Join us on Zoom. Service begins at 11:30am (MST)

Zoom ID: 812 2049 0401 * Passcode: 789132 Phone access:1-646-876-9923

Hello Dexter,

In a world often clouded by uncertainty, division, and despair, hope shines as a vital lifeline. Hope is more than wishful thinking; it is an active expectation that life can be better, that challenges can be overcome, and that brighter days are ahead. Research consistently shows that people who nurture hope experience greater happiness, resilience, and overall wellness. Hope fuels our ability to recover from setbacks, to dream new dreams, and to live life with joy and purpose.

Yet for believers, our hope is not merely rooted in optimism—it is anchored in a Person. The resurrection of Jesus Christ stands as the greatest evidence of hope ever given. When Jesus rose from the grave, He declared to all creation that death, despair, and defeat do not have the final say. Because Christ lives, our hope is alive. His resurrection is not just a historical event; it is a daily reality that breathes life into our faith, fortifies our spirits, and renews our commitment to God, family, and community.

Hope born from the resurrection reminds us that no matter how dark the night, morning is coming. No matter how heavy the burden, victory is possible. It strengthens the bonds between us, encouraging us to love deeper, forgive quicker, and believe stronger—not only for ourselves but for those around us.

A hopeful heart reaches beyond personal blessings and becomes a wellspring of encouragement for others, building stronger families, healthier communities, and a more faithful society.

Today, let us hold fast to hope—not the fragile hope the world offers, but the living hope rooted in a risen Savior. Let it lift your spirit, sharpen your vision, and connect you even more deeply to the God who has conquered death, to your family who journeys with you, and to your community that thrives through collective faith.

In the words of 1 Peter 1:3 (NIV): “Praise be to the God and Father of our LORD Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”

Because He lives, we have hope. And because we have hope, we can truly live.

Sincerely,

Dr. Dexter Royes

ATLANTA -- The pastor of a Georgia megachurch who led a nationwide 40-day “fast” of Target stores over the retail chain's commitment to diversity initiatives is now calling for that effort to continue as a “full Target boycott.”

The Rev. Jamal Bryant said this week that the Minneapolis-based retailer has not met all of the boycott effort's demands. Among them: Restoring its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion principles and pledging money to Black-owned banks and businesses.

Bryant is the pastor of one of the South’s largest churches, New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Stonecrest, Georgia, just outside Atlanta. “Until Target comes to the table with serious, concrete proposals to meet our four demands, we will remain in this posture,” Bryant said on a website dedicated to the boycott effort.

“Silence and delay are no longer acceptable,” he added. “Our communities deserve action, not platitudes. Our demands are not radical — they are righteous, reasonable, and long overdue.”

Target operates nearly 2,000 stores nationwide and employs more than 400,000 people.

Source: ABC News by The Associated Press

Walking helps reduce stress by decreasing cortisol levels, also known as “the stress hormone.” Cortisol levels rise in response to stress, which increases inflammation in the body and is a significant cause of food cravings. Consistent walking can lower the amount of cortisol in the bloodstream over time and reduce stress. 

Walking, particularly brisk walking, also stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters.  Walking with friends fosters social connections, which are crucial for mental well-being. “If you’re walking with a friend or in a group, you’re cultivating relationships and becoming closer to friends or loved ones.”

Daily Bible Study Guide

Each quarter [3-months], the Seventh-day Adventist Church publishes a Bible Study Guide for use in weekly Sabbath School, for personal Bible study, or for use in other settings where a deeper understanding of God’s Word is desired.

The Adult Sabbath School Bible Study Guide (Quarterly) connects the entire world Church together in a global classroom. Written by a variety of authors, the study guide encourages personal time with God and God's Word. The memory texts and key thoughts provide opportunities for spiritual growth & development.

CLICK ON IMAGE TO STUDY ONLINE