Due to an error on my part, Elloise’s article did not appear in the monthly newsletter. Have no fear, you get it here!

Hello from Grace Youth!

February has been an exciting month for the youth. Our annual sub fundraiser was a huge success! We were able to raise over $1,500 for the youth! Again, this provides us with funds vital to Mission Trips and other activities/items we pay for, and supports GraceKids. A big thanks to everyone who participated/supported the youth! As for Wednesday nights, we first looked at being prideful. Nicodemus responds with a proud belief that he knows the “obvious” truth. However, Jesus asks us to look deeper and with open minds, asking honest questions rather than providing knowing answers. In all reality, we are very small pieces to the greater picture, and yet, we are called beloved children of God. Keeping this in mind as we live will help us better understand God’s teachings and appreciate the lessons the Lord shares with us.
Another thing to be mindful of is what we are sowing (metaphorically speaking). The things we do and the choices we make sow different things; These can grow to be seeds or weeds. Seeds will allow us to reap good, plentiful things, while weeds will only lead to harmful outcomes that choke out the good seeds. We must be wary, especially during Lent, of how our actions will impact our futures and the futures of those around us. This will lead us to a life more similar to Jesus’, enriching the life around us.
The final week of February focused solely on the Lenten season! We focused on the 40 days after Jesus’ baptism, when He was sent into the wilderness to pray and fast. We know he was also tempted by the Devil, as we all are. The 40 days Jesus spent focused on only God are symbolic of the 40 days of Lent. We, too, are called to be intentional and focused on God at this time. Similar to Jesus’ fasting and giving up his life, many of us will sacrifice something during Lent. This season can look like anything from giving up something or being intentional in other ways to simply praying more. Regardless of what you do, make sure to keep your faith at the front of your mind as we continue on towards the crucifixion.