July 14, 2025

Hello, Beloved!

We all need healthy relationships. That’s not reserved for special seasons or moments of crisis—it’s a daily requirement. We’re created for connection. Most days, we get by with the ordinary—small talk over coffee, a smile in the hallway, a kind word at just the right moment. But I think we’d all agree there are times when that need becomes more intense—when the ache for support, presence, and community rises to the surface; the need for love and presence and community isn’t just stronger; it’s urgent. One thing is sure, whether it’s good times or challenging: the Father gives us the desire to experience the beauty and power of love in meaningful and essential relationships. A Kingdom family is not something we find as much as we become. Healthy relationships grow when we sow the right seeds into one another—intentionally, consistently, and lovingly. 

It’s important to remember that we are sowing, planting, and receiving seeds to help us become a church filled with healthy families and relationships. 1 Corinthians 3 reminds us that we are fellow-workers with the Father and God’s field, receiving and giving to others. Living a life that regularly expresses the gifts given to us by the Father, Son, and Spirit is one way we sow and plant seeds. Our basis for doing so is love. Our love must be sincere. It’s the most excellent way. Living this way means we speak the truth in love, are kind and compassionate, and quickly forgive others.

The Trinity gives us three seed packages: Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12, and Ephesians 4. Let me list them for you. 

1. Motivational Gifts (Romans 12:6-8) — This is what the Father does in you. These gifts energize us and help us understand what and how we contribute to each other.

2. Manifestation Gifts (1 Corinthians 12:7-10) - This is what the Holy Spirit does through you. The Spirit gives these gifts as He wills. His purpose is to strengthen others and help them experience the prevailing reality of God’s kingdom.

3. Ministry Gifts (Ephesians 4:11): This is what Jesus does with you for the benefit of the church. Jesus gives these gifts to the church to help it mature and unite. 

Every one of us carries spiritual seeds—unique gifts from God—that are meant to be planted in the soil of each other’s lives. These seeds might look like encouragement, serving, healing, discernment, or teaching. Still, the goal is always the same: the flourishing of the body of Christ. So here’s the invitation: Be a sower, a planter. Don’t wait for a platform—look for a person. Ask God, “Whose heart soil are You sending me to today?” Then plant something. Plant hope. Plant truth. Plant peace. Plant joy.

May the Lord and His peace be upon you!

GATEWAY EVENTS: Click here.

WHERE TO ENGAGE:

CHURCH FINANCIAL REPORT:

Giving Report:  (*weekly income needed $22,500)

  • July 6: $18,591.17

  • July 13: Financial Office Closed

  • July 20:

  • July 27:

    Greater Things YTD 2025: $41,473.74

    Current Mortgage Balance: $401,118.66

To learn more about Greater Things and participate, click here. 

Stay hopeful and healthy. I look forward to seeing you soon.

Transforming Lives Together,

Lance Bane
Lead Pastor
Phone: 203-934-0880
Email: office@yourgateway.com