Subject: Embracing Transformation and Guidance in Our Faith Journey (03/01/'24) >Message

Subject: Embracing Transformation and Guidance in Our Faith Journey Dear Friends, I hope this message finds you well and thriving in your personal journeys. Today, I felt inspired to share some reflections on the transformative power of faith and the guidance of the Spirit in our lives, drawing from ancient wisdom that still resonates deeply in our contemporary journey. In the book of Ezekiel, we find fascinating insights about spiritual guidance and transformation. Ezekiel 1:12, 17 describes a vision of living creatures moving in any direction the spirit led them, without turning. This imagery powerfully symbolizes the essence of being led by the Spirit - a life of faith that moves forward, guided by divine will, adaptable and unwavering in purpose. Moreover, Ezekiel 46:9-10 presents a compelling metaphor about transformation through our encounters with the Divine. It tells us that worshippers in the temple were instructed to exit by a different gate than the one they entered, underscoring the transformative experience of encountering God. This principle suggests that engaging with the Divine, with an open heart and spirit, changes us, urging us not to return the way we came but to embrace a new path illuminated by our faith. This spiritual transformation is not about the physical doors of church buildings but the journey of our souls. It's a reminder that every encounter with God invites us to grow, to change, and to emerge renewed. Our faith journey is about moving forward, guided by the Spirit, embracing the changes that come with genuine encounters with the Divine. In our modern lives, these ancient teachings remind us to be open to transformation and to trust in the Spirit's guidance. Let us approach our spiritual journey with the anticipation of change, ready to be led in new directions, and open to the profound transformations that faith promises. As we share in this journey, let's encourage each other to remain open to the transformative power of our faith, to seek guidance from the Spirit, and to embrace the changes that lead us closer to the Divine. May we all move forward in faith, not returning by the way we came but venturing through new gates that open to us, guided by the Spirit and transformed by our encounters with the sacred. Blessings and peace on your journey, Pastor Steven G. Lee (March 1, 2024)