Stand

  Monday we gave pause to remember in a special way Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., an extraordinary minister with a passion for justice and equality for all people.  His passion for peace and justice was fueled by his faith in Christ and commitment to Christ's work.  He was guided by a biblical vision for equality and justice.  He took a stand for what was right, even though he knew the cost could be very great.  In one of his famous speeches he declared, "All that is necessary for evil to prevail is for ordinary people to do nothing."  How true.  What are you doing to work for peace and justice in your world?  As Christ-followers, we are not just here in this world to spread the word of salvation and wait for eternity, we are also here to work for eternal things in the present like peace and justice in a needy and hurting world.  True love stands up for justice.  True love speaks against oppression and inequality.  True love speaks a word of love, gives a hug to the lonely, or reaches out with an act of kindness.  We are the hands of Christ reaching out to a world in need.  Take a moment and share your love and faith in a tangible way with someone in need.  And be willing to take a stand.
 
(verse of the week) 
What does the Lord require of you?  To act justly and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. (Micah 6.8)
 
(Prayer of the week)
Loving Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of another new day.  Open my heart and life to your plan and purpose for my life.   Renew and strengthen my faith that I have a firm hope and confidence in your love and power.   Help me to work for things that last for eternity.  May I stand strong for justice.  May I live with integrity.  May I stand alongside the hurting or lonely or oppressed or marginalized.  May I show your love to someone today.  Amen!
Open your heart to God's amazing love!-Pastor TJ
 
(quote of the week)
Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter -- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.