. It was willing to send out Barnabas and Saul for missionary work, even though they were important leaders in the church. Rather than holding on to its strongest workers, the church sent them out so that the gospel could reach new people and new places.
Through the message, Pastor Walker expressed his hope that Gratia Church would continue to become a church that trusts God through every circumstance, encourages and develops people, raises up leaders, and carries a global vision for mission.
At the conclusion of the Sunday service, the congregation expressed heartfelt gratitude to Pastor Julia and Pastor Walker for their faithful service, love, and care for the church. Church members presented them with gifts, flowers, framed photos, and a farewell card filled with messages of appreciation and blessing.
The fellowship continued after the service with a special farewell potluck. Members gathered around the table to share food, conversation, laughter, and memories, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere as they celebrated the pastors’ time with the church.
The special Sunday was filled with gratitude, love, and hope. While the congregation was sad to say goodbye, Pastor Walker’s final message also pointed Gratia Church toward the road ahead — trusting God in every season, encouraging and raising up others, and continuing to carry the gospel with a heart for the world.
As Pastor Julia and Pastor Walker begin their next chapter, Gratia Church sends them forward with prayer, gratitude, and blessings for the journey ahead.
Gratia Members Had a Graceful Joint Pentecost Sunday Service
Gratia members had a blessed Pentecost Sunday service on May 24 together. The message was delivered by Pastor Walker based on Acts 3 under the title, “Look at Us.” He shared how the man who once lived as a crippled beggar was transformed into someone who could confidently tell others to look to him and follow his example. Pastor Walker emphasized that this is the true meaning of Pentecost – a life transformed through the power of the Holy Spirit. The message deeply touched everyone, and the members shared abundant grace and fellowship after the service.
In the afternoon, Gratia members also enjoyed a wonderful time of outdoor activities together with the campus members. It was a meaningful time of encouragement, strengthening, and warm fellowship. Gratia prays that each member will continue to experience life-changing transformation through the power of the Holy Spirit.
The Prayer of Elijah
And Elijah said to Ahab, “Go, eat and drink, for there is the sound of a heavy rain.” So Ahab went off to eat and drink, but Elijah climbed to the top of Carmel, bent down to the ground and put his face between his knees.
Gratia Tuesday Online Bible Study Continues
Gratia Church held a graceful and meaningful Tuesday Bible study on March 24, welcoming both regular attendees and a newcomer to the gathering. The study was led by Pastor Julia, who shared a message from Romans 3, focusing on the righteousness of God and the significance of faith in Jesus Christ.
The atmosphere was warm and engaging, creating a space where participants could reflect deeply on the Scripture and its relevance to their daily lives. The presence of a newcomer added a special joy to the fellowship, as the group was able to extend hospitality and share the message of the gospel together.
Throughout the study, attendees listened attentively, asked thoughtful questions, and encouraged one another in their faith. It was a time not only of learning but also of building community and strengthening spiritual connections. The evening concluded with a sense of gratitude for God’s Word and anticipation for continued growth through future Bible studies.
Sunday:The Power of God’s Love and Mercy
San Francisco Gratia Church held a graceful Sunday service on March 15. Pastor Walker delivered a message based on John 8 titled “The Power of God’s Love and Mercy.” Below is a summary of the message.
In John 8:1-11, the Pharisees bring a woman caught in adultery before Jesus, hoping to trap Him between the demands of the Law and the message of grace He preached. According to the Law, the punishment for adultery was stoning, so they expected Jesus to either reject the Law or condemn the woman. Instead, Jesus responds with profound wisdom: “Let the one who is without sin be the first to throw a stone.” One by one, the accusers leave. In this moment, Jesus resets the entire foundation of the conversation. The Law is not dismissed, but it is placed within a deeper reality-the truth that all people are sinners in need of grace. The Gospel reveals a wisdom far greater than the rigid judgments of the world, showing that while sin must be taken seriously, it must also be approached through the lens of God’s love and mercy.
When the crowd disappears, Jesus asks the woman, “Has no one condemned you?” and then says, “Neither do I condemn you.” This does not mean that her sin is ignored or excused, but that the punishment she deserved would ultimately be carried by Christ Himself on the cross. The Law exposes sin, but it cannot free us from it; only grace can do that. The cross reveals this mystery of the Gospel: sin is real and must be judged, yet God Himself takes that judgment upon Himself out of love for humanity. In this way, Jesus removes not only physical punishment but also the invisible stones of shame, humiliation, and self-condemnation that so often weigh down our hearts.
