Peace that Passes Understanding

Living in this world causes stress.  You have to juggle multiple relationships.  You have to hold a job or live on a fixed income.  You have to pay your bills and taxes on time.  You may be coping with health issues.  You have to keep up with technology, emails, phone calls, and text messages.  On top of all of this, the car breaks down and the house needs repair.  Stress and anxiety are a part of life in this troubled, broken, and crazy world!  So, how do we cope?  How can we find peace without losing our minds?!

Thankfully, God provides us with the perfect antidote to stress.  In John 14:27 Jesus says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.  I do not give to you as the world gives.  Do not let your hearts be troubles and do not be afraid.”  No matter what happens to us in this life, the peace that Jesus gives is stronger and available to all.  Sounds great!  But how I appropriate that peace into my life?  When the “wheels are coming off,” finding peace seems like a pie-in-the-sky idea.  Yet, the peace of God is possible.

Come join your friends at Grace Church this coming Sunday, October 8 for my message entitled, “Finding Peace in Stress.”  Together we’ll “unpack” the incredible gift of God’s peace and consider five ways in which you can experience God’s peace in practical ways.  Traditional worship begins at 9:00 AM.  Contemporary worship begins at 10:45 AM.  Attend the service of your choice and discover the healing presence of the Holy Spirit, uplifting worship, warm friends, and an inspiring message to lift you.

The Discovery Class for those who are considering membership with Grace Church, and for youth desiring to make a public profession of their faith, also begins this Sunday.  We’ll meet between the services from 10:05 to 10:35 AM in the adult Sunday school room.  What does it mean to become a member of Grace Church?  How do I profess my faith in Jesus Christ?  Can I be baptized?  All of these questions and more will be addressed in the Discovery Class.  Join us Sunday and open the gift of God’s peace in you!