Subject: Embracing the Light of Truth in Pastoral Leadership (06/12/'24) -Message

Subject: Embracing the Light of Truth in Pastoral Leadership Dear Congregations, In ancient halls where shadows play, two truths emerge, two paths display. One born of light, divine and pure; the other bends, unsure, obscure. Jesus stood with heart aflame, His truth unyielding, ever the same. A beacon bright in stormy night, His words of love, a guiding light. Pilate pondered, washed his hands, truth swayed by shifting, unstable sands. A question hung in the Roman air, "What is truth?" Did Pilate dare? One truth brings freedom, joy, and grace, a path to heaven, a divine embrace. The other seeks to placate, control, a fleeting power, a troubled soul. In pastoral hearts, the choice is clear: a truth that’s honest, drawing near. To live in Christ, with God to bond, beyond mere texts, a love profound. Sacrificial love, the way of Christ, a life of service, the truth's great price. Not for the crowd, the worldly cheer, but for the broken, drawing near. So let our leaders rise and stand, with hearts aflame and open hands. To preach the truth that Jesus taught, a truth by suffering dearly bought. In every sermon, every prayer, may honesty and love be there. For in this truth, the Spirit’s call, a guiding light for one and all. The divergence clear, the choice profound: a life in God’s truth, firmly bound. With Pilate’s question still in play, may pastors lead in Jesus’ way. Blessings, Pastor Steven G. Lee (June 12, 2024)