Subject: A Time of Transition and a Warm Welcome to Pastor Sonny Williams

Dear Church Family,

Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

As my time serving as your interim pastor comes to an end, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for each of you. It has been an incredible honor to walk alongside this congregation, to worship together, to share in God’s Word, and to witness His faithfulness in our church.

During this season, I have seen God move in so many ways—through your faith, your prayers, your generosity, and your love for one another. Thank you for allowing me to serve, to teach, and to grow with you. Your support and encouragement have meant more to me than words can express.

As one chapter closes, another begins, and I am excited to welcome Pastor Sonny Williams as he steps into the role of lead pastor. I truly believe that God has called him for such a time as this, and that under his leadership, our church will continue to grow in faith, love, and mission. I encourage each of you to welcome him with open hearts and to pray for him as he begins this new journey with us.

Transitions can bring mixed emotions, but we know that God is always at work, leading us forward in His perfect plan. As Joshua 1:9 (NKJV) reminds us:

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."

I may be stepping away from this role, but my love and prayers for this church family remain steadfast. Thank you for allowing me to serve. Thank you for your kindness, your prayers, and your unwavering faith. May God bless you all as you continue His work, and may He guide Pastor Sonny as he leads with wisdom and grace.

With love and gratitude,
Bill Doane
Interim Pastor, Aspen Grove Church

 Dear Church Family,

Grace and peace to you all in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I pray this letter finds you well and that your hearts are full of His love and presence.

As we gather each week to worship, I want to take a moment to reflect on the importance of coming before the Lord with an open heart. Worship is not just about the songs we sing, the prayers we offer, or the sermons we hear—it’s about the posture of our hearts before God.

In Psalm 95:6-7, we are called, “Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker; for He is our God and we are the people of His pasture, the flock under His care.” This invitation isn’t just about physical posture but about a spiritual one—one of humility, surrender, and openness.

When we enter into worship with open hearts, we allow God to move in us and through us. We lay aside distractions, burdens, and preconceived notions, making room for the Holy Spirit to work. An open heart is a heart that is ready to receive, to be transformed, and to respond to God’s love and grace.

I encourage each of us to prepare our hearts before we come together—through prayer, reflection, and a willingness to be vulnerable before the Lord. Let’s come expecting God to speak, to heal, and to guide. Whether through music, Scripture, or fellowship, God meets us where we are when we come to Him with sincerity and openness.

Let’s be a church that embodies true worship—not just in our gatherings but in our daily lives. As Romans 12:1 urges us, “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”

May our worship be a reflection of our love for God and a testament to His goodness. Let’s open our hearts fully to Him and watch as He does immeasurably more than we could ask or imagine.

Blessings and love in Christ,

Bill

Faith Over Fear

Scripture: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)

Devotion:

Fear has a way of creeping into our lives, whether through uncertainty, challenges, or unexpected circumstances. It whispers lies that paralyze us, making us doubt God’s power and our ability to overcome. But as believers, we are reminded in 2 Timothy 1:7 that fear is not from God. Instead, He has given us power, love, and a sound mind.

When Peter walked on water toward Jesus (Matthew 14:29-31), he started strong, but as soon as he focused on the wind and waves, fear overtook him, and he began to sink. The same happens to us when we take our eyes off Christ. Fear distorts our vision and makes us forget who is in control.

But God calls us to stand in faith. The power He gives is not our own—it is His strength working through us. His love casts out fear (1 John 4:18), and with a sound mind, we can rest in the truth of His promises.

No matter what you face today, remember: fear may knock on the door, but faith answers. Trust in God’s power, walk in His love, and hold on to the peace of His presence.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that fear does not come from You. Help me to stand firm in Your power, rest in Your love, and walk in faith with a sound mind. When fear tries to creep in, let me fix my eyes on You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 Dear Beloved Church,

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I write to you today with a message of urgency, love, and reflection. As we examine the state of our hearts and our faith, I ask you to ponder this question: Are you on the Ark of Salvation?

The Ark of Noah: A Foreshadowing of Salvation

In Genesis 6, we read of a world filled with corruption and violence. Amid this darkness, God called Noah to build an ark—a vessel of salvation for him, his family, and the animals that would repopulate the earth. Noah, being a man of faith, obeyed God’s command, and when the floods came, he and his household were saved (Genesis 6:9-22; 7:1).

The ark was not just a wooden structure; it was a symbol of God’s provision and grace. Those who entered the ark were shielded from the judgment that fell upon the earth. Similarly, today, there is an ark of salvation provided for us through Jesus Christ. He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6), and through Him, we are saved from the judgment of sin.

