As we begin a new year, it is a great time to get involved in the life of your church. If you have ever considered starting a small group or Bible study, we have a great resource in Right Now Media. Every church member can get access to this Netflix style library of educational, inspiring, Biblical videos. If you have not ever tried it, just send me your email address and I can add you to the list of those who can access Right Now Media from your home computer, laptop, or smart tv. With the studies and tools available there, anyone can dig deeper into Christian discipleship.
You may have read news about proposed changes related to the future of the United Methodist Church. Pastor Beth and I will try to answer any questions related to this news as part of the church council meeting this coming Tuesday, January 14, 2020 at 7pm in the chapel. The church council meeting is, of course, open to everyone and I encourage you to attend.
This Sunday, January 12, we have the privilege of hearing from Pastor Kris Schonewolf who serves as pastor of The Oasis, a United Methodist Church operating inside Lowell Correctional Institute, the largest women’s prison in the United States. It is because of our connectional system in the United Methodist Church that we are able to support ministries like The Oasis. As you will see, it is a ministry that offers transformation through faith in Jesus Christ to women who have lost almost everything.
The scripture passages for Sunday are Mark 10: 35-40; 43-44. You will find that these verses remind us all that Jesus calls us to live as servants. One way to keep our hearts open to serving is to ask God each day how we can share the blessings in our lives with others. I have found that if I pray this prayer earnestly, God responds with clear, and often challenging, guidance.
Thank you for your prayers and faithfulness to Grace UMC. It remains my honor to serve as one of your pastors! – Pastor Steve Hart