Creating Culture.

Creating culture is never easy. So much of it is essentially unseen and there isn’t some measuring device to tell us how far along we are. I admit I’m fascinated by what could be…what should be…and what must be for Suncrest Walkerton. I’m constantly analyzing and evaluating what God is doing in our church’s midst…and where He’s taking us. This week I’ve resolved to pause for a moment. I am capturing and celebrating the beauty of what God has done in and through us all.

Easter Sunday was truly an experience that blew me away. So much energy. So much excitement. So much anticipation. Sunday morning is only a part of who we are as a church. But for this one hour the culture I’ve always believed God has called us to create was fanned into flame. I could literally feel the presence of God’s Spirit. I could see the accepting love of Christ in the eyes of people. I could sense that people were receiving a special interaction and conversation with God.

I am humbled and excited we had the largest attendance in our history. But it’s so much bigger than that. I’m thankful for Aleigha Baxter’s heart as she transparently lead us more deeply into God’s affection. I’m thankful for Kelly Kuehn who used her voice’s unction to sing a prayer to God on our behalf. I’m thankful for every heart that was invited and responded. Thankful for every story. Thankful for those who are ‘all in’ with Suncrest and our mission – and who invited friends to come. Thankful for all the people who put so much time, energy, and heart into creating an environment for God to be seen and heard. Thankful for the children’s workers. The worship team. The greeters who welcomed and also stood holding the bread and wine. The cookie bakers. The set up people. The prayer team. I am thankful for everyone who is burdened with the truth that they are being used by God to change lives.

There is something else I’m excited about. Our Easter celebration was not some production or show that was outside of who we really are. It genuinely reflected what matters to us. It was something we experience every time we gather as a community. Messy people with real struggles, real hurts, real pasts, real futures, real stories. I’m convinced that our purpose is to clear the clutter and noise of life so that together, we can experience the consuming presence of Jesus.

Creating culture? Yes. And God gave us all a glimpse that we are moving in the right direction. I see spiritual formation happening.  I see that when we lift the name of Jesus He draws us to Himself. I see the value of authentic community – and that we are more complete and beautiful together than we are apart. I see that I’m not the only one who believes ‘every story matters.’

I’m overwhelmed by the beauty of what God is creating IN us here at Suncrest.

Be sure to check out our pics here.