These emails will provide brief communications for the Varied Grace campaign concerning phase updates, dates or deadlines, and other important information.

Financial Snapshot (as of 8/27)

• Total Fundraising Goal: $600,000

• Total Funds Pledged: $165,006

• Total Funds Received: $117,681

  • Phase 1 Building Project Costs paid or committed: $44,715

  • Remaining balance: $72,966

Round 2 of Pledges Starts this Sunday

As we shared in the special meeting, round 2 of pledges will go from Aug 30-Sept 27th. If you are still discerning how to give, please utilize this time to seek the Lord in prayer and even discuss with other members about how you can support the mission of Varied Grace.

GIVE

PLEDGE

Phase 1 Updates

Overall Goals: Transition from 4610 Bosque to Newton House; kids outdoor play area; Newton House demo; lower kids classrooms

• The equipping hour doors were demoed, there is a new wall being built for the new kids assembly room, and demo has started on the exterior wall where the external doors will be. If you see Walt Rusk at church, be sure to thank him for his work!

Important Dates & Info

Workday | Sept 12th, 9am-1pm | Moving, Painting, Organizing

• There are a few things we'd like to get done as we continue our progress on Phase One of the building initiative for Varied Grace. Please indicate whether you are capable of painting or would like to assist with moving or organizing storage.

  REGISTER FOR THE WORKDAY

Grace Church family,

I was very honored to be so warmly received and encouraged by you as our church’s missions pastor/elder. Over the past three years, I have been very excited to learn that so many of you have a rich history with missions and active involvement in evangelism. When God’s Word is preached, it is not hard to see His heart for all nations (panta ta ethne). Seeing how faithful many from our church have been to go to the nations, and the priority Grace places on the local church in its church-planting and missions efforts, was one of the reasons we felt God wanted us at Grace when we first arrived in 2023.

I anticipate writing to the church more often in my role as pastor/elder over missions, and I will share more about the needs of our own missionaries and missions opportunities during our members’ meetings. For now, I’d like to share a couple of short Great Commission resources that I pray you may find useful.

Wasn’t it a privilege to have our long-term workers from Central Asia with us this Sunday? We will also have the opportunity to welcome our long-term workers from the Middle East this coming Sunday.

There is still time to register for our Sunday missions lunch here.

We certainly celebrate and honor what God is doing in and through them in those contexts, but it is also easy for me to lack a full appreciation for how different their lives are from my own.

Here is a short article/video that may help us cultivate some degree of appreciation for what some missionaries in Muslim contexts experience.

Here is another short video about how the Christian Church stewards its money and personnel resources in missions. Although this video was first released 11 years ago, the statistics have changed only marginally.

Will you join me in regularly praying for the missionaries Grace Church supports, for those workers around the world laboring in harsh and unwelcoming contexts, for people and language groups in the world who have no access to the Bible or Christian Church, and for God to continue using us at Grace to reach these contexts?

In Christ,

Jonathan Kelber
Pastor of Missions

Grace Church,

“I dream about being three-time Golden Globe winning actor Jim Carrey because then I would be enough. It would finally be true, and I could stop this terrible search for what I know ultimately won’t fulfill me.”

There is something haunting about Jim Carrey saying those words.

He is imagining himself from the perspective of the younger man who believed that perhaps one more achievement, one more recognition, one more public confirmation would finally settle the question: Am I enough?

Most of us will never chase Golden Globes. But we know this search. If I can become successful enough. Respected enough. Needed enough. Attractive enough. Knowledgeable enough. If the right people admire me, if my work is noticed, if my children turn out well, if I occupy the right place in the room—then perhaps the verdict will finally come back: You matter. The problem is that achieved honor can never say “enough” for very long.

This is one reason Paul’s words in Colossians 2 are so liberating. Christians are rooted in Christ, filled in Christ, buried with Christ, raised with Christ, and made alive with Christ. Our deepest significance is therefore received rather than achieved. We do not have to spend our lives auditioning for a verdict that Jesus has already secured for everyone who belongs to him.

And once I am freed from continually asking whether I am significant, I become free to notice the significance of you.

C.S. Lewis writes in The Weight of Glory:

“There are no ordinary people. You have never talked to a mere mortal.”

Lewis is reminding us that the people around us carry enormous God-given significance. And within the church we can say something still more particular: these are brothers and sisters whom Christ has loved, purchased, forgiven, joined to himself, and is preparing for glory.

That is where Christian honor becomes a practice of discipleship.

If I am still scrambling to establish my own importance, your gifts can threaten me. Your success can expose my insecurity. Your recognition can feel like my neglect. Even Christian community can quietly become competition. But if my honor is secure in Christ, I can become generous with yours.

I can celebrate your gifts without needing them to be mine. I can listen without waiting for my opportunity to impress. I can notice the person others overlook. I can thank the quiet servant. I can rejoice when another person succeeds. I can give my attention to someone who cannot improve my status in return.

Not because everyone is equally gifted. Not because we ignore sin or practice empty flattery. We honor one another because we are learning to see people according to what Christ has made true of them.

The world teaches us to enter a room asking: “Who here is important?”

A Christ-centered community learns to enter that same room thinking: “Look at all these people whom Christ has loved.”

Church, there are no ordinary people among us. And because we no longer have to win our honor from one another, we are finally free to give honor freely to one another.

In Christ,

Pastor Dave

Current Sermon Series
Making Jesus Known

Join us as we remember our mission together and consider our cultural values of honesty, hospitality, and honor. When we become a people who embody the good news of Jesus in this way, we fulfill our responsibility to make Jesus known in the world.

Varied Grace Campaign
// New Updates

Varied Grace is our vision plan for the next five years as we mature as a church and prepare for mission. Don’t forget to plan and mark your gift as a pledge or to give now. Some of our members have already given or pledged, but our elders are asking for 100% participation.

This summer, we will begin Phase 1 of our building, which is our outdoor area and connection from 4610 Bosque to Newton House. Look for signs in the lobby and visit gracewaco.com/variedgrace for information on how to participate.

FIND OUT MORE

ONLINE PLEDGE CARD

Last Sunday at Grace

Last Sunday, Pastor Dave preached from Colossians 2:6-15. Because we are united to the crucified and risen Christ, his cross removes our shame, his resurrection becomes our life, and his victory becomes our honor. Therefore, the church is freed from competing for status and becomes a community that learns to see and honor one another in him.

LISTEN TO THE SERMON

ACCESS DISCUSSION GUIDE

Young Adult Worship, August 28, 6:30pm

Enjoy a time of worship, prayer, and fellowship with fellow Grace Church post-grad and early career professionals in the worship center.

Missions Lunch, August 30, 12:15pm

Join us for a conversation with our long term missions workers who are supporting a church plant in the Middle East. Lunch is provided with registration!

REGISTER FOR MISSIONS LUNCH

College Gathering, August 30, 7:00pm

Remember that we are now beginning our Grace Kids equipping classes at 8:45 a.m. Elementary and up will gather for a worship and assembly time. This will also give our adults time to make it to their classes for a prompt start.

New Equipping Hour Classes
// Begin August 23 at 9am

Our new equipping hour classes begin Sunday, August 23 at 9am and will run for 8 weeks. We will offer classes in doctrine, devotion, and mission, as well as a Christian foundations class. Sign up below!

Doctrine: Union with Christ

Teacher: Dave Becker
In this class we will study in detail the doctrine of our spiritual union with Christ. By exploring several different passages, we will answer the question of what it means to be “in Christ” as our vine, head, bridegroom, and more.
Sign up for Union With Christ

Devotion: Word-Based Spirituality

Teacher: Drake Osborn
Join this class for a study on prioritizing Scripture as the primary guide for our growth in the spiritual disciplines. We will cover how reading, meditation, and prayer of scripture also opens us up to hear from God through the natural world, from his church, and in other spiritual practices.
Sign up for Word-Based Spirituality

Mission: What It Means To Be Protestant

Teacher: TBD
A study and discussion of the book What It Means To Be Protestant by Gavin Ortlund. This book shows how historical Protestantism offers the best pathway to catholicity for Christians today. In this class we will also seek to understand what separates us from Catholic of Orthodox traditions and how to find joy and purpose in our distinctive history.
Sign up for What It Means To Be Protestant

Core Class: Christian Foundations

Teacher: Jake Anthony
For those new to Christianity or wanting to deepen their faith. In this class, we will use the Apostle's Creed, the Lord's Prayer, and the Ten Commandments as guides to learn the essentials of Christian doctrine, devotion, and mission. We desire participants to demonstrate a higher commitment to this class than is normally expected of other equipping offerings. This class will run for 16 weeks from Aug 23-Dec 11.
Sign up for Christian Foundations

Grace Church,

The school year has begun. Perhaps your fall calendar has already filled up or will very soon. It’s always at this point in the year when I feel the most temptation to anxiety and worry. I am anxious because I see all that is in front of me and I begin to treat my life as if (a) it’s my own, (b) it must be handled only by me with no input from my wife, pastors, or Christian community, and (c) I have already lost the year. How foolish! Perhaps you feel something similar.

