Subject: Discovering the Essence of the Gospel Together (03/14/'24) -Message

Subject: Discovering the Essence of the Gospel Together Dear Friends, I hope this message finds you well. Today, I felt compelled to share a reflection that has deeply moved me, offering a fresh perspective on the essence of the gospel and its profound significance in our lives. At the heart of the gospel lies a unique message, one that resonates distinctly with each of us. It's about understanding that the divine cannot be fully grasped through our physical senses alone. Much like sounds beyond our hearing range or sights beyond our field of vision, the true essence of God surpasses what our eyes can see and our ears can hear. Jesus taught us, especially through Luke 17:20-21, that the Kingdom of God does not reveal itself through outward signs or spectacle. Instead of looking for it here or there, or following those who claim to have found it, we are reminded that the Kingdom of God is among us — it's within and around us, in the love we share, the compassion we show, and the community we build. This concept is not just an isolated thought but is echoed across various scriptures, urging us to look beyond the tangible and to find the divine in our midst. It invites us to understand that the presence of God's kingdom is more about our inner spiritual journey than any external validations. I find this message incredibly uplifting and grounding, reminding us of the importance of nurturing our inner lives and the connections we have with each other. It challenges us to perceive the divine not just in grandiose manifestations but in the everyday acts of kindness and love. Let us ponder on this together and discuss what it means for each of us in our journey of faith. How can we more fully embrace the Kingdom of God in our midst? I look forward to hearing your thoughts and reflections. With warmest regards, Pastor Steven G. Lee (March 14, 2024)