My parents have always held missions in high regard and the importance of spreading the gospel around the globe. In my growing up years, stories were read, principles taught, pennies were saved, and prayers were offered. Not only did Dad and Mom teach it, they lived it by leading countless domestic and international short-term mission trips. I had the privilege of participating in some of those. They even served as volunteer missionaries for one year in Israel. I am blessed by such a heritage.
After marrying Laurie, I discovered that her family had much the same heart for missionaries and their ministries. They often had missionaries in their home and supported them faithfully. Later in our life, it was a joy to see our youngest daughter, Becca, develop a heart for missions while participating in short- term trips with my parents. Post high school, she then launched out as a missionary for five years with Youth With A Mission. So, you see, supporting missions truly is a family affair.
Not only is it a family affair for me but a Grace family affair as well. Prior to founding Grace Church, Dr. Charles Davis and his family served many years as overseas missionaries. He led the church to weave into its very foundation the importance of missions and evangelism—among other things. Grace enjoys a rich history of not only holding mission efforts in high regard but generously supporting those from our congregation who have followed the call of God into full-time missions.
Did you know that of our 20 Grace Mission Partners, 17 have either been members of Grace or have had a close association with a Grace member? The other three—Youth for Christ, Sav-A-Life, and Love INC—are local ministries Grace has adopted as “one of us.” So, you see, supporting missions truly is a Grace Church family affair. May it ever be so!
— Tim Thomassian