Written by Bill Grandi on March 24th, 2026
You are not good enough for the cross, but the cross was good enough for you. (Feels Like Home- Eclov-p.73)
In preparation for a series I plan to do in September and October, I am rereading Feels Like Home by retired pastor, Lee Eclov. Around 2 years ago I preached a similar series surrounding our 20th anniversary as a church fellowship. As we stand on the verge of moving into our new addition (still at least a few months down the road), and our 22nd anniversary to be celebrated in October, I have some concerns. I’m not concerned, frankly, about a doctrinal drift. We are pretty solid in our beliefs of those things which are essential. I’m not concerned about our worship becoming more of a production and concert. No light shows or spotlights here. My concern is, perhaps, more of a personal one. With the added space and expanded facility possibilities, my biggest concern is losing the closeness we have. To put it bluntly, to lose the “family” and “this feels like home” outlook.
Hence, the emphasis this fall, and the reason for me rereading the book that sort of started it all for me over 2 years ago. My personality has always been more of a shepherd. Not a CEO. It deeply concerns me that with the new space, and hopefully new people who come because of the church’s ministry and “welcome home” approach, we will lose sight of what made us what we are today. Or maybe I should say WHO made us what we are today. I make no apologies for believing in and preaching GRACE a lot. That allows us to open our doors to all sorts of people. But just preaching grace is not a guarantee of success. People are messy and some just will not turn out like we had hoped. Their life will not be changed as we (or they) had desired. But that is no reason to stop preaching and talking about and offering grace.
With God’s strength, I will never do that. I agree with what Gordon MacDonald once wrote:
The world can do almost anything as well as or better than the church. You need not be a Christian to build houses, feed the hungry, or heal the sick. There is only one thing the world cannot do. It cannot offer grace. (Feels Like Home-p.75)
As long as God gives me breath, I never want to stop talking about “Amazing grace, how sweet the sound.” After all, “I am not good enough for the cross, but the cross was good enough for me.”
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Tags: Christian Living, Church, God's Plan, Grace, Leadership, Ministry, Opinion, Reflection
Written by Bill Grandi on March 23rd, 2026
Life has a funny way of reminding you that life is mercurial.
From something as huge as “I didn’t see that coming,” to something as small as “I had planned a small sabbatical from writing but something changed that.” I find myself this morning in the latter. Let me explain. This past weekend was supposed to include a trip to PA to celebrate my brother’s 50th year in the ministry. Then I was invited to an adoption of a young girl into her forever family. Today. Monday, March 23. Zara will become Gwendolyn today (her name choice). This family has adopted two others recently and I have been able to be a part of that celebration. I couldn’t miss this one! This family has 3 biological children of their own and this will make 10 (currently) in their family of adoption and fostering. They have had others down through the years. Long story short, due to the amount of travel which would be required and long hours on the road on Sunday, I changed my plans. 50 years in the ministry is nothing to shake a stick at for sure. Mine went by quietly several years ago.
Well…that’s an explanation I’m not sure you wanted to hear. But what I learned over the weekend in my reading is what I really want to share. My change of plans slowed me down some, enough to read the following and to “listen” to what was being said. From Journey to the Cross by Paul David Tripp I read the following (different passages are separated by dotted lines):
The story of Jesus guarantees how your story will end…In our smallness, we wonder if our lives will turn out the way we hoped and dreamed…No, you won’t get much of what you hoped for and probably few of your dreams. But…what you will get as God’s child is way better than anything you could’ve hoped for and incomparably better than your brightest dream…God doesn’t guarantee you’ll get your temporary dream; what he guarantees you is forever….In fact, because of the grace of Jesus, the end of your story is that it has no end! {Pages 189-192}
This coming Sunday is traditionally called Palm Sunday. It begins the “wind down” to the final week of Jesus’ life on earth. That final week is one for the ages, culminating in His death and ultimate resurrection. All of it backs up what Tripp wrote about: the end of our story has no end. The resurrection proved that.
I hadn’t planned on posting today, but after reading that this weekend, how could I not? Jesus Won. We Win. Does it get much better than that? I think not.
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Tags: Christian Living, Death, Dreams, God's Plan, Jesus, Opinion, Reflection, Resurrection, Story, Victory
Written by Bill Grandi on March 19th, 2026
Time for a break.
A much-needed break.
I was supposed to go to PA to celebrate my brother, Rob’s, 50 years in the ministry this weekend. However, his wife did not want us to come to the house until noon on Saturday so it would be a surprise. That seemed to be a little odd for my timing, but I could have made it work.
