Pastor Dan Johnson of Plymouth Covenant Church attended UEC in February. Here is his response as printed in the Plymouth Covenant Church newsletter for his congregation to read:
Do you really understand “grace”? Have you personally experienced “grace”? Would you know how to describe “grace”? Are you ready for a “short course in grace”?
In many ways I have been spoiled by the “grace” shown to me by God and by significant others. I am fortunate to have parents, a spouse and a family “full of grace”. I have been blessed to serve churches and congregations that generously surrounded me with grace (thank you Plymouth Covenant). I have sought to faithfully talk and walk grace on my own personal journey.
Nevertheless, my three day retreat last weekend with Unidos en Cristo was incredible. I experienced grace personally and profoundly. God revealed His presence, His power, His people, His promise and His precious gift of grace to me. I will be forever changed and be eternally grateful to those who made it possible for me to attend.
Let me issue you a personal challenge ...
Are you ready to grow in grace and draw closer to God and to His people?
Jesus said it so well in Matthew 11:
“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me.
Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how
to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me — watch how
I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything
heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn
to live freely and lightly.”
Let us learn together to walk with Jesus in the “unforced rhythms of grace”.