The next 50 years of our denomination’s life ought to show how good we are at letting go of old things.

Even when we have reason to doubt our own abilities, we are called to put our faith in God.

God’s grace frees us from having to earn his acceptance by meeting others’ expectations.

It’s complicated. And it’s an all-encompassing task — one that glorifies and honors our Savior, even  as it advances His kingdom.

Without sacrificing one iota of his glory, God perfectly balances every measure of mercy and consequence.

Our Lord’s great mercy should rouse love to honor him all the more, making his glory our heart’s desire and our life’s song.

The pastoral letter closed by recommending continued study of the issue and by urging “a spirit of forbearance among those holding differing views regarding the spiritual gifts as they are experienced today.” 

When we live intentionally focused on heaven, we are propelled forward in loving Jesus and the world with missional lives.

Treating others with mercy and forgiveness is not merely for their good, but for our own blessing.

While we remain on earth, we get brief glimpses of what heaven will be that come with this assurance from the Holy Spirit.