Pages

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

One Flesh, One Heart, One Calling


I am proud to announce that my wife, Michelle Grabowski, has been ordained by the National Association of Christian Ministers!  Although she is only now receiving the official recognition, the truth is that she's been doing the work of the ministry for a long time now. From day one of Acres of Hope Christian Fellowship (back when it was a home fellowship without a name), she has been my co-laborer in Christ, serving and ministering to the people in our congregation with authentic love and compassion.

Jesus says of married couples, "They are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate (Matthew 19:6)." God Himself looked at me, and determined that "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him (Genesis 2:18)." For almost 17 years, I have had been blessed to share my life with the one who has been made for me, and I for her.

I don't know where I would be today without her not just standing behind me, but beside me. I do know that I could not do what I do today without her. I could not possibly be any prouder of her than I am this very minute.

"The man who finds a wife finds a treasure, and he receives favor from the LORD (Proverbs 18:22)." 

Any time that I ever doubt that I have God's favor, I need to look no further than Shelly to cease all doubts. She is living proof of God's goodness to me, my family, and our church family.

Love in Christ,
Pastor Joe

Friday, November 15, 2013

Justified! (Matt Chandler sermon jam)

Matt Chandler on our justification -- "You have not earned right standing in front of God by your effort or your cleaning up of your life.  We have been made pure, standing blameless in front of God, not because of any religious or moral pursuit, but because Christ has died, and in His death, He absorbed all of God's wrath for you and I."