Dear Grace Family:
Recently, I read about a pastor who was frustrated with how often, in preparing for funerals, family members say the most memorable thing about the deceased is that “he worked hard.” The pastor acknowledged that working hard is virtuous, but hard work alone is not our best legacy. In fact, our culture promotes workaholism so much that we can become blind to the multi-dimensional aspect of our lives. We are all more than what we do for a living, and we benefit from legacies that emphasize being a good friend, a good spouse, a good son or daughter, and a devoted follower of Jesus.
It is good to think about the legacy we want to leave this world. Hopefully, we strive to be remembered as people who have unwavering trust in Christ, and as people who know how to show love to others. These virtues are far more important than the strongest work ethic.
Those of you who attended worship this past Sunday may recall that Rev. Alex Shanks emphasized a culture of inviting people to worship. Alex pointed out that with the coming of a new pastor to Grace, it is a great time to get in the habit of inviting new people. People are usually curious when a church gets a new pastor, and so I hope that you will make inviting people to church a weekly habit. Start now and it will be second nature for you just in time for summer.
This Sunday, April 14, we will learn the name of Grace’s new pastor and learn a little about this pastor. The scripture passages for Sunday are Psalm 4 and Luke 24: 36b-48. Pastor Beth is preparing a message entitled “Witnesses.” I am looking forward to the message because it is based upon the story of the walk to Emmaus, which is one of my favorite passages.
Thanks for your ongoing support of Grace UMC. Don’t forget to invite friends and come to worship Sunday. I will see you then!
Steve Hart