Turn the Other Cheek?

I'm not sure this is what Jesus had in mind. See what you think.


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I'm saying if this happened to Jesus, He's popping the dude. Well, maybe not, but... I would!

Nothing Like Easter!

There isn't anything quite like Easter Sunday for church people... especially preachers. I happen to be both (so, there is seriously something wrong with me), so it's all good!

This was my first Easter at Grapevine and really didn't know exactly what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised. We had a great crowd and most lived around the area, so there's hope that this will translate over into bigger services on a regular basis.

There are reasons preachers like bigger services (although, I actually prefer worshiping with people that are sold out to Christ regardless of the number) and it may not be what you think. Preachers like bigger crowds for these reasons:

• Because more people have the potential to have their life changed by Christ.
• More people generally create a more exciting atmosphere.
• It is a change from the norm. Nothing kills a church faster than no expectations. God is mysterious and it's nice to see this in His people from time to time.

Preachers don't like bigger crowds for the following reasons:

• It looks good for those who play the numbers game.
• We want a raise (but... will probably not turn one down).
• It strokes our ego (at least not for me, I'd like to blend into the pretty paneling if I could).

Bigger services are nice and exciting. It's nice to see the hard work of people behind the scenes rewarded. And they are rewarded, why? Because it's exciting when someone's life has the potential to be changed by Christ. How do they (we) know? Because He has changed theirs (our) lives and want nothing less for them.

That's why there is nothing like Easter. Hope springs eternal and those of us that have Hope in us are excited for others getting it or regaining it. No other time of year quite like this. Enjoy it!

Don't forget about the Bible Studies coming up this week and the new classes for Sunday School starting this Sunday. See you soon (Wednesday night I hope).

Soon and Very Soon!

Grapevine Christian Church will be offering many new opportunities for you to grow deeper in your relationship with Jesus Christ, after all that is our ultimate goal!

• The Merry Hearts group is back at it with a potluck meal (bring a dish of something green!) on March 18, at 11:30 in the church basement. Ted Morelock (Pastor of Nebo Christian Church) will be visiting with us and performing. We hope you are looking forward to this.
• Fun in The Son, March 22, 10:00. 10--12: Fun & games. Noon: Church Picnic (Rain or shine!) Just Bring your favorite picnic food. Egg hunt to follow.
• We are adding a new Sunday School class for Adults starting the week after Easter. This class is going to focus on current events from a Biblical perspective and how they relate to our lives.
• New Bible Studies will be forming the following week after Easter. One of which is for Senior Adults! We will be studying the 10 Commandments and meet at Marc and Christie's house at 1:00 PM on Thursday, March 27.
• An additional class will meet on Friday nights at 6:30 PM, starting March 28. This class will also be studying the 10 Commandments and is at Marc and Christie's house. If you have children bring them along!
  

I hope you are looking forward to a few of the things coming up to help grow in the Lord. Plus, I hope you making plans to attend! Church isn't as fun without you there!

Easter is early this year and it is right here on us already. It's hard to believe, but Spring is just a few days ways. Maybe the Lord knew we needed our dose of Hope a little sooner this year? Who knows, but I'm looking forward to this most special time of year. For this is the time of year, regardless of what has happened, we are reminded once again that because Jesus is alive soon and very soon everything will become new!

Please be praying for Easter Service and bring a friend. Everyone can use a little more hope in their life. See you Sunday!

Marc