I do not recall a time in my experience of church life when every member of a congregation agreed. So when unanimous consensus occurs, I take notice. Here is the breaking news: we all agree that October was a busy month here at Grace Baptist Church. We have worked hard and we are tired.

     Yet as we worked, the Lord has been doing amazing things in our church. As we constructed a parade float (award winning, I might add) God was constructing new relationships and strengthening established ones: as we explored stewardship with Consecration Sunday, God taught us a lot about teamwork; as we raised funds for scholarships for short term mission trips, God brought mission to our door with people from the Gladstone and Kansas City area. God was at work in our “time of work”.

     I have a friend and arm-chair philosopher who once said, “The times I see relationships built are during times of work and times of play.” These two different activities really have much in common. Through work and play, people reach toward a common goal, learn new communication skills and experience a sense of achievement; all of which build relationships.

     We have worked this fall; now I would like to invite Grace to use this Advent season as a “time of play”. Although work has its season, I would encourage us to cut out as much work as is feasible during this Advent season. There are still many things that we will need to work at (we have a business meeting on December 11th). However, I would encourage you to leave behind any unnecessary meetings or projects and focus on the wonder of Advent. Enjoy building relationships with your brothers and sisters at Grace by viewing light displays together (Dec., 16), spending times of worship together (Christmas Eve services at both 5:00pm and 11:00pm), and times of personal encounter with God (the Board of Christian Education will be providing free Secret Places for the Advent season).

     One additional “time of play” that Lauren and I would like to invite you to is the release of the movie, The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe. This film, based on the story by C.S. Lewis, mirrors the sacrifice of Christ on the cross. Mark your calendar for December 9th for the release, and I will have more details about how to participate on Sunday.

     See you Sunday,

  Pastor Dave

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