Hi Church,
This week we concluded our journey through the Beatitudes, the blessed ways of Jesus, by hearing His words in Matthew 5:10-12: “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
Jesus reminds us that those who live as His peacemakers will not always be understood or welcomed by the world. When we shine His light, stand for righteousness, love our enemies, forgive offences, and carry the message of reconciliation, we may face insult, rejection, or opposition because we belong to Him.
Yet Jesus tells us not to be afraid, anxious, or ashamed. The blessing He promises is greater than anything this world can offer or take away. Like the examples of Apostle Peter, and Apostle Paul, and 20th Century saints like Ps Richard Wurmbrand and our Missionary friends in Nigeria, Kent and Ruth Hodge, we are called to respond with joy, prayer, forgiveness, and courageous love.
Our vision is to be a community of transforming grace that bears the image of Jesus. So let us not hide under the radar as peacekeepers, but live as true peacemakers, lighting the way in a darkening world and remembering our persecuted brothers and sisters in prayer. The kingdom of heaven is worth more than the approval of the world. Amen.
I’m excited about our times of prayer and fasting because they sharpen our desire for God and raise our faith level in God. We have a lot to be thankful for but there is still much to pursue in the spirit and physically for the benefit of our Grace Church family.
Our offering this week for “love the house” will continue the legacy of past members providing facilities adequate for contemporary Gospel presentation and teaching. We are upgrading our aging computer, sound and video equipment, building a disability ramp for the Shed access, we are laying concrete paths, upgrading our bathroom facilities, replacing broken air-conditioning. Your generous gift will help us to achieve these goals. If you can’t give an amount this Sunday, then please make a pledge for the next three months. Thank you if you have already given.
With you in the journey Church.
Love Ps Greg and Amanda