Subject: Embracing Peace, Purity, and the Kingdom of God: A Call to Inner Transformation (04/03/'24) -Passage

Subject: Embracing Peace, Purity, and the Kingdom of God: A Call to Inner Transformation In a world that often feels like it's teeming with chaos and strife, the words of wisdom shared from scriptures offer a profound reminder of the essence of faith, peace, and inner purity. Jesus emphasized the importance of welcoming the Kingdom of God with the innocence and openness of a child, underlining that this is the key to truly understanding and entering it (Mark 10:15; Luke 18:17; Matthew 18:3). He also urged us to forsake violence, highlighting the dire consequences of living by the sword and instead promoting a life of peace and reconciliation (Matthew 26:52; Luke 22:51; John 18:11). The moment of Jesus' arrest, as depicted in the scriptures (Mark 14:43-52; Matthew 26:47-56; Luke 22:47-53; John 18:2-12), serves as a pivotal reminder of the transformative power of non-violence and the strength found in peaceful surrender to God's will, even in the face of adversity. Jeremiah’s call to introspection and righteousness (Jeremiah 5:1; 4:14) is ever relevant, urging us to look within and around us, to cleanse our hearts of evil, and to commit ourselves to a path of integrity and faithfulness to God. It reminds us that purity of heart and the relentless pursuit of what is right in God's eyes are what truly matter. Furthermore, Jeremiah 15:19 challenges us to discern and embrace what is valuable and true, promising that in doing so, we become vessels for God's voice in the world. Let's reflect on these passages and strive to embody their teachings in our daily lives, promoting peace, purity, and righteousness. In doing so, we not only draw closer to the divine but also contribute to a world desperately in need of compassion and light. Pastor Steven G. Lee (April 3, 2024)