The Courage to Grow

Plants, whether new sprouts or 1,000-year-old redwoods, ocean-dwelling or hanging right here on this wall, need the same four components present to grow. They need sunlight, air, water, and nutrients, otherwise they’re sure to wither away.

Spiritually, we need the right nourishment too, and we get it from the Word through which all things were made, the air breathed by our Creator, the living water of the Holy Spirit, the light that shines in the darkness, which the darkness could not overcome. Jesus, himself, is our source of life.

As we enter 2023, our leadership had it on their hearts to see Summit grow in some specific ways…

To grow in our knowledge and love of Jesus

To grow in our ability to communicate the love of Jesus to others

To grow in our reflection of Heaven’s diversity

In a sense, these statements are marks of a healthy church, while also being a pathway to answering the Great Commission’s call. Growth takes intentionality and often vulnerability. After all, as humans, we can choose whether we remain connected to the true vine, and where we put down our roots. We’ll need to be brave enough to stretch, and remain open to God’s guidance.

This year, as we spend time in community with one another, studying God’s word, and serving together, our prayer is that we’d be able to see evidence of our spiritual growth and be encouraged. Just like the plants on the 2023 art walls will lengthen their branches and sprout new green leaves, we pray God will bring forth blessings we never saw in ourselves.