BUT THEN! I got an invitation to take part in and witness the adoption of Zara, who has been a foster child of a couple in the church. Gavin and Jenna have 3 biological children of their own and began fostering (and adopting) before I met them. In fact, my first real exposure to their unique family was the dedication of one of their special needs foster children. Gigi was and is special. Since then, I have been able to witness 2 of the adoptions. Jenna invited me to Zara’s adoption (she will take the name Gwendolyn) on Monday morning at 9:30. This will make 10. I love my brother and celebrate his achievement, BUT this wins! Monday morning I will be at the adoption. The turnaround for the celebration and making it home for the adoption would have taken a superhero (which I am no longer one of). 🙂 🙂
Why do I say all that? Well, one of our elders, Tom, had already agreed to preach for me, so I am taking Jo to Ohio so we can see Janna, Mike, Braden and Cameron. We didn’t think we would get to see Braden and Cameron since they are gone all week to a Young Life retreat, but Janna told us they would be home in time for a Saturday night meal. So we will be making our way to Ohio today and coming home Sunday afternoon.
A change of plans for Zara/Gwendolyn and Gavin and Jenna is worth it!
All that to say…I won’t be posting again until Monday or Tuesday. I would appreciate your prayers for a safe trip.
Posted in InTheShadow | 6 Responses »
Tags: Adoption, Being a pastor, Friendship, God's Plan, Love, Ministry, Miscellaneous, Opinion, Reflection, Story
Written by Bill Grandi on March 18th, 2026
I know a family whom I love a lot. They used to attend the church I pastor until they moved 30-45 minutes away and now attend a church in their town. Jo & I still get together with the parents as often as we can for a meal. We have also attended church with them several times when I just needed a Sunday away. They have a daughter. I’ll call her Aleah (because that is her real name). 🙂 Aleah’s dream has been to have enough books (1000) to be designated a home library. I have supplied her with some books in the past, but yesterday I put together 3 boxes =108 books. That gave her an official total of 1006 books. She has now reached home library status!
I know. That means absolutely nothing to you, but I do have a point in this. While putting together this last batch of books (which also included one of my reader’s, Martha’s set of 6 wonderful books), I ran across a sheet of paper stuck in one of the books. This paper had a few random quotes from a book entitled The Dark Between Stars by Atticus. Honestly, I have no clue where those came from or who Atticus is. But that is not important. The quotes struck me and tell me there was a reason I wrote them down years ago.
Don’t waste any more tomorrows on someone who wastes your today’s.
Man, ain’t that the truth? It goes without saying that we are known, very often, by the company we keep. And sometimes that company is nothing more than a drain on us-emotionally, physically, socially, and yes even, financially. Choose wisely whom you choose to spend your days with. Let those whom you do enrich your life and not drag it down.
Too many die with a brush in their hands, a heart full of colors, and a lifetime of empty canvases.
How often have you said or heard, “If only I had…” I have had people tell me, “I wish I had not wasted my time on this or that, but had done more of what I enjoyed.” I don’t want to be one of those people who have regrets at the end of their life with an empty canvas.
You weren’t given wings to see the world from a tree.
To many people live their life in chains, or at least with a collar around their neck or foot. Eagles, and birds like them, were meant to fly, not be in a cage or tied down. Neither are people. Especially followers of Jesus. He once said, “I have come to give life and to give it abundantly.”
I searched and found the book on Amazon. If you are interested in reading more, I would suggest that approach. Meanwhile, if you have books for my young friend for her library, contact me and I will connect you with her.
Posted in InTheShadow | 8 Responses »
Tags: Christian Living, Friendship, Home library, Leadership, Lifestyle, Miscellaneous, Opinion, Quotes, Reflection, Story
Written by Bill Grandi on March 17th, 2026
How great is our God, sing with me/How great is our God/And all will see, how great how great is our God
Those words of a song written by Chris Tomlin, Jesse Reeves and Ed Cash and recorded by Chris Tomlin in 2004 is still as popular today (maybe more) as it was when first released. That song came to mind this morning as I was reading Psalm 145. I’d like to encourage you to stop and read it on your own, but here are a few reasons why that song came to mind and why our God is so great.
1. No one can measure his greatness. (Verse 3)
2. He is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all his creation. (Verses 8-9)
3. He keeps His promises; and is gracious in all He does. (Verse 13)
4. He is righteous in all He does; He is filled with kindness. (Verse 17)
The real truth is found in #1: no one can measure His greatness. I picked just 4 out of this chapter. I’m sure you could find more. But in reality, no one can measure His greatness. Go ahead and try.
Prepare to have your mind blown.
Posted in InTheShadow | 8 Responses »
Tags: God, God's attributes, God's Character, Reflection, Scripture look
Written by Bill Grandi on March 16th, 2026
Nothing is as sickening as being with someone or working with someone who always wants the credit.
