Message: A Faith Lived Out (07/01/'24)

Message: A Faith Lived Out Dear brothers and sisters, Today, we gather to reflect on the profound call that our faith in Christ places upon us. Christianity, at its core, is more than a repository of knowledge and insights. It is a living, breathing relationship with the divine, meant to transform not just our minds but our very lives. However, we must acknowledge a growing danger that has quietly infiltrated our faith community – the danger of knowledge without action. Consider the times we live in, where information is abundant, and knowledge is readily accessible. Christianity, too, has become a religion rich in theological understanding and scriptural insight. Yet, this very wealth of knowledge can become a peril if it remains confined to our intellect and does not translate into tangible deeds. In fact, this form of faith is more dangerous than any virus we might face. For a virus affects the body, but a faith devoid of works withers the soul. The Scriptures remind us in James 2:17 that "faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." This stark truth calls us to examine our lives closely. Are we merely hearers of the Word, or are we doers? The knowledge of God's truth is meant to inspire, to move, to compel us into action. It is not enough to know about love; we must show love. It is not enough to understand justice; we must pursue justice. When our faith becomes a matter of knowledge alone, it creates a barren landscape within us. Our hearts grow empty, and our spiritual journey becomes hollow. The essence of the gospel is lost, reduced to a theory rather than a lived reality. The power of the gospel lies in its ability to transform lives, not just minds. It is a story meant to be embodied, not merely told. Jesus' ministry was marked by action. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, and comforted the brokenhearted. He did not just speak of love and compassion; He demonstrated it. Likewise, we are called to let our faith shine through our actions. Our hands must reach out to those in need, our feet must walk towards those in distress, and our hearts must beat with the rhythm of Christ's love. This is the true call of our faith – to intertwine our knowledge with action, our head with our hands, and our thoughts with our deeds. In doing so, we sow seeds of the gospel in every heart we touch, transforming not just ourselves but the world around us. Let us, therefore, move beyond the danger of idle learning. Let us step boldly into a life where our faith is alive and active, reflecting the fullness of God's grace in every deed. May we be known not just for what we believe, but for how we live out that belief, embodying the gospel in our daily lives. In Christ's name, Amen. Pastor Steven G. Lee (July 1, 2024)