Today we celebrate. We celebrate God’s presence, God’s power, and God’s promise. We aren’t celebrating that life is perfect. We are celebrating the One who is. The One who cheers and smiles when times are going good. The One who helps in times of need. The One who holds in times of despair.
The Water’s Edge has lots to celebrate. Five years ago we were a small ministry meeting in a middle school lunchroom. Things have changed. Last week we had over 650 people worshipping, connecting, learning, and growing. During the last five years we have fed thousands of people in Omaha; sent hundreds of people across the country and the world to serve poor and hurting people; and given tens of thousands of dollars to missionaries with whom we partner.
The Water’s Edge has lots to celebrate. Five years ago we were a small ministry meeting in a middle school lunchroom. Things have changed. Last week we had over 650 people worshipping, connecting, learning, and growing. During the last five years we have fed thousands of people in Omaha; sent hundreds of people across the country and the world to serve poor and hurting people; and given tens of thousands of dollars to missionaries with whom we partner.
Each Sunday morning we invest in the lives of children. We have the best children’s ministry around. Our volunteers are very dedicated and creative people! Our middle and high school youth ministry is larger today than the group of people who worshipped at Russell Middle School five years ago. We are spiritually investing in our students!
This fall we had over two dozen adult small groups. Men and women laughing, praying, sharing, eating, learning, and serving together. Existing friendships are being strengthened and new friendships are being formed.
This past week we moved into our new ministry center. This wonderful building was made possible by our congregation’s generosity and the labor of many of our people. A few weeks ago we unanimously agreed to purchase over 23 acres of land at 198th and Harrison Streets. Next week we will commit to funding our property.
I have a feeling in early December, when we announce the results of the WE imagine Campaign, we will be celebrating again. As a congregation, The Water’s Edge has risen up and taken on every challenge we have ever faced. I have no reason to believe the future will be any different. Partly because I know you. You are committed, generous, passionate, and growing. And partly because I know God. His provision always accompanies His vision. His will does not take us where His grace will not sustain us.
So today we celebrate God and what He is doing in us and through us. We celebrate relationships that are healing and helpful. We celebrate children and youth who are growing and developing. We celebrate the opportunity to serve and love others—just like Jesus served others and just like God loves us. And we celebrate the unlimited possibilities of our future and cling on to the promise that the best is yet to come.
In Christ,
Craig
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