This past Tuesday evening was a big night for Mars Hill Rainier Valley. It was a night for vision casting and Pastor Turner Sutton, Pastor Dave Bruskas and Pastor Mark Driscoll would be attending to give updates. Not only was the whole church invited to this event, but youth group is now back on Tuesday nights meaning a full building and a lot going on. Josh and I headed over early for him to help set up for youth. My plan was to find a quiet corner and read, but as soon as we walked in the door I saw Roberta, head of hospitality, prepping for the masses. I jumped in and helped her get it all set up. It was great to see all the regular volunteers going back and forth getting the building set up for the big night.
The meeting started with worship- which I must say was rocking. I think everyone was so excited to have the Pastors there, for the Rainier Valley location to have just celebrated its one year anniversary, and really simply to be a part of it all. It's all about Jesus, and there was no doubt in my mind that was everyone's focus as we worshiped.
Pastor Turner Sutton (Executive Pastor) spoke first giving an overview of the churches finances and their stewardship.
Pastor Dave Bruskas (Network Pastor) spoke second giving us an update on the other 13 locations. There are a total of 11 locations in WA and 3 out of state- Orange County, Portland and Albuquerque. He had a great theory on how to describe Portland, "its when white culture goes unchecked." Ha! Those that have been to Portland TOTALLY understand what he's talking about! But Mars Hill is growing and its great to hear about all the other locations and the future Mars Hill homes.
Pastor Mark Driscoll (Preaching and Vision Pastor) brought a different twist to the night. He first spoke about how all the other locations really love and support Rainier Valley. It is a beautiful picture of the church and we are all here with the same goal and love. Then he had our campus pastor- Willie Will- join him on stage. He had Pastor Willie speak of his new son, his past, his father and stepfather and how he came to know the Lord. It is amazing how Jesus has saved Pastor Willie and where He has brought him in life. Pastor Mark did this to emphasize the fact that there is a great need for young men and really all men to step up and be fathers. Whether that is first to their own children or be a spiritual father to other men and women in the church- it is a great need, especially in the Valley. As Mark put it "God is looking for fathers".
The meeting ended with us all singing, "Jesus Paid It All" Rainier Valley style and again everyone was pumped because its all about Jesus.
Afterwards Josh and I got the chance to meet Pastor Mark and briefly share the journey we are on. As funny as it sounds, it was great to finally meet our teaching Pastor. We watch him preach every Sunday and its always great to make a connection with the Pastor who teaches and preaches.
It was a night to once again solidify how much we love our church. Mars Hill Rainier Valley is our Seattle family and the thought of leaving them grows harder with each day. I realized later that the night also reminded me of our Cross of Christ family. From birth to college we attended Cross of Christ Community Church. It was a smaller church where you have the joy of knowing everyone and being close to the people in leadership. As we were helping get everything set up that night my heart was warmed in the realization that we get to serve, know and be a part of a body that has so many wonderful people.
If you haven't heard already, but the current series we are in is "Who Do You Think You Are". Its all about finding your identity in Christ. This is key for every Christ follower and I HIGHLY encourage you to listen to the sermons, and or read the book. Knowing who you are in Christ changes everything.
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