Title: The Essence of Compassion and the Power of the Cross (04/04/'24) -Message

Title: The Essence of Compassion and the Power of the Cross Compassion is not a mere human endeavor, nor does it spring from our desires or moral efforts. Rather, it is deeply rooted in the mercy of God, as revealed to us through His word (Romans 9:15-16). The message of the Gospel is clear and powerful, centering on the transformative blood of Jesus Christ, which cleanses our souls. This divine compassion is our source of blessing, and without it, we lose our capacity to bless others. Key Insights: Divine Compassion: Our understanding of compassion must originate from God's mercy, highlighting its divine source over human attempts to generate it. The Power of the Gospel: The cleansing blood of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the Gospel, essential for our spiritual renewal and ability to convey blessings. Living in Mercy: Our ability to bless is directly connected to our reception of God's mercy. Without it, we are spiritually barren. Cross References: To deepen our understanding, we look to additional scriptural references that echo these themes: Exodus 33:19; 34:6-7: God's nature is compassionate, gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in love and faithfulness. Romans 9:18-19: God's mercy and the hardening of hearts are according to His sovereign will. The Message of the Cross: A Bridge to Life: Life is akin to a bridge, a journey towards eternity where we must focus on building lasting legacies, not temporary shelters. The cross symbolizes resurrection and the triumph over human death. The Boast in the Cross: Our only boast is in the cross of Jesus Christ (Galatians 6:14). Through it, our worldly desires are crucified, and we are freed from the world's grip. Grace Abounds: In our weaknesses and in the face of sin, God's grace is not just sufficient but abounds all the more (2 Corinthians 12:9). It is in our vulnerabilities that Christ's power rests upon us, transforming our weaknesses into strengths. Conclusion: Let us embrace the message of the cross with humility and joy, for it is through our surrender to Christ's sacrifice that we find true strength and grace. Remember, "Where sin increased, grace increased all the more." Our journey with Christ is marked by the cross, a symbol of ultimate sacrifice and victory, guiding us towards a life of compassion rooted in divine mercy. Pastor Steven G. Lee (April 4, 2024)