Some of you have seen the just-released movie, Unplanned. It’s the compelling, and true story of Abby Johnson, an award-winning Planned Parenthood Director who has a dramatic turn in life after witnessing an abortion for herself.

The Bible establishes some key qualifications for elders (Titus 1:6-9, Acts 20:28, 1 Peter 5:1–4, 1 Timothy 3:1–7). They are to share this in common: a seasoned maturity in their Christian faith, and a solid commitment to the spiritual guidance of their church.

For every person who is part of the Grace Church family, our desire is that we will exalt Jesus Christ by making disciples who 1: Love Jesus, 2: Grow with others, and 3: Serve the world. Let’s take inventory for a moment in light of those statements. 

The Elders at Grace graciously decide to make provision for our Ministry Staff members to take a periodic Study Break every 5 years. It’s been 11 years since I took my last break, during which I finished up my doctoral project. I’m sensing that now is the time to make a similar investment, returning (I trust!) as a replenished and more effective leader. 

Need a last-minute gift idea?  Here’s one we might all consider…