What has been one of the most defining ministry moments in your life?
“God, you’re SO good!” These are the thoughts running through my head on week three as I’m closing the sermon and giving an invitation to receive Jesus. I expected and prayed for a significant breakthrough on the launch day, and God exceeded that. But this is week 3, and still, 13 more people want to make a decision for Jesus! The next thought comes to my mind as I try to act unsurprised: “Thank you, God, that you exceed my faith-shortcomings and move despite me believing for only 1 or 2 more.”
For us, I think a defining ministry moment was the juncture of 3 factors colliding: feeling fully confident with a God-given vision exploding in your heart, affirmation and equipping from the proven people at ARC, and a groundswell of enthusiasm from the launch team surrounding us. It’s in that moment that you become confident that God is behind this and wants it more than we do. It’s in that moment that fear of “what if it doesn’t” is replaced with “what if!”
What is your church known for in your community?
Since we are still a young church, we are still establishing our reputation in the community. Even so, people frequently tell us they hear of our city serve projects, large and diverse crowds, and relevant teaching.
Choose one word to describe the story of your life or your church. Why?
LiFT. It’s our church’s name and represents what God has done and is doing all around us. He lifts us out of our sin and dark situations. He lifts us to heights greater than our own. He’s lifted me out of complacency and mediocrity in life and given me a great purpose. He’s lifted me from one promotion to another and fought every battle for me along the way. I haven’t had to guard, strive, or live in despair. He’s been my shield, my glory, and the lifter of my head (Psalm 3:3).
Now I choose to lift Him up with my life and ministry. Our church is a place of lifting up Jesus in praise and worship. Also, lifting His name as a banner over every sin and hopeless situation so that “when (He) is lifted up, He will draw all men unto Him” (John 12:32).
Join us for ARC Conference this October, as we celebrate the stories that have made the past 20 years of ARC so special, and look forward to the many more yet to be told. Visit arcconference.com to register.
Your story is our story. We want to hear from you! Visit www.arcchurches.com/shareyourstory to share what God has done in you and your local church.