What we miss in these moments is the simple fact that we are not God, we are not sovereign, we do not complete the end from the beginning - only God is God. Which means this, very simply: Our work is not to be God, but to draw nearer and to become more like him. Our belief in who he is will always need more trust, our devotion to please him will always need more growth, and our mission to love him and neighbor will always need more grace. Although I cannot control the year ahead, I can control how I respond to God who gives me everything that I already need. Our pursuit is always him.

In this spirit, I encourage you to participate in our equipping classes on Sunday mornings. Together, they aim to give you an opportunity to grow in your doctrine, devotion, and mission as a follower of Jesus. Regardless of what’s behind or ahead, we will always need of growth in these areas, and we will always have God to help us grow in them.

In Christ,

Pastor Jake

Core Class: Christian Foundations (for new Christians)

Teacher: Jake Anthony
For those new to Christianity or wanting to deepen their faith. In this class, we will use the Apostle’s Creed, the Lord’s Prayer, and the Ten Commandments as guides to learn the essentials of Christian doctrine, devotion, and mission. We desire participants to demonstrate a higher commitment to this class than is normally expected of other equipping offerings. This class will run for 16 weeks from Aug 23-Dec 11.
Sign up for Christian Foundations

Doctrine: Union with Christ

Teacher: Dave Becker
In this class we will study in detail the doctrine of our spiritual union with Christ. By exploring several different passages, we will answer the question of what it means to be “in Christ” as our vine, head, bridegroom, and more.
Sign up for Union With Christ

Devotion: Word-Based Spirituality

Teacher: Drake Osborn
Join this class for a study on prioritizing Scripture as the primary guide for our growth in the spiritual disciplines. We will cover how reading, meditation, and prayer of scripture also opens us up to hear from God through the natural world, from his church, and in other spiritual practices.
Sign up for Word-Based Spirituality

Mission: What It Means To Be Protestant

Teacher: Aaron Morosini, Heather Johansen, Ray Carter
A study and discussion of the book What It Means To Be Protestant by Gavin Ortlund. This book shows how historical Protestantism offers the best pathway to catholicity for Christians today. In this class we will also seek to understand what separates us from Catholic of Orthodox traditions and how to find joy and purpose in our distinctive history.
Sign up for What It Means To Be Protestant

This is also the last week to register for the Grace Institute // Class Begins August 24

Grace Institute is a year-long course that provides theological formation, personal spiritual development, and leadership training for members of Grace Network churches. The program’s curriculum is aimed at helping men and women grow in their love for God, Scripture, and His mission. To learn more, click here.

Grace Church,

On Sunday, I briefly shared the following quotation from the Puritan Thomas Watson on the significance of the supper. I wanted to circle back to it for a moment just to press on you exactly why the Lord’s Supper is spiritually significant.

A sacrament is a visible sermon. And herein the sacrament of the Supper excels the Word preached. — Thomas Watson

Oftentimes, as Baptists, we are woefully unaware of where our doctrine and practice of the Lord’s Supper comes from. It’s almost as if it is assumed that the Supper is just something we do because Jesus told us to. We take it every once in a while because that is simply what Christians must do and have done. Certainly, the Lord’s Supper and Baptism are ordinances in the sense that Jesus did ordain them. They are acts of obedience to God, and they are the assumed practice of the church in the New Testament. We should do them. But our motivation to do so is more than duty. Much of this was debated most heavily in the Protestant Reformation, and therefore there is a wealth of resources available from the church.

Modern Baptists typically refer to the Lord’s Supper as an ordinance. A scarier word that is sometimes used is the word sacrament. For many of us, this calls back to negative experiences in other Christian traditions, such as Roman Catholicism or Eastern Orthodoxy. Linguistically, the word sacrament just means something like “sacred oath”. According to Paul, the Supper is sacred because it is one of God’s specified means by which His grace is conferred to His people. When we partake, we “proclaim” the death of Jesus till he comes again (1 Corinthians 11:26). That is, in partaking of the bread and wine, we are visibly showcasing and participating in the gospel news that Jesus died for sinners. The proclamation of the gospel is not simply a mental assent to the truth of the gospel, but the proclamation itself is the grace of God, since “Faith comes by hearing”. So I do not think we need to be afraid of the word sacrament. We may not mean what the Roman Catholic Church means (a conversation for another time), but in using this helpful word, we stand alongside a broad stream of faithful Christians. The Supper is not duty; it is grace.

The second question of the Supper is that if it is simply a proclamation of the Word of God or the Gospel of Christ, how is it that anyone could say it is better than other ways of proclaiming the Gospel, such as a sermon? As Protestants, the powerful evangelistic sermon, especially an expositional sermon that is centered on the content of God’s Word, takes up the most time in our services. We’ve been trained to sit through 30, 40, even 50 minute sermons.

It is tempting to elevate the significance of the sermon in our Liturgy and life together. For example, the popular and exceedingly helpful book Nine Marks of the Healthy Church includes expositional preaching as one of its pillars, but does not explicitly include the right administration of the Lord’s Supper. It is mentioned in the book as a means of discipline and right doctrine, but it does not take center stage for what it means to be a healthy church. Perhaps this is simply because the right administration of the Lord’s Supper is not a sign of a healthy church per se, but a prerequisite for it to be a true church in the first place. To quote Calvin: “Wherever we see God’s word purely preached and heard, and the sacraments administered according to Christ’s institution, there beyond any doubt is the church.”

But I think something is lost when the Supper takes back seat.

This is because while the preached word and the Supper are meant to support one another, the Supper is intended to be the height of our worship, the place where the past (remembrance), the present (communion), and the future (hope) of the gospel all converge. Not more important, but more visible. It is also the place where the gospel is most purely given. When a preacher prepares a sermon, he is no doubt intending to give the people the word of God, but he is also simply, as Paul says, a servant of the Word, a table waiter, as it were (1 Corinthians 3:5-9). Who is Paul? Who is Apollos? Who is _____ (fill in the blank with your favorite preacher). It is entirely possible for a preacher to fumble the handoff of God’s word to God’s people, whereas the sacraments are given to us directly from Christ: “This is my body given for you.”

Of course, we cannot neglect the spoken proclamation of the gospel. You might say it this way: the preached Word sets the table by pointing us to Christ, helping us to “discern the body of Christ” and therefore to eat and drink in a “worthy manner”. When the word is not preached, the people suffer, and the table is not adequately set. The pathway to our loves must pass through our minds. No one understood this more than the Reformers (and, we might argue, the Apostles, who centered their ministry on relaying the teachings of Christ). Remember that the early church committed themselves to the “Apostles’ teaching and to the breaking of bread, and to the prayers (Acts 2:42).” I tend to believe the order of operations is important there too.

But if the Supper is the climax of our worship, it proves why the doctrine of spiritual presence has always been so significant to the life of the Church (yes, even to Baptists!). If the Lord’s Supper is simply a mental reminder or a lifeless memorial, then it can never be said to be more climactic in our worship than the preached Word. Isn’t the Word of God “living and active”? But if Christ is in the Supper, alive and speaking by his Holy Spirit, then the Supper is our lifeline to Jesus himself, not simply in his divine nature as the “Word behind the World” (John 1), but the Word in our midst. The Supper is where the Word eternally spoken is proclaimed as the Word incarnate, broken, and poured out for us.

The Supper excels the sermon, not because it is more important, but because it builds on the foundation of the read and proclaimed word and brings it into the visible dimension which we can taste and touch. God is not far off. Christ is not absent from our gathering. What makes a true church a true church is that Jesus is there, and the promise of Christ holds true: “Wherever two or three are gathered in my name, I will be in the midst of them.”

Every week at the table, Christ meets us in the mystery of grace. What could be better?

In Christ,

Pastor Drake

Current Sermon Series
Making Jesus Known

Join us as we remember our mission together and consider our cultural values of honesty, hospitality, and honor. When we become a people who embody the good news of Jesus in this way, we fulfill our responsibility to make Jesus known in the world.

Varied Grace Campaign
// New Updates

Varied Grace is our vision plan for the next five years as we mature as a church and prepare for mission. Don’t forget to plan and mark your gift as a pledge or to give now. Some of our members have already given or pledged, but our elders are asking for 100% participation.

This summer, we will begin Phase 1 of our building, which is our outdoor area and connection from 4610 Bosque to Newton House. Look for signs in the lobby and visit gracewaco.com/variedgrace for information on how to participate.

FIND OUT MORE

ONLINE PLEDGE CARD

Last Sunday at Grace

Last Sunday, Pastor Drake preached from 1 Corinthians 11:17-34. Only when we come to the table honestly, with no pretense before God or others, do we participate truly. Here in the supper, we learn honesty before God and honesty before God's church.

LISTEN TO THE SERMON

ACCESS DISCUSSION GUIDE

READ SERMON MANUSCRIPT

Family Swim Night
// August 22 4pm-8pm

Grace Families! Join us as we celebrate the end of summer with an evening of swimming, great food, and fellowship. Bring your swimsuits, towels, lawn chairs, and your favorite side dish or dessert to share.

Grace Kids will be providing most of the main protein, so we're asking each family to sign up to bring a side, dessert, chips, fruit, drinks, or another potluck item. Your contribution will help make sure there's plenty for everyone to enjoy!

