This past year, our church family boldly proclaimed the name of Jesus. We saw walls crumble as we stepped out in faith, sharing the good news with friends, family, and colleagues. May the Spirit continue to stir in our hearts and may we keep Telling People About Jesus!
As we stake that pillar into the ground, what else do we need to grow in and be known for?
What does the Father, Son and Holy Spirit want from us?
We believe He’s invited us to this focus:
We are a loved family of loving families.
This is a short, memorable phrase. A phrase of truth. A phrase of direction. It's a call to embrace our identity as God's beloved and to let that love overflow into every relationship, every interaction, and every moment of our loved lives.
Loved by the Father
Scripture reminds us time and time again of God's immense love for us.
"See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!" (1 John 3:1).
We are His beloved, chosen and cherished. When this truth truly takes root in our hearts, it changes everything. Fear gives way to confidence, insecurity to joy, and isolation to belonging.
Loving One Another
As we rest in the Father's love, we are empowered to love others.
"We love because he first loved us" (1 John 4:19).
This love isn't a wispy feeling; it's affection and action. It's deep care for and choosing to serve, forgive, encourage, and walk alongside one another, just as Christ loved us. This love is shaped by the cross–which entails dying to yourself and sacrificing for others!
This Year's Focus:
This rallying cry will be the driving force behind everything we do in 2025, shaping our ministries, our sermons, and our interactions with one another. We will specifically focus on these key areas:
Thriving Marriages: We'll display the beauty and intimacy God intended for marriage. Let's move beyond simply "existing" and pursue marriages that truly thrive!
Intentional Parenting: We'll equip parents to raise their children in the way of the Lord (Deuteronomy 6:4-9). From the early years to the empty nest, let's create homes where love, faith, and mission intertwine.
Life-on-Life Discipleship: We'll take responsibility for our role as a disciple of Jesus and we’ll pour into others; sharing wisdom, encouragement, and accountability. We‘ll see our spiritual siblings, uncles, aunts, moms, dads, nieces, nephews, and all care for one another’s growth in grace. It won’t be perfect but can you imagine where everyone is both poured into and pouring out!
God Wants To Make Us More Lovely
Stop, think: God doesn’t desire for us to grow into grumpy old men and bitter old women. That’s the current all around but you are caught up in Jesus’ tidal wave of love for you. Let’s choose to jump in with both feet into that adventure!