Ways To Connect

Reverend Larry Smith:  

This woman in our message today (who remains nameless) was bent over from a physical ailment and the bones in her spine were rigidly fused together from birth. This still didn’t stop her from Praising the Lord. Many hearing my voice will allow a broken fingernail or a minor headache to stop them from coming to church. Some folks are bent over emotionally for one reason or another and allow those things to keep them out of church. Please understand, the Lord Jesus Christ wants His followers to Praise and worship Him PERIOD! Just from our text this morning we see it was the Lord Jesus who approached the woman bent over because of her HEART FOR WORSHIP! True worship is an INSIDE JOB!   My prayer this morning is that we as God’s people never look at worship service as a box being checked off, but willfully, lovingly chase after God’s own heart for WORSHIP EACH SUNDAY! 

Reverend Larry Smith:  It is crucial to remember that our actions and choices are seen and measured by God. The scriptures remind us of the importance of living a life that honors Him, not only in worship but also in our daily activities and interactions with others. Our faith should be evident through our compassion, humility, and unwavering commitment to the teachings of Christ.  Our journey of faith is not one of isolation but of community and fellowship. We must support one another, encouraging growth and spiritual maturity. By fostering a body of believers rooted in love, truth, and righteousness. By doing this we will collectively highlight the redemptive power of Christ, drawing others towards the light of salvation.  Furthermore, also reflecting on these passages allows us to be mindful that the path to eternal life is paved by trusting in Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sin and the salvation of our souls. The promise of salvation is not merely a distant hope but a present reality that transforms our lives and guides our actions.  

Reverend Larry Smith:  The three misconceptions Jesus brings out in this morning’s sermon are actually running rampart today. It seems little to nothing has changed concerning non-believers and those of us that truly follow Jesus Christ.  The question then becomes, how can I start a conversation with my loved ones who continue to walk in the darkness?  In my view, the best approach is to share your personal experiences and testimonies of how faith in Jesus Christ has transformed your own life. Many times, the person you're speaking too has noticed the genuine change of order and peace in your life, which often speaks louder than words.  Additionally, engaging in open and respectful dialogue about spiritual matters, asking thoughtful questions, and providing a listening ear can create opportunities for deeper conversations. Ensuring that these discussions are rooted in love and compassion can help bridge the gap and potentially open the hearts of those who may be lost in the darkness.