REGISTER FOR SWIM NIGHT

Kids Equipping Begins at 8:45am

Remember that we are now beginning our Grace Kids equipping classes at 8:45 a.m. Elementary and up will gather for a worship and assembly time. This will also give our adults time to make it to their classes for a prompt start.

New Equipping Hour Classes
// Begin August 23 at 9am

Our new equipping hour classes begin Sunday, August 23 at 9am and will run for 8 weeks. We will offer classes in doctrine, devotion, and mission, as well as a Christian foundations class. Sign up below!

Doctrine: Union with Christ

Teacher: Dave Becker
In this class we will study in detail the doctrine of our spiritual union with Christ. By exploring several different passages, we will answer the question of what it means to be “in Christ” as our vine, head, bridegroom, and more.
Sign up for Union With Christ

Devotion: Word-Based Spirituality

Teacher: Drake Osborn
Join this class for a study on prioritizing Scripture as the primary guide for our growth in the spiritual disciplines. We will cover how reading, meditation, and prayer of scripture also opens us up to hear from God through the natural world, from his church, and in other spiritual practices.
Sign up for Word-Based Spirituality

Mission: What It Means To Be Protestant

Teacher: TBD
A study and discussion of the book What It Means To Be Protestant by Gavin Ortlund. This book shows how historical Protestantism offers the best pathway to catholicity for Christians today. In this class we will also seek to understand what separates us from Catholic of Orthodox traditions and how to find joy and purpose in our distinctive history.
Sign up for What It Means To Be Protestant

Core Class: Christian Foundations

Teacher: Jake Anthony
For those new to Christianity or wanting to deepen their faith. In this class, we will use the Apostle's Creed, the Lord's Prayer, and the Ten Commandments as guides to learn the essentials of Christian doctrine, devotion, and mission. We desire participants to demonstrate a higher commitment to this class than is normally expected of other equipping offerings. This class will run for 16 weeks from Aug 23-Dec 11.
Sign up for Christian Foundations

Grace Institute Registration Now Open!
// Class Begins August 24

Grace Institute is a year-long course that provides theological formation, personal spiritual development, and leadership training for members of Grace Network churches. The program’s curriculum is aimed at helping men and women grow in their love for God, Scripture, and His mission. To learn more, click here.

Welcome to the Grace Kids Companion Summer Edition! We’ll return to our weekly installments in September.

Our final summer event is only a week away!

Grace Kids Family Swim Night & Potluck

Saturday, August 22^nd
4 PM - 8 PM

Join us as we celebrate the end of summer with an evening of swimming, great food, and fellowship with our Grace Kids families! Bring your swimsuits, towels, lawn chairs, and your favorite side dish or dessert to share.

REGISTER HERE

Registration is required so we can plan for food. Grace Kids will be providing most of the main protein, so we're asking each family to sign up to bring a side, dessert, chips, fruit, drinks, or another potluck item. Your contribution will help make sure there's plenty for everyone to enjoy!

Questions? Reach out to Grace at grace@gracewaco.com

Resources:

• “Read the Bible in a Year” plan alongside your kids. I have left this in the email week after week because it is never “too late” to start. You don’t need January 1st. You need today!

• Grace Church recently created a Family Discipleship Guide. This provides a very clear overview of our vision for family discipleship, broken down by age group, as well as recommended resources, theological foundation, and help for integrating children into worship. There are hard copies available in the lobby.

What Your Kids Heard About Last Sunday:

• Gospel Project Take Home

• Key Passage Memory Verse

Equipping Hour Returns August 23rd

Starting August 23rd, Equipping Hour for kids will begin at 8:45 AM. Adult classes will begin at 9 AM. We are test running an assembly for all of the children to sing and read scripture together. Having your children there at 8:45 as well will give you time to get to your equipment class before 9:00 a.m. Remember that children should be picked up at 9:50.

Class Updates

We’ve updated some of our classrooms ages and locations. You can check out those class schedules here.

New! Young Worshippers at 10 AM

A new Young Worshipers Class will be offered every week at 10 a.m. during the sermon time starting September 13^th. This class is designed for K4 and Kindergarten aged children to learn the habits of attentiveness and the elements of worship.

Grace Kids Junior Volunteers Application

If your youth is interested in serving the church please read the document below and please email grace@gracewaco.com.

Grace Kids Junior Volunteers

Sickness Policy Reminder

Here is a friendly reminder of our sickness policy:

• Fever within the past 24 hours.

• Excessive wet cough.

• Vomiting or diarrhea within the past 48 hours.

• Pink eye or other contagious rash, etc.

These emails will provide brief communications for the Varied Grace campaign concerning phase updates, dates or deadlines, and other important information.

Thank you to all who joined for our Varied Grace special update meeting. If you were not able to attend, a recording of the meeting is below - in it we overview what’s been done, what’s coming up, and where we’re at with current fundraising.

WATCH VIDEO

If you need to access all the Varied Grace plans and information, or put in your giving pledge, you can do so at gracewaco.com/variedgrace.

Grace Church,

The fulfillment of Psalm 110 by Jesus is not just found in his identity as both human (David’s Son, Lord) and divine (God’s Son, LORD), nor in his imminent return. We actually find that Jesus fulfills his kingship here on earth. We are not waiting for him to spurn his enemies and receive glory. He has that kingly throne now because of what he accomplished then.

Peter Leithart describes how Jesus’ last days were themselves a fulfillment of his ascension to David’s throne and a subversion of all earthly thrones and kingdoms. As he climbed the cross, he was “lifted up so that he might draw all people unto himself” (John 12:32). His crucifixion was his crowning.

Psalm 110 casts light on the entire series of battles in the temple, the palace of Israel’s High King. If Psalm 110 speaks about Jesus, it also speaks about the Pharisees, Sadducees, Herodians. Jesus casts His Jewish enemies as enemies of David’s Lord.

The same thing will happen at the cross. The Jews who mock Jesus are acting out the script of Psalm 22. In spite of themselves, their mockery confirms that Jesus is who the children say He is: David’s son, David’s Lord.

Jesus also declares victory. Even while His enemies synagogue around Him, He reigns. Even when they attack Him, He’s making them a footstool beneath His feet. His victory doesn’t wait until His enemies disappear. He’s victorious in the midst of His enemies.

Notes from Beth-Elim

David's Son, David's Lord

When Jesus enters Jerusalem, the crowds hail Him as the Son of David. “Hosanna to the Son of David! Hosanna in the highest! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord…

Read more

22 days ago · 9 likes · Peter Leithart

In other words, Jesus’ cross is a victory unlike any other. His enemies literally gather at his feet. They mock him, but their doom is sure. Yes, his heel is bruised, but the enemies head is crushed.

As you pray “let your kingdom come” this week, remember you are praying the essence of the gospel. The crucified king is the risen king, and the risen king is the returning king, and the returning king will reign forevermore.

In Christ,

Pastor Drake

Current Sermon Series
Making Jesus Known

Join us as we remember our mission together and consider our cultural values of honesty, hospitality, and honor. When we become a people who embody the good news of Jesus in this way, we fulfill our responsibility to make Jesus known in the world.

Varied Grace Campaign
// New Updates

Varied Grace is our vision plan for the next five years as we mature as a church and prepare for mission. Don’t forget to plan and mark your gift as a pledge or to give now. Some of our members have already given or pledged, but our elders are asking for 100% participation.

This summer, we will begin Phase 1 of our building, which is our outdoor area and connection from 4610 Bosque to Newton House. Look for signs in the lobby and visit gracewaco.com/variedgrace for information on how to participate.

FIND OUT MORE

ONLINE PLEDGE CARD

Last Sunday at Grace

Last Sunday, Pastor Drake preached from Psalm 110. Jesus taught us to pray "your kingdom come", which means we pray for the arrival and the brining in of the King's Power, the King's People, and the King's Place.

LISTEN TO THE SERMON

Family Swim Night
// August 22 4pm-8pm

Grace Families! Join us as we celebrate the end of summer with an evening of swimming, great food, and fellowship. Bring your swimsuits, towels, lawn chairs, and your favorite side dish or dessert to share.

Grace Kids will be providing most of the main protein, so we're asking each family to sign up to bring a side, dessert, chips, fruit, drinks, or another potluck item. Your contribution will help make sure there's plenty for everyone to enjoy!

REGISTER FOR SWIM NIGHT

New Equipping Hour Classes
// Begin August 23 at 9am

Our new equipping hour classes begin Sunday, August 23 and will run for 8 weeks. We will offer classes in doctrine, devotion, and mission, as well as a Christian foundations class. Sign up below!