The Call to Enter the Ark

Just as Noah invited others to enter the ark, God’s invitation to salvation remains open today. However, entering requires faith and obedience. Hebrews 11:7 reminds us of Noah’s example: “By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household.”

Jesus Christ is our ark. Through His death and resurrection, He has made a way for us to escape the floodwaters of sin and eternal separation from God. But the question remains: have you entered this ark? Have you placed your trust in Christ as your Savior and Lord?

The Signs of Being on the Ark

How can we know if we are on the ark of salvation? The Bible provides clear indicators:

1. Faith in Christ: Salvation begins with faith. “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8).

2. A Transformed Life: Those who are on the ark will exhibit a changed heart and life. Ezekiel 36:26 promises, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you.” Are you bearing the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)?

3. Obedience to God’s Word: Like Noah, we demonstrate our faith through obedience. Jesus said, “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15).

4. A Kingdom Perspective: Philippians 3:20 reminds us that our citizenship is in heaven. Are you living with an eternal perspective, investing in God’s Kingdom rather than the fleeting pursuits of this world?

The Urgency of the Call

Just as the door of Noah’s ark was eventually shut, the time for salvation is not indefinite. Jesus warned us in Matthew 24:37-39 that His return will be like the days of Noah. People were eating, drinking, and going about their lives, unaware until the flood came and took them away.

Beloved, do not delay. If you have not yet entered the ark of salvation, the time to do so is now. If you are already on the ark, share the message of hope with those around you. The invitation is open, but the day of judgment is approaching.

A Call to Action

Let us examine our hearts and lives. Are we truly living as those who are on the ark of salvation? Are we extending the invitation to others with urgency and love? Let us be like Noah, who not only obeyed God but also became a herald of righteousness (2 Peter 2:5).

As we walk in faith, may we cling to the promise of Hebrews 11:7, trusting in God’s provision and walking in His ways. The ark of salvation is secure in Christ, and those who enter will find safety, peace, and eternal life.

With love and prayers,

Bill Doane

 Dear Beloved Family in Christ,

Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I write to you today with a heart full of thanksgiving for the unfathomable love that God has poured out upon us. As we walk through this life, it is easy to become distracted by the challenges and trials we face, but I want to take a moment to remind us all of the profound and never-ending love that our Heavenly Father has for each of us.

Scripture tells us in 1 John 3:1, "Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!" The truth of this verse is both humbling and inspiring. God’s love for us is not based on our worth or actions, but it is freely given, abundant, and eternal. His love has the power to redeem, restore, and transform us into His image. It is a love that is not earned but is lavished upon us with grace and mercy.

We are not merely recipients of God's love but also His beloved children. The relationship we have with Him is a beautiful gift—one that brings us into an intimate connection with the Creator of the universe. In Christ, we are adopted into His family, and that truth should fill our hearts with joy and peace. His love is the foundation upon which we build our lives, and it is the strength that carries us through every season.

As we reflect on this incredible love, we are called to share it with others. God’s love is not meant to be kept to ourselves but to be spread generously to those around us. In a world that often feels broken and divided, we are called to be His vessels of love, extending kindness, grace, and compassion to those in need. Let us be a church that reflects the love of Christ in all we do—through our words, our actions, and our relationships.

In John 15:12, Jesus tells us, “This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” As we embrace this command, we reflect His love to the world. It is through our love for one another that the world will know we are His disciples.

Let us, therefore, rejoice in the love of God and live in it daily. Let us be quick to forgive, slow to anger, and generous in showing kindness. May we seek to be a church that not only believes in God’s love but lives out that love with purpose and passion. As we continue to grow together, may we remember that the love of God is the greatest force in the universe, and it is through His love that all things are made new.

With heartfelt love and gratitude,
Bill Doane

 Dear Church Family

To my beloved brothers and sisters in Christ,

I write to you with a heart full of love and concern, as I sense that many of us may be feeling stuck in spiritual cycles that leave us frustrated and discouraged. These cycles, or “loops,” as I will call them, are those patterns of behavior, sin, or thinking that keep us from experiencing the full freedom that Jesus died to give us.

The Struggle We All Know

As the Apostle Paul so honestly confessed in Romans 7:15, "For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do." 

This verse speaks to the very heart of the struggle we face. We desire to live godly lives, to do what is right, to love others well, and to honor the Lord in all we do. Yet, many times, we find ourselves doing the exact opposite—falling into the same habits, the same sins, and the same failures over and over again.