Yesterday, in a rare moment of (in)sanity, I was watching a TV show with Jo. I am not a watcher of TV, but since I had had a long day and wanted to spend a little time with her, I stayed in the living room with her after getting home from the office. This show featured a character who twice took credit or the lead without giving credit where credit was due or waiting for his coworker. I thought the first time was bad enough, but the second? WOW! But the real crux of the matter was when the second person (who was in charge) pointed out to him that he was wrong. His response was not to apologize but to say, “Well, you know what I want.” Her response? “Yes, I know what you want.” (He wanted position and power).
I have to admit I was a little sickened by his actions. I realize it is just TV but I have seen too much of that in real life to know it is not just fake TV.
Then I read something this morning that turned my thoughts in a whole ‘nother direction. The plaque reads,
“I am thankful to God for His goodness in permitting me to have a part in building this broad thoroughfare as a frame to the beautiful picture which He created.”
Never heard of it before? Neither had I. The inscription is attributed to highway engineer Samuel Christopher Lancaster in 1915. It stands at a beautiful scenic outlook on the highway he designed, a road that takes drivers along the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge with forests, waterfalls, and rocky cliffs. {Story from Our Daily Bread-March 16}
As I read that my mind flashed back to the TV show I referenced earlier. What a difference of views presented. One, looking out for himself and willing to take credit that is not his to take. The second, the creator of a magnificent highway, but was willing to acknowledge the real Creator. One I would not want to be around for very long. The other a man I would like to meet.
The ultimate final question is obvious: Which one am I? {Total disclosure: I can be both} Which one are you?
Posted in InTheShadow | 6 Responses »
Tags: Arrogance, Christian Living, Humility, Leadership, Lifestyle, Mercy, Ministry, Opinion, Pride, Reflection, Story
Written by Bill Grandi on March 13th, 2026
People on death row are interesting. Some spend their final hours reading their Bible (or maybe the Koran). Others spend their time talking to spiritual advisors. Some write letters to family and friends. Some hardened by their crimes, sit (and die) defiantly awaiting their final call.
In Gethsemane we follow a man who knew His death was imminent. He spent those final moments with 3 of His closest friends (who fell asleep on Him) and crying out to His Father for relief and submission.
What would you do if you knew your death was imminent? Not the “I know I am going to die someday” type of imminent, but the “I am going to die and it is going to be really, really soon” type of imminent. The scene in the Garden in the precursor of all that is to come and Jesus knew it. His response is “human,” His actions and words “divine.” They show us He knew what He was going to face, but still went anyway. My purpose for this week’s message is to show how deep His love for us was, even though His life was full of sorrow at that moment.
I invite you to join us in person or via live stream at 9 and 10:45. You can access the live stream at YouTube (Owen Valley Christian Fellowship) or on our Facebook page (Owen Valley Christian Fellowship-Spencer, IN). I would be honored if you would join us.
Posted in InTheShadow | 2 Responses »
Tags: Jesus, Opinion, Reflection, Sermon Series, Suffering, Surrender
Written by Bill Grandi on March 12th, 2026
First a disclaimer: I had originally intended to post this yesterday but changed my mind when I got to the office and realized the significance of the day. (See yesterday’s entry on LivingintheShadow here). Now for today’s devotion.
Imagine coming up to someone and seeing stuff coming out of their ear or their nose that looked like pizza. So, even though you are shocked to the core, you ask, “What is that coming out of your ear and nose?” You are even more dumbfounded when the person says, “Oh, that’s my supper. I had pizza.” By now you would be thinking that person needs some serious help. Since when do you eat with your ear or nose? Not even newborns do that! They take their bottle or their mother’s milk IN THE MOUTH not the ear or nose. How silly to think that a grown person would change to eat from their ear or nose. Yep…they need help. Our tastes may change but the way we eat doesn’t (except in medical cases).
Consider then as you read the Bible:
- “Taste and see that the Lord is good.” (Ps. 34:8)
- “Man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.”(Deut. 8:3 and Mt. 4:4)
- “After having tasted the goodness of God.”(Heb. 6:5)
- “Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk…now that you have had a taste of the Lord’s kindness.”(I Peter 2:2-3)
What is sadly interesting is how often we (and others) settle for less than the best. Instead of feasting on God’s Word and His truth, we listen to the gobbledygook of the world. We spend more time scrolling our news feeds than being in the Word. (My hand is raised although I’m trying to change that with a hard-not political-right turn). The table of Jesus, which I am invited to feast from, is filled with food far more satisfying, more long-lasting, and far more fulfilling. Like some good salmon, the more I taste the more I want.
How are your taste buds these days?
