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The way center Uganda TWC, Masaka (2026)

18/05/2024

TWC-DEVOTION
Saturday 18th May 2024
Pastor Erika
Title: Called to Give or Go

Romans 10:13-15

*"For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: 'How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!'"*

In the heart of every believer lies a call to be part of God’s mission. This mission is not optional but integral to our faith journey. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 commands us to *“go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”* This mandate requires action—whether by going ourselves or by supporting those who go.

For some, the call is to physically go to the nations, to step out in faith, and to bring the gospel to those who have never heard it. This might mean participating in short-term mission trips, long-term missionary work, or local outreach efforts. Jesus sent out His disciples, saying in Matthew 10:7-8, “As you go, proclaim this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.”

When we go, we become the hands and feet of Christ in a tangible way. Our presence, our words, and our actions bear witness to the love and power of Jesus. It’s a call to step out of our comfort zones and trust that God will use us mightily.

Not everyone can go, but everyone can support the mission. Giving is just as crucial as going. In Philippians 4:15-16, Paul commends the church in Philippi for their partnership in his ministry: “Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need.”

Our resources—whether financial, material, or our time in prayer—are vital to the advancement of the gospel. When we give, we empower those who go to focus on the work God has called them to do. Our giving becomes a partnership in spreading the good news.

Reflect on your current season of life and consider how God is calling you to participate in His mission. Are there opportunities to go on a mission trip or engage in local outreach? If you are unable to go, identify missionaries or mission organizations you can support through prayer, financial giving, or other resources. Commit to taking a step of faith in either going or giving this week.

17/05/2024

TWC-DEVOTION
Friday 17th May 2024
Pastor Erika
Title: Do Not Worry

In the midst of life’s chaos and uncertainties, anxiety often takes root in our hearts, causing turmoil and unrest. Yet, as believers, we have a steadfast refuge in God’s Word. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” These verses call us to a profound practice of trust and reliance on God through prayer. Instead of allowing anxiety to dominate our thoughts, we are encouraged to bring everything to God in prayer, with a heart of gratitude. This act of surrender not only shifts our focus from our problems to God’s power but also invites His peace to guard our hearts and minds. This divine peace surpasses all human understanding, providing a sense of calm that is not dependent on our circumstances.

Jesus speaks directly to our anxious hearts in Matthew 6:34, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Here, Jesus urges us to live in the present, trusting God’s provision for each day. Worrying about the future only burdens us with fears of the unknown. By focusing on today and trusting God with our tomorrows, we can alleviate much of the anxiety that steals our joy and peace.

Additionally, 1 Peter 5:7 offers us another comforting directive: “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” This scripture assures us of God’s deep care and concern for us. We are invited to offload our worries onto Him, acknowledging that we are not alone in our struggles. God’s loving care is a constant, and He is both willing and able to handle our anxieties.

As we meditate on these scriptures, we learn that overcoming anxiety is not about ignoring our challenges but about shifting our perspective. It’s about recognizing God’s sovereignty and His deep love for us. By praying with thanksgiving, living in the present, and casting our cares on God, we embrace a lifestyle of trust. This trust doesn’t necessarily change our circumstances, but it transforms our hearts, allowing us to experience God’s peace even amidst life’s storms.

16/05/2024

TWC-DEVOTION
Thursday 16th May 2024
Pastor Erika
Title: The Fall of Man

In the beginning, God created a world of perfect harmony and beauty, and He placed Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden to live and tend to His creation. Everything they needed was provided for them, and they enjoyed an intimate relationship with God, walking and talking with Him in the cool of the day. However, this idyllic existence came with one command: "And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, 'Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.'" (Genesis 2:16-17).

Despite this clear directive, the serpent, more cunning than any other beast, approached Eve and sowed seeds of doubt in her heart. "Then the serpent said to the woman, 'You will not surely die. For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.'" (Genesis 3:4-5). Tempted by the serpent's words and the allure of becoming wise, Eve took the fruit and ate it, and she also gave some to Adam, who was with her, and he ate.

Immediately, their eyes were opened, and they realized their nakedness, feeling shame for the first time. They sewed fig leaves together to cover themselves and hid from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden. When God called out to Adam, asking where he was, Adam replied, "I heard Your voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; and I hid myself." (Genesis 3:10).

