"For we know, brothers loved by God, that He has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction." Thessalonians 1:4"
I could so easily say this of the family of believers at Grace Harbor Church. As a matter of fact, I know it. The brothers and sisters of the Body of Christ that I know as my church family were chosen by God. All believers are, but I know it about this church family because of the evidence of their belief.
That belief in the gospel of Christ is shown in many ways. It is illustrated through their love of Jesus, shown by their love for each other and anyone who comes here. Their faithfulness to fellowship and study shows that they believe with deep conviction. Their commitment to serving and giving is further evidence of faith beyond just words. I can see the powerful belief of my church family by their willingness to respond to need and to rally around those who are lonely, disenfranchised, sick or struggling.
My church family is powerful in Christ Jesus and I see the evidence of His power in the believers here because of the three defining features of who we are as a people of God. We are a family church, open to everyone without reservation. No matter what your circumstance or situation you are welcome at Grace Harbor. As our motto says, 'Come in from the storms of life and see what God is doing.'
Another feature of Grace Harbor is that we are a lighthouse of hope. The Holy Spirit keeps that light lit in the hearts of those who come here. We believe together that God is at work in and through us to care and to reach out to our community. His church here is not just about those who come, but those who are our friends, neighbors and community.
A third feature of who we are is that we make disciples here. We are totally committed to maturing in Christ. Those who call this church their home know that we teach from His Word and encourage discipleship through mentoring, Bible Study and personal commitment.
These words written to the Thessalonian church could have easily been said of Grace Harbor Church. Church should be about deep convictions, the power of the Holy Spirit and action. I pray that this ministry will continue to be who it is and reach out to our community. I know that the church that Grace Harbor is chosen by God for a purpose. I close with our Mission/Vision Statement.
"Our vision is to be a harbor of grace and a lighthouse of hope, healing and restoration for the lost, and unchurched. We are committed to bringing people to Jesus and membership in His family, developing them in to Christlike maturity, and equipping them for their ministry in the church and their life mission in the world, all to glorify God."
Glad to be a member of the Grace Harbor Church family,
Pastor Fred
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