I love this church! I was baptized in this church. I was taught about the Bible and what it means to live for God in this church. I got a chance to try out doing ministry at this church. I met my wife at this church. Eight years ago I was honored to be given the opportunity to take the baton and serve this church as Lead Pastor. This church has impacted my life in some very significant ways. I don’t think I am alone in saying that. I think many of you can say the same thing. Think of the many ways your life has been blessed because of your engagement in this church. Some of you got saved at this church. Some of you have gotten through some difficult times with the help of this church. Some of you have made significant spiritual strides at this church. Some of you have met some of your most cherished friends at this church. Some of you have been on life-changing trips with this church. Some of you have had your kids and/or grandkids grow in the Lord at this church. Let’s make sure to take some time to praise God for all of that.

Well, now is the time for us to make sure this church continues to make the greatest impact possible in the lives of as many people as possible. We need our church to continue to move forward in helping to change the lives of families like it has done for yours and mine. For some of you, we will be asking you to do something you have never done before, and for others you may be thinking, “it seems like we just did something like this.” Either way, I want you to consider if there is anything better to sacrificially invest in than the church…the very thing God has chosen to use to change the world…especially the church He has used to so greatly impact your world. For Kathy and I, it is an honor to give what we can to help this church continue to grow. I love this church, you love this church, and most importantly, Jesus loves this church. Let us RISE UP AND BUILD so our church continues to be all that God wants it to be.