God confronted them with their disobedience, and Adam blamed Eve, while Eve blamed the serpent. As a result, God pronounced judgment: the serpent was cursed above all livestock and wild animals, destined to crawl on its belly and eat dust all its life. Enmity was placed between the serpent and the woman, and between their offspring. To Eve, God said, "I will greatly multiply your sorrow and your conception; in pain you shall bring forth children; your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you." (Genesis 3:16). To Adam, He said, "Cursed is the ground for your sake; in toil you shall eat of it all the days of your life. Both thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you, and you shall eat the herb of the field. In the sweat of your face you shall eat bread till you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; for dust you are, and to dust you shall return." (Genesis 3:17-19).

The fall of man brought sin and death into the world, altering the course of human history. But even in this moment of judgment, God provided a glimmer of hope. To the serpent, He declared, "And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her Seed; He shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise His heel." (Genesis 3:15). This promise pointed to the eventual defeat of sin and Satan through Jesus Christ, the Seed of the woman, who would come to crush the serpent's head and redeem humanity.

The fall reminds us of our need for a Savior and the consequences of disobedience. Yet, it also reveals God's enduring mercy and His plan for redemption. As we reflect on the fall, let us acknowledge our sinfulness, repent, and place our hope in Jesus, who restores our broken relationship with God and offers eternal life.

15/05/2024

TWC-DEVOTION
Wednesday 15th May 2024
Pastor Erika
Title: Profound Grace

n the Gospel of Luke, we encounter a profound moment of grace and redemption during the crucifixion of Jesus. Among the criminals crucified alongside Him, one thief's interaction with Jesus stands out as a beacon of hope for all believers. This narrative, found in Luke 23:39-43, reveals the depths of God's mercy and the boundless reach of His forgiveness.

As Jesus hung on the cross, enduring the excruciating pain and humiliation, two criminals were crucified with Him, one on His right and the other on His left. One of these criminals joined the crowd in mocking Jesus, saying, "Aren't you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!" (Luke 23:39, NIV). This derision reflects a heart hardened by sin, unable to recognize the salvation that hung beside him.

In stark contrast, the other thief rebuked his fellow criminal, saying, "Don't you fear God, since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong" (Luke 23:40-41, NIV). This confession is a powerful acknowledgment of his own guilt and a declaration of Jesus' innocence. In these few words, we see a remarkable transformation—a man guilty of his crimes now stands in humble recognition of his need for mercy.

Then, in an extraordinary act of faith, the repentant thief turns to Jesus and pleads, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom" (Luke 23:42, NIV). This request is simple yet profound. It is an acknowledgment of Jesus' kingship and a plea for grace, uttered by a man who had no time left to amend his life, to make restitution, or to perform good deeds. It was a plea from a heart that had nothing to offer but faith.

Jesus' response is one of the most comforting and hope-filled statements in the entire Bible: "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise" (Luke 23:43, NIV). In this promise, Jesus affirms the thief's salvation, granting him eternal life not based on his past deeds but on his faith and repentance. This interaction on the cross encapsulates the core of the Gospel—salvation by grace through faith.

The story of the thief on the cross offers profound hope to all who feel unworthy or too far gone for God's grace. It reminds us that no matter how great our sins, how late in life we turn to God, or how desperate our situation, Jesus' mercy is available to us. The thief had no opportunity for a life of good works or penance, yet his faith secured him a place in paradise. This teaches us that salvation is not earned by our efforts but granted through our faith in Jesus Christ.

For those who struggle with feelings of guilt and unworthiness, this narrative is a powerful reminder that Jesus' love and forgiveness are available to all who turn to Him in faith. The thief's story underscores that it is never too late to seek God's mercy. In our darkest moments, when we feel most unworthy, we can look to the cross and remember that Jesus' sacrifice covers all our sins, and His promise of paradise is extended to us, just as it was to the thief.

In reflecting on this story, let us embrace the hope it offers. Let us approach God with the same humility and faith as the repentant thief, trusting that Jesus' grace is sufficient for us. And let us share this message of hope with others, reminding them that God's mercy is boundless and His forgiveness is always within reach, no matter our past or present circumstances.

