Message: The Finger of God (06/29/'24)

Message: The Finger of God Brothers and Sisters, Today, we are drawn to reflect on the profound and timeless act of divine love and mercy, encapsulated in the simple yet powerful image of the finger of God. From the rugged heights of Mount Sinai to the humble streets of Jerusalem, the hand of the Almighty has traced a narrative that speaks directly to our hearts. On Sinai, amidst the thunder and lightning, God met Moses and gave him the law, etched in stone by His own finger. These tablets of testimony carried the weight of divine justice and love, meant to guide and shape the lives of His chosen people. Each letter was a mark of God's intentionality, a holy promise that would endure through the ages. Fast forward to the dusty streets of Jerusalem, where we find Jesus confronting a scene of judgment and condemnation. A woman, caught in her sins, stands vulnerable before her accusers. Yet, in this moment of potential violence, Jesus bends down and writes in the dirt with His finger. This act, so reminiscent of that ancient writing on stone, speaks volumes. It is a gesture of profound grace and mercy. Jesus' actions in the dust reflect the same divine intentionality seen at Sinai. His silent writing convicts the hearts of the accusers, leading them to drop their stones and walk away. In this powerful moment, He looks upon the woman with compassion and love, and though His words are not recorded, the message is clear: "I still love you." This narrative from stone to soil reminds us of the continuity of God's love. It bridges the chasm between divine justice and human frailty, showing us that God’s law and His grace are not in opposition but are two expressions of His love. The law given on Sinai sets the foundation for our lives, guiding us in righteousness, while the grace demonstrated by Jesus in Jerusalem offers us redemption and hope. As we ponder these events, let us remember that the finger of God still writes upon our hearts today. It calls us to live by His law, embracing justice and righteousness, while also opening our hearts to His boundless mercy and grace. It assures us that, no matter our past, God's love is unchanging and ever-present. May we, like the woman in the story, feel the compassionate gaze of Jesus upon us and hear the silent but powerful message written in our hearts: "I still love you." Let this truth transform our lives, guiding us to live in the balance of justice and grace, law and love. Amen. Pastor Steven G. Lee (June 29, 2024)