Brandon Martel

Easter is not just about the cross—it’s about the empty tomb. The resurrection of Jesus is the foundation of the Christian faith. Without it, His death would have been in vain. But because He rose again, we have hope, victory, and the promise of eternal life.

The Empty Tomb – Proof of God’s Power
On the third day after His crucifixion, Jesus’ followers found the stone rolled away and the tomb empty (Luke 24:1-6). The angel declared, “He is not here; He has risen!” This moment changed everything. The resurrection was proof that Jesus was who He claimed to be—the Son of God, the Savior of the world.
Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:17, “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.” But because Jesus did rise, we are no longer bound by sin and death.

The Hope We Have in Christ
Jesus’ resurrection assures us of three powerful truths:
-Victory over sin and death – Death could not hold Him, and because of that, we have eternal life (1 Corinthians 15:54-57).
-New life in Christ – Just as Jesus rose, we too can walk in newness of life (Romans 6:4).
-A living Savior – Jesus is alive and active in our lives today, interceding for us (Hebrews 7:25).

What This Means for Us
Because Jesus rose again:
-We have hope in every circumstance. No matter what we face, the resurrection reminds us that God brings life out of death.
-We are called to live differently. How does knowing Jesus is alive change the way we live?
-We can share this hope. Who in our lives needs to hear about the resurrection?

This week, let’s celebrate the victory we have in Christ. Next week, we’ll look at the mission Jesus gave us—to go and share the good news with the world.

At the heart of Easter is the cross. It was on the cross that Jesus bore the full weight of our sin, experiencing unimaginable suffering out of His deep love for us. Understanding the significance of the cross helps us grasp the extent of God’s love and the cost of our salvation.

The Pain and Shame of the Cross
Crucifixion was one of the most excruciating and humiliating forms of execution. Jesus endured severe physical suffering—He was beaten, mocked, and nailed to a wooden cross (Matthew 27:27-31). But beyond the physical pain, Jesus also bore the weight of sin. As He hung on the cross, He cried out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46). In that moment, He experienced complete separation from the Father.

The Greatest Act of Love
Despite the agony, Jesus willingly endured the cross for us. Romans 5:8 reminds us, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” His sacrifice was not just for the righteous but for all who would believe in Him.

What This Means for Us
The cross calls us to:
-Recognize the cost of our salvation. Jesus paid the ultimate price for our freedom.
-Live in response to His love. How does the cross change the way we live?
-Share this love with others. Who needs to hear about Christ’s sacrifice?

As we reflect on the cross this week, let’s live in gratitude for what Jesus has done. Next week, we’ll celebrate the hope of the resurrection and what it means for us today.

As Jesus approached the cross, His final moments with His disciples were filled with profound lessons. From the Last Supper to His time in Gethsemane, we see a Savior who models humility, love, and complete surrender to God’s will.

The Last Supper – A Call to Servanthood
On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus shared the Passover meal with His disciples. But this was no ordinary meal—it was a moment of deep significance. Jesus took bread and wine, giving them new meaning as symbols of His body and blood (Luke 22:19-20). He was preparing His followers for what was to come.

Yet, before the meal even began, Jesus did something remarkable: He washed His disciples’ feet (John 13:4-5). In that culture, washing feet was a task for servants, yet Jesus, the Son of God, humbled Himself to serve others.
“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.” (John 13:14)
This act was a powerful lesson: true leadership is found in humility and service. Jesus calls us to follow His example, putting others before ourselves.

The Garden of Gethsemane – A Prayer of Surrender
After the meal, Jesus went to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane. Knowing the suffering He would endure, He was overwhelmed with sorrow. He prayed, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42).
In this moment, Jesus showed His humanity—He felt fear and anguish. But He also demonstrated complete trust in the Father. His prayer reminds us that surrendering to God’s will is not always easy, but it is always best.

What This Means for Us
As we reflect on these final moments of Jesus’ life, we are challenged to:
Embrace humility. How can we serve others as Jesus did?
Trust God in difficult times. When we face hardship, do we submit to His will like Jesus did?
Remember Jesus’ sacrifice. The Last Supper points us to the cross. How does this deepen our gratitude?

This week, let’s take time to serve others and surrender our struggles to God. Next week, we’ll look at the cross and the immense love and sacrifice Jesus displayed for us.

