Category Archives: Pastors Corner

Inspirational faith based articles from local Pastors in the Eastvale area.

Our Everything

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”Psalm 18:2

David, the author of this Psalm, writes eight titles referencing God and His reliability. He experienced God’s hand of protection and deliverance from his enemies and now David is worshipping God for His faithfulness during battle. I’m sure David sang often in battle. I heard it said of a young boy who was trying to pull a large weed from his front yard. Suddenly, the weed came out, root and all, and the boy was thrown back and fell in the process. A man happened to be passing by and replied to the young boy. “That sure was a hard pull!” The boy replied, “It sure is tough when you have the whole world pulling against you.” We can all feel what this boy said at times. The cares and concerns of the “pulling world” have a way of fading away in God’s presence. Pressures, demands, deadlines, and failures are no match for the reliability of God. He strengthens you when you are at your weakest point (2 Corinthians 12:9). David rejoiced that God was everything he needed to get through the most difficult of situations. When the battle rages or the world “pulls,” it takes strong faith to worship. But as you worship you will find the One supplying the strength to worship is your “stronghold.” God is closer than you think and He is “able to supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Phil 4:19)

Calvary Eastvale meets Sundays, 8:30 & 10:30am at the Eastvale Community Center. Youth Ministry and Children’s church at 10:30am. Visit their website at http://www.clavaryeastvale.org.

His Cross

By Pastor Dennis Morales

Colossians 1:20 “…having made peace through the blood of His cross.”

Why a cross? When we see a cross today we may think of it as a symbol of Christian faith. Some wear it as a piece of fine jewelry and some hang it on a wall as an element of décor. In reality, the cross was the cruelest form of punishment known to man during Rome’s rule. It was known to the people of day as a bloody symbol of cruelty and torture. It was designed to humiliate a person. The cross was a brittle piece of wood and it was meant to bring the most excruciating pain allowing the slowest possible way of death. Truthfully, if there was any other means of forgiveness, I don’t think God would have allowed His Son to suffer in such a way. If we could access Heaven through good deeds and a moral life, the Bible says then Jesus would have “died in vain” (Galatians 2:21). But the fact is that Jesus did die because there was no other way and He paid the price of sin at the Cross. In Jesus, salvation is made available to the whole world. The “good news” is that death could not hold Him and that He rose! (1 Peter 1:3). Death died at the Cross (Hebrews 2:14). It has no more power! Have you doubted God’s love for you? Jesus willingly stretched out His arms on that Cross for you and me. Remember, it was love that held Jesus to the Cross. (Easter Service at Calvary: 9:30am).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays, 8:30am and 10:30am at the Eastvale Community Center. http://www.calvaryeastvale.org.

Is the Gospel Alive?

Pastor Matt Miles

Easter Sunday is right around the corner! This brings a question: did Jesus really rise from the grave? Interestingly, the resurrection of Jesus Christ has been a debated topic from the very beginning, and many have introduced theories to try to explain away this phenomenon. One of the theories that has been around since the resurrection is “the disciples stole the body.” In Matthew 28:11-13, the Jewish leaders listened to the guards’ accounts of what transpired and decided on a remedy that required bribery and an explanation. Essentially, the disciples stole the body while the guards were sleeping.

The first issue is how could the guards have known what the disciples did if they were sleeping? The second issue is that Matthew 28:2 and Mark 16:4 mention that a large stone was covering the entrance to the tomb. This large stone would have taken many hands to move and would have made enough noise to wake the sleeping guards. Another issue would be why were the grave clothes left behind by the disciples? Not just left behind but the napkin that had been on Jesus’ head was folded and neatly left according to John 20:7.

The final issue is this: why would the disciples give their lives for a lie? These disciples were dejected and hiding in a room fearing they were next but after Jesus’ resurrection and ascension these men boldly stood before the Sanhedrin in Acts 4, propagated the gospel throughout the world, and most died a martyr’s death. Even staunch critics such as James (the half-brother of Jesus) and Saul (the Christian persecutor) dedicated their lives to Christ after His resurrection and died for Him. Why would these Christians and critics die for His cause?

