Subject: Embracing Compassion: Reflecting Christ through Service to the Marginalized (06/01/'24) -Statement

Subject: Embracing Compassion: Reflecting Christ through Service to the Marginalized Grace in the Shadows: Reflecting Christ through Compassion and Service In the shadow of the prison bars, where hope seems lost and lives are etched with scars, there lies a truth both bold and bright. It is a call to show compassion’s light, to walk where the outcasts tread and hear Jesus in every tear, in every dread. He whispers through the walls of pain, "I am with you, in every chain." To those who dwell in darkened halls, who've stumbled and been broken by their falls, He offers grace, a healing balm, a peace that soothes, a gentle calm. "I tell you, what you've done for these, for those who suffer, lost at seas, you've done for Me," He softly speaks. In every act of kindness, His presence seeks to reveal itself. When kindness flows from heart to hand, and love becomes a guiding stand, we mirror Christ in every deed. Serving those in need, His voice we heed. We find in every face a chance to show redeeming grace. For in the least, the lost, the lone, we serve our King, His love is shown. So let us walk this path, where every step of mercy’s pace reflects the Savior's tender face. In every soul, His image lies, calling us to reflect Christ through caring eyes. Remember those in chains today, and let compassion lead our way. For in the acts of love we give, we find the life in Him to live. Compassion for the marginalized is not merely a duty but a reflection of Christ’s heart. It is in these moments, in these acts of grace, that we find the essence of our faith and the promise of eternal life. Reflecting Christ’s love through compassion and service transforms not only the lives of those we help but also our own, drawing us closer to the heart of God. Let us embrace this calling with open hearts and willing hands. Pastor Steven G. Lee (June 1, 2024)