May 2025 Worship Theme

A Pastor's Devotional

Forgiveness is a divine gift, a choice to release the burden of resentment, even when an apology never comes. In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus teaches that forgiving others opens the door to receiving God’s forgiveness. This act is not contingent on the offender’s remorse but on our obedience to God’s call to love. When someone wrongs us and refuses to acknowledge it, the pain can feel like a heavy chain. Yet, forgiveness breaks that chain, freeing us to walk in peace.

Holding onto unforgiveness is like drinking poison, expecting the other person to suffer. It festers, stealing joy and clouding our perspective. But choosing to forgive, even without an apology, reflects Christ’s heart. On the cross, Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). His forgiveness flowed freely, though no one sought it. We, too, can extend grace, trusting God to heal our wounds.

Forgiveness doesn’t excuse the wrong or restore trust instantly—it’s a process. It begins with surrender, asking God for strength to let go. Pray for the offender, not out of obligation but to soften your heart. As you release the hurt, God replaces it with His peace. The power of forgiveness lies in its ability to transform us, aligning our hearts with God’s. When we forgive without an apology, we mirror His unconditional love, finding freedom in His grace. Let go and let God mend what’s broken.

In Christ, Rev. Leek

Praise & Prayers for our church friends:

Linda Grove, Liz Levy, Frazier family, Bob and Sandy Averitt, Rosemary Purdum, Chris Payne, Sanna Henderson, Dale and Madonna Opdahl, Milt Levy, Jean Willette, Greg Malak, Donna Thompson, Cindy Sellers, Bill and Bobbie Anne Bowersox.

Doug Bolton passed away Saturday, May 10, 2025. His services will be handled up north. Please keep Marion, his wife, in your prayers.

Family and friends of our congregation requesting prayer: 

Karen Deskins mother, John Swallow (Swallow), Jeanette Roberts (Lemon), Kelly Scalf (Ransom), Mondesin Mondesir (Slack), Lisa Peto (Leek), Finn Grangruth (Gordon), Jodi Davis (Leek), Kris (D. Davis), Joann Moore (Wingate), Steven Palmer (Palmer), Keith Palmer (Palmer), Julie Morrish (Lawrence), Dan Nichols (Nichols), Sharon Johnson (Deskins), Megan Slack (Slack), Karie Murdie (Shoemaker), Karen Anderson (Nichols), Gina Ramsay (Ramsay), Ralph McCann (Young), Michael Rowland (Malak).

Psssstttt....On Friday, May 30, First Trinity Academy will be meeting in the Fellowship Hall for an end of the year promotional celebration for their students from 10 a.m. – noon. If you drive by and see the activity and wonder, just know it is an end of the year school celebration. Congrats to 75 students!