More Than Fireworks

Happy July 4th! God bless America -- the Land of the Free -- the Home of the Brave! 250 Years.....and still counting! How thankful I am to be a part of these days and months to celebrate this pivotal day and time!

But, hold on! We got this party started yesterday! Last night, our church campus came alive!

Everywhere we looked there were smiling faces dressed in red, white, and blue. Children squealed with delight as they bounced through giant inflatables and challenged one another to yard games.

Families gathered around food trucks, friends visited in lawn chairs, live music filled the air, and as darkness settled in, an incredible fireworks display painted the Austin sky.

Carl and I had the privilege of welcoming guests as they arrived. What a joy to greet neighbors, visitors, and families who simply came looking for a fun evening together.

But here's what blessed me most....

This wasn't just about fireworks.

It was about lighting hearts.

Pastor Jonathan Spencer shared the Gospel, patriotic songs reminded us of God's faithfulness to America, and countless conversations took place that may change lives forever.

Last year, one family first came to Vacation Bible School. They later attended Freedom Over Austin, found a loving church family, gave their hearts to Christ, were baptized, and today are active members of our church.

Isn't that beautiful?

More recently, our young adults began a simple sports outreach. Pickleball. Basketball. Friendship. Last week, one young man accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior.

That's why churches open their doors.

Jesus said, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel." (Mark 16:15) Sometimes "going" begins with a hot dog, a game of pickleball, a fireworks show, or a warm welcome from someone wearing a smile.

As we celebrate America's 250th birthday, I'm grateful for the freedom to worship, to gather, and to share the greatest message ever told.

Fireworks last only a few moments.

But one life transformed by Jesus shines for eternity.

May we never stop celebrating both the freedom we enjoy as Americans and the eternal freedom we have through Christ.

"Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." — Matthew 5:16