Celebration...

Twenty-seven years ago, I knew two things for sure. I loved her. And I had absolutely no idea what I was getting myself into.

Thankfully, neither did she.

If we've learned anything over the last twenty-seven years, it's that marriage isn't about having all the answers. It's about deciding you'll keep figuring life out together. Teamwork really does make the dream work.

We've experienced some incredible highs and some difficult lows. We've traveled together, laughed until we cried, struggled through painful seasons, served Jesus side by side, planted a church, lived in the heart of the city, and discovered that ministry is anything but predictable.

We've also had the privilege of raising five amazing kids, opening our home to foster children, and welcoming countless friends and family members who stayed for a weekend, a season, or somewhere in between. Our home has rarely been quiet...or boring ?.

Looking back, I realize that the greatest lesson hasn't been about marriage at all. It's been about God. God has been faithful. Every single time.

When we knew exactly what to do, He has been faithful. When we had no clue what came next, He has been faithful. During seasons of celebration and seasons of uncertainty, His character has never changed. Looking backward gives us confidence to keep moving forward because God's faithfulness in the past gives us courage for tomorrow.

That's one of the reasons I'm excited about this Sunday. Life has a way of leaving us in places we never expected. Sometimes we celebrate. Sometimes we grieve. Sometimes we simply wonder, Now what?

This Sunday, Pastor Merle Meese will continue our series through Ruth by teaching from Ruth 1:19–2:7. We'll discover how God meets us in the middle of our present circumstances and faithfully leads us into what's next.

If you've ever wondered what God is doing in your current season, or if you've struggled to see beyond today's circumstances, I think this message will encourage your heart.

I look forward to worshipping together with you on Sunday at 8:00, 9:15 (Full KidCity available), or 10:45 am (Full KidCity available)…OR a service in Spanish at 1:00 pm.  Otherwise, you can watch the Livestream on YouTube (Like and subscribe) or on our New Life website at 9:15 am. Also, we would LOVE for you to follow us on Facebook, YouTube, and  Instagram. 

We'll see you Sunday!

Troy