Message: The Narrow Gate of Grace and Mercy (06/29/'24)

Message: The Narrow Gate of Grace and Mercy Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Today, I want to reflect on the profound journey that the gospel calls us to undertake—a journey illuminated by grace and mercy. The words of our Lord Jesus Christ, “Narrow gate is the difficult way that leads to life, and there are few who find it,” remind us that the path to true life is not easily found, nor easily traveled. The Son of Man, Jesus, shows us how to embrace the mind of Christ. He, the Son of God, intertwines His divine journey with our human experience, teaching us that grace, while freely given, is not without cost. It requires us to walk a path of righteousness, a path that is often challenging and counter to the ways of the world. Grace is profound, not cheaply bought nor lightly carried. It beckons us to walk a difficult road, one that few will find, but one that leads to the fullness of life. In our hurried world, driven by fleeting desires and distractions, finding God’s grace and mercy becomes an elusive quest. Yet, Jesus assures us that this narrow path, though obscured by the noise of worldly pursuits, promises an inner peace and an unshakeable foundation for those who dare to seek it. The path is narrow, not because God wishes to exclude, but because it requires a deep commitment to His ways—ways of love, humility, and sacrifice. To our neighbors, we must extend the same mercy that the Lord has so generously lavished upon us. "Be merciful, merciful, merciful," the call resounds, urging us to reflect God's compassion in every interaction. Our mercy, when shown to the poor and needy, mirrors the boundless grace we've received, fostering a community rooted in love and understanding. In showing mercy, we embody the very essence of the gospel. As we navigate our lives, let us remember that the narrow gate is not about restriction, but about focus. It is about choosing the way of Christ in a world that often pulls us in the opposite direction. As night draws in and we affirm our commitment with a solemn "Amen," we strive to navigate the narrow gate, guided by the light of Christ. His path is not the easiest, but it is the path that promises a life imbued with meaning—a life where grace and mercy prevail. Let us align our hearts with the divine, discovering true life in the embrace of His grace. May we walk this path together, supporting one another in love and mercy, always seeking the narrow gate that leads to eternal life. In His grace and peace, Pastor Steven G. Lee (June 29, 2024)