OK, I’m just going to say it—Grace Resurrection is the best in town. I know, I know, that’s not taking into consideration all of the other great churches in Marietta. But I’m partial. Seriously, if you’re paying attention to this place at all, you know that faith, support, community, and Christ are bubbling over on the corner of Indian Hills Parkway. There is something special about Grace Resurrection Church. It was standing room only on Sunday, and Suzanne, along with our choir and musicians, ushered us right into the throne room. I could feel the Holy Spirit in a powerful way.
This place is unique. The worship is authentic, the friendships run deep, and discipleship is growing. Those are just a few areas. I love these people. We’re not perfect, and sometimes we have chinks in our armor, but we are striving to be more like Christ. That’s not based on what we do but who we are.
I’ve been thinking and journaling about what I call “religious spirits.” Over the past few years, it became obvious that this was a problem in our former denomination. It’s an old problem and a human one. The Pharisees were the epitome of a religious spirit. They looked good, smelled good, had money in the bank, and made sure all the moral boxes were checked—but no one was welcome unless they were like them. Jesus said, “That’s a problem.” They were all about tenure, inner circles, and, well, themselves. Forgive us if our circles are so tight that Jesus remains a guest.
As I strolled through this building on Sunday, I saw crowds and crowds of people—long-time church members getting to know one another. Think about what’s happened here in just two years. That’s what happens when a congregation is a river, not a reservoir. Oh, the Pharisees meant well; they were protecting their much-beloved turf. Then the Lamb of God came along and proved He was also the Lion of Judah (Rev. 5:5). He said they were like “whitewashed tombs.” I sense none of that among us. That’s why something like this past Sunday can happen. Love is taking center stage for us. And God is love.
So thank you. I still think we’re the best, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
~Rev. James Williams