>Subject: Embracing Change for a Brighter Tomorrow* (04/05/'24) -Message

Subject: Embracing Change for a Brighter Tomorrow Dear Friends and Family, I hope this message finds you well and thriving. Today, I want to share some reflections on the transformative power of letting go of old, harmful habits and embracing a path of awareness, compassion, and divine inclusion. The Nature of Old Habits It's often said that old habits die hard, and indeed, their addictive nature can lead us towards a destructive end. These habits act as significant roadblocks in our lives, much like a flat tire that prevents progress. To move forward, we must recognize and change these habits. The Importance of Awareness Our journey is also a battle against ignorance, which is far from innocent; it is, in fact, a form of sin. Being aware of the snares set by malevolence is crucial, as noted in 2 Corinthians 2:11. We are advised to navigate life with wisdom and integrity, embodying the guidance of being "wise as serpents and harmless as doves" from Matthew 10:16. Divine Pursuit and Inclusion In a world that often overlooks the vulnerable, the divine pursuit is for those considered least, lost, or last. There's a profound ethos that none should be abandoned, echoing a call for inclusive compassion. This vision is beautifully depicted in the parables of the Gospel, urging us to welcome everyone into a communal joy and to recognize the potential in every individual. A Call to Shift Perspective This message isn't just about changing habits; it's about a deeper, more inclusive understanding of value and potential. The teachings across the Gospels remind us that in the eyes of the divine, the last shall become first and the first, last. It's a call to shift perspective, prioritize spiritual and moral values, and recognize the value in every soul, especially those marginalized by society. Let us embrace this path of transformation, shedding old habits for a journey filled with wisdom, compassion, and divine inclusion. Together, we can move towards a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow. Warm regards, Pastor Steven G. Lee (April 5, 2024)