The resurrection of Christ was a literal, life changing event in history! 1 Peter 1:3 says, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” Through Jesus Christ’s resurrection the gospel is alive!

Hillcrest Baptist Church meets Sundays at 10:30 a.m. at Vandermolen Elementary located at 6744 Carnelian St. Mira Loma, CA 91752 and they can be reached at (951)357-6737.

Inflation

By Mark Hopper

The cost of everything has skyrocketed over the past few years. The cost of food, fuel and other necessities have risen dramatically. The government continues to reassure the public that inflation is slowing and things are under control. But most consumers are skeptical.

I have used the cost of donuts as an example. A dozen donuts at my favorite shop used to be nine or ten dollars. Recent purchases are now sixteen dollars for one dozen! One day I bought a half dozen and it was about the same price a dozen was only a couple of years ago.

Sometimes it is difficult to accurately measure inflation at the grocery store because manufacturers have reduced the quantity of the contents. A breakfast cereal box may look the same but it may contain less cereal. A bottle of orange juice may look the same but the contents have been reduced from 64 ounces to 59 ounces. Now it contains only 52 ounces. Looks can be deceiving. Read the fine print to clearly understand how much orange juice you are getting. Prices have gone up while the contents have gone down.

Years ago the State Department came up with a formula to measure the cost of living for diplomats serving in different countries around the world. They adjusted the salaries of employees based on how much it cost to live in more expensive cities like Tokyo, Moscow or Paris. They compared the price of a MacDonald’s Big Mac burger.

I got the idea to measure inflation by comparing the prices at my favorite fast food restaurant In N Out Burger. Several sources I found online confirmed the price of a Double-Double Cheeseburger in 2022 was $3.95. The price for the exact same burger in 2023 was $4.90. An increase of 24% in one year! The same size with the same ingredients. Some of the reasons cited by various authors were increased wages for workers, the higher cost of transportation and the price of the raw materials for the burgers and fries.

I think most people feel helpless fighting inflation. We need to feed our families and fuel our cars. Prices at the gas pump and the grocery store continue to increase. Jesus said our Heavenly Father knows our needs and will provide for us (Matthew 6:25-34). Let me encourage you to put your faith in God and not in the government. You will be glad you did and He will too.

You can read more stories by Mark Hopper in his new book “Let Me Encourage You More – An Encouraging Story for Every Day of the Year”. Order your copy today at markh@efreedb.org. The price is $25 per book or two books for $40 plus postage ($5). Purchase one for yourself and give one to a friend. You will be glad you did!

Fuel For Life

By Pastor Dennis Morales

Leviticus 6:12 “And the fire on the altar shall be kept burning on it; it shall not be put out. And the priest shall burn wood on it every morning…”

A first-grader wondered why her father brought home a briefcase full of work every evening. Her mother explained, “Daddy has so much to do that he can’t finish it all at the office.” “Well, then,” asked the child innocently, “why don’t they put him in a slower group?” I believe there is much truth to this. We find our fast paced environment creeping its way into our lives more often these days. We can walk into worship at church lacking energy and being a spectator rather than a willing participant. This may not always mean it’s time for vacation, but it may be an indicator to at least “slow down.” The fire on the altar of “burnt offering” was to never go out. If your time with God is dissipating, you will burn out. God is calling upon us to burn brightly for Him in our daily lives, but there needs to be fuel for the fire. The priests would throw wood on the fire every morning to keep the fire burning. It may be time to prioritize, slow down, and put wood on the fire. There is no greater fuel for the Christian heart than the Bible. In Luke 24 after Jesus rose from the dead, he met two disciples on a road and opened the Scriptures to them. After their encounter with the Risen Christ they proclaimed “did not our hearts burn within us while He talked with us?” (Luke 24:32) Make it a priority to get back into the “daily” practice of reading your Bible and praying. It will bring fuel to your life.

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays at 9:00am. Services are held at the Eastvale Community Center. Visit their website at http://www.calvaryeastvale.org.

