Embracing Divine Gifts: Living by God's Promises (06/21/'24) -Message

Embracing Divine Gifts: Living by God's Promises Dear Beloved Community, As we gather in reflection and faith, I am moved to share with you the profound beauty of God's gifts, as illuminated in the divine words of James 1:17: "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." In the stillness of our hearts, we see these gifts descending from above, perfect and good, bestowed upon us by our unchanging Father. Unlike the transient shadows that shift and waver, God's love remains steadfast, a constant beacon guiding us through the ever-changing tides of life. Compassion, a powerful force, calls us to recognize and challenge the suffering around us. It stands as a radical critique against the world's acceptance of pain, urging us to see hurt not as normal or natural but as an abnormal and unacceptable condition for humanity. Compassion compels us to acknowledge the wounds of our brothers and sisters, to offer healing and hope, and to act in love. We are reminded that our lives are not defined by the material possessions we hold but by the divine promises we embrace. These promises, bright and unwavering, are sown in the fields of our faith, rooted in the eternal nature of our unchanging God. They remind us that our true wealth lies in the assurance of God's constant presence and His steadfast love. In this divine dance, we find our place. Our hearts, open to the gifts from above, beat in rhythm with compassion's call. Our lives, anchored in the soil of divine promises, stretch toward the light of hope. Guided by the Father's unyielding love, we move through the shadows into the brilliance of His day. Each gift we receive is a testament to God's steadfastness, illuminating our path with the light of His grace. It is in this sacred journey that we understand: we are not defined by what we possess but by the promises that sustain us. In the glow of these promises, we envision a world restored, where love and compassion reign supreme. And so, dear friends, let us live not by the fleeting treasures of earth but by the eternal light of the Father's love, unchanging and ever-bright. In this divine light, we find our true north, our hearts aligned with His, and our lives reflecting His unwavering grace. May we walk together in this truth, embracing the gifts, the compassion, and the promises that illuminate our way. With love and blessings, Pastor Steven G. Lee (June 21, 2024)