Pastor's Perspective: Hold on to Freedom

Dear Calvary Family,
The gospel has been bringing people out of bondage and into freedom for over 2,000 years. However, this week’s sobering passage in Galatians 2 addresses the danger of drifting from freedom back into bondage. This kind of bondage is subtle—disguised in the noble pursuit of keeping the law, which is good. The desire to fit in is powerful, but striving to please others can quickly lead to hypocrisy. Even the great apostles wrestled with the bondage of legalism. But today, we hold the key to true freedom: grace!

Grace is still misunderstood or even rejected by many believers. Our tendency to elevate ourselves can hinder our ability to receive this gift. We long for self-approval, recognition, and credit—so we nullify the sweetest of all gifts. We try again and again, striving harder, faking it here and there, hoping somehow to gain approval, perhaps even acceptance. But is there a better way to live? Indeed, there is: grace! Pursue the high road, made possible through death, and soar to new heights by faith. “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me” (Galatians 2:20). What a powerful truth—we should all be on the edge of our seats for this Sunday’s study of the living Word of God!

Help us educate the next generation:

• VBS is fast approaching! Are you helping with the preparations? Have you registered your children? Have you spread the word to others?
• Training Disciples for Christ (TDFC): CCF is preparing for a new season of support and encouragement for homeschooling families. This Sunday, you’ll hear from the Pepins about updates from last season and exciting new opportunities for your involvement!
• You can do it! We need teachers and helpers for our weekly Wednesday evening and Sunday morning Children’s Ministry. One of the most fruitful ministries at CCF is our ministry to children—we had 71 children here last Sunday! The Holy Spirit is moving powerfully through our Sunday morning, Wednesday evening, and Tuesday morning GLOW discipleship programs. Could you commit to serving at least once a month? The pay is incredible :) — it’s eternal.

See you on Sunday!
Pastor Marv