Perhaps you feel like you're caught in a loop today—a cycle of sin you can’t seem to break, a pattern of fear or doubt that keeps holding you back, or maybe even a loop of guilt and shame that you can’t escape.

The Power of Sin and the Grace of God

First, let us recognize that the loop we find ourselves in is not unusual—it is the reality of living in a fallen world and having a sinful nature. However, this is not the end of our story, nor is it where God intends for us to stay. While sin seeks to entrap us in a loop, grace offers a way out.

"O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? I thank God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!" It is Jesus who delivers us from the loop of sin and death. We cannot break these cycles by our own strength or willpower, but through the grace of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit, we are set free.

So, how do we, as a church, break free from these loops that keep us trapped?

1. Surrender to Christ: The first step is to acknowledge our need for Jesus. We cannot overcome the power of sin on our own. We must fully surrender our lives to Him, trusting in His strength, not ours. As we humble ourselves before Him, He gives us the power to overcome.

2. Renew Your Mind: Romans 12:2 calls us to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” We must fill our hearts and minds with God’s Word, allowing His truth to change the way we think and act. The more we dwell on His promises, the more we will be equipped to resist the patterns of this world.

3. Walk in the Spirit: Galatians 5:16 reminds us to “walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” It is the Holy Spirit who empowers us to live free from the loops of sin and guilt. As we yield to the Spirit, He guides us and gives us victory over the flesh.

4. Accountability and Prayer: We need one another. As a church, let us support each other in this journey. Confess your struggles to a trusted brother or sister, and pray for one another. James 5:16 tells us that “the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” Together, we can lift each other up and help break the chains that bind us.

A Call to Freedom

Dear church, I urge you not to settle for less than the freedom Christ offers. Do not remain trapped in the loops that hold you back from the abundant life God has promised. Jesus came to set the captives free, and He has broken the power of sin and death. The loop is not stronger than the cross!

Let us, therefore, fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, and run the race set before us with endurance, knowing that He has already secured our victory. May we no longer be bound by the cycles of sin, guilt, and fear, but walk boldly in the newness of life He has given us.

In His grace and power,

Bill Doane

 Dear Church Family,

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ!

I write to you today with hearts full of gratitude to reflect on the greatest miracle of all—the person and work of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

The Miracle of His Birth

The story of Jesus begins with a miraculous announcement: God entered the world in the most unexpected way. Born of a virgin, Jesus fulfilled the ancient prophecies, proving that nothing is impossible with God. As Isaiah foretold, “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14). In His birth, we see the humility of God, who chose to come as a helpless child, wrapped in swaddling cloths and laid in a manger, to be near us and save us.

The Miracle of His Life

Jesus lived a life like no other. As He walked among us, He showed the power and compassion of God. He healed the sick, raised the dead, opened blind eyes, calmed storms, and fed multitudes. Yet, His greatest work wasn’t just in the miracles He performed but in the message He proclaimed: that the Kingdom of God is at hand and salvation is for all who believe.

Every act, every word, and every miracle pointed to His divine mission—to reconcile us to God.

The Miracle of the Cross

The greatest miracle of all is that Jesus, the sinless Son of God, willingly laid down His life for us. On the cross, He bore the weight of our sins, taking the punishment we deserved. “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Corinthians 5:21).

At that moment, heaven touched earth in the most profound way. The curtain of the temple was torn, and the way to God was opened for all who believe. What seemed like defeat became the ultimate victory over sin and death.

The Miracle of the Resurrection

On the third day, the tomb was found empty, and Jesus rose from the dead, proving His power over death and the grave. The resurrection is the foundation of our faith, as Paul declared, “If Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins” (1 Corinthians 15:17). But Christ is risen! Because He lives, we too have the promise of eternal life.

The Miracle of Salvation

This great miracle didn’t end with Jesus’ resurrection. It continues in each of us who have been redeemed by His grace. Through faith, we have been made new creations, adopted into God’s family, and given the Holy Spirit as our guide. This transformation is the miracle of salvation—offered freely to all who believe in His name.

Our Response

Dear Church, how should we respond to such a miracle? Let us live lives of worship, proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ to a world in need. Let us love one another, as Christ has loved us, and walk in the power of the Holy Spirit, who enables us to live as His witnesses.

As Paul reminds us, “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:15). Let us never grow weary of celebrating and sharing the miracle of Jesus Christ.

Prayer:
Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ—the greatest miracle of all. Help us to live in awe of His birth, His life, His death, and His resurrection. May our lives reflect His love and power, drawing others to the hope we have in Him. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

In Christ’s love,
Bill Doane
Servant of the Lord