For years, ever since our son John’s obsession with football began, we have watched the NFL Draft. There is a lot to pay attention to: the strategy of teams trading picks, players fitting into to team schemes, and fans cheering – this year, in-person and complete with masks. But, by far the most inspiring aspect of the draft is the players and their stories of hard work, sacrifice, and family challenges.
If you were drafting the top disciples, Doubting Thomas would not go first-round. We don’t know why he wasn’t with the disciples when Jesus showed up. But he wasn’t there, and he wasn’t buying it –
“Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.”
One week later, the disciples were together again. Perhaps surprising, the doors were still locked. But this time Thomas was there. And Jesus showed up – wounds and all. This time, he spoke directly to Thomas. Jesus even invited him to touch the wounds.
This week, I will continue in our ALIVE series with “Behind Closed Doors Again”. The wounds that Jesus showed Thomas are the wounds that can meet every wound in your life.
Come Sunday with your own story, your own doubts, your own wounds. The ALIVE Jesus will meet you. Sunday, we will also share our family meal together, Communion. If you are worshipping at home, don’t forget to have your own bread and cup ready.
You can reserve your seat for in-person worship HERE.
You can join us for live online worship HERE.
It’s not too late to sign up for NEXT this Sunday afternoon at 2 pm via Zoom. NEXT is the perfect place to take the next step into the GRACE Community. Click HERE for more information.
Finally, Mother’s Day is coming a week from Sunday. We will celebrate all of our GRACE moms in-person and online during our services.
I can’t wait to see you Sunday,
Dr. Marnie Crumpler
Senior Pastor