Subject: Explore the Interplay of Grace, Faith, and Works in Our Lives (05/06/'24) -Message

Subject: Explore the Interplay of Grace, Faith, and Works in Our Lives Dear Friends, I hope this message finds you in good spirits. I recently delved into a reflection on the profound interplay of grace, faith, and works, and I felt compelled to share these insights with you, hoping they resonate or provide a new perspective. In our complex world, true danger lies not in the unknown, but in actions taken without grace or mercy—by those who either do everything or nothing. Salvation is a divine melody of grace; it is given, not earned, reminding us that "By grace we are saved through faith" (Ephesians 2:8-9). This gift of salvation is not something we can achieve through deeds alone, thus humbling us and guiding us to live beyond our egos. Yet, faith without works remains incomplete, akin to a body without spirit. Our faith, if genuine, naturally manifests through our deeds, as stated in James 2:26, "Faith without works is dead." This relationship between faith and works is symbiotic; they justify and sustain one another, crafting a living testament to our beliefs. We must also be wary of misconceptions. The notion that mere good deeds can secure divine acceptance is a distortion of truth. True acceptance comes from embracing the gift of grace, nurturing our faith, and letting our actions reflect this harmony. May this reflection encourage you to weave grace, faith, and works into the tapestry of your daily life, creating a beautiful, living expression of your spiritual journey. Warm regards, Pastor Steven G. Lee (May 6, 2024)