We are in a season of “firsts.” We recently had our “first” fellowship, “first” Grace Gathering, and look forward to our “first” public worship service on January 20th at the Texas Baptist Children’s Home Chapel.
A couple of weeks ago, my wife and I attended church at Trinity Baptist Church in Harker Heights. It was a celebration of their 25th anniversary of the church. We heard many memories of “firsts.”
During Sunday School, the teacher asked the class if anyone who was from the original founding group was present. Five from the core group formed in the 80s raised their hands. The teacher asked them to share how the original vision of the church compared to the present reality.
It was an encouragement and a blessing to hear members express how amazing it has been to see God craft them over the past quarter century with relation to their original vision. I couldn’t help but think about how this could be us in 25 years.
As we begin our Grace journey, think about all the wonderful things God will do over the next couple of decades. Think about the lives changed, corporate worship, holistic ministry, spiritual formation, families strengthened, community impacted, and other plans which only God knows.
I am reminded of King David’s rejoicing in Psalm 16:11 when he said,
“You make known to me the path of life;
you will fill me with joy in your presence,
with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”
As we experience the presence of God throughout this adventure, be encouraged to know the Lord’s joy fills us in God’s presence.
One day Grace will have a 25 year anniversary. Let us partner with God so we have something to celebrate as we look back at our “firsts!”
Rev. Kyle Tubbs is the Church Planter and Primary Teaching Pastor at Grace Baptist Church.