11/05/2024

TWC-DEVOTION
Saturday 11th May 2024
Pastor Erika
Title: Guarding Our Tongues

"Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!" - Psalm 141:3

Gossip is like a wildfire, spreading swiftly and consuming everything in its path. It's easy to get caught up in the allure of sharing juicy tidbits of information about others, but what we often fail to realize is the damage it inflicts upon both the gossiper and the subject of gossip. As believers, we are called to a higher standard, one that values love, kindness, and integrity in our interactions with others.

The Bible repeatedly warns us against the dangers of gossip. In Proverbs 16:28, we read, "A dishonest man spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends." Gossip not only damages relationships but also undermines trust and creates division among friends and communities. When we engage in gossip, we contribute to the erosion of unity and harmony within our circles.

Moreover, gossiping reflects a lack of love and respect for our neighbors. In Ephesians 4:29, we are reminded, "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." Our words have the power to build up or tear down, to edify or destroy. Therefore, we must choose our words wisely, speaking with grace and compassion, especially when discussing others.

But perhaps the most significant reason to guard against gossip is its potential to harm others. Proverbs 18:8 tells us, "The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels; they go down into the inner parts of the body." Gossip may seem harmless at first, but its effects can be devastating, causing pain, humiliation, and even irreparable damage to the reputation and well-being of those targeted.

As followers of Christ, we are called to be agents of love and reconciliation in a broken world. Instead of gossiping about others, let us strive to emulate Jesus, who spoke with truth, grace, and compassion. Let us use our words to uplift and encourage, to build bridges instead of walls, and to demonstrate God's love in all our interactions.

10/05/2024

TWC-DEVOTION
Friday 10th May 2024
Pastor Erika
Title: Seeking Purity in Word and Thought

Psalm 19:12-14
"Who can discern his errors? Declare me innocent from hidden faults. Keep back your servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me! Then I shall be blameless, and innocent of great transgression. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer."

In the quiet moments of reflection, we often find ourselves grappling with the intricacies of our own hearts and minds. Psalm 19:12-14 captures the essence of this internal struggle, inviting us to a deeper awareness of our imperfections and a yearning for purity in both word and thought.

The psalmist begins by acknowledging the limitations of human understanding. "Who can discern his errors?" they ask, recognizing the complexity of the human condition. We are prone to hidden faults, subtle sins that evade our detection yet have the potential to lead us astray. In humility, the psalmist appeals to God for exoneration, pleading for innocence from these concealed transgressions.

Yet, the pursuit of purity extends beyond mere absolution. The psalmist implores God to safeguard them from presumptuous sins, those deliberate acts of rebellion that threaten to entrench themselves within the soul. They recognize the danger of allowing such sins to gain dominion over their life, pleading for divine intervention to keep them blameless and free from great transgression.

Central to this prayer for purity is the recognition of God's role as both "rock" and "redeemer." In God, we find a steadfast foundation, a refuge from the tumult of our own failings. He is the one who not only forgives but also restores, redeeming us from the grip of sin and setting our feet upon the path of righteousness.

The psalm concludes with a heartfelt petition, a desire for the words spoken and the thoughts pondered to be pleasing in the sight of God. This is the essence of true purity – not merely outward adherence to rules and rituals, but a transformation of the heart that spills over into every aspect of life. It is a recognition that our thoughts and words carry weight in the spiritual realm, impacting not only ourselves but also those around us.

As we meditate on Psalm 19:12-14, let us echo the psalmist's prayer for purity. May we humbly acknowledge our faults, seek deliverance from sin, and strive for lives that are pleasing to our Lord and Redeemer. And may we find comfort in the knowledge that God is faithful to forgive, restore, and guide us on the path of righteousness.

09/05/2024

TWC-DEVOTION
Thursday 9th May 2024
Pastor Erika
Title: Surrender Yourself in Worship

In the quiet sanctuary of our souls, in the midst of the symphony of our praises, there lies a truth waiting to be embraced: worship is not about us. It never was. It never will be. It is about the One who deserves all honor, glory, and adoration – our God, the Almighty.

