Christianity’s most spiritual saint, the Apostle Paul, wrote these words from prison, “I am confident of this: That He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” I love his faith and confidence that God will not fail in carrying out His work in Paul and through Paul for His glory.

I stand firmly today with Paul and all those who have gone before me as I get to make this journey through cancer toward healing. When I first heard the news that I had a tumor in my esophagus, my first thought was, “I get to enter another classroom.” We don’t always get to choose the classrooms we walk into, but we do get to choose whether we learn and grow while there.

Here are my thoughts about cancer as of today:

• I am walking into a new classroom that I didn’t choose, but God has allowed.
• The tuition cost is higher than I could have imagined, and I’m talking about more than money.
• The room is full of people who, like me, didn’t choose this and are now my companions.
• I am surrounded by alumni who have graduated and are cheering me on to victory.

I am not on this journey alone. God has provided me with a compassionate wife and family, good friends, a caring and supportive church, wise counsel, and competent physicians. I’m grateful for every one of you and your prayerful support. And as I turn my eye to God, I remember we serve a crucified Savior who redeems the suffering we face in this life. So, even though I’m wobbly and teary at times, I know God will use this classroom in my life to form something in me that can’t be formed any other way than through a dark valley. I anticipate Him bringing me closer to Himself as He forms deeper character and love in me – making me more like Jesus – and that ultimately, He will bring glory to Himself. That is my prayer.

I’m so glad I have such a loving church family. You are amazing! You’ve walked with us through so many difficulties in these three decades together. I want you to know that I love you and cherish the fact that the Thompsons – Kimberly, Jordyn, Ryan, Tessa, and new GRANDBABY – get to walk through this journey with you at our sides. We will keep you updated as we have news.

Sunday was such a fun day as we celebrated moms with picture opportunities and DONUTS! I am so grateful for the people who served to make it a special day. Did you know that serving is a strong catalyst for spiritual growth? Jesus said that He came to be a servant. Therefore, we are like Him when we serve others.

As we make our way out of the COVID logjam, we’re in a rebuilding phase as a church. I can’t think of a single ministry that has weathered this season with their service teams intact. Our church and your spiritual growth will be significantly supported when everyone can find a place to serve. Please look at our website, and you’ll find steps that can help you find your unique place of service. Serving does more than help you grow spiritually; it also helps you belong.

One of the best ways to get to know our church and God’s mission for us here in Western Nevada County is to participate in Growth Path. This series of engaging seminars will help you know who we are and how you can find a place to call home as you grow to be more like Jesus. The next Growth Path is this Sunday, May 16, 2:00-5:00pm. We have four different classes, BELONG 101, BECOME 201, BLESS 301, BUILD 401, each taught by a different pastor. You can register online, or you can show up on Sunday for the class that fits where you are.

I am amazed at what God continues to show us through our series, The Good Life. Each week we’re seeing that the Beatitudes (that’s the section we’re currently in) have much deeper meaning than just “attitudes to be” or virtues to attain. They go much deeper. Jesus is talking about what happens in the lives of people who walk with Him. They become like Him. Last week, Kimberly did a fantastic job (I was so proud and learned a lot) as she taught us about what Jesus meant by “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” Her message touched me deeply and encouraged me to crave Jesus with more passion.

This Sunday, we get to look at Beautiful Mercy. We live in a world where mercy is in short supply. Imagine a world where mercy flowed freely to everyone. That’s what Jesus is saying is possible as we turn to Him. Please make plans to attend with us. If you can’t be here in person, you can watch online.

Here are the links you’ll need to be fully prepared for Sunday’s Service:

• Message Notes and Study Guide
• Weekly Spotify Playlist
• Children's Ministry
• Student Ministry 

Joyfully living everyday life on mission in intimacy with Jesus and others,

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