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Optimism
The other day I was reminded of the words of the old spiritual:
We ain't what we could be;
We ain't what we should be;
But at least, we ain't what we was!
Those are hopeful words for me—what about for you?
Reflecting on the fact that “we ain’t what we could be” can serve as a catalyst for us to remain motivated to press on—even through the inevitable challenges and distractions of life. When we recognize that life is full of growth opportunities, it stirs an optimistic attitude within. Whereas, when we choose to throw our hands up in disgust and defeat, we tend to maneuver through life with a lackadaisical attitude of maintaining status quo. My hope for us at Grace—both individually and corporately—is that we will be motivated by our potential.
Likewise, considering the words “we ain’t what we should be” sets us on a course for growth. However, paramount to this happening is clarity around what we “should be.” The Bible is filled with direction in this area. For example, Jesus has instructed us to “hunger and thirst for His righteousness” and to “be His witnesses” and to “seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness.” We must decide to whose instruction we will adhere in order to be the people we “should be.”
Finally, be encouraged by the words “at least we ain’t what we was!” The Word reminds us that we have been “saved through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” Additionally, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” We have so much to be thankful for today. Imagine how doing something as simple as REJOICING over and over again throughout the day could impact your attitude.
Friends, I remain optimistic about how God will continue to lead Grace into a new season according to His will for us. Here at Grace, we ain’t what we was but I am filled with hopeful expectations about what we can be and energized about living and loving as we should. Thank you for the opportunity to be on this exhilarating journey with you.
The future is bright!
Peace,
Trey
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Now You Can Give
On the Go!
In less time than it takes to write a check, you can now make contributions using your smartphone at church or anytime. Mobile giving is a quick, easy, and convenient way to support the ministries and missions of Grace.
Online giving is easy to set up, and you can make a one-time gift or automatic recurring contributions with your designated bank account or credit card. You are also able to view your complete giving history.
Using your smartphone’s camera or code reader app, you can scan this QR code to go straight to the secure Grace online giving webpage. Follow the prompts to create or login to your giving profile, and in just a few clicks, your contribution is made. |
Out Of Town This Sunday? Watch Us On Facebook Live Each Week!
We love gathering together each Sunday as a Grace family! But, if you are unable to join us for worship, there are two ways to join us online: on our homepage or live on our Facebook page.
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"In His Steps" Tour of Israel has been Postponed until December 2020
Watch for details of a rescheduled trip to take place in December 2020. A trip to the Holy Land is a bucket list adventure. To walk where Jesus walked is a life-giving opportunity, which will shape your faith journey. Though we are disappointed that the December 2018 trip has been rescheduled, we look forward to this exciting opportunity in 2020! |
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Here's What We're Learning
in The Backyard
July 29
Bible Story: Something to Believe In (Nothing Can Separate Us from God’s Love) • Romans 8:38-39
Bottom Line: Live like you believe what God says is true.
Memory Verse: “God began a good work in you. And I am sure that he will carry it on until it is completed. That will be on the day Christ Jesus returns.” Philippians 1:6, NIrV
Life App: Confidence — Living like you believe what God says is true
Basic Truth: I can trust God no matter what. |
Middle School Trip
to Typhoon Texas
August 1
Join us for some all day fun in the sun at Typhoon Texas! The cost is $40 and includes admission and a delicious lunch. Bring extra money for snacks, lockers, souvenirs! There are only 20 spots available, so register ASAP. Students can be dropped off at the Welcome Center at Grace Presbyterian Church at 10 a.m. sharp. We will arrive back at Grace at 3 p.m. All students must have a 2018-2019 Grace Waiver Form on file. Students should bring: Towel, sandals, sunscreen, and swimsuit (one pieces for girls and no Speedos for guys!). Questions? Contact Reed Brentlinger (rbrentlinger@gpch.org; 713-267-5076). Register HERE. |
New Combined Adult Class this Summer:
Paul and the Law
Sundays, July 22, July 29,
August 5, August 12
Massey-Tucker Fellowship Hall
We are thrilled to offer a combined Adult Sunday school class taught by Paul Sloan. The class, Paul and the Law, will focus on Atonement, Works, and the Final Judgement. Discussions will help answer “How does God’s grace relate to His expectation for obedience." Paul is Assistant Professor of Theology at HBU, where he teaches hermeneutics, Jewish history, the Gospels, and Paul’s letters. In addition to teaching, his research largely focuses on Paul, the atonement, and Paul’s understanding of the Law. He’s married to Meg, and they’re expecting their first child in December.