In the book of Psalms, King David, the psalmist, paints a vivid picture of worship. He writes, "Sing to the Lord, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples." (Psalm 96:2-3) Notice the emphasis – it's not about singing to showcase our talents, nor is it about declaring our own greatness. It's about lifting our voices in unison to exalt the name of our Creator.

Too often, however, we find ourselves entangled in the web of self-importance when we enter into worship. We measure the success of our worship by the feelings it evokes within us or by the applause of those around us. Yet, this is a distortion of its true essence. Worship is not a performance; it is a surrender.

Jesus Himself declared, "Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks." (John 4:23) Notice the distinction – true worshipers worship in spirit and in truth. It's not about external displays or grand gestures; it's about the condition of our hearts.

When we remove ourselves from the equation of worship, we create space for the divine to dwell. We allow God to take center stage, where He rightfully belongs. As the apostle Paul exhorts in Galatians 2:20, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." In our worship, let us crucify our ego, our desires, and our agendas, so that Christ may reign supreme.

But why is this surrender so crucial? Because in surrendering ourselves, we acknowledge the sovereignty of God. We recognize that He alone is worthy of all praise and honor. As Isaiah 42:8 reminds us, "I am the Lord; that is my name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols." When we attempt to steal the spotlight of worship, we rob God of the glory that is rightfully His.

We MUST approach the throne of grace with humility and reverence, laying down our pride and self-interest at His feet. Let our worship be a sweet offering unto the Lord, devoid of selfish ambition or vain conceit. For in doing so, we align our hearts with the heartbeat of heaven, where every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Philippians 2:10-11).

08/05/2024

TWC-DEVOTION
Wednesday 8th May 2024
Pastor Erika
Title: Enduring in Hardship

Life's journey often takes us through valleys of adversity and trials that test the very core of our being. In those moments, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed, to question the purpose behind our pain. Yet, in the midst of our suffering, there is a profound truth to be found – a truth that speaks to the redemptive power of endurance.

In Romans 5:3-5, the apostle Paul illuminates this truth, affirming that our suffering is not in vain. Rather, it serves as a catalyst for growth, a refining fire that molds us into vessels of greater strength and resilience. Through the lens of Scripture, let us explore the transformative journey of enduring in hardship.

At the outset of our trials stands perseverance – the steadfast resolve to press on in the face of adversity. Perseverance is more than mere endurance; it is a deliberate choice to stand firm in our faith, trusting in the sovereignty of God even when circumstances seem dire. It is through the furnace of perseverance that our character is forged, tested, and refined.

Indeed, it is in the crucible of suffering that our true character is revealed. Like precious metal purified by fire, our trials strip away the facade of superficiality, exposing the depths of our souls. It is here, in the depths of despair, that we discover the strength and resilience that lie dormant within us – gifts bestowed upon us by a loving and merciful Creator.

And so, as we journey through the valley of the shadow of death, let us not lose heart. For though the road may be long and arduous, we do not walk alone. The promise of Scripture assures us that our suffering produces hope – a hope that transcends the temporal and points us toward the eternal.

In closing, let us take comfort in the words of the psalmist: "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning" (Psalm 30:5, NKJV). May we find solace in the knowledge that our suffering is not the end of the story, but rather the prelude to a glorious redemption yet to come.

26/04/2024

TWC-DEVOTION
Friday 26th April 2024
Pastor Erika
Title: Don’t Be Offended

In our journey of faith, the path to spiritual growth often intersects with the challenge of offense. It's natural to feel hurt or slighted by others' words or actions, but dwelling in offense can hinder our relationship with both others and with God.

Scripture reminds us in Ephesians 4:31-32, "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." This verse encourages us to release the weight of offense and instead embrace kindness, compassion, and forgiveness.

Moreover, in Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus teaches, "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." This underscores the importance of forgiveness in our own spiritual journey and the reciprocity of forgiveness from God.

Choosing not to hold onto offense requires a shift in perspective. It involves recognizing our own imperfections and vulnerabilities, understanding the humanity of those who may have wronged us, and ultimately surrendering our hurt to God's healing grace.

When we release offense, we open ourselves to experience the freedom and peace that come from forgiveness. It allows us to cultivate deeper connections with others and to walk in the light of God's love.

