Many of us were strangers to one another as we started on this wonderful journey. Each of us was probably thinking that there had to be somebody somewhere like me who envisioned that believers could unite around Christ and in grace allow for freedom, personal responsibility, and individuality. We have been there from the beginning reminding one another that the grace of God is sufficient. That if we want a different kind of church then we have to be a different kind of people. Unhealthy sheep reproduce unhealthy sheep, and healthy sheep reproduce healthy sheep.
Freedom fosters personal choice and choice brings with it individual responsibility.
Since that first day we have moved beyond theory and have proven with experience that through Christ we are in a grace-based relationship with God, each other, other believers, and the entire world. We are living proof that a church can develop in maturity and life while accentuating people over programs, relationships over religion, and grace-based living over a performance driven life. Although we say this with confidence now, most of us would readily admit that we are a bit surprised at how fast God has manifested His identity amongst us. Today we celebrate what a wonderful journey the past year has been. As I reflect back on that first Sunday, I am reminded of the excitement that was produced with an overwhelming love, acceptance, and forgiveness of every individual who walked through those doors.