“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4, NIV)

Dear Friends,

          The season of summer has finally arrived in our region.  I’m sure most of us are hoping to see a little more sun and somewhat warmer temperatures than we experienced last year.  This is a wonderful, yet brief season in the north; usually all we can count is about ten weeks.  Most people especially the young or the young at heart, are hoping for many opportunities for “Fun in the Sun.”  In warm weather, it’s relaxing to be outside enjoying the water at a pool, lake or river.  It is common to see more people outside walking, running, biking, gardening or just sitting while sipping a cold drink.  There a multitude of ways that people have, “Fun in the Sun!”

          At Grace Church this summer we will be reflecting on the joy or “fun” that anyone can have through a relationship with Christ (the Son!).  There are many passages in the New Testament that describe the joy that God makes available to all people through a relationship with His Son.  Regardless of the weather, cold or hot, rainy or dry, we can have joy through Jesus Christ.  Storms may come, hard times, persecutions, difficulties of every variety, and yet through it all when we reach out to the presence and power of the Lord, we will know real joy.  We will have Fun in the Son.

          This is a message that needs to be made known to all people.  It is an extremely hope-filled message that we have to share with those who have yet become followers of Jesus Christ.   This message is the light we have to share with discouraged, defeated people in an often darkened world.  For if we have Jesus Christ in our hearts, we have hope, we have peace, we have life.  Jesus said, “You are the light of the world… (Matthew 5:16).”  Our Lord’s plan is that his followers would shine brightly for Him in the Summer and all year round. 

          So if you looking for encouragement and inspiration this summer, gather for an hour of worship, each Sunday at Grace Church at 9:30 (in July and August).  Together let’s make plans to have, “Fun in the Son!”

In Service to Christ, 

Pastor John