The Flood

Reverend Wayne Chu

By Reverend Wayne Chu

If you keep up with international news, you may know that there was record-breaking rainfall causing terrible floods in China. Last week, even the Forbidden City (a historic palace) in Beijing was flooded, (It is the first time in 600 years that the Forbidden City has flooded). This week, the heavy rain moves to the northeastern area of China where the flooding followed. More than 2 million people needed to evacuate. Many towns are inundated and many people lost their families, their land, and many even lost their lives.

We feel the pain of the people. We pray that God has mercy on them, rescue will come and the situation will improve soon.

As we read Genesis, we read that God promised Noah never again He will destroy all living creatures through the flood. So we would ask the hard question: Why does God allow these disasters to happen to people today?

In the Gospel of Luke, there is an incident Jesus explained to us why some people experience suffering like this and I think it may give us an answer. Jesus asked a question, “Do you think these people were worse sinners than all the others because they suffered this way? And Jesus said, “No, but unless you repent, you too will all perish”. Jesus gave another example: “Or those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them—do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem? I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.” (Luke 13:1-5)

Future judgment has never been a popular topic, but it is the core teaching in the New Testament and it is exactly because of the terror of the future judgment that our salvation becomes so precious.

All these natural disasters are acting as a sign for the world; if people do not repent when the judgment eventually comes the consequence of sins will bring these disasters. For Christians, it is our responsibility to tell the world that there is a way out, which is by believing in Jesus Christ, we can be saved.

Riverside Christian Alliance Church meets on Sundays for worship at 10:30 a.m. and it’s located at 9640 Jurupa Road, Jurupa Valley CA 92509. You can reach them at 951-360-0113 or visit their https://www.riversidecma.org/

A Plane Full of Children

By Mark Hopper

My wife Susan and I celebrated our honeymoon by spending two weeks in Hawaii. We enjoyed a quiet restful time eating breakfast on the lanai at our condo and discovering new restaurants for lunch and dinner. We also did a lot of cooking at the condo and enjoyed eating some delicious steaks from the BBQ grill.

We used a rental car to visit a variety of places on Maui and to purchase some souvenirs and gifts. It was fun to discover some new places and beaches that neither of us had been to before. We continue to smile as we remember our time together in Hawaii.

However our airplane flight home brought us back to reality. We flew my favorite airline Southwest non-stop from Long Beach to Maui. Our return flight was also non-stop back to Long Beach. But unlike our outbound flight the trip home was very different.

Both flights were full but the plane ride home was filled with over 40 children. There were a large number of families with little kids. It wasn’t as bad as it could have been but it was a noisy active group on our flight. Some babies and little children struggled with the change in air pressure. It was difficult for some to sleep. The cabin was filled with the cries of infants who were tired and uncomfortable.

The parents tried so hard to comfort and quiet their little ones. Some walked them up and down the aisle of the plane and tried to settle their child down. Others used electronic toys and video screens to keep their kids quiet. Some were successful and some were not.

Eventually we arrived safely in Long Beach. It was a long flight. By now most of those little kids are home in their own beds and their parents are probably reconsidering their plans for their next trip to Hawaii. I suspect they may wait until their young children are teenagers.

There is a passage in the Bible which illustrates Jesus’ love for little kids. He scolded his disciples for preventing young children from gathering around Him. He opened his arms and welcomed them to his side. (Mark 10:13-16). Let me encourage you to be patient and understanding when you are in a room full or a plane full of young children. And you may want to check with your airline to schedule your next flight with fewer kids on board. You will be glad you did.

“You can read more stories by Mark Hopper in his new book “Let Me Encourage You More – An Encouraging Story for Every Day of the Year”. Order your copy today at markh@efreedb.org. The price is $25 per book or two books for $40 plus postage ($5). Purchase one for yourself and give one to a friend. You will be glad you did!

