From the Pastor
Placing a pastoral message on a church website can be a kind of risky thing. It’s important to consider the reason for the message in the first place. Is it so masses of people will have access to thoughts from me and, thus, get some insight into who I am? Is it to entice as many people as possible to come be a part of this congregation? Is it just to fill up space so we’ll have a good looking website? I imagine for some pastors and for some churches any and all of these reasons may be true, but not for this pastor.
While I am hoping to get your attention, it’s because I want you to know that I and this congregation care about you even though we may not know you yet. We take seriously the mandate of Jesus Christ to make disciples. This might mean telling someone about the love of God for the very first time, it may mean providing food for someone who is hungry, or it may be helping someone grapple with the hard questions of life. We may not have all the answers, but whatever you’re looking for, we’d love for you to look here before you stop looking.
Perhaps you aren’t even sure what church is all about, and you’re just looking for help in sorting out your questions or getting through the problems of life. If that’s where you are, we’re fine with that, and will try our best to give you the help you’re seeking.
In this day and time, many people and families are looking for a church with all of their specifications. I always ask people to pray for guidance about where God is calling them to serve rather than look for a church that meets all of their perceived needs. We’re always delighted when someone new comes to serve with us.
At Grovetown UMC, we are a family serving together. Jesus said that if he is lifted up, he will draw all people to him. We are lifting Jesus up through word and action, and we hope you may be drawn to him through us. We are not perfect, but we do our best to serve God through meaningful worship, relevant Bible Study, Christian fellowship, and faithful service. If you’re looking for a place to help you begin or strengthen a living relationship with God, let us help you.
One of my personal favorite Scriptures is from the Old Testament book of Proverbs, chapter 3, verses 5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” This wisdom message has served me well throughout my life. I hope you will ponder it, and that your path may lead you here.