At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are reminded of the profound truth that God is always near, even when we feel distant. In a heartfelt reflection, Pastor Tyler shared his personal experience of feeling a gap between himself and God, especially during times of loss and grief. This feeling is something many of us can relate to, but it is crucial to remember that this perceived distance is not a reflection of God’s absence, but rather a challenge for us to draw nearer to Him.
Understanding the Bridge Built by Christ
The Apostle Paul reminds us in Ephesians 2:13, “But now in Christ Jesus, you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.” This scripture underscores the work of Christ in bridging the gap between humanity and God. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross was the ultimate act of love, designed to eliminate the separation caused by sin and to restore our relationship with the Father.
Pastor Tyler emphasized that any sense of distance we feel is not a “God problem,” but a “me problem.” God has not moved away; He remains steadfast and faithful. Psalm 34:18 assures us, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” This promise is a comforting reminder that God is always present, especially in our moments of need.
Embracing the Mission: Be the Change
At Lakeview, our mission is to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us.” This mission calls us to actively engage in our “Just 3” approach: Study, Share, and Serve. By studying God’s Word, we deepen our understanding of His love and draw closer to Him. Sharing His love with others helps us build meaningful connections and reflect Christ’s compassion. Serving as love in action allows us to be the hands and feet of Jesus in our community.
Letting the Truth Settle in Our Hearts
As we navigate life’s challenges and moments of feeling distant from God, let us hold onto the truth that He is always near. The stories of Jesus’ interactions with the lost, as shared in the Gospels, reveal His heart for restoration and reconciliation. Jesus came to seek and save the lost, to build a bridge back to the Father.
In moments of doubt or distance, let us remember that God’s love is unwavering. He is always ready to welcome us back with open arms. As we embrace our mission at Lakeview, let us be the change in our world, reflecting the love and grace of Christ in all that we do.
Conclusion: Drawing Near to God
In conclusion, let us take comfort in the knowledge that God is always near, ready to bridge any gap we feel. As we study His Word, share His love, and serve others, we draw closer to Him and become agents of change in our community. Together, let us embrace the mission of Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, being the change as Jesus has changed us, and inviting others to experience the transformative power of His love.