Doctrine: Union with Christ

Teacher: Dave Becker
In this class we will study in detail the doctrine of our spiritual union with Christ. By exploring several different passages, we will answer the question of what it means to be “in Christ” as our vine, head, bridegroom, and more.
Sign up for Union With Christ

Devotion: Word-Based Spirituality

Teacher: Drake Osborn
Join this class for a study on prioritizing Scripture as the primary guide for our growth in the spiritual disciplines. We will cover how reading, meditation, and prayer of scripture also opens us up to hear from God through the natural world, from his church, and in other spiritual practices.
Sign up for Word-Based Spirituality

Mission: What It Means To Be Protestant

Teacher: TBD
A study and discussion of the book What It Means To Be Protestant by Gavin Ortlund. This book shows how historical Protestantism offers the best pathway to catholicity for Christians today. In this class we will also seek to understand what separates us from Catholic of Orthodox traditions and how to find joy and purpose in our distinctive history.
Sign up for What It Means To Be Protestant

Core Class: Christian Foundations

Teacher: Jake Anthony
For those new to Christianity or wanting to deepen their faith. In this class, we will use the Apostle's Creed, the Lord's Prayer, and the Ten Commandments as guides to learn the essentials of Christian doctrine, devotion, and mission. We desire participants to demonstrate a higher commitment to this class than is normally expected of other equipping offerings. This class will run for 16 weeks from Aug 23-Dec 11.
Sign up for Christian Foundations

Grace Institute Registration Now Open!
// Class Begins August 24

Grace Institute is a year-long course that provides theological formation, personal spiritual development, and leadership training for members of Grace Network churches. The program’s curriculum is aimed at helping men and women grow in their love for God, Scripture, and His mission. To learn more, click here.

These emails will provide brief communications for the Varied Grace campaign concerning phase updates, dates or deadlines, and other important information.

Phase 1 Updates

Overall Goals: Transition from 4610 Bosque to Newton House; kids outdoor play area; Newton House demo; lower kids classroms

• The drop ceilings and A/C ducts were completed in the lower kids classrooms - here are some pictures I took today:

Important Dates & Info

• Special Meeting THIS SUNDAY, 11:45-12:15 - This Sunday (8/9) directly after worship we will have a special meeting for some in-person updates about the overall VG plan, timelines, and fundraising. Light snacks provided.

Grace Church,

In Psalm 105, when are called on to “Remember the wondrous works that [God] has done”, there is a specific purpose to our remembrance. The point of recalling his work is so that we know again that “He is the Lord our God… He remembers his covenant forever”. Calling to mind the mighty works of God from the past is the way we remind ourselves of God’s character in the present. If he was faithful then, he will be faithful now.

The incredible thing about our memories is that they open up our imagination. Memories, even memories we have not lived but only heard in stories and songs (such as the stories of God’s faithfulness to Israel), shape and inform our understanding and view of the world. Filling our mind with the mighty works of God shapes our understanding of God now. Our thoughts of God define the image of God we believe.

This is what is happening at the Lord’s Table every week. Often we get confused about the nature of the supper. Is it simply a memorial of what Christ has done? After all, he said, “Do this in remembrance of me.” But if we regulate the supper to just a calling to mind of facts, we ignore the significance of spiritual remembrance. True, spiritual remembrance is where we call to mind not just a truth but a whole world, a whole story, a whole reality. Remembering Christ in the supper is not simply remembering that Jesus “died for our sins.” It’s remembering also that Jesus died for our sins. That by his indwelling Spirit, our memory of Jesus is personal and real, not simply historical. We have seen him, known him, loved him, tasted of him. The act of remembrance int he Supper is an invitation to communion and to intimacy. In his book Remembrance, Communion, and Hope, J. Todd Billings reminds us of the power of spiritual remembrance:

...to “remember” in this sense is not simply to “call to mind” the mighty acts of God, but to assign them an active role in one’s “world”... Some “remembering” is trite—like remembering a shopping list; but other remembering is identity forming—opening up a new world, a new drama to inhabit.

When we worship in song, meditate on God’s word, study the lives of saints long past, or simply catch up with a friend and swap stories, we have the opportunity to remember God. Not simply that God exists, but that God is good. And if God was good then, in the stories and tales, then he can be good now and into any unknown future.

How does this correspond to our prayer life? Prayer is, of course, and act of intimacy in the moment, where we bring our daily need to God in search of daily bread. But prayer is also a celebration of the past, the means by which we reminisce with God, thanking him for the blessings of the day, the week, the month, and the distant years gone by. Prayer is an opportunity to set before our hearts the reality of God. Prayer is a stubborn refusal to trivialize God, to accept him as anything else than holy, divine, and worth our attention. By no means least, prayer is also the great means by which we thank God, and call to mind, that past faithfulness that changes everything: the work of Christ’s life, death, and resurrection.

When we pray, we open up a whole new world to inhabit—the world where we forget what is passing away and remember and cling to what is eternal.

In Christ,

Pastor Drake

Current Sermon Series
Psalms: The Poetry of Prayer

We are joyfully expectant to spend our summer in the Psalms as we consider how the variety of expression in the Psalter helps us to pray. In the vast poetry of Psalms, we find prayers of praise, lament, expectation, longing, repentance, vengeance, thanksgiving, obedience, testimony, and more. Join us as we devotionally unpack various psalms and long for a life of prayer that is Biblical, beautiful, and bountiful.

Varied Grace Campaign
// Give now!

Varied Grace is our vision plan for the next five years as we mature as a church and prepare for mission. Don’t forget to plan and mark your gift as a pledge or to give now. Some of our members have already given or pledged, but our elders are asking for 100% participation.

This summer, we will begin Phase 1 of our building, which is our outdoor area and connection from 4610 Bosque to Newton House. Look for signs in the lobby this Sunday and visit gracewaco.com/variedgrace for information on how to participate.

Pledges were due May 17, but there is still time to mark your pledge, which will help our pastors as we plan and prepare for the giving campaign and begin any work of the vision.

FIND OUT MORE

ONLINE PLEDGE CARD

Last Sunday at Grace

Last Sunday, Pastor Mark preached from Psalm 105. Prayer can be an act of remembrance where we remember the word of God, the works of God, the world of God, and the worship of God.

LISTEN TO THE SERMON

Family Swim Night
// August 22 4pm-8pm

Grace Families! Join us as we celebrate the end of summer with an evening of swimming, great food, and fellowship. Bring your swimsuits, towels, lawn chairs, and your favorite side dish or dessert to share.

Grace Kids will be providing most of the main protein, so we're asking each family to sign up to bring a side, dessert, chips, fruit, drinks, or another potluck item. Your contribution will help make sure there's plenty for everyone to enjoy!

REGISTER FOR SWIM NIGHT

New Equipping Hour Classes
// Begin August 23 at 9am

Our new equipping hour classes begin Sunday, August 23 and will run for 8 weeks. We will offer classes in doctrine, devotion, and mission, as well as a Christian foundations class. Sign up below!

Doctrine: Union with Christ

Teacher: Dave Becker
In this class we will study in detail the doctrine of our spiritual union with Christ. By exploring several different passages, we will answer the question of what it means to be “in Christ” as our vine, head, bridegroom, and more.
Sign up for Union With Christ

Devotion: Word-Based Spirituality

Teacher: Drake Osborn
Join this class for a study on prioritizing Scripture as the primary guide for our growth in the spiritual disciplines. We will cover how reading, meditation, and prayer of scripture also opens us up to hear from God through the natural world, from his church, and in other spiritual practices.
Sign up for Word-Based Spirituality

Mission: What It Means To Be Protestant

Teacher: TBD
A study and discussion of the book What It Means To Be Protestant by Gavin Ortlund. This book shows how historical Protestantism offers the best pathway to catholicity for Christians today. In this class we will also seek to understand what separates us from Catholic of Orthodox traditions and how to find joy and purpose in our distinctive history.
Sign up for What It Means To Be Protestant

Core Class: Christian Foundations

Teacher: Jake Anthony
For those new to Christianity or wanting to deepen their faith. In this class, we will use the Apostle's Creed, the Lord's Prayer, and the Ten Commandments as guides to learn the essentials of Christian doctrine, devotion, and mission. We desire participants to demonstrate a higher commitment to this class than is normally expected of other equipping offerings. This class will run for 16 weeks from Aug 23-Dec 11.
Sign up for Christian Foundations

Grace Institute Registration Now Open!
// Class Begins August 24

Grace Institute is a year-long course that provides theological formation, personal spiritual development, and leadership training for members of Grace Network churches. The program’s curriculum is aimed at helping men and women grow in their love for God, Scripture, and His mission. To learn more, click here.

Grace Church,

True religion, in great part, consists in holy affections.

— Jonathan Edwards

By the time Jonathan Edwards wrote these words in his work, Religious Affections, the First Great Awakening was well under way. Its consequences were both positive and negative. Positively, it is true that many came to saving faith, and previously unreached or religiously dead areas of New England had suddenly come alive to the truth of the gospel and a desire for repentance and holiness. It is also true that in many areas where the Great Awakening took root, there were great displays of emotionalism. Evangelicalism as a theological and ecclesiological movement began with both a propensity towards empty revivalism and the reality of true revival. Edwards job, as he aw it, was to help distinguish the two.

How can we tell that our affections are true affections, that they will really lead us to the truth, goodness, and beauty of adoration with God? Here are a few helpful reminders from Edwards:

First, true affections for God are more than intellectual understanding, but not absent from intellectual understanding.

No light in the understanding is good which does not produce holy affection in the heart.

That is, true affectionate adoration of God must have mental or intellectual understanding as it’s baseline. True affection is based on an understanding of real doctrine and truth. And yet, it cannot stay in the head and must move deeper into the heart.

Second, true affections for God are not measured by their quantity or power, but by their presence.

A man's having much affection, does not prove that he has any true religion: but if he has no affection it proves that he has no true religion.