A Good Priority

By Pastor Dennis Morales

Leviticus 6:12 “And the fire on the altar shall be kept burning on it; it shall not be put out. And the priest shall burn wood on it every morning…”

A first-grader wondered why her father brought home a briefcase full of work every evening. Her mother explained, “Daddy has so much to do that he can’t finish it all at the office.” “Well, then,” asked the child innocently, “why don’t they put him in a slower group?” I believe there is much truth to this. We find our fast paced environment creeping its way into our lives more often these days. We can walk into worship at church lacking energy and being a spectator rather than a willing participant. This may not always mean it’s time for a vacation, but it may be an indicator to at least “slow down.” The fire on the altar of “burnt offering” was to never go out. If your time with God is dissipating, you will burn out. God is calling upon us to burn brightly for Him in our daily lives, but there needs to be fuel for the fire. The priests would throw wood on the fire every morning to keep the fire burning. It may be time to prioritize, slow down, and put wood on the fire. There is no greater fuel for the Christian heart than the Bible. In Luke 24 after Jesus rose from the dead, he met two disciples on a road and opened the Scriptures to them. After their encounter with the Risen Christ they proclaimed “did not our hearts burn within us while He talked with us?” (Luke 24:32) Make it a priority to get back into the “daily” practice of reading your Bible and praying. It will bring fuel to your life.

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays, 8:30 and 10:30am at the Eastvale Community Center http://www.calvaryeastvale.org.

Camping & Picnics

By Mark Hopper

I pastored only two churches over a span of 40 years. It was a privilege to lead and serve these two congregations. There were many memories of marriages and new babies. We celebrated the completion of several buildings and participated in many missionary adventures.

But one of the favorite things I remember were the church picnics and family campouts. Picnics at a local park were always a lot of fun. There were games to play for children and adults. Typically the food was potluck although in later years it was easier for the church to provide the food and just ask people to bring desserts to share.  

Family campouts were also wonderful times. In Arizona we camped on Mt. Lemon high above Tucson and also in the White Mountains near the border of New Mexico. In California we camped near the beach above Santa Barbara and also in some inland mountain areas.

It was so relaxing spending a week or a weekend with other church families. The kids played, the dads fished and the mothers talked. I liked getting to know people better in this more personal setting. It was interesting to see family dynamics in a less formal atmosphere. Some people drove large motor homes or pulled travel trailers. Others like my family used a Coleman tent, a Coleman stove and a Coleman lantern and slept in sleeping bags.

I also liked to watch people make new friends at picnics and campouts. Most attended the same church but many attended a different church service. Camping people were usually friendly people. Introductions and conversations were the seeds which blossomed into lifelong friendships. Singing songs around the campfire were memorable too.

One of the most famous books of the Bible recorded a forty-year long camping experience. The book of Exodus tells about the journey of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt to freedom in the promise land. As you read it yourself you will see many similarities to a church picnic or a church campout.

Let me encourage you to make a plan and set a date for a picnic or a campout with some church members, your own family or some friends. You will be glad you did and they will too.

“You can read more stories by Mark Hopper in his new book “Let Me Encourage You More – An Encouraging Story for Every Day of the Year”. Order your copy today at markh@efreedb.org. The price is $25 per book or two books for $40 plus postage ($5). Purchase one for yourself and give one to a friend. You will be glad you did!

Nail Scarred Hands

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself…” Luke 24:39

It’s been said that hands can tell you a lot about a person. Hands that are rough, or strong, may be hands that have seen heavy labor. Hands that are smooth and gentle may belong to a loving mother prone to comfort her child. Hands heavy with wrinkles may have seen many days and hold wisdom. Jesus had already risen from the dead. Then He appeared to His disciples and said “look at My hands…” Have you ever thought about what Jesus’ hands represent? His hands touched blind eyes and caused them to see, His hands healed the lame and sick, His hands hugged the children and blessed them. These were also the hands nailed to the Roman cross for all humanity (John3:16). In Heaven we will be healed, but the nail marks in Jesus’ hands will remain as an eternal reminder of His love for us. He could have removed all those marks of His suffering when He rose from the grave. But He didn’t. Instead, there are the nail scars in His hands and feet (Zechariah13:6/Revelation5:6). Jesus will have the only scars in Heaven. We will be in Heaven complete and whole because of His sacrifice. The nail scarred hands are eternal reminder that Jesus is the Savior! Jesus’ hands continue to touch and heal lives today. He is healing mentally, physically, and most importantly, He heals spiritually. Jesus said “… he who believes in Me has (eternal) life” (John6:47).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays at 8:00am and 10:00am at the Eastvale Community Center. Address: 13820 Schleisman Rd, Eastvale CA 92880. http://www.CalvaryEastvale.org.

