Hello everyone! It is Fall.  I love this time of year because so much outside changes. Have you noticed all the leaves changing colors? It seems like every venture outdoors is full of surprises as we see God’s artistry in the natural world. It is especially beautiful when a gust of wind comes along and causes a mass of leaves to float gently to the ground. But fall also brings rain. Mud. Puddles. Increased stopping distances and treacherous driving. 

I’ve noticed that in life we have a choice. To pay attention to what is beautiful and encouraging, or pay attention to what is ugly and disappointing. I’ve also noticed that when I take the time to recount what I am grateful for and give thanks, my attitude changes. I feel better about life. And I also feel closer to the Lord. In fact, the Bible tells us that this is what God really wants for us! “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

This month we are going to focus on what we are grateful for, and we need your help! In the foyer is a box and cards for you to share what you are thankful for. Put in as many as you would like! Let’s fill it up! Also, feel free to leave a comment below regarding what you are thankful for! During the service each Sabbath we will share these notes of thanksgiving to be encouraged by God’s many blessings.

​It’s Spring! Sunshine, budding plants and singing birds are bringing joy to our lives. Just like a year ago, I’m missing our annual Easter production, Follow the Lamb. This time last year we were entering a time of lockdown, fear, and uncertainty. Much like the disciples after the crucifixion. But now, with the pandemic waning, momentum is beginning to increase as we are entering a new season of church life. 

When Jesus rose from the grave, it changed everything. New life was breathed into the movement which came to be known as Christianity. This was all due to the unstoppable power of the Gospel—the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. That powerful gospel is just as true today as it was 2000 years ago, when the resurrection news changed lives and grew the church. 

Consider today that Jesus is breathing new life into His church in Gladstone. Life that transforms hearts and launches us into mission. Life that brings us together and send us out. What does the good news of the gospel do to your life? What should it mean for church life? Let’s seek the resurrected Lord’s will, and anticipate good things from Him in this new season!

Nate Hellman
Pastor
Gladstone Park Seventh-day Adventist Church

​I’m thankful.

I’m thankful for the honor and privilege of being your Gladstone Park pastor. To be able to journey with you and see your relationships with Jesus deepen, the risks you take in reaching others for Him, experiencing the major events of your lives together, and in seeing the warmth and Christian love present in our church through you is such a tremendous blessing. 

I’m thankful for your support of Emily and me and the kids. Your graciousness and encouragement in my children’s growth, and seeing you doing the same for young parents is a huge blessing as well. Thank you. 

I’m thankful that you have caught the vision of “Connecting with Jesus, Connecting with people, Connecting people with Jesus.” I see how you make that a reality in your lives. I’m thankful for the excitement you have expressed in our focus in “Growing Together,” an initiative where we are wanting to see all generations served well and serving well. Thank you that a young adult guest said “this feels like family,” when they come to visit on Sabbath. 

There is so much for us to give thanks for. Let us remember in this season to count our blessings, and give thanks to the God from whom all blessings flow. Let’s especially be thankful for the gospel of Jesus Christ. That God provided to us the Lamb, the Covenant Son, and the Savior in Jesus.

Over the next month I am challenging myself to express one thing I am thankful for each day on social media or to others. I invite you to do the same. Let’s keep our church warm with Jesus’ love as the days get colder!

God bless!

Pastor Nate Hellman