Subject: Be the Change Right Where You Are (03/12/'24) -Message

Subject: Be the Change Right Where You Are Dear Friends, I wanted to share a thought that struck me deeply: the notion that the ends of the earth aren't located on some distant map, but rather, they're found in the people living right beside us. Imagine if each of us took a step, however small, to cross the street and connect with those around us. This simple act of reaching out makes us not just residents sharing a postcode, but true neighbors in every sense of the word. Good neighbors significantly enhance our lives, bringing warmth, help, and a sense of community that's irreplaceable. For those of us guided by faith, especially within the Christian tradition, there's a calling to be the world's best neighbors, embodying the commandment to "Love your neighbor" (Mark 12:31). It's a reminder that our global village starts right at our front door. The world, with all its joys and challenges, is closer than we think. If we overlook the struggles of those right next to us, how can we hope to address the needs of those further away? The journey to healing and unity begins at home, with the people we see every day. By nurturing these local bonds, we can create ripples of kindness that extend far beyond our immediate surroundings. Let's make a collective commitment to open our eyes to the neighbors around us, to extend our hands in friendship and support. It's through these personal, everyday actions that we can unlock new possibilities for a world in need of joy and connection. Together, let's create a wave of compassion that starts in our own backyards and washes over the entire globe. Warmest regards, Pastor Steven G. Lee (March 12, 2024)