Heart Exam

Some years ago, I was experiencing frequent chest pains.  I told my doctor, and he ordered a stress test.  Following that, I had a heart catheterization in which they examined my heart under x-ray by injecting dye to see if my heart and the arteries surrounding it were working properly.  Everything checked out, and I was good to go!  Maybe you’ve undergone similar procedures.  But now let me ask:  What about your “spiritual” heart?  How is that beating?  Might there be any blockages that need to be removed?

This Sunday, October 2, Jesus is inviting us to examine our hearts – not for blockages or too much cholesterol - but for attitudes that don’t belong there.  In fact, Jesus tells us to beware of the “yeast of the Pharisees.”  No, the Pharisees were not bread-bakers.  Jesus is referring to the fact that just a little bit of sin, judgementalism, or a critical attitude (like that exhibited by the Pharisees) in your heart, can taint your entire spirit and affect a whole bunch of people negatively – just like a little yeast affects a whole batch of dough. 

How’s your attitude these days?  What’s ‘the spirit’ of your heart been lately?  Sunday’s message is not for the faint of heart.  It will challenge and convict us all as we consider three aspects of the ‘yeast of the Pharisees’ and examine our own hearts before God.  Traditional worship begins at 9:00 AM.  Contemporary worship begins at 10:45 AM.  Both services feature moving worship, a biblically inspired message, warm friends, and the healing and renewing presence of the Holy Spirit in our midst.

We will also share the sacrament of Holy Communion this Sunday at both services, through individually packaged elements.   All who love Jesus are invited to the table.  The Discovery Class for those wanting to learn more about Grace Church and our ministry, and who may be considering membership with us, also begins this coming Sunday.  The class is open to all and will meet in the adult Sunday school room at 10:05 AM between services.  Are you feeling tired, lost, or weary?  Join us this Sunday and be refreshed!