3 Reasons I Love Our Church

My wife and I recently celebrated one year with our new ministry here in Ocala. We’ve had a lot of changes over the past year: new job, new home, new baby. After reflecting on the past year, here are a few reasons why I’m glad to be part of Christ Community Church:

1. The people in our church give the Scriptures a high level of authority. As you look out over the landscape of churches in America, they generally divide into two camps: those who take the Bible as a set of nice stories and general principles, and those who view the Bible as God’s infallible, life-giving word to humanity. I’m glad our church is in the latter camp. People want to hear the “meat & potatoes” of the Bible’s message, not just come and have their ears tickled by a few verses hung together with some humorous illustrations. People’s view of the Bible reflects how much authority they are willing give God in their lives, and our people want to submit to God and his word!

2. People in our church make it a habit to serve one another. Everyone one who visits our church comments on how friendly the people are, but I’m even happier to say that the folks in our church go beyond just being friendly to being concerned for one another. Whether it’s watching one another’s kids when mom or dad has a doctor appointment, babysitting for one another so couples can go out on a date, delivering meals to those who are ill, helping lay sod at someone’s house, or any number of ways- people at Christ Community view it as their privilege, responsibility, and a joy to invest in one another’s lives. Everyone knows that just coming to church to “soak up” some spirituality doesn’t make for a vibrant, healthy congregation. I’m glad to be part of a community where people invest in one another’s lives.

3. People in our church anticipate that God will do great things. There is a culture of “Here I am, send me” in our church. God has not placed us here simply to tread water until the rescue boat arrives from heaven. God calls each one of us to find our personal mission field, to have an impact on the community around us, and to carry the sweet aroma of Christ wherever we go. People in our church want to see how God is going to use each one in our congregation for his kingdom work. Many times, the people’s faith inspires me! Whether it’s one family choosing to go on a mission trip together, or another person seeking to use musical gifts for the kingdom, our people reflect an attitude that says, “How can we fail when the Lord is on our side? He will fashion our blank canvas into whatever beautiful painting he desires. I want to offer myself to serve the king.”

Why do you love the people of Christ Community? What excites you about our congregation? Give me your feedback, I’d love to hear it!