New Life Family,
There aren't enough words in the world to adequately describe how much your constant love and support means to me. Over the years, each of you has made a permanent and life-altering impact on me that has helped shape my foundation in Christ. New Life is much more than just a church building; it is a sanctuary full of faith building, bear hugging, Jesus loving prayer warriors who have given me a home solidified with an immense amount of love.
When I first came to New Life as a visitor many years ago, my world was chaotic, tainted and hollow. I came to you all with very little knowledge of who Jesus is and what it means to be a Christian. Although I lacked experience and could only worship with unclean hands, you were there to lift me up, to teach me about the agape love of God, and to love me unconditionally as if I had been attending your church forever. I felt your love from the very beginning and instantly knew that I belonged.
Our church is held together by four very important pillars of Christ: Word, Worship, Witness and Warfare. These four concepts were implemented into my heart immediately, and I have learned that when I let these four attributes of Christianity hold the highest priority in my life, all else falls together perfectly. Thank you, New Life, for teaching me the necessity of reading the Bible on a daily basis. When I am deep in the Word, I am able to face all trials and tribulations with my head held high. There is no greater feeling than knowing my Savior and His heart for myself through the reading of his very words. I am so grateful for the emphasis placed on worshipping God both in our highs and our lows. Praising the Lord with you is my favorite part of every week, and there is not a feeling quite like it. New Life is a very special church that, thanks to you, makes individuals feel as though they can worship without judgment. You make our church welcoming and you allow Holy Spirit to fill our sanctuary and move as He wishes. Thank you for never quenching the Spirit. You have all displayed the many ways in which one becomes a good witness to the way Jesus wants us to live. Thank you for being role models in Christ and, both inside and outside of church, being a positive example for me to look up to over the years. And, last but not least, thank you for enabling me to feel strong and confident in my battles for Christ. My faith and willingness to stand firm in this faith would not be where it is today without your guidance. You have taught me that when we stand hand in hand for Christ, no fear or sin can come against us. I no longer fight my battles alone.
Going away to school and having to miss so many amazing services has not been easy, and I have missed you all so very much. However, the many years spent growing in the Lord with you gave me the faith and strength I needed to go and share what I have learned with others. I cherish every service I am blessed to attend, and I cannot wait for the numerous ones still to come. Thank you for your prayers and unfailing support -- you have become my family and have given me a home. I love each and every one of you so dearly, and I am so appreciative to be a part of such a special church family.
With so much love,
Logan
