Luke 6:36 NIV
“Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.”
Looking at the above scripture can challenge all of us in life to meet the Lord’s expectation. We
like to receive mercy and forgiveness more than give it. Why? It’s hard for us to keep our
composure when someone takes a parking space we were waiting for, someone says something
to us that is hurtful, we are treated unfairly on our job. I have definitely experienced these
situations in my life. I assure you mercy and forgiveness were not the first thing that came to my
mind. I tell you the bible is very clear, mercy is utmost important to God. It is so important that
He sent HIS Son, Jesus Christ, to die so He could pour out mercy on us. He commands us in
scripture to show mercy to others even when we feel they don’t deserve it. So the best we can do
in life is to follow Jesus’ command and show mercy to others. Is it easy? Absolutely not, but
we must ask our Father in heaven to give us the strength to follow Jesus’ command to be
merciful. So when we face this type of challenge in our life, let us pray to God to strengthen us.
Last month, on March 12th, I was installed as your Pastor. It was truly a blessing to be officially
welcomed by the First Christian Church family. Rev. Dr. Thaddaeus Allen, Regional Minister of
Disciples of Christ, performed the installation service. Afterwards we enjoyed a spirit filled
gathering of fellowship, excellent food and wonderful conversations.
My first sermon, after the installation on March 19th, focused on how a person who has accepted
Jesus Christ as their Savior, has the Holy Spirit living inside of them. The spirit inside of you is
greater than the spirit that’s in the world,1 John 4:4. We are VICTORIOUS! We closed out the
month on Sunday, March 26th, comparing the difference between Human Perspective vs.
Divine Perspective. We learned how keeping the Divine perspective in life will make a huge
difference as we walk through this life. In addition, the congregation was blessed with a visit
from Mike “The HitMan” Easler, former World Series Champion of the 1979 Pittsburgh Pirates.
Mike played on the “WE ARE FAMILY ” team. He is an ordained minister and shared his
experiences of playing 14 years in the Major Leagues of professional baseball.
The Good News is the Gospel and spreading His word throughout the world. Sharing how a
person can be free from bondage by accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of his or her
life. Remember, what He has done for me, He will also do for you. Invite Him into your heart
today. HE’s the difference maker!
Come and visit us. We at First Christian Church Disciples of Christ, Charleroi, would love to
see you.
May God’s Peace be ever present in your life.
Senior Pastor, Dennis J. Stitch
