Hi Church
The last 7 days has been a very encouraging time for myself and for Grace Church. Last week I had the privilege of being at the IN Him conference with GCC Life Church in Leichardt Sydney. It was very encouraging to be in a setting where Teaching, Prophecy, Apostolic, Pastoring and Evangelist gifts were all present and ministering to those that gathered. I was able to connect with several leaders who showed interest in attending as speakers at our Powerhouse conference in late July/August. I also received some personal prophetic encouragement.
Its when we recognise a gift and have an expectancy of growth that we see how quickly the church can mature into in ministry functions. Like on Sunday recognising Martin Garcia as a five fold ministry gift to the church to help in our maturity in evangelism, straight away after the service we were able to see people come to faith. What was taking a long time became instant as the gift matured us into action. And Praise God what a delight to lead a gentleman and his son to receive salvation and Jesus as his Lord.
Martin’s preaching was taken out of the scripture Luke 8:28-39 The Healing and deliverance of the Man with a legion of Demons. He showed us the reality of the Mans Condition, The Conversion of the Man as He met Jesus and the Commission of the Man, who was later sent to tell the good news of His freedom in Christ. Martin told some wonderful stories which added to the teaching about his own heritage and the conversion of his own Parents and even himself in Melbourne as a teenager. I was specifically moved by the Conversion of the demon possessed man came as a result of Jesus attention, Jesus’ authority, and Jesus’ affection for him. Martin challenged us to give the same attention and release His authority and affection to the people around us.
He also brought a challenge to us to set our phone alarms for 2:47 each day. Why, because in Acts 2:47 it says “the Lord added daily to the Church those who were being saved.” So we can pray for that to happen to our church and in deed all the churches for the region.
A moment of gratitude was shared for Warren Shepherd as he retires from 15 years of service, cleaning and mowing the lawns at Grace Church. Warren with great diligence served in this area at very low expenditure to the Church family and for that we are so grateful. He will be greatly missed form this job and it will be very expensive to replace him. For those who would like to take up part of what Warren did please contact Church office.
Thank you to those who attended the celebration of life service for Phil Baker. It was great to see the richness of Phil’s faith expressed through his and Gail’s family. And listen to the many stories of admiration and love. Gail felt greatly supported by those attended. Let’s remember to pray for Gail and support her in days to come when she will be left alone and family all return to their normal places and schedule, but hers is forever changed.
I’m looking forward to Easter to celebrate and remember Jesus and what He has won for us through the Cross. Also, Ps Paul Zanardo and Monica Zanardo will be with us and I’m believing for a powerfully supernatural time. Remember baptism is available on Good Friday so please make connection ASAP about attending teaching class and participating. Sunday evening at 5:00pm will be an amazing time to gather for renewal. Let’s bring someone who needs Heavens Touch.
Praying for the continual power and presence of Jesus to enrich us all for His glory.
Love Greg and Amanda.