Easter is the most significant event in the Christian faith, but to fully appreciate its impact, we need to understand why it was necessary in the first place. Why did Jesus have to come? Why did He have to suffer and die? The answer lies in humanity’s deepest problem, sin.

The Reality of Sin and Separation from God
From the very beginning, humanity was created for a relationship with God. In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve walked with God in perfect harmony. But when sin entered the world through disobedience, that relationship was broken (Genesis 3). Sin created a divide between humanity and a holy God, one that we could not bridge on our own.

Romans 3:23 states, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” No matter how hard we try, we cannot achieve righteousness on our own. Sin’s consequences are serious—Romans 6:23 tells us that “the wages of sin is death.” But that’s not where the story ends.

God’s Plan for Redemption
Even in humanity’s rebellion, God had a plan. Throughout the Old Testament, we see glimpses of this plan unfolding. The sacrificial system in Israel pointed to the need for atonement, but these sacrifices were only temporary. Prophecies throughout Scripture pointed to a coming Messiah—one who would bear the sins of the world.

Isaiah 53:5-6 prophesies about Jesus’ sacrifice:
“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.”

This passage, written hundreds of years before Christ, foretold the suffering He would endure for our sake. Jesus came to do what we could never do on our own—restore our relationship with God.

Why Easter Matters
Easter is not just a story of suffering; it is a story of victory. Jesus’ death on the cross was the payment for our sins, but His resurrection proved that the payment was accepted. Because of Jesus, we are no longer slaves to sin and death.

2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” The cross was the turning point in history, and the empty tomb was the proof of God’s triumph.

What This Means for Us
As we approach Easter, take time to reflect on why we need a Saviour. Recognizing our own sinfulness is not meant to bring us shame—it is meant to point us to the grace of God. When we understand the depth of our need, we can better appreciate the depth of His love.

This week, consider these questions:
Do I recognize my need for a Saviour, or am I relying on my own efforts?
How does knowing that Jesus died for me change the way I live?
Who in my life needs to hear about the hope found in Jesus?

As we continue this journey toward Easter, let’s prepare our hearts with gratitude and awe. Next week, we’ll look at Jesus’ final days before the cross and what they teach us about surrender and trust in God.

Starting to read the Bible can feel overwhelming. It’s a big book (actually, a collection of 66 books!) filled with history, poetry, prophecy, and teachings. Whether you’re new to Christianity or just looking to develop a deeper habit of Bible reading, here’s a guide to help you get started.

1. Start with the Right Mindset
Reading the Bible isn’t just about gaining knowledge—it’s about growing in your relationship with God. Approach it with a heart ready to learn and be transformed. Pray before you begin, asking God to help you understand His Word.

2. Choose a Readable Translation
Some Bible translations are easier to understand than others. If you’re new to reading the Bible, consider starting with translations like:
– New Living Translation (NLT) – Easy to read and engaging
– English Standard Version (ESV) – A balance of readability and accuracy
– New International Version (NIV) – A widely-used, clear translation

3. Start with the Right Books
Instead of starting at Genesis and trying to read straight through (which can get difficult in books like Leviticus), consider these options:
– Gospel of John – A great introduction to Jesus’ life and teachings
– Psalms – Full of prayers and encouragement for daily life
– Proverbs – Practical wisdom for everyday living
– Romans – A solid foundation of Christian beliefs

4. Use a Reading Plan
A reading plan can help you stay consistent and provide structure. Some great options include:
– The YouVersion Bible App – Offers various reading plans and devotionals
– The Bible in One Year (by Nicky Gumbel) – Helps you read through the Bible with daily commentary
– Chronological Bible Reading Plan – Reads the Bible in the order events happened

5. Take Notes and Reflect
As you read, write down key verses, thoughts, and questions. Ask yourself:
– What is the main message of this passage?
– How does this apply to my life today?
– What is God revealing about Himself?

6. Find a Community
Reading the Bible is even more powerful when you do it with others. Join a Bible study group, discuss Scripture with friends, or find an online community where you can ask questions and share insights.

7. Be Patient and Consistent
Understanding the Bible takes time, and that’s okay. Even if you don’t grasp everything right away, keep reading. The more you engage with God’s Word, the more it will shape your life.

