This past weekend we celebrated 120 years of Grace.  The ministry of this historic congregation was on full display, not only in the artifacts and pictures shown, but in the stories and memories stirred up and the relationships renewed.  If you have a chance, check out the videos available on YouTube and pictures on our Facebook. 

During the Homecoming worship service, Dr. Elijah Stansell preached.  Not only did he bring a good word, but a challenge.  What must Grace do differently to ensure another 12 decades?  It is good to celebrate all that we have inherited.  To mark the work of our ancestors to build this small outpost of the kingdom in the Heights.  Yet, as he noted, what they did was good for its time, but the world changes continuously around us.  We must be prepared to change with it. 

I don't have to convince you that the Heights have changed.  Just in the last decade, the landscape of the neighborhood has altered.  New larger homes, more restaurants and bars.  Long time residents have moved away, and a wave of young professionals have moved in.  It never fails, when I am talking to someone returning to the heights after 10 or even 5 years away, that they remark on how much has changed. 

So, Dr. Stansell's question is poignant and timely.  What must Grace do differently to ensure another 12 decades?  Some change is inevitable as we say goodbye to one pastor and prepare to welcome a new one.  But this question begs for something more intentional.  Not change that happens to us, but change we initiate for the good of the neighborhood and the kingdom. 

Looking at the past of Grace, it is clear, this is not a church that fears change.  Rather as a congregation we have often embraced new experiments and new forms of discipleship when it was necessary.  We've had multiple worship communities including Spanish language worship.  We've fed our neighbors with and without the support of the Food Bank.  We have done Wine and the Word, Gastrochurch, and Brunch Church.  We've done Messy church, and prayer stations, and combined worship with our neighbors.  We have been a place of experimentation and that legacy will serve us well for the future. 

I wonder what thoughts and dreams stirred for you when Dr. Stansell issued his challenge.  What must Grace do differently to ensure another 12 decades?  Did a wondering or an idea come to mind? At Grace we talk about a Legacy for the Future.  It’s one of our core values.  Our past has taught us much and built a platform from which we can now launch into a new season.  What will you make of the next 12 decades?