In our text today, we encounter a seeker of eternal life, a lawyer, who poses a significant question to Jesus, asking, ‘Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?’ It is a question that resonates with each of us, for we all seek the assurance of our salvation. But in response, our Lord doesn’t simply offer a direct answer. Instead, He imparts this profound truth through a story—a parable—a story of a wounded traveler, two indifferent religious leaders, and a compassionate Good Samaritan. As we delve into the depths of this narrative, we will uncover what this often misunderstood parable really means – and who we need to give assistance to.

What to do when you encounter a homeless person or beggar

A follow up to today’s sermon – being a good Samaritan. If you come across a beggar or homeless person, before you help them, ask them if they have any family or a Church home. Get their phone numbers and call the family to come help them!!! Get the Church number and call their Church to come help them!!! Ask who their last employer was and the name of the supervisor and tell them you are going to call to verify – if they won’t give you this information they most likely are not legit! Ask for a friends name and phone number if they say they have no family or no work. If they don’t have any friends, or family, or work places or church – they are most likely choosing this lifestyle. If someone is in distress and truly wants help, they will give you phone numbers or at least names so you can look up and call and vet them. If they refuse, do not give them anything (unless God puts it on your heart to do so). If you feel God leading you to help a homeless person, here are some resources. Homeless Prevention coordinates the County’s Continuum of Care System for the homeless which focuses on homeless prevention, outreach and assessment, emergency shelter, transitional housing, supportive services, and permanent supportive housing. Call 211! They have all the resources! SHELTERS List of Shelters Available By Dialing 2-1-1 2-1-1 Orange County offers a comprehensive information and referral system linking Orange County residents to community health and human services and support. Callers seeking assistance can dial 2-1-1 (toll-free) 24 hours-a-day and be connected to trained, multilingual information and referral specialists. Simply put, 2-1-1 is to health and human services what 9-1-1 is to emergency services. 2-1-1 Orange County also serves as a crucial public information system during local emergencies such as earthquake, fire or other disaster. 2-1-1 Orange County refers callers to organizations qualified to address an incredible array of health and human services, including: Food Shelter Transportation Prenatal care Substance abuse Government assistance programs Workforce development Health insurance access programs Prevention and safety services Child development care Elder care Medical, dental and vision care For more information about 2-1-1 Orange County. Much love and prayers, Pastor Brett,

Daisy vs Tulip. The great debate. And in a world filled with uncertainty and turmoil, it is essential to turn to the unchanging and unwavering Word of God to find hope, purpose, and direction.

Today, we gather here to explore a profound truth that is woven throughout the pages of Scripture, a truth that speaks directly to the nature of our loving and merciful God – the truth that God desires all men and women to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth!

Luke 10:20, Jesus reminds us, “Nevertheless, do not rejoice that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven.”

This underscores the supremacy of our salvation in Christ over any other achievement or blessing. We find our greatest joy in the fact that our names are recorded in heaven, written in the book of life for all eternity.

This joy should overflow in our lives and be a testimony to the world of the hope and assurance we have in Him.

The harvest field of souls in need of salvation is abundant, and it is our divine commission to bring Jesus into the lives of those who are seeking hope and purpose. Just as farmers labor diligently in their fields, we must toil in the spiritual harvest, sowing the seeds of God’s Word and reaping souls for His kingdom. Our lives should reflect His light and love, drawing others to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, for indeed, the world around us needs Him desperately.

Following Christ is not without its challenges and sacrifices, but the blessings and joy that come with it far outweigh any difficulties. It is a journey filled with purpose, peace, love, and the promise of an everlasting relationship with our Savior.

As we navigate our journey of faith, may we always keep our eyes fixed on the Savior, knowing that the eternal rewards of His kingdom are worth every sacrifice we make in His name

Humility is a virtue that has the capacity to transform lives, mend broken relationships, and draw us closer to the very heart of God. It is a power often underestimated in a world that frequently values self-promotion and pride. Proverbs 16:18 “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before stumbling.”

Proverbs 22:4 “The reward of humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, honor, and life.” Humility is not weakness; it is the strength under control. It is to surrender our will to God’s divine plan. It is an acknowledgment that we are entirely dependent on Him!

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we often find ourselves worrying instead of praying. And even when we do pray often times we doubt that those prayers will get answered.

What makes our prayers truly effective in drawing us closer to God and ushering in His blessings into our lives? We will find that out today! 8 keys to praying prayers that are answered!

We are commanded to take up our cross and follow Jesus. These words are a call to radical discipleship. Jesus is not merely inviting us to be His admirers or casual followers; He is calling us to be His devoted disciples. It is a call to surrender, to relinquish the throne of our hearts to Him, and to be transformed into new creations in Christ Jesus. So, let us not falter in our commitment to follow Jesus. Let us continually seek His guidance, immerse ourselves in His Word, and lean on His strength as we navigate the challenges of this world. As we do so, we will experience the joy of living as new creations in Christ, liberated from the bondage of sin, and filled with the hope and peace that only He can provide.