Rise Up: Embracing God’s Call to Action

Ezra 10:4: “Rise up! This matter is in your hands. We will support you, so take courage and do it!”

In a world that often feels overwhelmed by darkness, it’s easy to retreat, to feel silenced, and to let opportunities for transformation pass us by. Yet, the call of God to His people remains: Rise up! As Isaiah 60:1-4 reminds us, “Arise, Jerusalem! Let your light shine for all to see. For the glory of the Lord rises to shine on you.” These words are not just for ancient Israel—they resonate with us today as individuals and as a church.

At Home Church, we’ve been exploring what it means to rise up, especially in this milestone year. I’ve been privileged to share my own journey of answering God’s call, and I’d like to take you through some of the lessons I’ve learned along the way.

A Journey of Faith

When I joined Home Church as the children’s and families worker two years ago, I had a vision: to not only launch outreach ministries here but to help other churches innovate and rebuild their children’s programs. The pandemic had left many churches struggling, and I felt an urgency to step into this gap. But it wasn’t just about programs; it was about equipping the Church to rise up and take its rightful place as a beacon of hope in our communities.

Before this, I worked as a pastoral support officer in a school. Each day, I saw the deep needs of children who lacked hope, resilience, and care. My heart broke for them. Services that once supported these children were dwindling, and I kept asking, “Where is the Church?” It was clear: something needed to change.

This burden led me to a pivotal decision last January. I left my stable job, stepped into the unknown, and began building a ministry focused on equipping churches for children’s outreach. I joined a course for Christian pioneers, and with no guarantees of success, I took a leap of faith. God confirmed my steps through His Word and the encouragement of others. The name “TenFour Ministries” was inspired by Ezra 10:4, reminding me that this matter is in my hands—and that I am supported.

The Call to Rise Up

Ezra’s story is one of rebuilding amidst opposition. After the temple was rebuilt under Zerubbabel, Ezra arrived in Jerusalem to restore the community’s spiritual life. He found the people far from God and wept bitterly, crying out for change. In this moment of despair, the people came alongside him and declared, “Rise up! This matter is in your hands. We will support you, so take courage and do it!” (Ezra 10:4).

This verse speaks volumes about what it takes to answer God’s call:

1. This Matter Is in Your Hands God places unique opportunities and responsibilities in our hands. Too often, fear and doubt hold us back. We worry about what could go wrong, how others might perceive us, or whether we are qualified. But what if we focused instead on what could happen if we said yes to God? What blessings might we miss if we don’t obey Him?Remember the words of 1 Samuel 12:24: “But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.” God has never failed, and if He’s calling you to something, He will equip you for it.Reflection: What has God placed in your hands today? Is it a conversation with a neighbor, a step of faith in your career, or an act of kindness?
2. We Will Support You No one rises up alone. God provides people to walk alongside us, to cheer us on, and to share the burden. In Ezra’s story, the people saw his anguish and joined him in repentance and prayer before offering their support. Similarly, we need to surround ourselves with a community of faith that encourages us and reminds us of God’s promises.However, the ultimate source of strength is God. Human support is valuable, but it’s in the secret place with God—where we are real and vulnerable with Him—that we find the courage to rise. Isaiah 41:10 reassures us: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”Reflection: Who is supporting you on your journey? Are you leaning on God for your ultimate strength?
3. Take Courage Rising up requires courage. It means letting go of fears, doubts, and the baggage that holds us back. God’s call often stretches us beyond our comfort zones, but He has already equipped us for the task.Philippians 4:13 reminds us, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” With God’s strength, we can face any challenge, knowing He has a plan and a purpose for our lives.Reflection: What fears do you need to surrender to God? How can you take a step of courage today?

Moving Forward

This year at Home Church, we’re being called to rise up as individuals and as a community. It’s time to step into the opportunities God has placed before us and trust Him for the strength to see them through. Let’s not retreat or be silenced. Let’s rise up and shine His light in our homes, workplaces, and communities.

Food for Thought

1. What is one area in your life where God is asking you to rise up?
2. Who are the people cheering you on, and how can you build a stronger support network?
3. What fears or doubts are holding you back from stepping into God’s call?
4. How can you create space in your life to seek God’s strength and direction?
5. What might change in your community if you and your church rise up to meet the needs around you?

God has placed a unique calling on each of our lives. It’s time to rise up, take courage, and do it. The matter is in your hands—how will you respond?

Hannah Aske, Home Church