Where is Jesus?
Some of you know that one of my favorite stories is about two boys who got caught stealing things from church. The pastor called one of the boys into his office and thought he’d approach the issue theologically. He began by asking the boy: “Where is Jesus?” The boy remained silent with head down. The pastor leaned over his desk and asked again, “Where is Jesus?” The boy remained speechless but began perspiring in nervousness. He didn’t know how to answer. Finally, the pastor stood up, raised his voice, pounded on the desk looking straight at the boy and asked a third time: “Where is Jesus?!” The boy was so filled with fear that he jumped up, ran out of the church all the way home to pick up the phone and call his partner in crime saying: “Boy, are we in trouble! The people at church can’t find Jesus. And the pastor thinks we took him!”
It's a great story and it’s an even better question: Where is Jesus? We tend to think of looking for Jesus in places like synagogues and churches. We find Jesus in the Bible and through the Sacraments. We see Jesus in religious people like pastors, priests, and even ordinary Christians in whom his Spirit lives. Hopefully, Jesus can be found in all these people and places. But may I suggest Jesus may also be found in some peculiar people and unusual places we might never expect him, nor would ever think to look! Please join your Grace Church family and friends this Sunday, January 15, as we discover Jesus in people you might never expect to see him. We’ll resume our study of the Gospel of Mark and sermon series When Kingdoms Collide. My message “Where Jesus is Found” will inform, inspire, and encourage Kingdom living and discovery of Jesus!
Traditional worship begins at 9:00 AM with the singing of some of our favorite hymns from our heritage. Contemporary worship begins at 10:45 AM with music led by our “Spirit of Grace” praise band. Both services feature a biblical message, heart-felt worship, warm friends, and the healing power of God’s Spirit moving in our midst. A nursery and Busy Bags for children are also available. And, refreshments may be served between services in our Fellowship Hall. Please pray for me as I seem to have caught a case of laryngitis with my voice suddenly failing me Thursday afternoon. It’s a little better today but still quite weak. Obviously, I’ll need it for Darrell’s memorial service tomorrow and Sunday worship. May God bring healing to you and to me this weekend. Please join us to find renewal, refreshment, and a deepening relationship with Jesus!