MARCH MADNESS? SPRING FEVER? EASTER EGG HUNT?

Where to begin? What's on your mind? Not war, right? Not the price of gas, right? I just had a root canal. That's never on anyone's favorite things list. But such things are very present in our minds and hearts. These are difficult times, as is often noted in quietly spoken comments to each other. We don't often get loud around here about such things. We are too caring of our welcome and fellowship.

If you are following my book reviews of Thurman's Jesus and the Disinherited, you know that fellowship is a precursor to acceptance and sympathy for those different from us—those who think differently, feel differently, vote differently, have different resources and capabilities. I am fiercely protective of our worship and fellowship. I will not knowingly and purposefully exclude anyone on the grounds of superficial, arbitrary differences. Grace is a safe space for worship, service, and fellowship, and I intend to keep it that way.

And we help each other! I just heard today about a very special help one of you gave to another. No details here as the subject is confidential but just know that helpers are greatly appreciated. Folks who are prayed for—sometimes for weeks, months—are deeply appreciative. Those who receive meals, likewise. Such giving is a hallmark of genuine fellowship. Outreach is not just an item on a list. It is real people giving of themselves in real ways. Thanks to all from top to bottom—generous donations down to comforting smiles. All are needed. All are appreciated.

Next week is our last week of Lent. Look deeply into your heart and thank God for who you are, who you are able to be to another. And look around Grace. Who do you see who needs a smile? Who do you not see who needs a call or a visit? What needs doing that you can do? We are all in this together.

Cynde and I were just remarking about the long gospel lessons we've heard this month. John can be long-winded in telling a story. But they have been critical lessons of devotion, of seeing and doing and being, of accepting and changing. We here at Grace live our faith inside and out. Thank you for being who you are, and warm blessings for the coming week.

In Christ's Love,

Nancy+