8. Pray for Understanding
The Bible is God’s Word, and He wants you to understand it. Ask Him for wisdom, guidance, and insight as you read. James 1:5 reminds us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”

Starting to read the Bible is one of the best decisions you can make. It will strengthen your faith, give you direction, and bring you closer to God. Take it one step at a time, and enjoy the journey of discovering His Word!

Have you ever felt like asking questions about faith makes you a bad Christian? Maybe you’ve wondered why suffering exists, how prayer works, or what a particular passage of Scripture really means. If so, you’re not alone. The good news is that God welcomes your questions.

A Faith That Invites Questions
From the very beginning, God has invited His people into a relationship built on trust and discovery. The Bible is full of people who wrestled with God, sought understanding, and asked hard questions. Job, David, Habakkuk, and even the disciples all expressed doubts and struggles. Instead of turning them away, God met them in their questions.

Jesus Welcomed Questions
Jesus never shied away from the tough questions people asked Him. When Nicodemus came to Him at night, unsure of what it meant to be born again (John 3), Jesus didn’t dismiss him—He engaged with him. When Thomas doubted the resurrection, Jesus didn’t rebuke him but invited him to see and believe (John 20:27). Jesus meets us where we are, even in our uncertainty.

Faith Isn’t Blind
Faith isn’t about ignoring doubts or pretending we have all the answers. It’s about seeking truth and trusting that God is big enough to handle our questions. Proverbs 2:3-5 encourages us to seek wisdom and understanding as though searching for hidden treasure. Our questions can actually deepen our faith when they lead us closer to God.

How to Ask Questions in a Healthy Way
1. Bring Your Questions to God – Pray honestly. He knows your thoughts already, so invite Him into your search for truth.
2. Seek Wise Counsel – Talk to pastors, mentors, and fellow believers who can help guide you through Scripture.
3. Study the Word – The Bible has stood the test of time and is full of answers for those who seek them.
4. Be Open to Growth – Sometimes, we don’t get the answer we want right away. Faith is a journey, and God shapes us through it.

God is Not Afraid of Your Questions
No matter what you’re wrestling with, God is not intimidated by your doubts. He invites you to seek, knock, and ask (Matthew 7:7), and He promises to be found. So, don’t be afraid to bring your questions to Him—He welcomes them, and He welcomes you.

What questions have you been afraid to ask? You’re not alone, and you don’t have to walk this journey by yourself. Let’s seek Him together.

We’ve all been there—pouring out our hearts to God, asking for healing, guidance, or a breakthrough, only to be met with what seems like silence. It can be frustrating, discouraging, and even faith-shaking. If God loves us, why doesn’t He answer? Does He even hear?

The Reality of Unanswered Prayers

The Bible is filled with stories of faithful people who experienced seasons of unanswered prayers. The Apostle Paul pleaded with God to remove his “thorn in the flesh” (2 Corinthians 12:7-9), yet God’s answer was not removal but sufficient grace. Even Jesus, in the Garden of Gethsemane, asked if the cup of suffering could pass from Him, but He ultimately surrendered to the Father’s will (Luke 22:42).

God’s silence does not mean He is absent or indifferent. Often, unanswered prayers are not truly unanswered—they are answered in ways we do not expect or understand. Sometimes, the answer is “not yet” or even “no” because God sees the bigger picture that we cannot comprehend.

Why Doesn’t God Answer the Way We Want?

1. God’s Timing is Different from Ours
We want quick solutions, but God operates outside of our timelines. What seems like a delay is often preparation for something greater.

2. God Knows What is Best
Just as a loving parent won’t give a child something harmful, God sometimes withholds what we ask for because He has something better in store.

3. God Uses Waiting to Grow Our Faith
Faith is not about getting what we want but trusting in who God is. Seasons of waiting teach us dependence, patience, and perseverance.

4. God is Working Behind the Scenes
Just because we don’t see an immediate result doesn’t mean God isn’t moving. Many times, His work is invisible to us until much later.

How Do We Trust God When Prayers Seem Unanswered?

– Keep Praying – Jesus encouraged persistence in prayer (Luke 18:1-8). Even when it feels futile, keep bringing your requests before God.
– Remember God’s Faithfulness – Reflect on times in the past when He has provided, even if it wasn’t in the way you expected.
– Trust in His Character – God is good, loving, and sovereign. If He withholds something, it is out of wisdom and love.
– Surrender to His Will – Like Jesus in Gethsemane, pray with open hands, trusting that God’s will is ultimately best.

