Subject: Rise Early and Choose Wisely: A Reflection on Devotion and Purpose (04/14/'24) -Message

Subject: Rise Early and Choose Wisely: A Reflection on Devotion and Purpose Good [Morning/Afternoon/Evening], As we start our day, often before the sun lights up the horizon, we face a choice. This choice, subtle yet profound, determines the direction of our lives and the depth of our spirits. Are we rising to serve the divine purpose, or are our efforts aimed solely at worldly gains? In the teachings of the Bible, we find guidance that helps us navigate these choices: Matthew 6:24 reminds us, "No one can serve two masters... You cannot serve both God and money." This calls us to reflect on our ultimate loyalty and devotion. In Luke 12:16-21, the parable of the Rich Fool warns us against the folly of storing up earthly wealth at the expense of being rich toward God. Matthew 23 reveals Jesus’ stern warnings to the Pharisees and teachers of the law about hypocrisy, urging us to seek purity not just outwardly but inwardly. Mark 1:35 shows us Jesus Himself, rising early to pray, setting an example of prioritizing spiritual communion over all else. John 21:15-17 emphasizes the spiritual leadership of feeding Jesus' sheep, which highlights the importance of nurturing the spiritual growth of others rather than focusing on personal gain. Lastly, the story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-11 serves as a sober reminder of the perils of deceit and the importance of integrity. As we reflect on these passages, let us ask ourselves: Are we the group of Jesus, rising early and diligently doing the Lord's will, or are we distracted by the material and transient? Let this be a call to action to align our daily pursuits with our spiritual callings, ensuring our work and our worship are not at odds but are intertwined, guiding us toward a life of purpose and service. Blessings, Pastor Steven G. Lee (April 14, 2024)