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Here's What We're Learning in the Treehouse
July 29
Basic Truth: God made me. God loves me. Jesus wants to be my friend forever.
Key Question: What is with you wherever you go?
Bottom Line: God’s word is with me wherever I go.
Memory Verse: “I have hidden your word in my heart.” (Psalm 119:11)
Bible Story Focus: The Bible tells me Jesus wants to be my friend forever.
God Loved Us so Much He Gave Us Jesus. • John 3:16
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Middle School
Sno Cone Sundays -
Last One!
Every Sunday in July, 2-4 p.m.,
Bahama Bucks (11300 Katy Fwy.)
Hey Middle School students! Cool down from the summer heat at Bahama Bucks. Bring your friends and come join us this Sunday for our last afternoon together.
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High School Event
at Speedy's Face Track
July 26, 7-9 p.m.
Speedy’s Fast Track: 11440 Hempstead Rd. Houston, TX 77092
High School Ministries is heading to Speedy's Fast Track for an awesome adventure. For just $20, we’ll have access to unlimited go-karts, laser tag, miniature golf, and arcade games. Snacks and drinks are provided. Please make sure you have a 2018-2019 Grace Waiver Form on file. Meet us at Speedy’s Fast Track at 7 p.m. Register HERE.
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Bridge at Grace
Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month, 11:30 a.m. (lunch - $5 optional) and 12-3 p.m. (bridge).
Come enjoy an afternoon of social bridge at Grace with church friends or make new friends! No partner required but reservations are required for lunch and bridge. Contact Becky Morris (bmorris@gpch.org; 713-267-5091). For more information, call Toni or Harry Watson at 713-468-6006. |
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July Blood Drive
Sunday, July 29, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Massey-Tucker Hall, Room 102 and 103
Be a hero this summer, and donate blood to help give the gift of life. Sign up at giveblood.org.
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Post-Harvey Home Blessings
As they move back into their restored homes or relocate to different permanent homes, flooded families may request a team of Grace members to offer prayers of blessing. We have created a "walk-through" prayer pamphlet that the blessing team uses from the front door throughout the home to pray a hedge of protection and God's glorification in this journey.
You may request a home blessing by completing this form. Denise Phelps will contact you to schedule a blessing time and put together a team.
If you would like to be a part of a home blessing prayer team, you can volunteer by completing this form. It offers options for the days, times of day, and zip code where you might be a blessing to our flooded families. We will be in touch with you when an opportunity arises that meets with your availability.
We remain committed to walk alongside families still recovering from the aftermath of Harvey. Prayers continue to be lifted for continued healing, restoration, and rebuilding.
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Back to School
Backpack Drive
It is never too early to think about the upcoming Back to School season for our partnership with Walnut Bend Elementary. This summer, we will be collecting school supplies and backpacks. You can drop off supplies and backpacks in the Filling Station (the church library) now through Sunday, August 5. Be a blessing and brighten up the school year for kids and families. Please shop for the following items:
- glue sticks
- blunt tip scissors
- box of #2 pencils
- box of 24 Crayola crayons
- mesh style backpack from Academy
- thick washable markers
- thin washable markers
- box of tissues
- pack of multi-colored highlighters
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Feeling Down?
Our Stephen Ministry can help. Stephen Ministers aren’t just there for “big” crises. They’re also available for the little ones, because many times the little things can really add up. Don’t wait until you have a really big crisis; consider Stephen Ministry if the little things get you down. For more information, contact Denise Phelps (dphelps@gpch.org; 713-267-5063).
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Looking Ahead in 2018… SAVE the DATE!
August 26, Harvey Remembrance - ONE Worship Service at 10 a.m.
September 23, Phases: Parent Conversations at 10:15 a.m.
October 7, World Communion Sunday - ONE Worship Service at 10 a.m.
October 12-14, Together Forever
October 26, Trunk or Treat
November 5, Wood Memorial Golf Tournament
December 2, Phases: Parent Conversations at 10:15 a.m.
December 16, Grace Kids Musical & Christmas 4 the City Habitat Build – ONE Worship Service at 10 a.m.
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