Resting in the Father

Church family,

This week, my daily Scripture readings had me in the book of Mark. Mark is one of my favorite books. It reads like the CliffsNotes version of the Gospels, and it seems like everything happens “immediately.” But this week, what stood out to me was a moment when Jesus slowed down.

In Mark 1:35, we read, “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he got up, went out, and made his way to a deserted place; and there he was praying.” In the next verse, his disciples are searching for him. There were people to help and plenty of work waiting, yet Jesus made room to be alone with his Father.

Jesus had a lot to accomplish during his earthly ministry, but he made time for solitude and prayer. Time with his Father was a place of rest, renewal, and direction for the mission ahead.

This matters for all of us who follow Jesus. As we heard this morning in the sermon, we are called to be partners, not just attenders. But our partnership depends on resting in the Father and trusting his work in and through us. I needed that reminder this week more than anyone.

Many of our children are out of school this week for fall break, and some of you may be fortunate enough to sneak away to the beach or mountains for a few days. As you give your body a chance to rest, make room for your soul to rest in the presence of our good Father too. And if your work schedule hasn’t changed, you can still find a few quiet minutes to pull away and be with him.

As you spend time with him this week, ask where he is calling you to partner with him and Church at the Grove in this next season of ministry. Then be willing to take the next step he puts in front of you.

There is no greater joy than partnering with our heavenly Father in what he is doing in our community and around the world. That partnership begins long before our hands get to work. It begins as we find our rest in him.

Events & Opportunities

• Kids Grove Waffle Sunday | Sunday, 2026-10-25. Kids will enjoy waffles during the service at both campuses. Bring your kids and invite another family to join you!
• Covenant Family Membership Gathering | Saturday, 2026-11-14T17:30:00.000-05:00. If you are considering making Church at the Grove your church home, this gathering is for you. Learn more about becoming a Covenant Family member and register here. Additional details are on the registration page.

Would you pray with me this week?

• Our community group ministry. We have many groups that are thriving, along with some that are struggling to get started. Pray for our leaders and for more people to engage in community.
• Our search for a Social Circle student pastor. We have had good conversations with a candidate and are hopeful that the Lord is working. Continue praying for wisdom, discernment, and his leading.
• Opportunities to serve people in and coming out of jail. The Lord is opening doors for us to serve people incarcerated in the Walton County jail, as well as people who have recently been released. Pray for wisdom and clarity about our next steps.

Resource to Consider

Speaking of prisons, I came across this worship session from God Behind Bars and found myself worshiping along with it this week. Take a few minutes to listen and worship with them.

Watch the God Behind Bars worship session

Grateful for you

Nathan