Going for a Walk

By Mark Hopper

I have shared in the past how much I enjoyed walking through my neighborhood. I usually got up early in the morning and walked by myself. I enjoyed seeing a few other people in the early morning hours.

But more recently my walking routine has changed. Now I have been walking with my friend Susan instead of walking alone. I have been walking in the afternoon instead of the early morning. And instead of only walking in my neighborhood I have expanded my horizons to include a local park.

I have found myself more motivated with a walking partner. It was hard to get going on my own. But it has been more fun walking with a friend. We talk about the day and we review plans for tomorrow. We discuss a variety of topics in the local news. And we pray for our adult children and our grandchildren.

There is a passage in the Bible that says, “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their work. If one falls down his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10).

The author goes on to say, “If two lie down together they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:11-12).

Having a walking partner has helped me be more motivated to walk in my neighborhood and even drive to a local park to walk together. It is more fun walking and talking with a friend.

We all need friends to share the journey with us. Let me encourage you to invite a friend to do something with you. It may be walking or bowling. It may be painting or exercising. There is strength in numbers and greater enjoyment doing something with your spouse or friend. Make a call or send an email and invite someone to do something with you this week. They will be glad you did and you will too.

Read 365 more stories and articles (one for every day of the year) in his second book Let me Encourage You More by Mark Hopper. It is now available for only $25 plus postage ($5) -Order  your copy at mark@efreedb.org.

Stand Out Strength

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.…” 1 Corinthians 16:13

This is the final encouragement to a church from the Apostle Paul. Paul planted the Corinthian church, but the church had issues that needed addressing. The final comments to them is a calling to “stand fast.” This is actually a military term meaning to “hold your position” or “to refuse to be defeated.” There is to be no retreat. Paul is encouraging the Corinthian church to remain strong in the faith because opposition will come. Trials will ensue. Are you going through a time of drought? Are you going through a time of discouragement? Paul says, “Stand firm and be brave.” I believe we need to share this encouragement all the more today. I am reminded how “Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore, he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.” This Scripture says God had brought Daniel into the favor and goodwill of the chief of the eunuchs (Daniel 1:8-9). Under Babylonian rule, Daniel turned his back on the luxuries of the king’s court because eating defiled food would have been a compromise of his faith. God honored Daniel’s stand and he earned the respect of the chief of the eunuchs, because Daniel’s courage impressed him. Daniel stood for God and was strong. He didn’t seek man’s approval, but God’s will. He knew God stood with him. If we allow ourselves to be dissuaded from doing anything unless we have complete approval, it almost assured we will never accomplish anything of value. Instead of being discouraged by opposition, we should take comfort in (God’s faithfulness) and keep on doing what is right. “If God is for “you” who can stand against you (Romans 8:31). He sees what you don’t see. Faith is trusting and believing God. God does the impossible (Matthew 19:26).

 Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets at The Eastvale Community Center Sundays at 8:00am/10:00am/12:00pm(Spanish) or for more information visit their website calvaryeastvale.org

More Warehouses?

By Reverend Wayne Chu

There is a big piece of land in my neighborhood. Developers are planning to build warehouses. I am wondering… During the economic boom in the last ten years, there was a big need for warehouses, so developers were looking for every piece of land to develop. But the process of applying for permits, planning, and preparation all take time. And then the pandemic came and now we are experiencing the economic downturn. The economy has a cycle and it will take time for the demand to pick up again. With all the vacant warehouses around, will the developer still want to continue with the plan?

That reminds me of the parable Jesus taught in Luke 12. The land of the rich man produced plentifully. He enjoys prosperity and feels that he has not enough space to keep his possessions. Therefore, he plans to tear down his old barn and build a larger one. He can keep all his possessions and can enjoy life for many years. But the LORD says. “What a fool! You don’t know you will be taken away tonight!” It is like our situation: when the developers continue to keep building, they do not expect the economic downturn would come so soon. And it becomes more severe than expected, so the warehouses built sit vacant.

