March, 2005 

Extreme Congregation Makeover!

“And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory” 2 Corinthians 3:18

Last month the cast and crew of the hit television series “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” were right in our backyard, doing their makeover magic on a home in Gilbert!  (That show will air this month.)  How exciting it is to see the transformation of a home, and more importantly the transformation of lives that takes place when so many people work together in unselfish love.   It reminds me …

…of a congregation I know J, that has truly had an EXTREME MAKEOVER because of the dedication and love of so many people working together!  Did you know that in less than a year, our congregation has entirely moved its location?  Before being at the Middle School, we were worshipping at the Canyon State Academy!  Since the move we’ve added hundreds of square feet of classrooms and gained a more accessible and safe environment for our ministry.  In less than a year, we’ve added multiple staff: Worship Pastor: Pastor Mike Zehnder, Student and Family Ministries Coordinator: Candy Jacoby and Deacon: Brent Schian.  We’ve added more life circles.  We have groups meeting 5 days a week!  Our confirmation class has grown from 3 students to 10.  Our membership has grown by almost 50% and our worship attendance increase is even greater.   Truly amazing.  And truly Extreme!

… It also reminds me of a Savior I know!  This Savior doesn’t make over houses and buildings, but He makes over the lives of hurting people with His unselfish love.  It doesn’t matter what shape we’re in when He finds us – He pours out Himself for our sakes.  And He enlists the help of many volunteers to assist in His work.  All this He does until we are fashioned into His likeness.  When He’s finished, the transformation is EXTREME, and it’s forever.  May we at Saving Grace look to the future with personal, first-hand experience of the transforming power of God at work in our lives and in our church.  In His Name!