Subject: Embracing Life and Death with Love and Fearlessness (03/29/'24) -Message

Subject: Embracing Life and Death with Love and Fearlessness Dear Friends, As we navigate the journey of life, we encounter moments that remind us of the delicate balance between life and death. It's a perspective worth sharing, especially in moments that challenge our understanding of existence itself. Life and Death: A Singular Thread We often celebrate birth with joy and mourn death with sorrow, yet these two are merely different aspects of the same existence. Life and death intertwine like two sides of a thread, each giving meaning to the other. It is a reminder that we, as individuals, are not just a singular presence in the world but a complete universe within a lifetime, which can conclude at any given moment. The End and The Beginning The sudden departure of someone from this life serves as a poignant reminder that every normal existence is transient. Yet, it is essential to recognize that death is as much a part of life as living itself. This acknowledgment encourages us to embrace life more passionately, liberating us from the chains of fear that hold us back. Living Beyond Fear The essence of living fully is found in the absence of fear. As it is said, "There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love (1 Jn 4:18)." This profound wisdom teaches us that the anticipation of physical demise shouldn't overshadow our souls' resilience. Moreover, we are reminded, "do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul (Mt 10:28)." And indeed, "Deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery (He 2:15)." It is through this understanding that we find our liberation from fear and death, anchored in faith and love. Freedom in Faith The real journey is in discovering that in faith, particularly in Christ, we find freedom from fear and the finality of death. This liberation allows us to live lives filled with love, purpose, and the courage to face the unknown without dread. As we reflect on these truths, let us carry forward with a heart full of love, a spirit devoid of fear, and a soul prepared to live and love fully, in every moment given to us. Warmest regards, Pastor Steven G. Lee (March 29, 2024)