As believers and followers of Christ, how do we honor and seek the well-being of this world while maintaining our allegiance to God? How do we truly and genuinely live IN it without assimilating or compromising? In a time where opinions are so often placed at the forefront, it is vital that we stand on our convictions, aligning ourselves with the Word of God and with the nature and character of Jesus. We are God’s children, His church. And our top priority is to live a life that represents and honors Him. At times this will require us to go in the opposite direction of any system, culture or way that infringes on our ability to be who He has purposed us to be. We are not called to pick a side or to fight back. We are called to STAND. And KEEP STANDING. We are called to dig deep, grow strong roots. Love one another. Lay our lives down for each other. Trust in God and hold fast to His promises and the hope He has given us. 
It's almost that time of year! Mark your calendars for Christmas at Poema! Our in person services are Saturday, December 19th at 6pm or Sunday, December 20th at 10am. We will also be hosting an online service at 11am on December 20th on Facebook, Youtube and our website. If you're planning on joining us in person, you can help us prepare by RSVPing for you and your guests by visiting poemachurch.ca/christmas or the LINK IN OUR BIO! The holidays might look a little different this year, but let's make the most of it and celebrate together! 
Exile is this universal feeling of alienation and longing for something more, no matter where you live, what circumstance you find yourself in. Jesus went into exile alongside us to show us the TRUE way home, which is HIM. Jesus opened up the pathway to our real home. A new way to be human, a return from exile. Introducing our new series, "The Way Home". You're invited to join us as we start our brand new series Sunday in person at 10 am and online at 11 am. 
In the bible, Egypt was once a refuge for the nation of Israel before it was slavery. It’s hard to believe that what once kept us safe often ends up mastering us. When we are not alert we start to forget who we are and what freedom feels like. It's so easy to plod through life, just taking it as it comes but Proverbs warns us to guard our hearts ABOVE ALL ELSE and the bible doesn’t issue warnings for no reason. Have we fallen asleep while on guard and been taken captive by our own safety? The Spirit of God is whispering to our hearts, calling our names and waking us up… "Wake up, O sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” Be very careful, then, how you live— not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:14b-16 Freedom begins in our spirits and works its way through the soul. The state of our minds, our emotions and our decisions determine the level of freedom that we live in regardless of our circumstances. What are you dealing with that feels bigger or more powerful than you? Picture yourself standing with Jesus. King of the world. Conquerer of sin and death. Where does that issue stand in relation to Him? Where might you have given up your authority as a child of God? What does He have for you instead of powerlessness? How does that change the way you will live today? 
R E L E A S E 1. Allow (something) to move, act or flow freely. 2. Allow or enable something to escape from confinement; set free. 3. Let something be shown in public or made available for use 4. Remit or discharge (a debt) 5. The action of releasing property, money or the right to another.