Hope Beyond the Silence

God’s silence is not rejection. Sometimes, what we see as unanswered prayers are actually the groundwork for something greater than we could imagine. Our role is not to understand everything but to trust the One who does. Even in the waiting, even in the silence, He is working—and He is with us.

What prayers are you waiting on God for? How can you trust Him more in the process?

Family Day is a special time to pause, connect, and celebrate the people who matter most. But what if we didn’t wait for a designated holiday to cherish our loved ones? What if every day felt a little more like Family Day? Here are some practical ways to bring the warmth, connection, and joy of Family Day into your everyday life.

1. Prioritize Quality Time
In the hustle of daily responsibilities, intentional quality time can slip away. Schedule regular family dinners, game nights, or weekend outings to nurture relationships. Even a few minutes of undivided attention can strengthen bonds.

2. Unplug and Be Present
Technology often distracts us from meaningful interactions. Set boundaries for screen time, especially during meals or shared activities. Create phone-free zones where conversations and laughter take center stage.

3. Create Meaningful Traditions
Family traditions give life a sense of rhythm and belonging. Whether it’s a Sunday brunch, bedtime stories, or a weekly check-in, small traditions make big memories.

4. Show Appreciation Daily
A simple “thank you” or a handwritten note can make a huge impact. Make it a habit to express gratitude and recognize each other’s efforts. Words of encouragement build an environment of love and respect.

5. Make Time for Play
Laughter and play shouldn’t be reserved for special occasions. Engage in activities that bring joy—whether it’s board games, sports, or a spontaneous dance party in the living room. Having fun together strengthens relationships.

6. Support Each Other
Life’s challenges are easier to face with a strong support system. Be there for one another, whether through words of encouragement, helping with chores, or simply lending a listening ear. Celebrating successes and comforting each other in tough times fosters a strong family bond.

7. Serve Together
Giving back as a family builds empathy and unity. Volunteer at a local charity, help a neighbor, or engage in acts of kindness together. Serving others brings a shared sense of purpose and fulfillment.

8. Be Intentional About Conversations
Take time to check in with each other beyond surface-level conversations. Ask open-ended questions, listen actively, and create a space where everyone feels heard and valued.

9. Balance Work and Home Life
Striking a balance between career and family is essential. Set boundaries with work commitments, and make sure family time isn’t always overshadowed by professional responsibilities.

10. Celebrate the Ordinary
Not every day will be a grand celebration, but even the simplest moments can be special. Enjoy morning coffee together, appreciate the beauty of everyday routines, and find joy in the little things.

By incorporating these small but meaningful habits, we can turn every day into an opportunity to cherish our families. Let’s make the warmth and togetherness of Family Day a year-round experience!