Finally, Jesus tells the woman, “Go now and leave your life of sin.” True faith is not built on fear or self-effort, but on receiving God’s unconditional love. Because we are no longer condemned, we are free to walk in a new life. Many people try to overcome sin through willpower alone, only to fall into cycles of guilt and self-punishment. But the Gospel teaches that transformation begins with grace. When we know that God already sees our sin and still loves us, our hearts open to a deeper relationship with Him. From that relationship flows the strength to leave sin behind and live in freedom. This story reminds us that the foundation of our faith is not our perfection, but the boundless mercy of Christ who calls us out of condemnation and into new life.
Go Now and Leave Your Life of Sin
San Francisco Gratia Church held a graceful Sunday service on March 15. Pastor Walker delivered a message based on John 8 titled “The Power of God’s Love and Mercy.” Below is a summary of the message.
In John 8:1-11, the Pharisees bring a woman caught in adultery before Jesus, hoping to trap Him between the demands of the Law and the message of grace He preached. According to the Law, the punishment for adultery was stoning, so they expected Jesus to either reject the Law or condemn the woman. Instead, Jesus responds with profound wisdom: “Let the one who is without sin be the first to throw a stone.” One by one, the accusers leave. In this moment, Jesus resets the entire foundation of the conversation. The Law is not dismissed, but it is placed within a deeper reality-the truth that all people are sinners in need of grace. The Gospel reveals a wisdom far greater than the rigid judgments of the world, showing that while sin must be taken seriously, it must also be approached through the lens of God’s love and mercy.
When the crowd disappears, Jesus asks the woman, “Has no one condemned you?” and then says, “Neither do I condemn you.” This does not mean that her sin is ignored or excused, but that the punishment she deserved would ultimately be carried by Christ Himself on the cross. The Law exposes sin, but it cannot free us from it; only grace can do that. The cross reveals this mystery of the Gospel: sin is real and must be judged, yet God Himself takes that judgment upon Himself out of love for humanity. In this way, Jesus removes not only physical punishment but also the invisible stones of shame, humiliation, and self-condemnation that so often weigh down our hearts.
Finally, Jesus tells the woman, “Go now and leave your life of sin.” True faith is not built on fear or self-effort, but on receiving God’s unconditional love. Because we are no longer condemned, we are free to walk in a new life. Many people try to overcome sin through willpower alone, only to fall into cycles of guilt and self-punishment. But the Gospel teaches that transformation begins with grace. When we know that God already sees our sin and still loves us, our hearts open to a deeper relationship with Him. From that relationship flows the strength to leave sin behind and live in freedom. This story reminds us that the foundation of our faith is not our perfection, but the boundless mercy of Christ who calls us out of condemnation and into new life. .
The Image of God
San Francisco Gratia Community Church held a graceful Sunday service on March 8. Pastor Tzeng delivered a message titled “God’s Creation” based on Genesis 1. He shared that this will be the beginning of a sermon series on the book of Genesis. Below is a summary of today’s message.
Genesis 1 begins with the powerful truth that God created the universe out of nothing, forming the world with intention and beauty. At the climax of creation, humanity is made in God’s own image, male and female. This means that the deepest part of who we are is not simply our physical body or our intellect, but the spiritual imprint of God placed within us. Ecclesiastes says that God has set eternity in the human heart, reminding us that our lives are connected to something far greater than the visible world. Because we bear God’s image, understanding who God is helps us understand who we are. Scripture tells us clearly that God is love, and this love was revealed most fully through Jesus Christ, who came to the world and gave His life on the cross. Therefore, the meaning of our lives flows from this truth: we were created to receive God’s love and to reflect that love outward in the way we live.
Genesis also teaches that humanity was created “very good,” yet in the fallen world this original goodness often feels hidden. Sin, anxiety, selfishness, and brokenness cloud the image of God within us, much like a hazy mirror that no longer reflects clearly. The apostle Paul describes this condition by saying we now see only dimly, as if through a blurred reflection. When we look around the world today-filled with loneliness, addiction, anger, and despair-it becomes clear that humanity is living far from its original purpose. We were not created to live in constant confusion or emptiness. Rather, God created us to live in love, to know Him, and to reflect His goodness in the world. The tragedy of sin is that it covers over this identity, causing us to forget who we truly are.
