Just as a house requires a strong, level foundation to stand firm, so too does our faith and our efforts to serve others. The process of measuring, double-checking, and carefully laying the groundwork for the Habitat for Humanity build mirrors the care and intentionality needed in our spiritual lives. When we serve, especially in partnership with others, we are invited to examine the foundations of our own hearts—ensuring that our motives, attitudes, and actions are aligned with love, humility, and a desire to honor God. The work may be hard and sometimes daunting, but every act of service, every bit of sweat poured into the task, becomes part of a lasting legacy that supports and uplifts others. [42:45]
1 Corinthians 3:10-11 (ESV)
"According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building upon it. Let each one take care how he builds upon it. For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ."
Reflection: What is one area of your life or service where you need to check your foundation—your motives, your preparation, or your reliance on God—before you build further?
The Habitat build brought together people from all walks of life—professionals, ministers, young people, and entire families, even spanning three generations. This diversity and unity in purpose highlight the beauty and strength found in community. When people come together, each offering their unique gifts and time, the impact multiplies, and relationships are deepened. Serving alongside others not only accomplishes more but also weaves a tapestry of shared stories, laughter, and support that can sustain us through challenges. [36:31]
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (ESV)
"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!"
Reflection: Who in your community—family, friends, or church—can you invite to join you in serving others this week, and how might that shared experience strengthen your relationship?
Every time we reach out to help our brothers and sisters, we become a light shining in the world, reflecting the light God created at the beginning of time. Our acts of kindness, generosity, and advocacy are not just good deeds—they are ways we participate in God’s ongoing work of creation and restoration. Even when the work is hard or the needs seem overwhelming, each small act contributes to a brighter, more hopeful world, especially for those who have been marginalized or overlooked. [48:09]
Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV)
"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
Reflection: What is one specific act of service you can do today to shine God’s light for someone who needs encouragement or support?
As we approach National Truth and Reconciliation Day, we are reminded that the journey toward justice and healing is ongoing. Only a fraction of the recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission have been realized, and there is still much work to be done. We are called to keep educating ourselves, praying, and taking action—no matter how small—to support our Indigenous neighbors and to work toward a more just and compassionate society. Our willingness to listen, learn, and stand in solidarity is a vital part of this process. [49:18]
Micah 6:8 (ESV)
"He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?"
Reflection: What is one new thing you can learn or one step you can take this week to support truth and reconciliation in your community?
The work of building homes was described as some of the hardest and sweatiest labor ever done, yet it was also filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a deep sense of accomplishment. True service often requires perseverance through discomfort and challenge, but it also brings unexpected joy and fulfillment. When we give of ourselves—our time, resources, and energy—we not only bless others but also discover the blessing of being part of something greater than ourselves. [46:46]
Galatians 6:9 (ESV)
"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."
Reflection: When you feel tired or discouraged in serving others, what helps you persevere, and how can you intentionally seek joy in the midst of your efforts this week?
This past year has been a journey of partnership, learning, and hard work as we joined hands with Habitat for Humanity Grey Bruce to build homes alongside our First Nations neighbors. The build was not just about constructing houses, but about laying foundations—both physical and relational. Our team, made up of people from all walks of life, came together in the heat and challenge of the work, united by a common purpose: to serve, to learn, and to build bridges of understanding and respect.
Habitat for Humanity Grey Bruce has a long history of working with First Nations communities, pioneering models of partnership that empower families through home ownership and require deep commitment from all involved. The stories shared by local leaders like Ken, Greg, Gary, and Mike reminded us that the need is still great—many families continue to live in crowded conditions, and the challenges of addiction, unemployment, and generational trauma persist. Yet, in the midst of these realities, there is hope. Each home built is a testament to what can happen when communities come together, when relationships are nurtured, and when we choose to be present and persistent in our support.
The work was hard—measuring, pouring cement, framing foundations under the summer sun—but it was also deeply rewarding. We saw firsthand the importance of starting with a strong foundation, not just for the houses, but for our relationships and our faith. The laughter, the shared meals, the sweat, and even the mistakes became part of a larger story of reconciliation and mutual respect. Our congregation’s generosity, raising over $3,000 as part of a larger $10,000 effort, is a tangible sign of our commitment to this ongoing work.
As we approach National Truth and Reconciliation Day, we are reminded that while progress has been made, much remains to be done. Only a fraction of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s recommendations have been realized. Our call is to keep learning, keep praying, and keep showing up—because every act of service, every relationship built, and every foundation laid is a step toward healing and hope. In these efforts, we reflect the light of God’s love, shining in partnership with our Indigenous brothers and sisters.
Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV) — > “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
2. 1 Corinthians 3:10-11 (ESV)
> “According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building upon it. Let each one take care how he builds upon it. For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.”
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