We have been praying and dreaming for the last year and a half about greater things that are still to be done in us and through us in SW Florida and beyond. Since August 2010 we have openly and intentionally been seeking God's guidance and provision as we pursue more extensive ministry opportunities. God has heard our prayers and answered us in unmistakable, life-changing ways.
He has not always done it in ways that we would have chosen, but, looking back, we can say that He has always acted in ways that have been best for us. God has answered our prayers by humbling us and exposing areas in the life our church that were unhealthy and in need of deep repentance and renewal. It was not painless, but it was necessary for growth in spiritual health and vitality. He has led us to reconfirm our commitment to be a church that will live according to His Word, regardless of cost or consequences. And He has shown Himself faithful as the God who honors those who honor Him.
When you think back over the course of the last year it is hard to believe that we are within days of moving into our new, beautiful and useful facility, and doing so debt-free. Yet, as we have hoped and prayed for the last 4 months, we are on schedule to have our first worship service at 1300 Ceitus on Easter Sunday, April 8, at 10AM. The good hand of the Lord has been upon us and He has guided and provided every step of the way.
During these busy months of transition, we have seen the Lord continue to draw people to Himself. Part of the greater things we are seeing includes men and women professing faith in Christ. Because of this, our Easter worship service will include celebrating with new believers as they follow Christ in baptism. There are others who are being evangelized by various members of Grace and who are showing signs of being convicted by God's Spirit. Continue to pray that the Lord will use us to reach more and more with the life-giving good news of Jesus Christ as we move into our new facilities.
The next three weeks in the life of our church will be exciting, challenging and eventful. We expect to elect new officers to serve us and to adopt a revised church covenant to help guide us. We can also anticipate welcoming new guests among us as we gather to study and worship. So let me encourage you to be faithful in your responsibilities over these next few weeks. Do not miss out on what God is doing in the life of Grace. Pray. Gather. Witness. Give. Serve. Expect. Worship. Rejoice. Celebrate.
I am grateful for the privilege of serving as your pastor. Let's keep pressing on!