Hi Church,
This last weekend at Grace Church, we were reminded again of the kindness and mercy of God as we began a new teaching series in the Gospel of Matthew. Together we reflected on the beautiful truth that Jesus meets people right where they are, calling the broken, the outsider, and the weary into His grace.
The Gospel writers’ own story is such a powerful encouragement—once a tax collector, he became a follower of Jesus and a living testimony to the transforming mercy of God and what it means to be welcomed as an outsider into the family of God. We also considered the women named in Jesus’ genealogy—Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba—and saw that even through stories marked by sorrow, shame, and brokenness, God was faithfully at work bringing redemption and hope. What a comfort to know that the family line of Jesus before Him and after Him, is filled with grace, and that His heart is still to restore, heal, and redeem today.
The message encouraged us to open our hearts afresh to Jesus, receive His mercy for our own brokenness, and continue using the gifts He has placed in our lives for His Kingdom purpose. I will be sharing again this Sunday. Then Amanda and I will be away on two weeks annual leave. The coming messages will all be focussed on Matthew’s Gospel.
We also shared an important church update: our Love the House Offering will be held on Sunday 26 July to improve our facilities and technology and sound equipment. Thank you for prayerfully considering how you might be part of this important need.
Also please be praying for Alpha course participants this week, as we gather for the Holy Spirit retreat day. Pray for surrendered lives and filled hearts and the release of the gifts of the Spirit.
God bless you Church
Ps Greg and Amanda.