I love this picture of my friends Russ and Mary Doty. I took this photo on the Golden Gate Bridge and I noticed the sign in the background, so I made sure it got in the shot as well. You see . . . when this was taken, Russ and Mary had just . . .
handed over the leadership of a very healthy church they planted in Australia, sold their home, and left their adult children to come to America and plant a church. For them . . . there was no turning back. There was no “U-Turn.” They were literally “all in” for the Kingdom.
Not too long ago on a Sunday, as we were worshiping the Lord, I had the most wonderful picture drop into my spirit. Flashing across my mind’s eye, I saw literally scores and scores of faces of the people at Westside. Your faces, your families. I had all at once and at the same time; an overwhelming feeling of gratitude to God, a deep appreciation for all of the sacrifices our folks have made to serve the body, memories of me having the privilege of marrying some of you, burying some of your loved ones, traveling on road trips to Equips and ministry trips, eating in your homes, celebrating your successes, and walking with you through your life-trials. I saw; joy, laughter, tears, baptisms, graduations, dancing, softball, picnics, flat tires, new babies, new believers, new marriages, new careers, and new dreams birthed.
While I was fixed on Jesus and enjoying this picture, I heard God clearly say:
“You (Westside) are not finished yet. I have more for you to do.”
Wow! That’s exciting, you’ve gotta admit that!
God has more for us to do!
Friends, we’re in this for the long haul. Teri and I have never been more excited about what’s ahead for Westside! My prayer is that we will be a people who:
- will not give up,
- will not look back,
- and will remain faithful!
Friends, please fight to keep your passion for Jesus,
- keep loving people,
- keep representing Him in your sphere of influence.
We are not quitting . . . and we are not turning back!
Philippians 3:12-14 (The Message) Paul speaking:
I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back.
Love you Guys,
Steve 🙂
P. S. Russ Doty will be ministering this coming weekend at Westside!
