What a Difference a Year Makes

After the persecution of Stephen (Acts 7), many Christians scattered as far as Antioch. The hand of the Lord was with them, and “a great number believed and turned to the Lord.” As word of this spread to Jerusalem, Barnabas was called to Antioch. When he arrived, Barnabas encouraged them to “continue with the Lord.” He then found Saul in Tarsus, and brought him back to Antioch. Thus, “for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians at Antioch (Acts 11:19-26).”

My family and I can relate to Barnabas and Saul. For a whole year now, we have assembled with the saints here at Gahanna-Jefferson and a great many people have been taught. It is hard to believe that just a year ago my family and I moved up here to work with the Lord’s church. A lot of things have taken place: campaign, gospel meeting, fellowships, Bible Bowl, visitations, and the like. Many improvements have been made to the building and grounds. We finally sold our house. Jessica discovered she has a neuroendocrine carcinoid tumor, and will have surgery soon. Elijah has grown much and is talking more.

There is so much that can happen in a year. Image how many people heard the gospel throughout Antioch thanks to the efforts of Barnabas and Saul. A lot of good things have happened to this congregation over the past year, thanks to each and every member. We are blessed to be a part of this congregation, and pray the Lord can work through us for many years to come. Imagine what can take place within a year from now!