Edwards goes on to say at this point that some true affections for God have effects on the body (crying, shaking, etc), but not all — so we shouldn’t measure them by outward manifestations. But we likewise should not “condemn persons as enthusiasts merely because their affections are very high.” The point isn’t how much (or what kind of) emotion we show outwardly, but that God’s beauty and truth in the gospel warms our hearts, which will eventually show in some way outwardly.

Thirdly, true affections for God are centered on embracing the things of God.

Those affections that are truly holy, are primarily founded on the loveliness of the moral excellency of divine things.

Meaning true affections for God lead to intense focus on God himself and how good God really is. Edwards goes on to say that this also includes practices like gratitude, and repentance of sin, or what he calls “evangelical humiliation”.

Fourthly, true affections for God change us into Christlikeness.

All spiritual discoveries are transforming; and not only make an alteration of the present exercise, sensation, and frame of the soul, but such power and efficacy have they, that they make an alteration in the very nature of the soul (2 Cor. 3:18).

We know that our adoration of God is just empty emotionalism when we find ourselves back in the same place again and again. But true adoration is transformative because in beholding God, we become like God. In the end, it is the shape of our life that will prove our affections genuine, since as Edwards admits “Godliness is more easily feigned in words than in actions”.

I hope this short excursion into the logic of a colonial theologian has been helpful for you. My prayer is that we would continue to become a church full or true affection for Christ. I often pray that it would be palpable as people walk in the door—we are not cold and lifeless and joyless! But at the same time, I understand and pray against the dangers of emotionalism and sensationalism that promises great “experiences” with God and neglects the beautiful daily bread and normalcy of what we do when we come together for worship.

As we practice the prayer of adoration, may the beauty of Christ warm our hearts for him, and may our souls long for God “As a deer pants for flowing streams.”

Pastor Drake

Current Sermon Series
Psalms: The Poetry of Prayer

We are joyfully expectant to spend our summer in the Psalms as we consider how the variety of expression in the Psalter helps us to pray. In the vast poetry of Psalms, we find prayers of praise, lament, expectation, longing, repentance, vengeance, thanksgiving, obedience, testimony, and more. Join us as we devotionally unpack various psalms and long for a life of prayer that is Biblical, beautiful, and bountiful.

Varied Grace Campaign
// Give now!

Varied Grace is our vision plan for the next five years as we mature as a church and prepare for mission. Don’t forget to plan and mark your gift as a pledge or to give now. Some of our members have already given or pledged, but our elders are asking for 100% participation.

This summer, we will begin Phase 1 of our building, which is our outdoor area and connection from 4610 Bosque to Newton House. Look for signs in the lobby this Sunday and visit gracewaco.com/variedgrace for information on how to participate.

Pledges were due May 17, but there is still time to mark your pledge, which will help our pastors as we plan and prepare for the giving campaign and begin any work of the vision.

FIND OUT MORE

ONLINE PLEDGE CARD

Last Sunday at Grace

Last Sunday, Pastor Drake preached from Psalm 147. Prayer is not simply a duty, but a delight. Adoration is the way we move in prayer towards the truth, goodness, and beauty of God.

LISTEN TO THE SERMON

READ SERMON MANUSCRIPT

Grace Kids Summer Discipleship
// July 12, 19, 26 8:45am

Over three Sundays, Grace Kids Summer Discipleship will explore the armor of God (Ephesians 6:13-18) and what that means for us as followers of Christ. All kids Pre-K to 6th grade are welcome!

Grace Institute Registration Now Open!
// Class Begins August 24

Grace Institute is a year-long course that provides theological formation, personal spiritual development, and leadership training for members of Grace Network churches. The program’s curriculum is aimed at helping men and women grow in their love for God, Scripture, and His mission. To learn more, click here.

These emails will provide brief communications for the Varied Grace campaign concerning phase updates, dates or deadlines, and other important information.

Phase 1 Updates

Overall Goals: Transition from 4610 Bosque to Newton House; kids outdoor play area; Newton House demo

• Construction began this week to install drop-ceilings in the lower kids classrooms.

Important Dates & Info

• 4610 Colonial Ave (Newton House) walk-throughs after Sunday worship THIS SUNDAY and 7/26. Please select one to join and see the house, meet in the large equipping room to walk over together with Clint Byrom after church.

• Some members are gathering interest for a church-wide “garage sale” in October, all proceeds contributing towards Varied Grace fundraising. Please fill out this interest form to help them gauge participation.

Grace Church,

Trust and obey, for there’s no other way
To be happy in Jesus, than to trust and obey

— “Trust and Obey”, John H. Sammis (1887)

The first time I regularly sang this song was several years ago during my time as a pastoral assistant at Grace Church Hewitt. Initially, it didn’t hit my ears or my heart right. My mind would come up with several reasons why such a “policy” of obedience wasn’t that simple or straightforward. The truths in this song seemed too simple, too cute, even naive.

But then I began to sing it more. And I continued to grow in my faith. And like we all do, I experienced failings, missteps, and errors in my obedience to God. I felt the assurance of his forgiveness in passages like Ps 32:1-2 and Romans 8. I grew in my awareness of the beauty and goodness of his Word. I saw how it is both nourishing bread (Matt 4:4) and a sword (Heb 4:12); both a lamp to my feet (Ps 119:105), and a hammer (Jer 23:19). I learned that God’s foolishness was wiser than mine, and his weakness was stronger than mine (1 Cor 1).

After a few years, I began to see the sage and timeless wisdom of those words: “Trust and obey”. Church, it really is that simple. When Psalm 19 calls the Word of God perfect, reviving, sure, right, pure, enlightening, enduring, true, righteous, desired, sweeter than honey, and rewarding, it is not flattery. The sufficiency, power, trustworthiness, and holiness of the Holy Scriptures is God’s revelation for us, for you, for me, that we would see and respond to our God who made us and gave himself for us. Let us trust and obey it. There’s no other way to be happy.

Pastor Jake

Current Sermon Series
Psalms: The Poetry of Prayer

We are joyfully expectant to spend our summer in the Psalms as we consider how the variety of expression in the Psalter helps us to pray. In the vast poetry of Psalms, we find prayers of praise, lament, expectation, longing, repentance, vengeance, thanksgiving, obedience, testimony, and more. Join us as we devotionally unpack various psalms and long for a life of prayer that is Biblical, beautiful, and bountiful.

Varied Grace Campaign
// Give now!

Varied Grace is our vision plan for the next five years as we mature as a church and prepare for mission. Don’t forget to plan and mark your gift as a pledge or to give now. Some of our members have already given or pledged, but our elders are asking for 100% participation.

This summer, we will begin Phase 1 of our building, which is our outdoor area and connection from 4610 Bosque to Newton House. Look for signs in the lobby this Sunday and visit gracewaco.com/variedgrace for information on how to participate.

Pledges were due May 17, but there is still time to mark your pledge, which will help our pastors as we plan and prepare for the giving campaign and begin any work of the vision.

FIND OUT MORE

ONLINE PLEDGE CARD

Jonathan Kelber, Elder Candidate

We are happy to publicly announce Jonathan Kelber as a candidate for the office of pastor/elder. Jonathan has been fully affirmed by our pastors and our member vote of affirmation will take place on July 12th and 19th after worship in the lobby. An online option will also be available to those traveling. His personal and theological questionnaire has been sent to our members.

Jonathan is eager in particular to serve our church in caring for our missionaries and helping to help raise up new workers to long-term missions. If you missed the Q&A, but would like to ask Jonathan a question (theological, personal, about missions or ministry), you can also submit a question using the form below.

LEAVE A QUESTION FOR JONATHAN

Last Sunday at Grace

Last Sunday, Pastor Jake preached from Psalm 112. As we pray for obedience, Christ helps us by embodying it, sharing its benefits with us, and empowering us to live it out. In Psalm 112 we see three areas where Christ’s obedience fuels our own: blessing, generosity, and confidence.

LISTEN TO THE SERMON

READ SERMON MANUSCRIPT

Summer Book Clubs
// Sign Up Now, New Clubs in July!

Come read a devotional book with other church members this summer. There are men’s, women’s, and co-ed offerings. You can select the appropriate group on the registration form. Once you register your book group leader will reach out to you.

REGISTER FOR SUMMER BOOK CLUBS

Welcome Dinner
// July 12, 4:00pm

Are you new to Grace Church? We would love to host you for dinner and a conversation about our church. This dinner is also the first step in the membership process. Childcare is provided per request. Please register ahead of time so we know to expect you!

REIGSTER FOR WELCOME DINNER

Grace Kids Summer Discipleship
// July 12, 19, 26 8:45am

Over three Sundays, Grace Kids Summer Discipleship will explore the armor of God (Ephesians 6:13-18) and what that means for us as followers of Christ. All kids Pre-K to 6th grade are welcome!

Grace Institute Registration Now Open!
// Class Begins August 24

Grace Institute is a year-long course that provides theological formation, personal spiritual development, and leadership training for members of Grace Network churches. The program’s curriculum is aimed at helping men and women grow in their love for God, Scripture, and His mission. To learn more, click here.

Grace Church,

There are at least two great secrets of forgiveness offered to us in the gospel. This is true regardless of the offense done to us, and no matter the amount of rage or bitterness we carry.

