Mercy | Aug 11th

 “Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.”

   Luke 6:36

  Beloved, these words impress upon our hearts with undeniable clarity. While none can equal our Heavenly Father’s mercy, scripture instructs us to extend mercy to others as it has been given to us.

  Our patience, forgiveness, and compassion do not reflect our Father’s character when reliant solely on our own efforts. If the Spirit of God dwells within us, He empowers us to love and show mercy as He has shown us. Let us intentionally seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance each day, asking the Father that His love and mercy be evident in our lives and demonstrated in all our relationships.

  Only the divine hand of God can transform our hardened hearts into vessels of mercy, filled and offered for the benefit of others. Let us be recognized for mercy rather than anger, and for reflecting our Lord’s character rather than the old nature.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight

Why the Wait | Aug 10th

“If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.”

  Habakkuk 2:3

  Beloved, are you waiting for answers to your prayers or for circumstances in your life to change? Do not consider it unusual if what you are waiting for appears slow. Since Scripture encourages us to wait, we should expect that not all of God’s plans unfold quickly.

  When we acknowledge God’s providence in every aspect of our lives, we are less likely to become frustrated or confused. Trusting in God’s faithfulness and timing also enables us to resist the temptation to do things our way or in our strength.

  We often perceive delays because we measure events according to our own timetable. What seems slow is often a reflection of our impatience. Let us trust that God is at work; He is not delaying, and we are called to remain faithful as we wait. We should continually look to God, relying on His grace and strength. The answer will arrive at its appointed time.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight

The House of Mourning | Aug 7th

 “It is better to go to the house of mourning than to go to the house of feasting, for this is the end of all mankind, and the living will lay it to heart.”

  Ecclesiastes 7:2

  Beneath the bright sun and clear skies, I listened as a preacher urged family and friends to reflect on this verse while standing beside the grave of a loved one. I observed the faces of the young and aged, looking to see if they felt the preacher's burden for them.

  As a preacher, I frequently contemplate the thoughts and emotions of those who listen. Facial expressions do not always reveal inner convictions, and emotions are often subject to misinterpretation. Only the Holy Spirit can persuade an individual of the truth, bringing them from death into life.

  Beloved, both our broader culture and the church often prefer the comfort of continual celebration. Mourning is seldom embraced unless circumstances force it upon us. Although death is inevitable, we frequently avoid confronting it, reflecting on its implications, or preparing for eternity.

  We are frequently encouraged to prepare for the near future, retirement, and to secure a will for our loved ones. However, considerations of the afterlife are often neglected. What will become of us after death? Heaven and Hell are realities; there are no alternatives. We will either be eternally with God or separated from Him. Assurance of being with God in eternity is found only in being united with Him now through Christ. Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world, and no one can approach the Father or enter heaven except through Him.

  Today, hear the voice of God and follow Him.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight