The Cross: The Center of Meaning and Love (07/04/'24) -Message

The Cross: The Center of Meaning and Love Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Today, I want to share with you a message that lies at the very heart of our faith: the profound and transformative power of the cross. Some may say the cross makes no sense, but we boldly declare that without it, life itself loses its meaning. The cross, a symbol of God's embrace, transforms the void into a sacred space. It was on this cross that the Son of Man, the Son of God, proved the depth of His divine love for humanity. Through His suffering and sacrifice, Jesus bore our sins, granting us life and peace within. Before the cross, our minds were shrouded in darkness, our thoughts astray, missing the mark of true understanding. But in the shadow of the cross, we find light; in the embrace of Christ's love, we are unbound from the chains of confusion and despair. The cross illuminates our path, guiding us toward truth and grace. What does it mean for us today to take up our cross? It is a call to embrace its weight and its holy cost. It is an invitation to live sacrificially, just as Jesus did. We are called to serve and care for others, to put their needs before our own, mirroring the love that was shown to us on the cross. In every act of kindness and compassion, we reflect the love of Christ to the world. Repentance must be our daily path, a turning away from sin and allowing God's spirit to dwell within us. We must bear our personal trials with faith, standing tall, trusting in His plan even in the midst of suffering. Our trials are not without purpose; they refine us, shape us, and draw us closer to the heart of God. Furthermore, we are called to share the gospel, to spread the news of the cross. In every word we speak, let grace infuse. Show the world the transformative power of God's love. The cross is not just a symbol of sacrifice but a beacon of hope, a source of meaning, and a testament to the lengths God will go to redeem His creation. The cross stands at the center of meaning and love, a divine gift from heaven, sent from above. In its shadow, we find our place, living lives of truth and grace. Through the cross, we gain everything; in its message, there is no loss, only the profound realization that without it, life indeed makes no sense. Let us embrace the cross, live its message, and share its hope with a world in need. May the Lord bless you and keep you always in the shadow of His cross. Amen. Pastor Steven G. Lee (July 4, 2024)