The first secret is to humbly let God be the bringer of justice. When we know that God promises justice through the victorious reign of Christ, we can be content to let him do it in his time. But that contentment can only come if we humble ourselves to the point of releasing even ourselves to God’s justice. When we can pray of our own life “do with me as you will, Lord”, then we can begin to pray God’s will for those who have wronged us. Only when we view ourselves as former enemies of God can we view our current enemies as God views them.

The second secret is to humbly let God be the bringer of mercy. It is not enough to let the victory of Christ move us to trust God’s justice in his timing. We must also be content for God to bring his mercy in his way. Seeking God’s justice brings relief to the white hot hatred we may have towards those who have hurt us, but only by seeking God’s mercy can we be relieved of the dull, bitter, and often apathetic ache of resentment.

This is why the power of the cross of Christ is vital for true forgiveness. The Psalmist of Psalm 137 is right to pray for God’s justice—but in Christ we take the next leap into the mysterious chasm of God’s grace. Remember what Paul says is the greatest display of God’s character: “God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Rom 5:8).”

In his book The Prayerbook of the Bible, Dietrich Bonhoeffer makes this point crystal clear.

I cannot forgive the enemies of God by myself. Only the crucified Christ can, and I can forgive through Him. I pray this Psalm of wrath in the certainty of its wonderful fulfillment. I leave the vengeance in God’s hands and pray for the carrying out of God’s justice to all enemies. I know that God has remained true in His sure justice and wrathful judgment on the cross, and that His wrath has become grace and joy for us. Jesus Christ himself prays for the execution of God’s vengeance on his body, and thus Christ leads me back daily to the gravity and grace of His cross for me and all the enemies of God. Even today, I can believe God’s love and forgive enemies only through the cross of Christ, through the carrying out of God’s vengeance. The cross of Jesus applies to everyone.

Trying to forgive in your own power is futility. As Tim Keller said: “Forgiveness is a form of voluntary suffering. In forgiving, rather than retaliating, you make a choice to bear the cost.” We can only bear that cost when we do so in Christ, taking up our cross with him. Forgiveness requires sacrifice.

But the sacrificial work of Jesus pulls back the curtain to reveal that no enemy is outside the possibility of redemption. This is astonishing. It means that we can simultaneously pray for justice and mercy, and truly mean both. Because of Jesus, we not only pray our anger and rage, but we let it go in forgiveness and compassion. We do not just pray against our enemies, we pray for our enemies. Only in the gospel can both of those prayers make sense, and only in the gospel can both of those prayers be received.

In Christ,

Pastor Drake

New Sermon Series
Psalms: The Poetry of Prayer

We are joyfully expectant to spend our summer in the Psalms as we consider how the variety of expression in the Psalter helps us to pray. In the vast poetry of Psalms, we find prayers of praise, lament, expectation, longing, repentance, vengeance, thanksgiving, obedience, testimony, and more. Join us as we devotionally unpack various psalms and long for a life of prayer that is Biblical, beautiful, and bountiful.

Varied Grace Campaign
// Give now!

Varied Grace is our vision plan for the next five years as we mature as a church and prepare for mission. Don’t forget to plan and mark your gift as a pledge or to give now. Some of our members have already given or pledged, but our elders are asking for 100% participation.

This summer, we will begin Phase 1 of our building, which is our outdoor area and connection from 4610 Bosque to Newton House. Look for signs in the lobby this Sunday and visit gracewaco.com/variedgrace for information on how to participate.

Pledges were due May 17, but there is still time to mark your pledge, which will help our pastors as we plan and prepare for the giving campaign and begin any work of the vision.

FIND OUT MORE

ONLINE PLEDGE CARD

Jonathan Kelber, Elder Candidate

We are happy to publicly announce Jonathan Kelber as a candidate for the office of pastor/elder. Jonathan has been fully affirmed by our pastors and our member vote of affirmation will take place on July 12th and 19th after worship in the lobby. An online option will also be available to those traveling. His personal and theological questionnaire has been sent to our members.

Jonathan is eager in particular to serve our church in caring for our missionaries and helping to help raise up new workers to long-term missions. If you missed the Q&A, but would like to ask Jonathan a question (theological, personal, about missions or ministry), you can also submit a question using the form below.

LEAVE A QUESTION FOR JONATHAN

Last Sunday at Grace

Last Sunday, Pastor Drake preached from Psalm 137, which teaches us what to do when we are rightfully angry at injustice or suffering. We must learn, as the Psalmist does, to confront our anger, pray our anger, and release our anger as a response to the victory and compassion of Jesus.

LISTEN TO THE SERMON

READ SERMON MANUSCRIPT

Summer Book Clubs
// Sign Up Now, New Clubs in July!

Come read a devotional book with other church members this summer. There are men’s, women’s, and co-ed offerings. You can select the appropriate group on the registration form. Once you register your book group leader will reach out to you.

REGISTER FOR SUMMER BOOK CLUBS

Welcome Dinner
// July 12, 4:00pm

Are you new to Grace Church? We would love to host you for dinner and a conversation about our church. This dinner is also the first step in the membership process. Childcare is provided per request. Please register ahead of time so we know to expect you!

REIGSTER FOR WELCOME DINNER

Grace Kids Summer Discipleship
// July 12, 19, 26 8:45am

Over three Sundays, Grace Kids Summer Discipleship will explore the armor of God (Ephesians 6:13-18) and what that means for us as followers of Christ. All kids Pre-K to 6th grade are welcome!

REGISTER FOR SUMMER DISCIPLESHIP

Grace Institute Registration Now Open!
// Class Begins August 24

Grace Institute is a year-long course that provides theological formation, personal spiritual development, and leadership training for members of Grace Network churches. The program’s curriculum is aimed at helping men and women grow in their love for God, Scripture, and His mission. To learn more, click here.

Welcome to the Grace Kids Companion Summer Edition!

Parents, this is the last weekend to sign up for Summer Discipleship!
Sign ups will close on Sunday, June 28th at 3pm. (We’ll be ordering T-Shirts so be sure to sign up before the cutoff!)

REGISTER HERE

Resources:

• “Read the Bible in a Year” plan alongside your kids. I have left this in the email week after week because it is never “too late” to start. You don’t need January 1st. You need today!

• There is a Summer Conversations book club for parents that will meet during Grace Kids Summer Discipleship. Register below:
  

  Keeping Kids Christian

What Your Kids Heard About Last Sunday:

• Gospel Project Take Home

• Key Passage Memory Verse

Grace Church Members,
We need you to be an evangelist on Sunday mornings; partner with families and the gospel and volunteer in Grace Kids! Is it easy? Nope! Is it good? Yes!

Apply Here

Ask Grace Nemy questions about commitment and mission by emailing grace@gracewaco.com (or find me on Sunday morning - I’d love to chat!).

Grace Kids Junior Volunteers

If your youth is interested in serving the church please read the document below and please email grace@gracewaco.com.

Grace Kids Junior Volunteers

Sickness Policy Reminder

Here is a friendly reminder of our sickness policy:

• Fever within the past 24 hours.

• Excessive wet cough.

• Vomiting or diarrhea within the past 48 hours.

• Pink eye or other contagious rash, etc.

These emails will provide brief communications for the Varied Grace campaign concerning phase updates, dates or deadlines, and other important information.

Phase 1 Updates

Overall Goals: Transition from 4610 Bosque to Newton House; kids outdoor play area; Newton House demo

• We are collecting various quotes pertinent to each goal of phase 1.

• We have enough currently fundraised to begin construction on each of these goals by the end of the summer. More specific timelines to follow.

Important Dates & Info

• 4610 Colonial (Newton House) walk-throughs after Sunday worship on 6/28 (this Sunday), 7/12, 7/26. Please select one to join and see the house, meet in the large equipping room to walk over together after church.

• Some members are gathering interest for a church-wide “garage sale” in October, all proceeds contributing towards Varied Grace fundraising. Please fill out this interest form to help them gauge participation.

Grace Church,

On Sunday, as Bracken extolled on us the significance of coming to God with our sin, I was reminded of the prefiguring of the gospel in Exodus. David cries out in Psalm 51:7 to God that he might be “purged with hyssop” and made “whiter than snow”. The imagery David uses is intentionally specific. A bunch of hyssop could be dried and brought together in a broom-like kind of bundle, perfect for a makeshift paintbrush.

The first reference to hyssop in the Scriptures is at Passover, where the Israelites are instructed explicitly towards its use:

Take a bunch of hyssop and dip it in the blood that is in the basin, and touch the lintel and the two doorposts with the blood that is in the basin. None of you shall go out of the door of his house until the morning.

When David prays that he would be “purged with hyssop”, he has in mind the purification of the blood of sacrifice. He knows his sin, being against God, requires blood payment. There is no hiding it or sweeping it under the rug.

When we sin, the only place to go is to Christ. We need blood, and he provides it. The only way to get the purity of snow is through the purity of Christ’s blood. Bracken also quoited Spiugeon on this point—here is the reference in context:

Sprinkle the atoning blood upon me with the appointed means. Give me the reality which legal ceremonies symbolise. Nothing but blood can take away my blood stains, nothing but the strongest purification can avail to cleanse me.

