GBC Community Update: Christmas- a gift worth sharing

​Good morning! I hope you’re making this a great week.  I’ve been reminded as I re-read the Christmas story of how unifying this message is- that a savior has been born for everyone!  We live in a time where it seems like it’s becoming easier to separate into our own little groups but the message of Jesus is for ALL people and is one that brings us together. So, no matter what we think about the issues of the day, and where we stand, let us all join together in unity in what brings us together- Jesus!
 
 
Join us on Sunday!
This Sunday is our annual kids and youth Christmas program.  It’s always one of my favorite Sunday’s of the year and while its going to look a lot different than year’s past I still think it will bring a very powerful (and needed) message about light in the dark.  I’ll be continuing our series on Immanuel: God with us and am excited to share with you the meaning and importance of that word.
 
 
Update from the Elders
We continue to work on the areas God has called us to focus on: prayer, outreach, small groups and our Sunday morning experience, but beyond that we’ve continue to work on the overall direction, management and care of the GBC family during the Covid pandemic.  Patrick, Dan, Jacob and I get together every Tuesday morning to pray and we pray for this church regularly. We are blessed to have a dedicated group of leaders as elders and I’d like to thank them for their sacrificial love and service to all of us.  I’d encourage you to thank them too when you get the chance!
 
 
Thought for the day:  Christmas- a message worth sharing
Remembering the story of Jesus’ birth is a wonderful part of Christmas. It may be hard to believe that in 2020 so many people have never heard it before! Or if they have, they don’t understand what it has to do with them. The Christmas story has been lost in the shuffle of everything else going on this time of year. And even for those who know the basics of the story, many have no clue as to why Jesus came to earth or why He was born.
Everyone needs to know, not only that He was born, but the meaning of His birth, we’d probably all agree. So, ‘what is my part?’, I hope you ask! This is likely the easiest time of year to talk about the Good News of Jesus birth, life and importance.  While you can’t predict who is open to the gospel, my bet is at this time of year everyone is aware of it. This is a great door-opener!  And hey, the only way to find out is to share the message of Jesus with them!
So, this Christmas, I’d encourage you to share the gospel story of the birth of Jesus and what it means. Sow seeds abundantly.
When the angels appeared to the shepherds nearly two thousand years ago just outside of Bethlehem they shared this message:
“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”
Who can you share this same message with this Christmas?
 
In His grip,
Pastor Chris