Subject: Empathy and Insight: Learning from the Margins* (04/28/'24) -Message

Subject: Empathy and Insight: Learning from the Margins Dear Friends, I wanted to share a powerful perspective that has deeply resonated with me. Our closest, yet often overlooked neighbors—the homeless—provide us with invaluable opportunities to learn and live out the teachings of the Gospels. It's crucial that we engage with these experiences directly, using them to illuminate the teachings of Jesus Christ. This approach not only brings us closer to the Gospel but also enriches our understanding of our faith. At the heart of our ministry is a guiding principle: to empathize fully by putting ourselves in the place of our neighbors. This is beautifully summarized by the biblical directive, "Love your neighbor as yourself," encapsulating the entire law (Galatians 5:14; Mark 12:31). This commandment doesn't just guide us; it transforms us, fostering a profound connection and shared humanity that deepens our insight into what it means to live a Christian life. Let's contemplate how we can apply this Golden Rule more faithfully in our daily interactions and community engagements. Warm regards, Pastor Steven G. Lee (April 30, 2024)