Now & Later

When was the last time you had a Now & Later candy? You remember it, don’t you—that tasty little bite-size taffy? There are twelve different flavors including the likes of banana, apple, cherry and watermelon. It seems so appropriate for a summertime treat. Also, there is such hope in the fact that you can enjoy some “NOW” and also enjoy some “LATER.” Brilliant!

Now & Later! Over the rich history of this great church, person after person has recognized that what they did in their NOW would matter LATER. In many ways, you and I are experiencing the faithfulness of others. Consider the fact that 50 years ago there were people who had a vision for Grace—it was their NOW. Today—LATER we are the benefactors of their generosity and spiritual investment.

But friends, hear me when I say this: this may be someone else’s LATER but it is our NOW! It is our NOW to begin to prayerfully discern how the Lord will use us to bless others not only NOW but also LATER. So, what are we going to do NOW to be a part of LATER? How are we going to invest our lives and where are we going to invest NOW that will position Grace to be a blessing to others LATER?

If we believe that our future is bright then we are going to have to recognize that what we do in the present matters as well. NOW is the time for us to repent of our disobedience to the Lord and return to Him in humble obedience. NOW is the time for us to respond to His generosity in our lives by exhibiting our own generosity. NOW is the time for us to faithfully pray for the Lord to continue to protect His great church but to also propel us to be the people He has called us to be. NOW is the time for us to confidently embrace the fact that all we do or don’t do NOW will impact who we are LATER.

It is so exciting to consider the privilege we have to be part of something bigger than ourselves. How we intentionally live today could be what the Lord uses to enhance another person’s life later. Teaching a child the ways of the Lord today could be the foundation upon which they build their life later. Connecting with others in authentic, gospel-centered community today could be vital for you later in the midst of a difficult season. The point is, let us not underestimate the significance the now has on the later.  
 
John Ortberg wrote, “If you’re not facing any challenges too big for you, if it has been a while since you have felt scared, there’s a real good chance that you have been sitting in the chair too long” (When the Game is Over it All Goes Back in the Box, p.142).

Friends, where in your life do you need to get out of the chair? Perhaps this summer is just the time for you to get up and step out in faith.

I remain optimistic about our future together, and I am very thankful for you. This is our NOW—how will we build a foundation for our LATER?  I look forward to seeing you this Sunday.

Peace,

Trey

Looking Ahead in 2018…SAVE the DATE!

June 10, Annual Pancake Breakfast at 9 a.m. and ONE Worship Service at 10 a.m.
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
November 6, Wood Memorial Golf Tournament
December 2, Phases: Parent Conversation at 10:15 a.m.
December 16, Grace Kids Musical & Christmas 4 the City Habitat Build – ONE Worship Service at 10 a.m.