GBC Community Update: Building character takes commitment

Good morning. I hope you’re making this a great week!  While it’s American Thanksgiving its a time for all to pause from the busyness of life, forget Black Friday and meditate on what we’re thankful for.  Can you name 5 specific things you’re thankful for right now? It’s a great habit to get in too.
 
 
Reminder of baby shower for Leah Lewis this Saturday
Please join us for a baby shower for Janet and Kevin Lewis’ new baby, Leah this Saturday (November 25) from 2-3pm.  It will be an open house in the side auditorium. Let’s join with this new family and celebrate God’s blessing!
 
 
‘The Dawn of Redemption’ A series on the book of Luke. Join us Sunday
We continue our fall series on the book of Luke. We are looking carefully at this key book in the months to come as we examine Doctor Luke’s gospel so we may have certainty in what we believe.  In this particular series of passages we look at God’s plan to bring salvation to the world.
This Sunday I will be looking at the temptation of Jesus by the devil.
More than just a powerful story, there is much we can learn as we deal with our own trials. Join us Sunday and find out.
If you want to prepare, please read Luke 4:1-13. 
If you can’t make it, you can connect through our website:  
www.guelphbiblechapel.ca  our YouTube channel as well as Facebook LIVE
 
 
Thought for the day: Building Character Takes Commitment
I’ve been looking at how to develop character and been using Jesus as a guide. While there are certain elements of character inherited there’s much we can do to develop it as well.  It’s not easy and does take work but is so worth it.
This thought brings us to our next character trait: commitment.
Jesus had no lack of commitment. Wherever He was, or whoever He was with, He was fully in the moment and fully committed to His goals. Despite praying fervently in the garden of Gethsemane to avoid having to bear the cross and all that physical torture, He knew it was the only way to pay for everyone’s sins, so He stayed completely committed to His goal. There were certainly many obstacles during His ministry, but He stayed on track and finished strong.
It also takes commitment to live out the next key character trait of Jesus: Forgiveness.
One of the most startling things said in the Bible is found in Luke 23:34, when Jesus is on the cross and says: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Even while bleeding and experiencing pain, Jesus had His heart set on forgiveness—even forgiving those who put Him there in the first place! This is definitely contrary to the everyday mantra of looking out for number one and obtaining personal justice. Jesus was not concerned for His own life; all He wanted was to provide a way for forgiveness.  What an incredible challenge for all of us.  Who can you forgive today?
That’s how you show character!
 
In His grip,
Pastor Chris