Defined I Week Two

<p>Last week, as we began our Defined series, we talked about the hope we have in Jesus Christ—and how that hope is not something we simply hold onto for ourselves. It is something we actively share with the world.</p>

<p>At Shepherds, we say: “With God’s help, we embrace and connect with all people and together experience the Love, Light, and Hope of Jesus Christ.”</p>

<p>This week, we turn to the Light.</p>

<p>Romans 6 reminds us of a hard truth: sin leads to death. Sin pulls us into darkness, convinces us that there is no way out, and leaves us stumbling through places we were never meant to stay.</p>

<p>But the light of Christ leads to life.</p>

<p>God does not shine that light into our lives simply so that we can see. God shines it so that we can find our way out of the darkness—and then help others find their way too.</p>

<p>So what if the church became a lighthouse? A people who stand in the darkness and boldly point toward life. A people whose words, actions, and presence shine with the Love, Light, and Hope of Jesus Christ.</p>

<p>May we be a lighthouse.</p>

<p><em>Passage: Romans 6: 1-11 CEB</em></p>