MID-WEEK LETTER from Grace United Methodist Church

February 22, 2007 Editor: Linda Entwistle

LAST WEEK:

A group of worshippers gathered last night for the Ash Wednesday service. I sat near two young ladies (in the 6 to 8 year old range) who were discussing what they were going to give up for Lent. Many childhood delights were mentioned... gum, ice cream, etc. I couldn't help but feel nostalgic about a time when such things were my own biggest vices.

Adults often joke that they are going to "give up" something they don't like, want, care for anyway- I could give up milk, no problem. In its true form, anyway. I'd still want gravy, and custard, and cream of potato soup. So is giving up actual milk a legitimate sacrifice?

I'm just coming to realize that I pray quite seriously for God to make me schizophrenic- I want him to take away my trust issues, but not my extreme independence (sure I trust you, I'm just not going to allow you any control over anything of importance to me); I want him to take away my self-righteousness, but not tamper with my own positive self- concept (as if it's only a negative thing if it's public, but it's a positive thing if it's private). Luckily, God hasn't seen fit to answer those prayers. So I'm not schizophrenic- but I am still distrusting and self-righteous.

I'm beginning to suspect that we can't legitimately tell God which parts of us we would like Him to "make over". We have to be willing to hand it ALL over. Often times, I believe I am. I tell God I am. And He's waiting very patiently, while I dismantle things and hand them over a piece at a time.

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The food pantry is sufficiently stocked for the time being. The Mens' Group thanks everyone for their support of this ministry.

FINANCIAL UPDATE: To date, we have had:

Income of $38,755 Expenses of $29,670

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THE CALENDAR: (Please note especially items marked with an asterisk).

Thursday, Feb. 22: J.O.Y. sharing group will meet at 7:00 in the parlor.

Friday, Feb. 23: Issues of Aging seminar will meet at 10:30 a.m. in the Seekers Sunday school room.

Saturday, Feb. 24: * Pancake Day! Serving from 7:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 25: Grace Years worship service at Parkview in Savoy at 2:00.

Grace Years worship service at Sunnycrest at 4:00.

College age Bible study at 5:00.

Senior High Youth Fellowship will meet at 6:30 in the fellowship hall.

Church Council will meet at 7:30 in the Seekers Sunday school room.

Monday, Feb. 26: Growing in Grace rehearsal at 4:00 in the sanctuary.

Tuesday, Feb. 27: Quilters will meet at 6:30.

Angelus hand bell choir will rehearse at 6:30.

Chancel Choir will rehearse at 7:30.

Wednesday, Feb. 28: Men's Breakfast Group will meet at 6:30 a.m. in the fellowship hall.

Cherub Choir will practice at 5:30.

Life Song will practice at 6:30 at the Aters' home.

Mission ministry team will meet at 7:00.

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If you know of someone who is in need of pastoral care, please contact the church office (328-1414) or respond to the e-mail address above.

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