Subject: Yearning for the Spirit: Beyond Superficial Knowledge (04/21/'24) -Message

Subject: Yearning for the Spirit: Beyond Superficial Knowledge Dear Friends, I hope this message finds you well and thriving. In our day-to-day life, we often find ourselves surrounded by conversations and concerns that seem superficial—talking endlessly about issues, ideas, and programs that, while important, don't seem to quench our deeper thirsts. We all have this intrinsic desire for something more—something that truly revitalizes and invigorates us. It isn't the mundane or the material that will satisfy us; rather, it’s the profound touch of a life-giving spirit. This spirit is what we're truly seeking, something that can reach deep within us and awaken our fullest potential. As scripture reminds us, "The last Adam became a life-giving Spirit" (1 Corinthians 15:45b). Moreover, prior to discovering the gospel, our understanding is often like a fleeting bloom—beautiful yet ultimately unsubstantial and fleeting. Such knowledge, while appealing, marks only the beginning of wisdom and can lead to folly if not anchored in deeper truths (Matthew 7:24, 11:27; Luke 1:37; Romans 3:11, etc.). When our connection to the gospel weakens, our spirits can become disoriented, remaining caught in these fruitless endeavors, unable to bear the fruits of the Holy Spirit—love, joy, peace, and more (Galatians 5:22-26; John 15:1-8; Matthew 12:33, etc.). Thus, maintaining a steadfast faith in the gospel is essential for our spiritual growth and fulfillment. Let us seek to reconnect with that life-giving spirit, to ensure our pursuits and interactions go beyond the superficial and truly touch the core of what it means to live a fulfilled life. Warm regards, Pastor Steven G. Lee (April 21, 2024)