Let us then strive to let go of offense, to extend grace and forgiveness, and to walk in the footsteps of Christ, who forgave even those who crucified him. In doing so, we embrace the transformative power of love and usher in reconciliation, both in our hearts and in our relationships.

24/04/2024

TWC-DEVOTION
Wednesday 24th April 2024
Pastor Erika
Title: Ask Boldly, Receive Abundantly

In our daily lives, we often face struggles and desires that go unmet, and amidst these moments, a simple biblical truth calls out to us: "You have not because you ask not." This statement from James 4:2 serves as a reminder of the power and necessity of prayer.

James, a leader in the early church, speaks to the heart of human conflict and dissatisfaction by pointing out that we fight and quarrel because we desire things we cannot obtain on our own. He writes, "You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight." It's within this context of desire and conflict that James presents a straightforward yet often overlooked solution: "You do not have because you do not ask."

This verse challenges us to reflect on our approach to God and our expectations in prayer. Jesus Himself encouraged us to ask for what we need, promising that our heavenly Father is ready to give good gifts to those who ask Him (Matthew 7:7-11). He taught His disciples to be persistent in prayer, assuring them that even if an earthly father knows how to give good gifts to his children, how much more will God give good things to those who ask Him.

As we consider our own lives, it's worth examining how often our dissatisfaction or lack of fulfillment is due to our reluctance to bring our needs and desires before God. Whether it's pride, fear, or doubt, many barriers can prevent us from asking God for help.

Therefore, let us approach God's throne with confidence, as Hebrews 4:16 encourages us, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. When we ask in faith, without doubting, we align ourselves with God's generous nature and His desire to bless us abundantly.

James 4:2 isn't merely an observation about human behavior; it's an invitation to deepen our relationship with God through prayer. It encourages us to bring our needs, our hopes, and even our deepest longings to Him, trusting that He hears us and is eager to respond. Let us then ask boldly, so we might receive abundantly.

22/04/2024

TWC-DEVOTION
Monday 22nd April 2024
Pastor Erika
Title: Questions & Answers

In Matthew 19, Jesus encounters various individuals seeking guidance on matters of great significance: marriage, divorce, and the pursuit of eternal life. Through these interactions, profound lessons emerge, illuminating the depth of Jesus' teachings and his unwavering commitment to truth and love.

The chapter begins with Pharisees testing Jesus by asking if it is lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any reason. In response, Jesus directs their attention to the foundation of marriage established by God from the beginning of creation. He emphasizes the sacred union between husband and wife, declaring, "So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate." This declaration underscores the sanctity and permanence of marriage, challenging societal norms and human desires for convenience.

Jesus's words on marriage serve as a reminder of the divine intention behind this sacred covenant—a bond not to be taken lightly or dissolved at whim. In a world where relationships can be fragile and disposable, Jesus calls us to uphold the sanctity of marriage, nurturing it with love, respect, and unwavering commitment.

Following this discourse on marriage, Jesus encounters a rich young man who seeks guidance on inheriting eternal life. Despite his outward observance of the commandments, the young man is challenged to go beyond mere compliance and embrace wholehearted devotion to God. Jesus instructs him to sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow him—a test of the young man's attachment to worldly wealth and his willingness to prioritize God above all else.

This encounter highlights the importance of surrendering our earthly attachments and embracing a life of radical discipleship. Jesus invites us to release our grip on material possessions and worldly ambitions, recognizing that true fulfillment comes from wholehearted devotion to God. It's a call to reassess our priorities, letting go of anything that hinders our relationship with God and embracing a life marked by sacrificial love and service to others.

In the closing verses of Matthew 19, Peter raises a question on behalf of the disciples, pondering the rewards for those who have left everything to follow Jesus. In his response, Jesus assures them that anyone who has sacrificed for the sake of the kingdom will be abundantly rewarded—both in this life and in the age to come. His words offer comfort and encouragement to all who choose to walk the path of discipleship, reminding us that our sacrifices are never in vain and that God's rewards far surpass any earthly treasure.

Through his interactions with various individuals, Jesus challenges conventional wisdom, calls us to wholehearted devotion, and offers assurance of God's abundant blessings. As we meditate on these timeless truths, may we be inspired to live lives marked by unwavering commitment to God's kingdom and sacrificial love for others.

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