Jesus continues to teach us not to worry about the earthly possessions. As many of us would admit that we can donate and clean up all the items which have not been used in our garage. It is true that the temptation of hoarding and the desire to possess more material things will not give us security and satisfaction. Jesus says, “for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions” Luke 12:15. And more than that. Jesus teaches us to seek the kingdom. Store up righteousness, peace, and joy, that is the real treasure both for this life and the next to come.

Riverside Christian Alliance Church meets on Sundays at 10:30am and it’s located at 9640 Jurupa Road, Jurupa Valley CA 92509. You can reached them at 951-360-0113 or visit https://www.riversidecma.org/

Stop and Smell the Roses

By Mark Hopper

My wife and I try to go for a walk every day. Sometimes we walk through a park but most of the time we simply walk through our neighborhood. We enjoy greeting other people walking along the streets and sidewalks. We also like to see the different houses along the way and admire the lawns and landscaping.

We have noticed more and more people have removed their lawns and installed artificial grass. It looks very nice and doesn’t require a lot of water or work to maintain. Other homeowners have replaced their lawns with crushed granite and desert succulent plants. These look very nice too.

However the thing that really caught our attention this spring is the number of neighbors who have roses blooming in their yards. I never really noticed how many homes had roses. There are an endless variety of roses with different colors and the blossoms which seem to be unusually large this year. Some of them are huge.

The rose bushes have dark green leaves and look very healthy. We think it may be the result of the heavy rains we had this winter. The precipitation must have enriched the soil and produced a bumper crop of beautiful roses.

One day as we were walking we saw a woman trimming back some of her bountiful rose bushes. We slowed to admire them and commented on how wonderful they looked. The woman said she appreciated our words and promptly gave us a handful of fresh cut flowers.

We carried those with us on the rest of our walk and then put them into a vase when we got home. I am looking at these beautiful flowers in our family room as I type this story. It has been amazing to see how large the blossoms have become and the colors are spectacular. We are thinking about going back and asking for more on our next walk!

There is a verse in the Bible that reminds us God created the heavens and the earth. He created an endless variety of plants, animals, sea creatures and birds for us to observe and enjoy (Genesis Chapter One). Let me encourage you to stop and smell and enjoy the roses in your neighborhood this spring. You may want to plant some at your house too. You will be glad you did and your neighbors will too.

Read 365 more stories and articles (one for every day of the year) in his second book Let me Encourage You More by Mark Hopper. It is now available for only $25 plus postage ($5) – Order  your copy at mark@efreedb.org.

Time for a Chat?

Reverend Wayne Chu

By Reverend Wayne Chu

Proverb 2:6 For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding;

I recently downloaded the latest Bing browser from Microsoft which comes equipped with GPT-4, an AI software used for chat. After I asked it a few questions, I found myself quite impressed. It was able to understand what I asked and was capable of gathering information from the internet and formulating a good answer to my questions. While I feel that it is an excellent tool for learning, I also see that we need to use it with discernment.

AI, if used properly, can increase efficiency by automation and improve decision-making process. Many expect a tremendous change to the world coming, just like the Industrial Revolution or the Information Revolution. However, many worry that it will eliminate a lot of jobs. Even more, the biggest fear of AI is related to its most powerful feature, which is machine learning, meaning it can learn and improve itself. Someone may ask, will there be a day when AI learns everything, it will become so powerful that it can control or even destroy humans?

All of these questions are difficult to answer but the concern is valid. It is urgent for the authorities and regulators to set up policies and laws to guide and limit the development of AI. We do not want AI to fall into the hands of those who would use it for their own gain without considering the impact on others.

Another immediate issue I see is that we tend to overestimate the power of AI and assign tasks to it beyond its capability. The biblical sense of wisdom (intelligence) is not just knowledge; it includes the ability to see the connection of things that seem unrelated and combines pieces of knowledge to make decisions in life. As we all know, life is filled with ambiguity and decision-making is beyond knowledge and calculation.

Eventually, the problem of AI is the problem of humans. How should we use technology and how should we not use technology? It is more pressing for us to seek the LORD as He is the One who gives us this true wisdom and all knowledge, including AI.