The “atoning blood” is the blood of Christ. The “appointed means” is through faith in Christ, as his blood is applied to us.

David desired purification through the “legal ceremony”. We acquire purification through the greater reality. How much stronger and bolder can our repentance be, washed in Christ’s blood? We have little excuse—the passover lamb has been sacrificed and the angel of death has been passed over. The confidence of the gospel is the confidence we need to bring our sin to God.

Let’s practice this week the kind of boldness spoken in Hebrews:

Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.

In Christ,

Pastor Drake

New Sermon Series
Psalms: The Poetry of Prayer

We are joyfully expectant to spend our summer in the Psalms as we consider how the variety of expression in the Psalter helps us to pray. In the vast poetry of Psalms, we find prayers of praise, lament, expectation, longing, repentance, vengeance, thanksgiving, obedience, testimony, and more. Join us as we devotionally unpack various psalms and long for a life of prayer that is Biblical, beautiful, and bountiful.

Varied Grace Campaign
// Give now!

Varied Grace is our vision plan for the next five years as we mature as a church and prepare for mission. Don’t forget to plan and mark your gift as a pledge or to give now. Some of our members have already given or pledged, but our elders are asking for 100% participation.

This summer, we will begin Phase 1 of our building, which is our outdoor area and connection from 4610 Bosque to Newton House. Look for signs in the lobby this Sunday and visit gracewaco.com/variedgrace for information on how to participate.

Pledges were due May 17, but there is still time to mark your pledge, which will help our pastors as we plan and prepare for the giving campaign and begin any work of the vision.

FIND OUT MORE

ONLINE PLEDGE CARD

Jonathan Kelber, Elder Candidate

We are happy to publicly announce Jonathan Kelber as a candidate for the office of pastor/elder. Jonathan has been fully affirmed by our pastors and our member vote of affirmation will take place in July. His personal and theological questionnaire has been sent to our members.

Jonathan is eager in particular to serve our church in caring for our missionaries and helping to help raise up new workers to long-term missions. If you missed the Q&A, but would like to ask Jonathan a question (theological, personal, about missions or ministry), you can also submit a question using the form below.

LEAVE A QUESTION FOR JONATHAN

Last Sunday at Grace

Pastor Bracken Arnhart from Hope Church preached on 51 and the reality of repentance.

LISTEN TO THE SERMON

Summer Book Clubs
// Sign Up Now, New Clubs in July!

Come read a devotional book with other church members this summer. There are men’s, women’s, and co-ed offerings. You can select the appropriate group on the registration form. Once you register your book group leader will reach out to you.

REGISTER FOR SUMMER BOOK CLUBS

Welcome Dinner
// July 12, 4:00pm

Are you new to Grace Church? We would love to host you for dinner and a conversation about our church. This dinner is also the first step in the membership process. Childcare is provided per request. Please register ahead of time so we know to expect you!

REIGSTER FOR WELCOME DINNER

Grace Kids Summer Discipleship
// July 12, 19, 26 8:45am

Over three Sundays, Grace Kids Summer Discipleship will explore the armor of God (Ephesians 6:13-18) and what that means for us as followers of Christ. All kids Pre-K to 6th grade are welcome!

REGISTER FOR SUMMER DISCIPLESHIP

Grace Institute Registration Now Open!
// Class Begins August 24

Grace Institute is a year-long course that provides theological formation, personal spiritual development, and leadership training for members of Grace Network churches. The program’s curriculum is aimed at helping men and women grow in their love for God, Scripture, and His mission. To learn more, click here.

Welcome to the Grace Kids Companion Summer Edition!

Parents, a reminder to sign up today for Summer Discipleship at Grace Kids!
Sign ups will close on Friday, June 26th.

REGISTER HERE

Kids and Church Survey:

Parents, you should have received a survey via email this past week. Please look through your inbox for the “Strengthening Our Partnership with Grace Families” email and take 10 minutes to respond to our request. We value your thoughts!

Resources:

• “Read the Bible in a Year” plan alongside your kids. I have left this in the email week after week because it is never “too late” to start. You don’t need January 1st. You need today!

• There is a Summer Conversations book club for parents that will meet during Grace Kids Summer Discipleship. Register below:
  

  Keeping Kids Christian

What Your Kids Heard About on Sunday:

• Gospel Project Take Home

• Key Passage Memory Verse

Grace Church Members,
We need you to be an evangelist on Sunday mornings; partner with families and the gospel and volunteer in Grace Kids! Is it easy? Nope! Is it good? Yes!

Apply Here

Ask Grace Nemy questions about commitment and mission by emailing grace@gracewaco.com (or find me on Sunday morning - I’d love to chat!).

Sickness Policy Reminder

Here is a friendly reminder of our sickness policy:

• Fever within the past 24 hours.

• Excessive wet cough.

• Vomiting or diarrhea within the past 48 hours.

• Pink eye or other contagious rash, etc.

Grace Kids Junior Volunteers

If your youth is interested in serving the church please read the document below and please email grace@gracewaco.com.

Grace Kids Junior Volunteers

Grace Church,

When we think of worship, most of us instinctively think of praise. We think of songs of gratitude, declarations of God’s goodness, and joyful expressions of faith. And rightly so. Scripture repeatedly calls us to praise the Lord.

But the Psalms quietly teach us something else as well:

Lament is also worship.

This may be one of the most surprising lessons of Psalm 13. David brings his confusion, disappointment, fear, and sorrow directly into the presence of God. Four times he asks, “How long?” He is not hiding his pain. He is not pretending everything is fine. He is not offering polished spiritual language.

And yet, precisely in doing so, he is worshiping. Why?

Because worship is fundamentally an act of turning toward God.

In Reflections on the Psalms, C.S. Lewis writes:

“We delight to praise what we enjoy because the praise not merely expresses but completes the enjoyment.” (C.S. Lewis, Reflections on the Psalms, Harcourt, 1958, p. 95)

The inverse is true as well. We bring our sorrows to whom we trust. We carry our griefs to whom we believe can bear them. Every lament is, in its own way, an expression of faith.

David’s questions matter less than the One to whom he directs them. And that is where the gospel brings particular comfort.

Many Christians worry that they must somehow resolve their doubts, settle their emotions, or regain their spiritual composure before coming to God. But Jesus consistently teaches the opposite. He says: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28). Notice the invitation. Jesus does not say, “Come to me once you’ve sorted everything out.” He invites the weary, the burdened, the struggling, and the exhausted. Likewise, in John 6:37, Jesus gives one of the most tender promises in all of Scripture: “Whoever comes to me I will never cast out.”

Not the joyful only.

Not the triumphant only.

Not the emotionally healthy only.

Whoever comes.

Including those who come with questions.

Including those who come with tears.

Including those who come praying, “How long, O Lord?”

This is one reason lament is such a profound act of worship. Every lament says, in effect, “Lord, I do not understand what You are doing, but I am still bringing myself to You.” It is the worship of a heart that refuses to seek its final comfort anywhere else.

The tears of God’s people are not interruptions to worship. They are worship themselves.

So if this week finds you waiting, grieving, confused, or weary, do not mistake your need for a barrier to God’s presence. Bring your, “How long?” to Him. Christ receives sinners, sufferers, and strugglers alike. The God who welcomes songs of praise also welcomes prayers of lament.

And He never turns away those who come.

With you,

Pastor Dave

New Sermon Series
Psalms: The Poetry of Prayer

We are joyfully expectant to spend our summer in the Psalms as we consider how the variety of expression in the Psalter helps us to pray. In the vast poetry of Psalms, we find prayers of praise, lament, expectation, longing, repentance, vengeance, thanksgiving, obedience, testimony, and more. Join us as we devotionally unpack various psalms and long for a life of prayer that is Biblical, beautiful, and bountiful.

Varied Grace Campaign
// Give now!

Varied Grace is our vision plan for the next five years as we mature as a church and prepare for mission. Don’t forget to plan and mark your gift as a pledge or to give now. Some of our members have already given or pledged, but our elders are asking for 100% participation.

This summer, we will begin Phase 1 of our building, which is our outdoor area and connection from 4610 Bosque to Newton House. Look for signs in the lobby this Sunday and visit gracewaco.com/variedgrace for information on how to participate.

Pledges were due May 17, but there is still time to mark your pledge, which will help our pastors as we plan and prepare for the giving campaign and begin any work of the vision.

FIND OUT MORE

ONLINE PLEDGE CARD

Jonathan Kelber, Elder Candidate

We are happy to publicly announce Jonathan Kelber as a candidate for the office of pastor/elder. Jonathan has been fully affirmed by our pastors and our member vote of affirmation will take place in July. His personal and theological questionnaire has been sent to our members.

Jonathan is eager in particular to serve our church in caring for our missionaries and helping to help raise up new workers to long-term missions. If you missed the Q&A, but would like to ask Jonathan a question (theological, personal, about missions or ministry), you can also submit a question using the form below.

LEAVE A QUESTION FOR JONATHAN

Last Sunday at Grace

Pastor Drake Osborn preached on Psalm 13. For the Christian, lament helps us move to the questions beyond intellectual meaning or understanding, turning towards a greater reality that God has not abandoned us, even when we don’t feel it. In our asking, seeking, and turning to God, we gain personal knowledge of his salvation of God, secured for us in Christ.

