As followers of Jesus, we are marked. These marks are meant to characterize our life as believers and as a church at Grace.
- To preach the gospel marks us.
- To properly administer the sacraments marks us.
- To rightly exercise church discipline marks us.
As a church, living as marked followers of Jesus, we are marked to address culture and society that struggles in knowing its way and building a better humanity.
- Followers of Jesus are to be leaven for individual and social change.
- Followers of Jesus are to be salt and light for individual and social change.
- At one time the Church held a privileged place in culture. That is no longer the case.
A shift from modern to postmodern philosophical assumptions began in the early seventies. The Church was then thrust into the culture wars which have only intensified. The message of the Church was no longer readily accepted. The cultural and societal response continues to be apathetic and hostile.
As the Son of God, Jesus was marked.
- Jesus suffered for you and me.
- Jesus stayed focused on the will of his Father.
- Jesus died for our sins.
- Jesus rose from the dead so that we could experience forgiveness for those sins and live a new life, now, and eternally.
Do you believe that Jesus died for your sins? Do you believe that by placing your faith in him you are forgiven and will live a new life now and have eternal life?
As followers of Jesus, we are marked. Let’s participate with God in bringing salvation and transformation to individuals and society.
On the journey of Christian discipleship and spiritual formation with you, I remain faithfully yours,
Steve
The Rev. Dr. Steven M. Marsh
Interim Pastor
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