I got to experience things in 2016 that I never have before. Being a comedian for a week, finishing Prayers from The Water’s Edge, meeting family in Norway, and having an extended time of rest. The sabbatical was such a wonderful gift you gave me and my family. Thank you!
Reflecting on 2016
Last year was a great year for The Water’s Edge. A few words come to mind when I think of you.
Generous
Your total giving to our budget, building, and missions was $1,551,478. That is far more than WE have ever given before. You also gave tens of thousands of dollars in food, toys, and clothes to hundreds of families in Omaha. You are leading the way in modeling generosity in West Omaha.
Inviting
On Christmas Eve, WE had over 1,500 worshippers. A new record for us! You also invited and brought over 80 new families to worship with us this summer when I was on my sabbatical. Pray about who you are going to bring to worship, grow, and serve with us in 2017.
Investing
A sizable portion of our people and financial resources go to investing in the next generation. This will always be the case. WE have over 250 children and students involved weekly in various ministries. WE have 170 people who volunteer at least once a month with our children, youth, and families. I’m so grateful to be part of a church where my children and all children are loved, challenged, and nurtured.
Dreaming about 2017
I’m more excited about ministry this year than any other year. WE will have a groundbreaking ceremony this spring. If winter ends when it is supposed to end, giant machines will start moving dirt in March and a building will be constructed starting in early May. Sometime in late 2017 or early 2018, WE will have our first worship experiences in our new building. This will allow us to invest even more in future generations and give us more opportunities to invite our community into a life-giving relationship with Jesus.
My biggest dream in 2017 has nothing to do with buildings or money. It is about prayer. I’m slow to catch on sometimes, but God has been telling me lately that WE can’t do God’s work without God. My vision is that small groups, spouses, families, friends, leaders, staff, and volunteer teams will all become communities of prayer. That WE pray for each other, our church, our city, and the world. That WE listen to God and courageously follow where He leads us.
Children leading worship at The Water’s Edge
