Sell All You Have (02/07/26)

On the most external level, Jesus’ directive “sell all that you have and give to the poor” (Mark 10: 21) means exactly what it says. Jesus is asking the man to sell all his material possessions and give the proceeds to the poor. This is useful advice for anyone who thinks that amassing possessions brings true happiness. The [one] who has set his heart on riches, believes that his happiness and security can be found in “many possessions” rather than in maintaining a child-like trust in God.

Most people recognize, however, that selling one’s possessions and giving everything to the poor, can lead to problems. For example, if no distinction is made between people who are people who are truly in need and those who use the money to support their addictions, great harm could come to both the addict and to society. It would also impoverish the person who has given everything away, leaving them without any means for helping others. These are some of the problems that can arise when the Word is understood at a merely external level. 

Therefore, it is necessary to consider not only the external sense of Jesus’ words, but also their internal meaning. As we have already pointed out, “selling what we have” means that we should rid ourselves of all feelings of self-merit and superiority, acknowledging that without the Lord we are spiritual paupers. To be “poor in spirit” is to acknowledge that all things of value come from the Lord, and that we can do nothing that is truly good from ourselves. 

When we rid ourselves of false riches — pride, arrogance, egotism and the belief that the good we do is from ourselves — we receive the true riches that flow in from the Lord: love and wisdom, goodness and truth, innocence and peace. These are the “treasures of heaven.”

Whenever we experience the inflow of these heavenly blessings, it is hardly possible to keep these treasures to ourselves. There arises a longing to share them with others, a desire to share the joy one has experienced not just through keeping the commandments, but, more deeply, through knowing that the Lord alone has provided the means and the power to do so.  (NCBS, Silverman)

SRC ANNOUNCEMENTS  (02/08/26)

Jane Enis Visit (02/14/26)

Join us for our next 90 Day check in with Jane Enis (Healthy Congregations) on our progress toward meeting our strategic plan objectives, hear how the denomination is supporting our efforts, ask your questions, and seek ways to contribute toward a vibrant Sunrise Chapel - now and into the future!  Our day session will be on Saturday (Valentine’s Day 02/14) from 10am to 2pm.  JOIN US! 

Newsletter Updates (Month-Long)

It has become clear that when our church newsletter software updated (AWeber) it rearranged or deleted some of our current contacts.  Rest assured, in this week's staff meeting we started updating our records based on who is telling us they aren't getting the newsletter.  For the rest of the month, we will seek to collect signatures of people who still do not believe they are receiving it.  Thanks for your patience as we continue to address this!

BLESSINGS ON YOUR WEEKEND!  

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