Hello Mt. Vernon Church Family,

What is the greatest commandment? To love the Lord our God with all of our heart, all of mind and soul and love our neighbors as we love ourselves. Who is your neighbor? Different from the person next door, could it also be the person sitting next to you in church; or the person in line behind you in the grocery line; or the stranger you meet? Our neighbor is anyone we encounter in our lives. All of God’s human creation constitutes our neighbors. How can that be? The Word of God states that we are all created by God in God’s image, and we are to love everyone.

Now I ask, do you love yourself? Are you happy with the choices that you have selected in this life? Well, if you are……great, keep moving forward! If you do not love yourself, it is then challenging to love others. Loving oneself is critical for your health, strength, and sound mind. You are God’s creation, and you are good! Don’t let anyone convince you that you are nobody! It’s a lie, so don’t believe it! God created you and everyone God created is good! God has not created any junk!

Each of us has been given gifts and talents! We just need to discover them, then tap into them and build on what we have. It’s inside of you, me, and our neighbors. Stop, take some time, and survey yourself. Unlock your gift(s)! It’s already within you! Having a large number of social media ‘likes’ does not determine your gifts and talents.

Our gifts and talents have been given to us so that we can glorify God; love ourselves, and love others just as much as we love ourselves. God is the key to our growth and development. Seek God for your discovery of your gifts and talents. They are inside, so break into them and get busy developing them for the glory of God, for your inner health and wellbeing, and for sharing the love of God with your neighbors. You are loved!!

Be Blessed,

Pastor Hazeline “Hazel” Jackson