Riverside Christian Alliance Church

10:30am Sunday Worship

9640 Jurupa Road, Jurupa Valley CA 92509

951-360-0113

https://www.riversidecma.org/

A Mom’s Kiss

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” 1 Timothy 1:5

When the great painter Benjamin West was a young boy, he decided to draw a picture of his sister. He got out bottles of ink and succeeded in making a mess. When his mother got home, she said, “What a beautiful picture,” and kissed him. Later in life he said, “That kiss made me a painter.”

Paul writes to his protégé, Timothy, encouraging him as a pastor and faith leader. In doing so, he acknowledges the influence of his grandmother and mother upon his faith. I love how Paul speaks of “sincere faith.” The greatest and lasting influence of Timothy’s mom and grandmother was their sincere faith. It wasn’t forced, it wasn’t showy, it was pure. Timothy saw faith through their hardships, and even through the supposed unbelief of his father. Timothy saw it was real because his mom and grandmother knew Jesus was alive and real in their lives.

If, as a mom, you are feeling underwhelmed with how you have been handling your role, or feeling as if you’re not making a difference, remember your kids are being shaped by the Lord. So, keep praying for them and never give up praying. My mom never stopped praying for me, despite my fierce rebellion, and I am eternally grateful for her diligence. Moms don’t underestimate your influence in this world starting with those whom God has put in your care. Your faithfulness to the Lord, strength, courage, and unconditional love all have good and eternal consequences. You have every reason to be confident because God is using you. (Your impact is greater than you may see right now). Your kiss (of sincere faith) has the potential to make soon to be men and women, men and women of great faith. So, Mama-bears assemble! (A little Marvel humor, sorry). Scripture says “her children will rise up and bless her…” (Proverbs 31).

Calvary Chapel meets at Eastvale Elementary School. Sunday service times are 8:30 and 10:30am. Calvary Chapel Eastvale is moving to the Eastvale Community Center starting July 2, 2023. More details to come. http://www.calvaryeastvale.org.

No One Could Have Expected It To Happen

By Reverend Wayne Chu

On Friday, March 10, 2023, Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) collapsed after a bank run. This was the second-largest bank failure in US history and unfortunately the largest bank failure since 2008. Two days later, Signature Bank followed. Who’s next? Shockingly, it was Credit Suisse, a giant in the investment field. A raging wave of global banking crisis took us off guard and brought back the painful memory of the 2008 financial crisis.

What can we learn from these events in a spiritual sense? First, prosperity does not last forever. Society enjoyed the low-interest rate for a long while, but when inflation collides with us and the interest rate rapidly climbs, we do not prepare well enough, especially banks like SVB. The collapse of the SVB was truly a sad sight. The SVB helped many startups and promoted the growth of technology development. It was considered as “financially sound”. Sure, SVB had issues in keeping the liquidity, but no bank could possibly survive if customers withdraw $42 billion in a single day. We cannot do business without banks and banks operate on trust. SVB was destroyed by the fear of its customers, and this is the second lesson we learned. We are indeed living in a fragile world. Everything we build up can be destroyed in the blink of an eye. God gives us “fear” to avoid danger, but the Enemy can also use it to cripple us. Trust in the loving God who sustains His creation. “Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea” Psalms 46:2 “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” Psalm 56:3. In times of financial turmoil, let us trust in our God, for He will restore the order of the world and give us the ultimate sense of security.

Riverside Christian Alliance Church

10:30am Sunday Worship

9640 Jurupa Road, Jurupa Valley CA 92509

951-360-0113

https://www.riversidecma.org/

Stand In Faith

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.…” 1 Corinthians 16:13

This is the final encouragement to a church from the Apostle Paul. Paul planted the Corinthian church, but the church had issues that needed addressing. The final comments to them is a calling to “stand fast.” This is actually a military term meaning to “hold your position” or “to refuse to be defeated.” There is to be no retreat. Paul is encouraging the Corinthian church to remain strong in the faith because opposition will come. Trials will ensue. Are you going through a time of drought? Are you going through a time of discouragement? Paul says, “stand firm and be brave.” I believe we need to share this encouragement all the more today.

