In less than three weeks, we will begin the season of Lent here at Grace with our Ash Wednesday service on February 17 at 6:30pm in our sanctuary. We have planned for a safe and socially distanced imposition of ashes for anyone who wishes to receive ashes as part of the service (plus we will stream the service live on our Grace Facebook). I will be offering a Lenten lunch study at noon via Zoom for five Tuesdays starting February 23 and ending March 23. We will study the book by Adam Hamilton entitled “Words of Life.” This book is a review of the ten commandments from a perspective of what the commandments offer as guideposts to a good life rather than simply as a set of restrictions. You can purchase the book online via Cokesbury or Amazon. Just call Pat Harrison at the church office at 321-452-2420 and give her your email address to sign up for the study.
This Sunday, January 31, our scripture passages are 1 Corinthians 8: 1-13 and Mark 1: 21-28. My message is entitled “Free and Unafraid,” and I will be looking at how keeping us in fear is the work of the enemy of our souls. Jesus offers freedom from this fear. How do we allow his authority to guide us to freedom? I appreciate your prayers, encouragement and feedback every week. It is the power of the Holy Spirit that teaches us and reminds us of God’s presence in our lives.
Because Sunday is the fifth Sunday of January, we recognize the ministry of the United Methodist Children’s Home. I know many of you regularly support the Children’s home with financial gifts. If you wish to have a gift go to the Children’s Home this week, or anytime, just designate “Children’s Home” on your check or giving envelope (or online gift).
I look forward to seeing you in-person or through your online comments in worship this Sunday! May God bless you and your family!
Pastor Steve Hart