On October 16, I was blessed to celebrate my tenth anniversary as a pastor here with Eastmont. I’m grateful for the loving comments on social media, the text messages, and especially for the acknowledgment at the conclusion of our Sunday worship on October 18. Eastmont has blessed me and my family in more ways that we could ever deserve, and we’re truly blessed to have the opportunity to serve the LORD alongside you.
In recent weeks I’ve looked back at pictures from church events through the years. It’s fun to see the younger faces of students who are now grown, raising families of their own. It’s easy to look back and feel nostalgic over past experiences. And it’s a blessing to serve a church where my previous experiences are marked by people that brought me such joy and satisfaction. But I’m MOST THANKFUL that we are NOW in a season where I am more excited than I’ve ever been about what lies AHEAD for us all. Looking back brings me joy, but looking ahead brings unmatched delight as we are beginning to see the LORD bring a clarity of mission and purpose for Eastmont as we shine the light of Christ into a culture that desperately needs Him.
We’re seeing the LORD bring new families through Eastmont’s doors almost every week. Younger married couples with small children populate our hallways and classrooms. Single adults of all ages join us for worship and LifeGroups. Teenagers and college students are growing in number and involvement as well. As we’ve made a commitment to exalting Christ, He is drawing all people to Himself (John 12:32).
And the Refresh and Renew campaign, with the big reveal set for November 8 , is going to be an emotional night for many of us who have faithfully invested not only our finances but our years of service to the Kingdom. I’ve had a few sneak peeks, and every time I walk through the new area, I am blown away with how the LORD has provided us a new space that will serve as a great tool for ministry as we continue to be a beacon of hope for Montgomery and the River Region. I know you love Eastmont for where we’ve been, but I pray that you catch the excitement I have and fix your eyes on Jesus as He carries us to what’s ahead. Ten years have been a blessing, and I look forward to seeing Christ continue to build His Kingdom here in the years to come.