Yet the message of the Gospel is that the image of God within us can be rediscovered and restored. Just as Simba in *The Lion King* eventually realizes that his father’s image lives within him and returns to his true calling, we too rediscover our identity when we encounter God again. We cannot find this purpose on our own or through the world’s distractions; it is revealed through Jesus Christ, who is the perfect image of God. As we listen to God’s Word, receive His grace, and enter into a personal relationship with Christ, the image of God within us becomes clearer again. This rediscovery gives our lives direction and meaning-not a purpose centered only on ourselves, but a purpose connected to God’s greater work of restoring His Kingdom in the world.
Gratia Church Joyful Fellowship with Youth Group
Gratia Church recently held a joyful and uplifting fellowship with its youth group, creating a meaningful time of connection, encouragement, and spiritual growth. The gathering brought together young members of the church in an atmosphere filled with warmth, laughter, and genuine fellowship.
During the event, the youth had the opportunity to spend time building relationships with one another through conversation, shared activities, and moments of reflection. It was not only a time of fun, but also a chance to strengthen their faith and be reminded of God’s presence in their daily lives.
The fellowship included a time of sharing and encouragement, where participants were able to express their thoughts and experiences. Through this, the group grew closer together, supporting one another and fostering a sense of unity within the church community.
Gratia Church Continues in Personal Bible Studies and Outreach
Gratia Church continues faithfully in its mission through personal Bible studies and reaching out to new people in the neighborhood. With grateful hearts, we are thankful for the opportunities God gives us to share His Word one-on-one and build meaningful relationships within our community.
Through personal Bible studies, lives are being nurtured and faith is being strengthened. At the same time, our outreach efforts allow us to meet new neighbors, listen to their stories, and invite them into fellowship. Each conversation is a reminder that God is at work, drawing hearts to Himself.
Please pray that the mission of God will continue with grace and joy. May the Lord open doors, prepare hearts, and use Gratia Church as a faithful instrument for His glory.
Jesus changes water into wine
San Francisco Gratia Church held a graceful Sunday service on February 15. Pastor Walker delivered a message titled “The Wedding Banquet at Cana” based on John 2. Below is a summary of the message.
In today’s passage, we see Jesus at a wedding in Cana where the wine runs out-a moment that feels small, yet carries deep meaning. A wedding banquet is meant to be joyful, with the bridegroom at the center, but when the wine is gone, the celebration falters. This reflects the reality of a life centered on the world: eventually, the joy runs dry. We pursue many “husbands”-success, pleasure, money, recognition-hoping they will satisfy our thirst, yet something remains unresolved within us. Jesus’ response to His mother, “Why involve me?” invites us to ask ourselves the same question: have we truly involved Him in the center of our lives? The Kingdom of God is like a wedding banquet, but Christ must be the true Bridegroom. When He is not at the center, our joy is temporary and fragile; when He is, everything changes from the inside out.
Before the miracle happens, Jesus commands the servants to fill six large stone jars with water-an ordinary, heavy, time-consuming task. This teaches us that transformation often begins with preparation. The jars, filled to the brim, represent the faithful, patient work of prayer, obedience, study of the Word, and steady growth in every area of life. Just as God created in six days before entering Sabbath rest, and just as history prepared for Christ’s coming, there is often a long season of filling before the qualitative change occurs. We cannot pray for miracles while neglecting the work of faith. To center our lives on Christ means actively preparing-strengthening our spiritual life, relationships, character, and stewardship-trusting that God uses these faithful acts as the soil for transformation.
When the water becomes wine, the master of the banquet declares that the best wine has been saved for last. Unlike the world’s diluted joy that fades over time, life in Christ grows deeper and richer. The Kingdom does not deteriorate; it matures. As we allow Jesus to be at the center and faithfully “fill the jars” of our lives with grace, what begins as ordinary water becomes something qualitatively new. This miracle reveals the pattern of the Gospel-through the cross and resurrection, Christ transforms what is empty into fullness and what is ordinary into glory. If we desire change in our lives, the answer is not chasing more worldly wine, but centering everything on Jesus. Then, by His grace, our lives will not fade but grow better and deeper, reflecting the joy of His Kingdom.