Subject: The Unfailing Love of God in Christ: A Message of Hope and Strength (03/26/'24) -Message

Subject: The Unfailing Love of God in Christ: A Message of Hope and Strength Dear Friends, I hope this message finds you well and brings you a moment of peace and reflection in the midst of our busy lives. Today, I want to share with you a profound bundle of passages that remind us of the unparalleled love of God in Christ, a love that offers us victory, guidance, and comfort through all the trials and tribulations of life. In the heart of the scriptures, we find a powerful affirmation in Romans 8:37-39 that speaks directly to the strength and assurance we receive through faith: "In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." This passage reassures us that no matter what challenges we face—be it pain, loss, or uncertainty—nothing can distance us from God's enduring love for us in Christ. Reflecting on the sacrifices made for us, we recall Jesus' poignant words on the way to the crucifixion: "Don't cry for me, but for yourselves and your children" (Luke 23:28). It is a call for us to look beyond the immediate suffering and see the deeper significance of our own lives and the legacy we leave for the next generations. The act of crucifixion and the division of His garments (Mark 15:24; Matthew 27:35-36; Luke 23:34; John 19:23-24) symbolize not only the physical sufferings of Christ but also the profound spiritual sacrifice made for humanity's redemption. Moreover, Matthew 23:10 reminds us, "One is your leader, that is, CHRIST." In a world where we often look for guidance and leadership in many places, this simple yet profound statement redirects our focus to the One who truly matters. Christ’s leadership is unlike any other, characterized by love, sacrifice, and truth. Finally, 2 Corinthians 1:4 encapsulates the essence of God's comfort and our call to share it: "God helps us in all our troubles, so that we are able to help others who have all kind of troubles, using the same help that we ourselves have received from God." This passage encourages us to extend the comfort and love we have received from God to others, creating a ripple effect of hope and healing. As we reflect on these passages, let us be reminded of the steadfast love of God in Christ, which empowers us, guides us, and comforts us. May we also be inspired to share this love with others, especially those in need of hope and encouragement. With warmth and blessings, Pastor Steven G. Lee (March 26, 2024)