Assurance of Salvation: The Foundation for Extending Mercy and Grace (06/07/'24) -Message

Subject: Assurance of Salvation: Extending Mercy and Grace Through Faith Assurance of Salvation: The Foundation for Extending Mercy and Grace In the quiet of the morning light, as shadows fade and take their flight, a profound truth resounds within the heart: salvation's promise, set apart. It’s not found in the wonders we behold, nor in the miracles that stories have told, but in the faith we hold so dear, in Christ our Savior, ever near. The rich man saw, too late to change, the beggar’s fate, a life estranged. He begged for signs to sway his kin, but faith alone redeems from sin. "For if they do not heed the Word, the prophets' voice, the law they've heard, no sign will turn their hearts from stone; salvation’s path is faith alone." Rejoice not in the power displayed, nor in the spirits that obeyed, but in the names inscribed above, the gift of grace, unending love. In this joy, our hearts are free, to share the mercy, endlessly, the grace received we now extend, to every soul, to foe, to friend. Assured of heaven's promised land, with faith secured, we take our stand. With this truth, our lives embrace the call to love, the call to grace. Extending the mercy and grace received through Christ to others is tied to the assurance of salvation. Without this assurance, it is difficult to genuinely extend such grace to neighbors. Remember, assurance of salvation comes not from believing in miracles or the power of miracles, but from faith in Christ. As illustrated in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, even the most miraculous signs cannot replace the need for faith and grace in achieving salvation. Jesus teaches us in Luke 10:20: "Don't rejoice because evil spirits obey you; rejoice because your names are registered in heaven." This verse reminds us that the true joy and assurance come from knowing we are saved and have eternal life with God, enabling us to extend mercy and grace to others in a genuine and meaningful way. Pastor Steven G. Lee (June 7, 2024)