Date Posted: 2024-10-06 18:48:42 | Video Duration: 00:30:54
Highland Park Presbyterian Church recently hosted a profound and thought-provoking sermon by Gary Haugen, the CEO and founder of International Justice Mission. Known for his humility and dedication to justice, Haugen brought a message that resonated deeply with the congregation, urging them to become agents of Christ’s redemption in a world that seems increasingly fraught with challenges. His sermon was anchored in the call to live without fear and to embrace a joy that defies external circumstances.
Haugen began by posing a critical question: “How is the work of God in the world going?” He asserted that God’s work is singularly redemptive, making things right in a world that has gone very wrong. This mission gives God’s people a singular purpose: to be agents of Christ’s divine redemption in broken lives and a fallen world. He drew on the words of Jesus from Matthew 5, reminding us that we are the light and salt of the earth, which finds its power in darkness and decay, respectively.
Reflecting on the current state of the world, Haugen highlighted the “statistics of sadness,” pointing to skyrocketing rates of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Despite material prosperity and physical security, humans have never been more anxious or sad. This paradox, he explained, stems from inequality and the unmanageable rate of change in technology and society. He referenced Matthew 9:36, illustrating Jesus’ compassion for the harassed and helpless crowds, likening them to sheep without a shepherd.
The core of Haugen’s message was a call to action for Christians to exhibit freedom from fear and life-giving joy. He challenged believers to reflect on their faith, asking, “What is the infirmity of faith that is enslaving us to fear and robbing us of life-giving joy?” He emphasized that belief is not just a verbal affirmation but a call to act as if Jesus’ teachings are true. Citing Matthew 7, Haugen noted the difference between the wise and foolish builders: those who act on Jesus’ teachings withstand the storms of life.
Drawing a parallel to World War II, Haugen recounted the story of the British evacuation at Dunkirk. Soldiers had to trust small, seemingly insignificant boats for their rescue, just as Christians must trust in the teachings of Jesus for salvation from fear and finding joy. Haugen shared examples from International Justice Mission, where colleagues have experienced supernatural freedom from fear and joy while working in dangerous situations to fight modern slavery.
Haugen also shared his personal journey of overcoming fear when founding International Justice Mission. Despite fears of failure and risking his career, he was compelled by Jesus’ call to seek justice and serve the poor. He encouraged the congregation to pray, “I believe; help me in my unbelief,” echoing the desperate cry of a father seeking healing for his child from Mark’s Gospel.
In a world stranded on the metaphorical beaches of Dunkirk, with forces of evil and chaos closing in, Haugen urged believers to step into Jesus’ boat — a symbol of His gentle and humble Gospel of love and truth. He concluded by affirming the power of acting as if God’s promises are true, reminding the congregation that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.
As Highland Park Presbyterian Church continues its mission, Haugen’s message serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of living out one’s faith with courage and joy. He called on the community to act as if the Gospel is true, to embrace a life free from fear, and to spread joy in a world aching with anxiety. The sermon closed with a heartfelt prayer for divine assistance in overcoming unbelief and living in the freedom and joy that Christ offers.
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