Embracing Our Calling: Living the Gospel Through Compassionate Service (06/20/'24) -Statement

Embracing Our Calling: Living the Gospel Through Compassionate Service Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, We find ourselves at a crucial juncture where the habits of our past missionary efforts are insufficient for the present needs. Our mission must be renewed and grounded in the tangible struggles of our neighbors, as the essence of the gospel calls us to a higher, more active faith. James teaches us that "faith without works is dead." Our faith must be demonstrated through our actions and service to others, bringing light into the darkest corners of our communities. The gospel commands us to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and extend compassion to those imprisoned by life's harshest realities, embodying Christ's living love through these selfless acts. Matthew's Gospel reinforces this call by stating, "Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." The poor, the marginalized, and the overlooked are the very heartbeat of our mission. By serving them, we are serving Christ himself. Our love must transcend words and sermons; it must be manifested in our actions. True love involves walking the streets, breaking the chains of injustice, and bringing freedom to the oppressed. Isaiah's prophetic words challenge us to share our food with the hungry, provide shelter to the wanderer, and clothe the naked, not turning away from our own flesh and blood. As the church, we must rise in humble service. Justice should flow like a gentle rain, refreshing and restoring all it touches. Our deeds should reflect the boundless grace we have received, transforming every corner of our communities. Serving the least of these is serving Christ, and in doing so, we find the gospel's true rest. Every act of kindness and every gesture of love brings the gospel to life. This is our calling, mission, and heartbeat. We must be a church alive in every place, moved by grace, and known by our love. Let us embrace this divine invitation to live out our faith through compassionate service, for in this, we find the truest expression of the gospel. Yours in Christ, Pastor Steven G. Lee (June 20, 2024)