Posted in InTheShadow | 6 Responses »
Tags: Bible/Scripture, Choices, Christian Living, God's Word, Opinion, Quiet Time, Reading the Bible, Reflection, Scripture look, Story
Written by Bill Grandi on March 11th, 2026
It is sort of a sad day ahead for me.
I am not writing that for sympathy. Nothing drastic has happened (that I know of). Let me explain.
I love to read. I get teased often for the number of books in my office, shelves filled with books laying sideways on top of other books because I lack bookshelf space. I do have a small office compared to many pastors, but it was small when I moved into it 16 years ago. Over the years I have bought books and have over-filled my shelves. I have given a ton of books away to other ministries and even Goodwill. I have even given some of my books away to two young ladies who were trying to get 1000 books, which officially makes them a library. 🙂 All that to say again: I love to read.
If I have a chance to encourage that in others, especially young people, I will jump at the chance. Enter the third grade classes from two of our schools. At one of the schools, 3rd grade is taught by Ashley, a young lady from the church I pastor. I had read to her class when they were in Kindergarten and when I went to visit her, the kids yelled out, “Hi Mr. Bill!” It had been three years since I had read to them and they remembered. So a plan began to form in my head and I approached Ashley about it. That plan included reading The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (TLWW). I worked it out with her and Kris, the principal (who also attends the church), for me to read one week; Ashley reads one week; and Kris reads the next. I would then come back on Week #4 and read the 4th chapter…and so on. It was a hit! Sadly, today is the final chapter of the book. I was also able to purchase a few small mementos of lions (a key chain for their backpacks, a small resin lion, and a beanie baby lion which a local merchant found in storage…over 70+). Since Aslan is the main character I wanted them to remember him.
To fortify that, I also approached a teacher from one of the other schools and proposed the same idea. I had read The Energy Bus for Kids to her class just before Christmas and they loved it! So Kristine approached the 2 other 3rd grade teachers and they agreed. So I read Chapter 1 and during the same week they read chapters 2 & 3. The next week I read chapter 4 and they read chapters 5 & 6. Last week I finished reading chapter 17 and they were also given the same mementos.
So today is a sad…but glad day. I complete my reading of TLWW. Sad for me because I will miss the kids. But glad if they caught a wisp of the love of reading.
Posted in InTheShadow | 6 Responses »
Tags: Leadership, Love of reading, Miscellaneous, Opinion, Reflection, Story
Written by Bill Grandi on March 10th, 2026
“It is impossible to excuse, deny, or minimize your sin without telling yourself that you do not need the grace of God.” (Journey to the Cross-Tripp-p.121)
As I continue making my way on a daily basis through Journey to the Cross by Paul David Tripp, I keep reading gems like the one above. Trying to bring my focus to the cross and resurrection during this season has been beneficial to my spiritual life. If nothing else, it is showing me how lax I have been. I know that may sound strange coming from a pastor, but we are only humans and therefore subject to the same foibles others have. Today’s devotion was on what we do with our sin when we come to the realization of it in our lives. I am a big proponent of grace, but not grace at the avoidance of guilt and sin. Let me explain using his four thoughts on what to do with our sin.
1. Excuse it. One of the hardest things to do is to admit we are wrong. I have heard often the words, “Well, if only they hadn’t….” “If only she hadn’t dressed so provocatively.” “If only he hadn’t been so insulting.” So we try to justify our sin by seeking to excuse it. We need to acknowledge our need for God’s grace.
2. Deny it. “Who me? I didn’t do that.” Denial, in my mind, is a “cheat” mechanism. I can justify what I have done by simply saying, “Not me.” Denying our sin short circuits our relationship with God and with each other. Nothing good ever comes out of denial.
3. Minimize it. “But my sin is not as bad as so-and-so.” Or we might speak about how it could have been worse if I had gone ballistic like I wanted to. Another side of this is when we minimize the result. “Well, it could have been worse if I had really taken a different approach.”
4. Confess it. Being blunt: this is the only and best option for the Christ-follower. Becoming more like Jesus means being honest with ourselves before Him. Realizing our sin is a reproach to His holiness. Heartfelt confession means you take responsibility and accountability for what you said or did. Not passing the buck. Not denying it. Not minimizing it. No shifting the blame. The finger is pointed at the face in the mirror.
As you face your sin, especially as we get closer and closer to Good Friday and the crucifixion, be honest with God and with yourself. I’m looking hard into the mirror myself.
Posted in InTheShadow | 4 Responses »
Tags: Choices, Christian Living, Confession, Forgiveness, God's Plan, Grace, Humility, Jesus, Opinion, Prayer, Reflection, Sin, Story, Surrender
