Arise and Shine: Embracing God's Revelation and Manifestation (07/03/'24)

Arise and Shine: Embracing God's Revelation and Manifestation Introduction: Beloved brothers and sisters, today we delve into the profound journey of the rich young ruler, a story that speaks to the very essence of our faith and the challenges we face in our spiritual walk. This tale, found in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, serves as a timeless reminder of the call to transcend the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary revelation of God. The Rich Young Ruler’s Inquiry: In the sacred texts, we meet a young man, rich in possessions yet yearning for something beyond the material. He approaches Jesus with a question that resonates with many of us: "Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" His inquiry is sincere, reflecting a heart that seeks deeper meaning and purpose. Christ's Challenge: Jesus’ initial response is straightforward, urging the ruler to adhere to the commandments. But knowing the young man’s deeper hunger for truth, He presents a more profound challenge: "Sell all you have, give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." This invitation to abandon worldly wealth for heavenly treasure is a call to a higher standard of faith and devotion. The Struggle with Possessions: However, the rich young ruler turns away in sorrow, unable to part with his possessions. This moment of hesitation and retreat reflects a common struggle. Often, the comfort of the status quo can overshadow our pursuit of divine revelation. We, too, are called to examine what we hold dear and question whether it hinders our spiritual journey. Faith Beyond the Status Quo: Faith in God's revelation asks us to rise above the ordinary and reject the glorification of the status quo. One thought, pure and born from our conscience, is worth more than a million mindless musings. In a world filled with chaos and clamor, the earnest waiting for the manifestation of God's revelation becomes our guiding light. Clear Conscience and Manifestation: "Keep your conscience clear always," the inner voice of the Holy Spirit urges us. "Arise and shine," it calls, reminding us that revelation is not just to be inhaled but also to be exhaled. We must fully inhale the wisdom and light of divine truth and completely exhale it through our actions, letting our lives manifest the reality of God's revelation. A Call to Courage: The story of the rich young ruler is a call to each of us. It challenges us to consider what we treasure and what we are willing to relinquish for the sake of a higher calling. As we journey in faith, let us find the courage to clear our hearts and keep our conscience bright. Let us rise to the challenge of living out God's revelation in our daily lives. Conclusion: In doing so, we not only transform our own lives but also become beacons of light in a world that desperately needs the manifestation of divine truth. Let us embrace the call to arise and shine, fully embodying the revelation of God in every aspect of our being. May our faith be not just a belief but a lived reality, reflecting the glory and wisdom of our Creator. Amen. Pastor Steven G. Lee (July 3, 2024)