Subject: Embrace the Journey of True Discipleship (04/14/'24) -Message

Subject: Embrace the Journey of True Discipleship Dear Friends, I hope this message finds you well. Today, I felt inspired to share a powerful reminder from the Bible, specifically from Matthew 16:24-25, about the essence of true discipleship. Jesus tells us, "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it." In this passage, Jesus calls us to reflect on what it truly means to follow Him. It's not just about belief—it's about action. It's about setting aside our own desires and comforts, carrying our burdens with purpose, and truly committing to the path He has set before us. This path isn't easy, and it often requires us to make difficult choices, forsaking the fleeting promises of fame and profit for something much more profound and eternal. Let us ponder on how we can live out this call in our daily lives. How can we deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him? This might mean different things for each of us—maybe it's serving others, spreading kindness, or standing firm in our faith despite challenges. Let's encourage each other to embrace this journey of discipleship, knowing that the life we "lose" for Christ is the life we truly gain. Would love to hear your thoughts and how you are walking this path. Blessings, Pastor Steven G. Lee (April 14, 2024)