LISTEN TO THE SERMON

Summer Book Clubs
// Sign Up Now, New Clubs in July!

Come read a devotional book with other church members this summer. There are men’s, women’s, and co-ed offerings. You can select the appropriate group on the registration form. Once you register your book group leader will reach out to you.

REGISTER FOR SUMMER BOOK CLUBS

Welcome Dinner
// July 12, 4:00pm

Are you new to Grace Church? We would love to host you for dinner and a conversation about our church. This dinner is also the first step in the membership process. Childcare is provided per request. Please register ahead of time so we know to expect you!

REIGSTER FOR WELCOME DINNER

Grace Kids Summer Discipleship
// July 12, 19, 26 8:45am

Over three Sundays, Grace Kids Summer Discipleship will explore the armor of God (Ephesians 6:13-18) and what that means for us as followers of Christ. All kids Pre-K to 6th grade are welcome!

REGISTER FOR SUMMER DISCIPLESHIP

Grace Institute Registration Now Open!
// Class Begins August 24

Grace Institute is a year-long course that provides theological formation, personal spiritual development, and leadership training for members of Grace Network churches. The program’s curriculum is aimed at helping men and women grow in their love for God, Scripture, and His mission. To learn more, click here.

Grace Church,

It’s very hard to say goodbye, but last week we honored Buck and Nancy Rogers for their years of ministry to our church as they move to help Grace Hewitt advance the kingdom of God. I wanted to share with you Buck’s farewell thoughts and exhortation with you if you were not here last week or wanted to read it again.

Grace to you Church Family,

I give thanks to God every time I pray for you. I praise Him for your faithfulness as gospel partners in living out the Good News of Jesus our Savior. And I am confident that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day when Jesus our King returns in glory.

God knows how much I love you and how I pray that your love will grow more and more, for Jesus and one another, as you experience the joy of doing the good works He prepared for you to do. Friends, you will always have a special place in my heart as beloved brothers and sisters in Christ.

Just as Paul gave thanks for the Philippian church, I am so thankful for each of you at Grace Church. Friends, your faithfulness in Christ, brings me much joy, along with confidence in your partnership in gospel ministry. My confidence is grounded in God’s work of power in your lives. In Phil 2:13, “for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.”

I’m confident that you are not defined by your faithful performance or even your flaws. Your flaws, wounds, and past failings, do not define you, unless you hide behind them. But if you walk in the light of truth and holiness, you have fellowship with God and with one another. Friends, keep walking in the light of Jesus, confessing and repenting of sin. He is faithful to forgive, cleanse, and change you.

I hope that, you, are confident in being defined by your identity in Jesus and His resurrection power to shape you in His image. The most important thing in your life is not “what you do;” it’s “who, you become, in Christ.”

My love for you is anchored in Jesus and strengthened by the Holy Spirit. Together, in our love for one another, we can do our part to fulfill the Great Commission of making Christlike disciples. That is our mission, our duty and our delight!

For over 20 years, I’ve been honored to serve as a pastor at Grace Waco. I give praise to Jesus, as Head of His church, and for calling me as His under-shepherd. And I give thanks to all of you for genuine friendships, faithful prayers and constant encouragement for me and for Nancy. With Nancy’s loving partnership, our time at Grace Waco is the highlight of our ministry years. Thank you, friends.

The decision to leave Grace Waco and join Grace Hewitt, is so bittersweet. This was not an easy decision. But after prayer and counsel of our pastors and others, it’s clear the Lord is leading me to a new ministry assignment. There’s a need for an older and experienced pastor to serve with Pastor Michael and the other leaders at Grace Hewitt. Since I helped Michael with the initial church plant over 8 years ago, it will be a blessing to serve with him again.

But my heart is “forever bonded” with our Grace Waco pastors and ministry staff. They have strengthened me in faith, served me as much as, if not more, than I have served them. Our bond of “love and friendship” will always remain strong.

I will truly miss the teaching and leadership of Pastors Drake and Dave. They are two of the most godly, gifted, and humble men I’ve ever known… besides myself. Sorry, I had to get in one more “tongue in cheek joke” before I leave. I’m sure they’ll miss my lame dad jokes at staff meetings.

Drake and Dave’s gracious and wise leadership has shaped me to be a better pastor, and done the same for all of our pastors. Nancy and I will truly miss their preaching of rich gospel truths every Lord’s Day. They have cared for our souls well, and pastored us with the love of Jesus. Thank you, Drake and Dave!

We’ll miss our other pastors as well—Ray, Mark, Jake, and Jonathan. They are godly, gifted, and humble men of God, who are faithful teachers and caring shepherds. We’ll miss their spiritual gifts that have equipped us in faith and ministry. Thank you men!

But I’m so thankful that my friendship and partnership with each of our pastors will continue as we meet monthly at the Grace Network prayer meetings.

Alongside our pastors, are godly wives who faithfully love and serve their families, along with our church family. You are all dear sisters in Christ. Nancy and I will truly miss you.

We will miss seeing all of you on Sundays, but look forward to your fellowship as often as possible. You are a “gift” we treasure, “grace upon grace!”

As I move on to Grace Hewitt, and build trust with a new church body, my hope is to be ready as soon as possible to step into a pastor role to help with discipleship, member care, and biblical counseling. Although that will be my main focus, I’ll also be available to offer counseling for Grace Waco and Hope Robinson, alongside our other pastors and women’s care teams.

So, Nancy and I aren’t saying goodbye, we’ll always be a part of your lives, and the gospel ministry of Grace Waco. This being our last Sunday, let me close with these words.

We love you, as our dear brothers and sisters in Christ. We thank God for you, because your faith is flourishing and your love for one another is growing. We will keep praying for you, asking God to enable you to live a life worthy of your calling in Christ. May you have power to accomplish the good things your faith prompts you to do. And may the name of Jesus be honored in the way you live, with the joy of knowing that you are honored in Him. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen.

You will always be our Beloved Family!

— Buck and Nancy Rogers

As we continue in the Psalms, it’s appropriate to give God thanks for what we has done. Praise God for Buck and Nancy. It’s not too late to reach out to them with a card or word of thanks!

Praying for you this week,

Pastor Drake

New Sermon Series
Psalms: The Poetry of Prayer

We are joyfully expectant to spend our summer in the Psalms as we consider how the variety of expression in the Psalter helps us to pray. In the vast poetry of Psalms, we find prayers of praise, lament, expectation, longing, repentance, vengeance, thanksgiving, obedience, testimony, and more. Join us as we devotionally unpack various psalms and long for a life of prayer that is Biblical, beautiful, and bountiful.

Varied Grace Campaign
// Give now!

Varied Grace is our vision plan for the next five years as we mature as a church and prepare for mission. Don’t forget to plan and mark your gift as a pledge or to give now. Some of our members have already given or pledged, but our elders are asking for 100% participation.

This summer, we will begin Phase 1 of our building, which is our outdoor area and connection from 4610 Bosque to Newton House. As always, find all the information at gracewaco.com/variedgrace.

Pledges were due May 17, but there is still time to mark your pledge, which will help our pastors as we plan and prepare for the giving campaign and begin any work of the vision.

FIND OUT MORE

ONLINE PLEDGE CARD

Jonathan Kelber, Elder Candidate

If you are not already aware, we are happy to publicly announce Jonathan Kelber as a candidate for the office of pastor/elder. Jonathan has been fully affirmed by our pastors and our member vote of affirmation will take place in July. His personal and theological questionnaire has been sent to our members.

Jonathan is eager in particular to serve our church in caring for our missionaries and helping to help raise up new workers to long-term missions. If you missed the Q&A, but would like to ask Jonathan a question (theological, personal, about missions or ministry), you can also submit a question using the form below.

LEAVE A QUESTION FOR JONATHAN

Last Sunday at Grace

Pastor Pastoral Candidate Jonathan Kelber preached on Psalm 40. Trials present opportunities for us to exercise patience, repentance, gratitude for and witness of God’s work, and our hope in the Lord who saves through Christ.

LISTEN TO THE SERMON

Summer Book Clubs
// Sign Up Now, Multiple Options!

Come read a devotional book with other church members this summer. There are men’s, women’s, and co-ed offerings. You can select the appropriate group on the registration form. Once you register your book group leader will reach out to you.

REGISTER FOR SUMMER BOOK CLUBS

Welcome Dinner
// July 12, 4:00pm

Are you new to Grace Church? We would love to host you for dinner and a conversation about our church. This dinner is also the first step in the membership process. Childcare is provided per request. Please register ahead of time so we know to expect you!

REIGSTER FOR WELCOME DINNER

Grace Kids Summer Discipleship
// July 12, 19, 26 8:45am

Over three Sundays, Grace Kids Summer Discipleship will explore the armor of God (Ephesians 6:13-18) and what that means for us as followers of Christ. All kids Pre-K to 6th grade are welcome!

REGISTER FOR SUMMER DISCIPLESHIP

Grace Institute Registration Now Open!
// Class Begins August 24

Grace Institute is a year-long course that provides theological formation, personal spiritual development, and leadership training for members of Grace Network churches. The program’s curriculum is aimed at helping men and women grow in their love for God, Scripture, and His mission. To learn more, click here.