During the next four Sundays, our messages at Grace will focus on the life of the early church as described in the book of Acts. After Jesus’ resurrection, there were many transforming events in the lives of communities and individuals. The Holy Spirit empowered the early disciples to perform miracles similar to the miracles of Jesus. Those disciples in the first century…

After this year’s Holy Week, all I can say is “Thank you”, again and again, to all of you who worked tirelessly to make the various events and services run smoothly. From our hard-working staff members, to all those involved in music ministry and technical support, to ushers and greeters and Stephen ministers and communion preparers and servers, I believe everyone’s efforts…

The scripture for Easter Sunday is Luke 24: 1-12. Of course, this is Luke’s version of the resurrection of Jesus. The two men (angels) who appeared in the tomb asked the women who were looking for Jesus, “Why do you look for the living among the dead?” This one question is filled with meaning. When we celebrate Easter, we are celebrating life…

Holy week begins on Palm Sunday and includes the entire week leading up to Easter. I have found that experiencing and participating in every aspect of Holy week strengthens my faith. From Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, to the very personal and intimate time with the disciples on Maundy Thursday, to the darkness and agony of Good Friday, we…

I know that many Christians question the importance of regular, consistent church attendance. Sometimes the rationale for this questioning is the idea that we can study scripture and worship anywhere, even at home or with friends. However, the importance of consistent engagement in the life of the local church is rooted in our need to be present for new people who enter…

It is truly a wonderful time of year here on Merritt Island. I hope we can all appreciate the comfortable weather that is with us briefly, before the heat of summer comes in full force. Our campus looks especially nice, thanks to our trustees and many volunteers, including our lawn team, who work tirelessly because they love this church. Even on days…

As we continue into the Lenten season, some of the scripture readings can be quite challenging. For example, Luke 13: 1-9, the passage that will form the basis of this Sunday’s message, clearly refers to fig trees that do not bear fruit being cut down, and thereby destroyed. This is a parable, and one way of reading it is to assume a…

This Sunday, March 17, I am planning a message based upon the Old Testament minor prophet Zephaniah, focusing upon Zephaniah 3: 8-12. This passage offers insight into the anger of God, but the anger is clearly followed by an image of people who are “humble and lowly”, who are able to seek refuge in the Lord of all creation. When we get…

This coming Sunday, March 3, is Transfiguration Sunday on the church calendar. We will be taking a close look at Luke 9: 28-36, and the message is entitled “Mountaintop Visions and Valley Realities.” Jesus’ appearance changed on the mountain, and the encounter with Moses and Elijah seems to have brought joy to Peter and John and James. But the joy was short-lived,…