Reflections

Power.

What does it make you think of?

It's often measured by influence, success, wealth, knowledge, or control. But at our Easter weekend camp, we were reminded that God's idea of power looks very different from ours.

As we reflected on Jesus' death and resurrection, we saw that God's power is often revealed not through displays of strength, but through humility, faithfulness, and suffering.

Challenges we'd cross out

Jesus' crucifixion is perhaps the greatest paradox in history.

It looked like defeat. He hung on a Roman cross — the ultimate symbol of shame and weakness.

His disciples? Scattered.

And yet, the cross was God's plan all along.

Rather than calling down legions of angels, Jesus chose restraint. Rather than abandoning humanity, God made a way to redeem it.

Through what looked like defeat, God accomplished victory over sin, death, and the powers of darkness.

The cross reminds us that God's power often works in unexpected ways. Sometimes, it's seen not in escaping suffering, but in enduring it faithfully. Not in getting our way, but in surrendering to His. Not in demanding our rights, but in trusting His wisdom.

Whether we're facing work-related challenges, family struggles, disappointments, or seasons of waiting, God is still at work.

There is dignity and purpose in suffering when it's entrusted to Him.

It's not always grave

Of course, the story doesn't end at the cross.

Or the grave.

Jesus' resurrection changes everything.

When Paul wrote of wanting to know "the power of His resurrection," he wasn't speaking only about a future hope. He was speaking about a present reality.

The resurrection gives us power to overcome sin, obey God, persevere, and participate in His work in the world. It reminds us that no situation is beyond God's ability to redeem.

And so, we face the present with confidence, gratitude, and joy.

The resurrection also anchors our hope for the future. Jesus was raised with a glorified body, becoming the firstfruits of what is to come. Because He lives, those who belong to Him can face even death with confidence.

One day, all things will be made new. Corruption will give way to incorruption. Sorrow will give way to joy. And God's people will reign with Him forever.

So, what should we do?

Another theme highlighted at camp was the call to live out our faith in every area of life.

It's easy to think of ministry as something that happens on a church stage or during a church programme. But Scripture paints a much bigger picture.

The same Christ who meets us on Sunday walks with us into our workplaces, classrooms, homes, and neighbourhoods on Monday.

We were reminded that all wisdom and knowledge ultimately belong to Christ. Whether someone studies science, business, engineering, medicine, art, education, or theology, every field provides opportunities to glorify God and serve others.

The church's role is not simply to gather believers but to equip them for ministry wherever God has placed them.

Every Christian has a calling.

There is no unemployment in God's kingdom.

No retirement either.

Excellence matters. Relationships matter. Communication matters. Prayer matters. Whatever we do, we do for God.

We were challenged to pray for open doors, look for opportunities, and communicate the gospel in ways that connect with the people around us. The world has many misconceptions about Christianity, and God calls us to engage with it with both truth and grace.

Now that we know it all…

Perhaps one of the most challenging reflections from the weekend came from the thief beside Jesus on the cross.

In his final moments, he turned to Jesus and was graciously saved. It's a beautiful picture of God's mercy.

But he never had the opportunity to spend his life serving the Master who saved him.

We do.

Today, we have the privilege of following Christ in our homes, workplaces, schools, friendships, and communities. We have the opportunity to bear witness to His goodness, serve His people, and participate in His mission.

As we celebrate 30 years of God's faithfulness in and through Powerhouse, let's not just be content knowing about God's power.

Let's be a power-roused people — awakened by the power of the cross, transformed by the power of the resurrection, and eager to live wholeheartedly for the One who gave Himself for us.