The Heart's Turning: Embracing Repentance for a Pure Mission (06/19/'24) -Message

The Heart's Turning: Embracing Repentance for a Pure Mission In the vast expanse of contemporary faith, where missions are preached with fervor, lies a call not of grandeur or conquest, but of a humble word whispered in the soul's deepest recesses. For amidst the ambitious endeavors that span across lands and seas, a hidden truth demands our attention—a truth that repentance is the cornerstone, the unyielding pillar we need. Without repentance, our missions, though grand in scope, are but empty vessels, driven by the unseen currents of greed. Hearts must turn from the shadows to the light, for in this turning lies the revelation of what is right and true. A mission without repentance is like a vessel unclean, a shadow without substance, a vision that remains unseen. Corruption takes root where repentance is shunned, where the absence of humility leaves missions undone. Let our cries for justice begin within, in the depths of our own hearts, where repentance must be shown. For it is in this turning, with hearts contrite and sincere, that the Lord draws near. In the 21st century, let our theme be clear: to cleanse our missions and dream anew. Repentance, as the pillar strong and sure, ensures that our missions are holy, noble, and pure. It is the beacon of hope, the guiding light that transforms our efforts into reflections of divine grace. Thus, in the halls of the faithful, may the call of repentance resound, for only in its embrace can our missions become the vessels of God's enduring love. Related Bible Verses Acts 3:19 (NIV) "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord." Luke 24:46-47 (NIV) "He told them, 'This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.'" Matthew 3:8 (NIV) "Produce fruit in keeping with repentance." Revelation 2:5 (NIV) "Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place." 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV) "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land." May these verses guide us in understanding the profound importance of repentance as we strive to carry out our missions with purity and integrity. Pastor Steven G. Lee (June 19, 2024)