At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, our mission to “Be the Change as Jesus has Changed Us” is rooted in the transformative power of Christ’s love. Through our “Just 3” approach—Study, Share, and Serve—we seek to embody this mission by studying God’s Word, sharing His love with others, and serving with love in action.
In a recent sermon, Pastor Jim challenged us with a profound and often difficult teaching from Jesus: to pray for those who have wronged us. This call to prayer is not just about seeking change in others; it is about allowing God to change our hearts and perspectives.
Study: The Power of Prayer
Prayer is a powerful tool for transformation. In Matthew 5:44, Jesus instructs us, “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” This command is not about condoning wrongdoing but about seeking God’s intervention and allowing His love to work through us.
In Romans 12:14, Paul echoes this sentiment: “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.” Prayer is an act of blessing, a way to invite God’s presence into difficult situations and relationships.
Share: Extending Forgiveness and Grace
Sharing God’s love means extending forgiveness and grace to those who have wronged us. Pastor Jim encouraged us to start by praying for those individuals for a week. This practice is not easy, but it is transformative. It is hard to harbor hatred for someone you are consistently lifting up in prayer.
In Colossians 3:13, we are reminded to “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” This call to forgiveness is a reflection of God’s grace in our lives and a powerful testimony to His love.
Serve: Love in Action
Serving others, even those who have hurt us, is a reflection of Christ’s love. Pastor Jim emphasized the importance of giving without expectation, helping without being asked, and serving just because we want to. This is a call to radical generosity and love in action.
In Luke 6:35, Jesus says, “But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High.” Serving others, especially those who have wronged us, is a reflection of our identity as children of God.
Conclusion: Be the Change
As we strive to “Be the Change as Jesus has Changed Us,” let us remember that praying for our enemies is not just a command; it is a path to healing and transformation. It is a testament to the power of God’s love to heal, restore, and transform. By studying His Word, sharing His love, and serving others, we can make a profound impact in our communities and beyond.
At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are committed to this mission. We invite you to join us in this journey of prayer and transformation, as we seek to embody the teachings of Jesus and be a light in the world.
