The Eternal Anchor: Embracing Truth, Mercy, and Faith (06/26/'24) -Message

The Eternal Anchor: Embracing Truth, Mercy, and Faith Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, As we gather today, our hearts are heavy with the burdens of our world. We witness the sickness that pervades our society, the cries for healing that seem to go unanswered. Yet, in this turmoil, we are reminded of the eternal truths found in God's Word. Our hearts ache with the prophet Jeremiah, who lamented the state of his people, asking, "Is there no medicine? Are there no doctors there? Why, then, have my people not been healed?" (Jeremiah 8:18,22). Like in Jeremiah's time, we see friends misleading friends, truth abandoned, and tongues trained to lie. Violence follows violence, and deceit fills the air. God declares His justice, questioning, "Will I not punish them for these things? Will I not take revenge on a nation like this?" (Jeremiah 9:5-9). In these times of trial, let us heed the call to mercy. "Be merciful to your neighbors, just as the Lord God is merciful to you." Trials will come, and they will test our faith. But let us not ask, "Why me?" Instead, let us look to the examples set before us. Abraham faced trials by fire, Jacob endured blindness, Joseph was separated from his family, Job suffered illness, Moses confronted tyrants, Aaron faced betrayal, Jonah learned patience, Solomon governed a kingdom, and David fought wars. These trials shaped their faith and revealed their reliance on God's strength. Our foundation must not rest on the fleeting comforts of wealth and possessions. "Do not seek revelations from your gold and your chariots." Instead, let us anchor our lives in truth, mercy, and faithfulness to God. These are the pillars that sustain us through life's storms. Let your actions reflect God's mercy and justice. Anchor your life in His eternal truths. In truth, mercy, and faithfulness, we find the strength to endure, the light to guide us through darkness, and the hope of eternal promise. May our lives be a testament to the foundation that endures beyond the trials of this world. Let us embrace truth, extend mercy, and hold fast to our faith in God. In Christ's love and grace, Pastor Steven G. Lee (June 26, 2024)