Message: Embracing Grace and Duty (06/19/'24)

Message: Embracing Grace and Duty Dear Friends, In the echoes of ancient times, we find a covenant that speaks to us even today. Israel, chosen by God, stood apart not for ease but for a divine purpose, embodying a sacred bond of love and law. This covenant, marked by grace and responsibility, calls out to us now, urging us to understand its depth and live by its truths. As modern believers, we walk in the legacy of this sacred bond. Grace, freely given, washes away our past and offers us new beginnings. Yet, this grace is not a license to remain in sin or to grow complacent. It is a call to rise, to strive for a life that reflects the higher standards God has set for us. Grace without responsibility is like a song half-sung, a story unfinished. We are called to live in the warmth of divine favor and the steadfast light of divine expectation. This means acknowledging that with the privilege of being God's chosen comes the duty to uphold His teachings and commands. Our leaders play a crucial role in this journey, guiding us with wisdom and reminding us that love and law are intertwined, each strengthening the other. God's love is not a veil for our flaws but a mirror reflecting His justice. It beckons us to stand firm, walk in truth, and embody His word in our daily lives. We are called to teach, guide, and live out this balance, showing the world that grace and duty are not enemies but partners in the dance of faith. The ancient covenant lives on, renewed in each heart that beats with divine purpose. Let us repent, renew, and strive to live sin-free lives, holding the harmony of grace and law in our hearts. In this balance, we find our place, our strength, and our mission. Let us embrace our calling, living each day as God's chosen, embodying the sacred bond of grace and responsibility. With faith and dedication, Pastor Steven G. Lee (June 19, 2024)