Bamboo grows very tall, yet it does not break even in strong winds. This is because of its flexibility. The reason bamboo is both flexible and strong lies in the knots formed at each joint. Bamboo does not grow continuously without pause. At certain points, it stops growing, forms a firm knot, and then stretches upward again. These knots are times of preparation for further growth. Without knots, bamboo would be unable to withstand its own weight or the force of the wind and would eventually snap.
The same is true of our lives and our faith. As we stand at the end of another year, we are often struck by how quickly time has passed. Yet within our hearts may remain unresolved thoughts, unfulfilled plans, unsettled relationships, lingering emotions, and unfinished tasks. If we move on to the next stage without properly tying these loose ends, we may find ourselves shaken and eventually broken. That is why, at the end of each year, it is necessary to look back and tie our knots well.
What kinds of knots do we need as people of faith?
First, the knot of repentance and turning back. As we reflect on the year, we come before God in repentance. Repentance is not about clinging to regret over the past, but about making a decision to turn our direction back toward God. Just as bamboo must pause before moving on to the next joint, we too need to stop and confess, “Lord, this was not the right path.” Without this knot, our faith may become busy, but it will not grow deep.
Second, the knot of reconciliation and forgiveness. In our relationships, unforgiven hurts, unresolved misunderstandings, and unspoken disappointments are like winds that have shaken us throughout the year. While we may not be able to restore every relationship perfectly, choosing to lay down resentment and extend forgiveness is a way of tying the year together well.
Third, the knot of gratitude. It is choosing to remember grace before dwelling on disappointments. Even if we cannot fully explain everything, there have been moments of grace throughout the time we have passed. A faith tied with the knot of gratitude will not lose its centre even when circumstances shake, and it will continue to grow.
A beautiful knot will make a new beginning shine all the more. Before the final page of this year is turned, I invite you to carefully tie a strong and beautiful knot in your life. That knot will enable you to stand firm in the strong winds of life and grow higher and greener than ever before.
Word of the week
Merry Christmas! This week, we will celebrate the joy of Christmas together in worship. The 1st service will be held at 9:00 a.m., and the 2nd service at 11:00 a.m. The 2nd service will be conducted with English and Korean interpretation. All offerings given on Christmas Day will be used to support those in need.
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이동주 2025.12.20 22:11
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Bamboo grows very tall, yet it does not break even in strong winds. This is because of its flexibility. The reason bamboo is both flexible and strong lies in the knots formed at each joint. Bamboo does not grow continuously without pause. At certain points, it stops growing, forms a firm knot, and then stretches upward again. These knots are times of preparation for further growth. Without knots, bamboo would be unable to withstand its own weight or the force of the wind and would eventually snap.
The same is true of our lives and our faith. As we stand at the end of another year, we are often struck by how quickly time has passed. Yet within our hearts may remain unresolved thoughts, unfulfilled plans, unsettled relationships, lingering emotions, and unfinished tasks. If we move on to the next stage without properly tying these loose ends, we may find ourselves shaken and eventually broken. That is why, at the end of each year, it is necessary to look back and tie our knots well.
What kinds of knots do we need as people of faith?
First, the knot of repentance and turning back. As we reflect on the year, we come before God in repentance. Repentance is not about clinging to regret over the past, but about making a decision to turn our direction back toward God. Just as bamboo must pause before moving on to the next joint, we too need to stop and confess, “Lord, this was not the right path.” Without this knot, our faith may become busy, but it will not grow deep.
Second, the knot of reconciliation and forgiveness. In our relationships, unforgiven hurts, unresolved misunderstandings, and unspoken disappointments are like winds that have shaken us throughout the year. While we may not be able to restore every relationship perfectly, choosing to lay down resentment and extend forgiveness is a way of tying the year together well.
Third, the knot of gratitude. It is choosing to remember grace before dwelling on disappointments. Even if we cannot fully explain everything, there have been moments of grace throughout the time we have passed. A faith tied with the knot of gratitude will not lose its centre even when circumstances shake, and it will continue to grow.
A beautiful knot will make a new beginning shine all the more. Before the final page of this year is turned, I invite you to carefully tie a strong and beautiful knot in your life. That knot will enable you to stand firm in the strong winds of life and grow higher and greener than ever before.
Word of the week
Merry Christmas! This week, we will celebrate the joy of Christmas together in worship. The 1st service will be held at 9:00 a.m., and the 2nd service at 11:00 a.m. The 2nd service will be conducted with English and Korean interpretation. All offerings given on Christmas Day will be used to support those in need.