Pastor Stephen E. Sweet was ordained at Grace Lutheran Church.

The year 2009, though difficult and challenging, was still filled with many blessings, new opportunities, and success.  Grace remains a strong mission field and continues to bring the "good news" to so many, in so many places and circumstances.  As we begin the new year I remain excited and commited to grow the church and to explore new and wonderful tasks and ministries.  It is my prayer that each one of you will join me and the rest of our family in these blessed times!

In 2008, the finance committee and the council expressed their concerns of possible financial conditions that could affect the church budget for the upcoming year 2009. It was decided to make as many cuts as we could, but to present a budget that would address the needs and the missions of the church, and then, if necessary, we had an alternate plan that would require some very hard and drastic cuts. Well, at year's end we did meet that challenge and we did it together. Looking back, I realize, in some sense, that first budget was a faith budget. The leaders of our church believed (had faith), that together, and with the spirit of our Lord, this church would come through and we did. In fact, in very good shape! What this year has taught me, no matter what the task ahead of us is, it will never be greater than the power behind us.

This year's financial budget will again present another challenge! Our leaders have worked very hard and will present a very prayerful, thought-out action plan to accomplish once again the needs and missions of Grace. I, however, want to address another budget for the year 2010. It is a "time budget." Time, like money, is also valuable. Like money, it always seems that there is never enough of it to go around. Our church continues to grow year after year, with many new ministries, more needs, and numerous challenges that require many hands to get the job done. Yes, time is very valuable, but if each of us commit just a little time each month, not only will everything get done, but we won't overburden the few who continue to work so hard. Each one of us must get involved to have an impact. No one is impressed with the won-lost record of the referee. Each of us has to be a player - God is counting on us!

There are many churches today that are "out to lunch" when it comes to reaching out to change the world or getting involved. Fortunately, our church continues to be very active and involved with our family, in the neighborhood, and in the world. The reason - many of our church members are seeking various ways they can offer their talent, and yes, their time, in order to make a difference in the world through their church. The wonderful work that we do here gives so many a reason to believe in the future.

As long as there are disciples who continue to give just a little of God's time back (it really isn't our time) then there will always be hope for the world. The question you and I need to ask ourselves is, are we doing our part? This is a crazy world, but it is also a God-invaded world. "The Word has become flesh and dwelt among us." Christ, himself, has redeemed us that we might work in his behalf to redeem the world.

Take the time and fill out that time and talent sheet! Then all together, we too can continue to make a difference in so many lives. With the power of God all things are possible! What do you say, let's make it happen!