All Nations Church has a long history of being involved in the Sudbury community. Here are just a few initiatives we have run that have made a tangible difference to those most in need.
The Landmark
All Nations Housing Corporation operates the Landmark, a low-income and senior apartment complex with over 60 units. Founded by All Nations Church in 1993, it has become an important part of housing options in Sudbury.
All Nations Children Centre
We operated a multi-site child care centre for 23 years, offering jobs and full-day care for families all over the city.
Camp Norland
To provide a safe, fun experience for kids and teens over the summer, we partnered with other Northern churches to form Camp Norland located in Verner.
All Nations Counselling Services
To meet the mental health needs of our community, we started All Nations Counselling Services. With qualified counsellors and social workers, we addressed anxiety, depression, divorce and grief and helped people move to health.
Peace Tower
Being inspired by the late Pastor Jeremy Mahood, Dario Zulich spearheaded the building of the Peace Tower to help solve Sudbury’s housing problem. With 38 units, it helps the most vulnerable of Sudbury have somewhere they can call home.
Out of the Cold Dinners
In partnership with other Downtown Churches, we ran and supported dinners in the winter season for the most vulnerable. We provided a warm meal in a loving atmosphere to anyone who came through the doors.
Church plants
Recognizing the important part that churches can play in a community, we have planted churches across Northern Ontario, including in Wanup and Britt.
First Steps
First Steps was a program located in downtown Sudbury to help people who were wanting to take steps in their recovery from substance abuse or incarceration.
Community Hub
Recognizing the value of our building, we seek to be a hub for community events. From musical experiences, to support groups and everything in between, we unite the community through shared moments.
The Breakthrough Centre
For over 10 years, The Breakthrough Centre provided a safe space for vulnerable and homeless youth, along with a residence for boys 16-24 enrolled in upgrading programs.
Big Brothers Big Sisters
Our partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters has impacted the lives of dozens of young people facing adversity in the area. Each year we aim to provide backpacks full of school supplies and Christmas gifts to those who a part of their programs.
Elgin Street Mission
The Elgin Street Mission forms an important part of Sudbury’s support network for the vulnerable population. To support this organization, we have provided more than 100,000 cookies for guests and have had dozens of volunteers to serve weekly, monthly and for specific projects.
Mission trips
We have made trips to areas in need to provide support including Belize, New York, the Dominican Republic, Northern Ontario and Los Angeles. On these trips we have provided medicine, food and labour for necessary projects.
To Louis Street with Love
We created gift baskets for families living on Louis Street who were in need of Christmas Hampers. This initiative was started by a congregation member who had a heart for the downtown core.
Teddy Bear Campaign
Recognizing how stressful it is for kids in emergency situations, we pushed for police, fire and ambulance to carry teddy bears with them to calm children during tragedies. This has since been something that emergency services across Ontario do, in partnership with the Police Retirees of Ontario.
Cops for Kids
We started Cops for Kids to improve relationships between children in the community and police. We taught life skills, leadership and sports to see children meet their fullest potential.
VCARS/SAVS
We played an important role in expanding the Victim Crisis Assistance and Referral Services into the Sudbury region. Now called Sudbury & Area Victim Services, this program aims to help victims in the immediate aftermath of a crime or tragedy. This includes handling expenses, counselling, and more.
Mountain of Mittens
For the past 10 years, we have partnered with schools across the Sudbury and Manitoulin districts to provide hats and mitts to children in need. Most recently, we have seen the need in our community increase to include over 1,500 children across the region.

Trusting God is foundational to our faith, yet it is something that many of us struggle with. We live in a world filled with uncertainty, challenges, and disappointments, which can make trusting in an unseen God feel difficult. However, Scripture repeatedly calls us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts (Proverbs 3:5-6). So, how can we grow in our trust of God? Here are five practical ways to develop deeper trust in Him.

1. Know Who God Is
Trust is built on knowledge. If we don’t truly know who God is, how can we trust Him? The Bible reveals His character: He is faithful (Lamentations 3:22-23), good (Psalm 34:8), sovereign (Romans 8:28), and loving (1 John 4:16). Spending time in Scripture helps us understand His nature and strengthens our confidence in Him.

2. Reflect on God’s Faithfulness
One of the most powerful ways to grow in trust is to remember how God has been faithful in the past. The Israelites were often called to remember what God had done for them (Deuteronomy 7:9). Take time to reflect on the ways God has provided, guided, and sustained you. Keeping a prayer journal can be a helpful way to document His faithfulness over time.

3. Spend Time in Prayer
Prayer is an expression of trust. When we pray, we acknowledge that we need God’s help and that He is in control. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us to bring everything to God in prayer, and in return, He will give us peace. Regular communication with God strengthens our relationship with Him and deepens our trust.

4. Obey Even When It’s Hard
Trusting God means stepping out in faith even when we don’t fully understand. Abraham trusted God when he left his homeland (Genesis 12:1-4), and Peter trusted Jesus when he stepped out of the boat (Matthew 14:29). As we obey God in small steps, our trust in Him grows because we see His faithfulness in action.

5. Surround Yourself with Encouragement
Trusting God becomes easier when we are surrounded by others who do the same. Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us to encourage one another in faith. Being part of a church community, joining a Bible study, or simply sharing testimonies with friends can strengthen our faith and remind us that we are not alone.

Conclusion
Trusting God is a journey that requires intentionality and faith. By knowing who God is, remembering His faithfulness, praying, obeying, and surrounding ourselves with encouragement, we can grow in our trust in Him. As we take steps of faith, we will experience the peace and assurance that comes from fully relying on God.

What step can you take today to grow in your trust of God?