Our preschool is open again as we begin a new school year. The Grace UMC preschool continues to serve families with excellent teachers and staff, and we are excited to meet new parents and children as the new school year begins. Please remember that children may be present if you drive through our parking lot during the week, so drive slowly and pay attention.
We also have Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Cub Scouts meeting regularly on our campus. It is important that we all remember that part of our ministry is hosting these various groups. I was on campus Tuesday evening, and there were scouts and parents working together. Every person who comes onto our campus is aware that we are a Christian church. We show the love of Christ by making folks feel at home, so that they experience a sense of joy and look forward to their presence on our campus. Thanks for making this a reality for everyone!
This Sunday, August 21, the scripture passages are Jeremiah 1: 4-8 and Hebrews 12: 25-29. I am working on a message entitled “A Consuming Fire.” I have noticed that in our efforts to emphasize the love and mercy of God, it can be tempting to de-emphasize the holiness of God. When we do this, we put ourselves in danger of becoming alienated from the power of Christ. Is the Holy Spirit a consuming fire in your life, or merely an occasional source of comfort when you feel down?
Friends, I appreciate your daily prayers for our pastors, our staff, our church, and our community. God continues to bless us in many ways. May we all pay attention as God brings new people to our campus. The ministry of genuine hospitality is a critical key to our future.
See you Sunday!
Steve Hart