I am reminded how “Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore, he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.” This Scripture says God had brought Daniel into the favor and goodwill of the chief of the eunuchs (Daniel 1:8-9). Under Babylonian rule, Daniel turned his back on the luxuries of the king’s court because eating defiled food would have been a compromise of his faith. God honored Daniel’s stand and he earned the respect of the chief of the eunuchs, because Daniel’s courage impressed him. Daniel stood for God and was strong. He didn’t seek man’s approval, but God’s will. If we allow ourselves to be dissuaded from doing anything unless we have complete approval, it almost assured we will never accomplish anything of value. Instead of being discouraged by opposition, we should take comfort in (God’s faithfulness) and keep on doing what is right.

Whatever you find yourself up against today, remember that “one,” with God, is the majority. “If God is for “you” who can stand against you (Romans 8:31). He sees what you don’t see. Faith is trusting and believing God. God does the impossible (Matthew 19:26).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 and 10:30am / @ Eastvale Elementary 13031 Orange St, Eastvale (calvaryeastvale.org).

Is the Gospel Alive?

Pastor Matt Miles

Easter Sunday is right around the corner! This brings a question: did Jesus really rise from the grave? Interestingly, the resurrection of Jesus Christ has been a debated topic from the very beginning, and many have introduced theories to try to explain away this phenomenon. One of the theories that has been around since the resurrection is “the disciples stole the body.” In Matthew 28:11-13, the Jewish leaders listened to the guards’ accounts of what transpired and decided on a remedy that required bribery and an explanation. Essentially, the disciples stole the body while the guards were sleeping.

The first issue is how could the guards have known what the disciples did if they were sleeping? The second issue is that Matthew 28:2 and Mark 16:4 mention that a large stone was covering the entrance to the tomb. This large stone would have taken many hands to move and would have made enough noise to wake sleeping guards. Another issue would be why were the grave clothes left behind by the disciples? Not just left behind but the napkin that had been on Jesus’ head was folded and neatly left according to John 20:7.

The final issue is this: why would the disciples give their lives for a lie? These disciples were dejected and hiding in a room fearing they were next but after Jesus’ resurrection and ascension these men boldly stood before the Sanhedrin in Acts 4, propagated the gospel throughout the world, and most died a martyr’s death. Even staunch critics such as James (the half-brother of Jesus) and Saul (the Christian persecutor) dedicated their lives to Christ after His resurrection and died for Him. Why would these Christians and critics die for His cause?

The resurrection of Christ was a literal, life changing event in history! 1 Peter 1:3 says, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” Through Jesus Christ’s resurrection the gospel is alive!

Hillcrest Baptist Church meets Sundays at 10:30 a.m. at Vandermolen Elementary located at 6744 Carnelian St. Mira Loma, CA 91752 and they can be reached at (951)357-6737.

The Easter Message

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“Then He came and touched the open coffin, and those who carried him stood still…” Luke 7:14

There is no arguing that one of the most painful occurrences in life is losing a loved one. Jesus came upon a widow who had just lost her only son. According to old Jewish custom, the women would precede a funeral procession because women were believed to have brought death into the world in the line of Eve. This widow would be the first person He would see and He looked at her with compassion (Luke 7:13). It was custom for family members and friends to come and touch the coffin, which would halt the procession, and say a few words of comfort to the survived. Then the procession would continue. According to custom, Jesus stood at the procession and touched the coffin. Jesus tells the woman “do not weep.” He then tells the young man in the coffin to “get up.” “So that he who was dead sat up and began to speak” (Luke 7:15). What Jesus did was unprecedented. Under normal circumstances the funeral procession would have continued. But when Jesus stopped the funeral procession and it never continued! Jesus essentially stopped death in its tracks. This is what Jesus has done for all mankind through the Cross. He has halted the effect of sin and eternal death upon all those who believe in Him (Jn 3:16). Jesus’ death on the Cross defeated sin and He further punctuates this by His Rising from the dead. In this is the Easter message. (1 Corinthians 15:21-22, 55-57)

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 and 10:30am @ Eastvale Elementary School. http://www.calvaryeastvale.org EASTER SERVICES: 8:30AM and 10:30AM.