February 9, 2023

Dear Central Church, 

Last Sunday evening we dedicated the new downstairs Worship Center to the glory of God and for the use of God’s mission in the world. It’s an incredible space for our student ministry and for our multicultural ministries. 

As we took time to celebrate a dream that became a reality, I thought of all the people that contributed to that project. Several key leaders met together in committees to plan this project, there were those who gave of their talents to construct it, and there were so many in our congregation who gave of their resources to fund it. 

I feel so privileged and honored that the Lord would allow me to be a part of Central Church for this season of our church’s history. You heard the call that it was “our turn,” and you have responded to the challenge! 

Throughout the story of the Bible, the Lord calls again and again, saying to his people, “I have a mission for you. It’s your turn.” Whatever God calls you to do, it may seem overwhelming at first, and sometimes we don’t even know where to start. Jesus offers this starting point in the Sermon on the Mount: 

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. (Matthew 6:33) 

When we make the Kingdom of God our first impulse, all the other things in life - important things like our family, career, finances, and housing - are rightly ordered and placed by God where they need to be. As we make the Kingdom of God the singular pursuit of our life, trusting God to provide for all the other things we need in life is a journey of faith. 

As we apply this principle to our congregational life, I believe as Central Church comes together to pursue the Kingdom, God will supply all that we need for this endeavor. We have seen that proven true again and again in our congregational history. The completion of our Student Center is just one example of that, and I give God all the glory and praise! 

As you prepare for worship this weekend, remember that we are welcoming a new worship leader! Rev. Chad and Abby McAdory are joining our pastoral team, and we are excited to have Chad lead us in worship this Sunday. A reception is planning in the upper atrium in between services during the 9:45 AM Formation Group time. Let’s shower them with welcome cards, and if you’re able to include a gift card inside, that’s great! 

I look forward to seeing you this Sunday at Central church, and go Chiefs! 

 
Until He’s Finished, 

Pastor Mark