SINS OF MATERIAL OMISSION

Neglecting Mercy & Justice

Showing mercy and pursuing justice are core expressions of the God who loves compassion and truth. But when we overlook suffering, ignore the vulnerable, or excuse harmful behavior without seeking restoration, our hearts can grow numb and disconnected from the life God calls us to. Neglecting mercy and justice may look like turning a blind eye, avoiding difficult conversations, or choosing convenience over compassion — and these patterns can weaken both our relationships and our sense of purpose.

Spiritually, both mercy and justice reflect the heart of God — who champions the oppressed and offers forgiveness for the broken. Jesus models this perfectly in His care for the marginalized, His compassion toward the hurting, and His challenge to His followers to act justly and love mercy. When we neglect these qualities, we miss out on the fullness of life that comes from living in alignment with God’s character. But the good news of the gospel invites us into a life shaped by mercy and justice — where love and truth work together to heal hearts and communities.

He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

— Micah 6:8

Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.

— Matthew 23:23

Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.

— Proverbs 21:13

TURN TOWARD JESUS

Explore Practices That Shape the Heart

Turning toward Jesus means turning away from the sin you’re entangled in—and choosing practices that reshape your heart over time. Explore studying the Bible, prayer, fasting, and forgiveness to take a clear next step toward repentance, freedom, and deeper fellowship with Him.
Study The Bible

Study The Bible

Studying the Bible is one of the most important ways we grow as we follow Jesus. This page provides practical tools, trusted resources, and simple next steps to help you understand Scripture and apply God’s truth to everyday life.

Prayer

Prayer

Prayer is more than words—it’s relationship. Learn how to pray with honesty and faith, build a simple rhythm, and grow closer to Jesus through daily conversation with God.

Fasting

Fasting

Fasting is a practice of setting aside something good—often food—to seek God with greater focus. Learn how fasting strengthens prayer, deepens dependence, and reshapes your desires toward Jesus

GET HOPE & HELP

Resources for Helping with Mercy & Justice

NEXT STEPS

If you’ve ever struggled to show mercy, faced awkward situations of injustice, or felt unsure how to respond with compassion, you’re not alone. These next steps are designed to help you turn toward Jesus and grow in living out mercy, justice, and Christ-like compassion.
Repent

Repent

Repentance is more than regret—it’s a turning of the heart toward God. By naming sin honestly and choosing a new direction of obedience, we step out of hiding and into the grace, freedom, and transformation Jesus offers.

Know Jesus

Know Jesus

Jesus welcomes you—the Savior who invites you into real life with God. Explore who He is, what He offers, and the next steps you can take to know Him personally.

Get Baptized

Get Baptized

Baptism is an outward expression of an inward transformation. It’s a public declaration that you have decided to follow Jesus and want to live for Him. At Sonrise, we celebrate baptisms as a church family, standing with you as you take this powerful step of obedience and faith.

Follow Jesus

Follow Jesus

Following Jesus means taking your next step with Him in real life. Find practical ways to grow through faith, spiritual practices, community, and everyday life.

NEED HELP?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to begin, we’d love to walk with you.

Fill out the form below and a trusted member of our team will reach out to listen, pray, and help you take a wise next step.

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AN INVITATION TO JOIN US AT SONRISE

At Sonrise Church, we believe real life change happens when people encounter Jesus, walk in truth, and grow together in community. You are welcome here—no matter your past, your struggles, or where you’re starting from. Join us this Sunday to take your next step toward freedom and formation with us. Jesus changes everything.

Sonrise Church

Sonrise Church

8805 N. Magnolia Ave

Santee, CA 92071

Get Directions

Service Times:

  • Sunday : 9:00 AM (1st Service)
  • Sunday : 10:40 AM (2nd Service)

At Sonrise Church in Santee, CA, we know that showing mercy and pursuing justice can be hard — especially when life is messy and people hurt deeply. In East County San Diego, many wrestle with feeling ill-equipped to respond compassionately, unsure how to confront injustice, or overwhelmed by the world’s needs. Sonrise Church offers compassionate teaching and community rooted in Scripture that helps you understand what it means to live with both grace and conviction in your daily life.

In Santee, El Cajon, La Mesa, and Lakeside, our church family gathers to explore how the gospel reshapes our hearts toward mercy and justice — not in a way that burdens us, but in a way that heals us and others around us. Jesus invites us into compassionate living that honors God and restores dignity to those who are hurting. If you’re longing to grow in mercy, stand for justice, and reflect Christ’s heart more fully, Sonrise Church in East County San Diego is a place to take your next steps alongside others living out this journey of faith.

Come discover how the gospel transforms hearts and communities through mercy, justice, and grace.

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