YFG Buzz

YFG Mixer, July

   The YFG Mixer for July will take place on Sunday, July 25 at 10 a.m. in The Lounge. As Grace Church focuses on prayer this summer, YFG will dig deeper into this essential topic that is so central to our experience as humans, and as Christians. You’ll almost certainly come away from this forum with a sense of support, validation and peace about this pivotal topic.

YFG Ladies’ Night Out - July 21

YFG Ladies’ Night Out is scheduled for Wednesday, July 21 at 6:30 p.m. at Luv Nails (17 S. La Grange Rd.) Plan on a manicure, pedicure – or both. We’ll have appetizers and drinks, as well! Don’t hesitate to join in this fun and relaxing event. Take care of yourself while hanging out with Christian friends. Space may be limited. Watch for your Evite. For questions or to suggest LNO ideas, contact Casey Brown  or Adriane Wong .

Considering Forgiveness

Part four of Pastor Saїd’s Series on the Lord’s Prayer addressed the topic of forgiveness, “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” The words in this prayer are so simple and straightforward, but the act of forgiving is not. It is arguably one of the most profoundly difficult and powerful things we are called to do as Christians.
   Through this blog, I’d like to consider and discuss forgiveness from many angles. What are we called to do? What does it mean to forgive? Why are we challenged by our faith to forgive? How do we learn to forgive? What do we give to others when we forgive? What do we gain for ourselves through forgiveness? Is there anything that cannot or should not be forgiven? How do we forgive someone who is not sorry? How does the act of forgiveness strengthen and deepen our faith?
   In an earlier discussion with Pastor Saїd about my thoughts on forgiveness, I indicated that I had started to think of forgiveness as the sort of thing that might require a practice. By that, I mean a spiritual practice of forgiveness in the way that some people practice meditation or, in my case, gratitude—quieting my mind each day to focus on the things for which I want to offer thanks. I love the idea of thinking about forgiveness as a practice because it implies that I’ll get better at it with time, patience, and persistence.
   I decided to start my exploration of forgiveness in one of my favorite places…the dictionary. I think the following definitions set the tone for how I will approach forgiveness in my own practice and through this blog.
   Definitions excerpted from Merriam-Webster’s Online Dictionary (www.merriam-webster.com):

    Forgiveness: To give up resentment of or claim to requital for ; to grant relief from payment     of ; to cease to feel resentment against (an offender)

    Grace:Unmerited divine assistance given humans for their regeneration or sanctification; a     virtue coming from God; a state of sanctification enjoyed through divine grace;disposition to    or an act or instance of kindness, courtesy, or clemency
 
    Practice: To perform or work at repeatedly so as to become proficient;to do or perform    often, customarily, or habitually

Examining the Lord's Prayer

Calling God "Father" in the Lord's Prayer is troubling for some Christians. One reason is the exclusive male imagery. Another reason is the fact that some of our fathers were abusive. So, it is hard to label God "Father" because of the painful memories we associate with the word.

In the Bible study we will have together, beginning on Feb. 21, we will examine the rich treasures, which are included in this short prayer, and discover why Jesus used words like "Father", "holy", "kindgom", etc.

Q. Is it possible that everything we need is included in the Lord's Prayer?
Q. Describe a time when the Lord's Prayer was most meaningful to you?

Peace in Christ,

Pastor Said