Scott and Joci
We have seen God's work in our lives in many ways since coming to Grace Church seven years ago. We first heard about the church when we lived in Connecticut through Joci's sister, Leslie Wilson, who sent us sermon tapes. As we listened to the tapes, we were struck by the messages on "Conflict Resolution," messages that centered on Biblical principles and a strong emphasis on the Gospel. We started to see our marriage struggles change as we began to look at our own sin more than our spouse's sin. Although I (Scott) am very competitive, I learned that in a fight, "the first one to the Cross wins."
Both of us have also seen God continuing to change our view of the local church. For many years we had focused on how our own needs could be met as church "consumers." Now we've grown to appreciate what a privilege it is to serve our glorious Savior and His people. As a result, our love and passion for the local church has increased.
God has blessed us in so many ways through the body of Christ here at Grace Church. This was especially true during Joci's pregnancy with our twin daughters, Isabella and Sophia. At first, people supported us with prayer as we struggled with infertility. Then, when Joci finally did conceive, it was a very difficult pregnancy, with lots of nausea, bleeding complications requiring hospitalization, and "panic attacks." As a result, we were put into a position of needing to ask for help for many of our practical needs. During a long period of several months, people sacrificed their time, energy and resources to care for our needs. Women from the church sacrificed many hours out of their own busy schedules to minister God's comfort and care to Joci in both spiritual and practical ways. At all hours of the day and night, she called women when she was struggling with fear and anxiety, and at a moment's notice they would take time to pray for her. Several women also came to the hospital to read Scripture to her, teach her how to crochet, give her a massage or just sit by her side.
As Joci reflects on this difficult time, she shudders at the thought of "imposing" on people like that. But, at the same time, she can't help but be overwhelmed with gratitude for how God showed us both His love and provided us with sustaining grace during that time. Through this experience, God worked in her heart by revealing the sin of pride and self-sufficiency.
Just prior to this trial, we had heard sermons about the importance of the body of Christ. What a timely provision from the Lord! We often tell each other how we could not imagine going through that trial without the support and care of the people at Grace Church. During our biggest trial in life, we learned the depth of God's faithfulness to His children.
