December 11, 2025
Dear Central Church,
I hope you find something under your tree that truly surprises you this year! There’s something special about unwrapping a gift from someone and experiencing the joy of knowing they chose it with you in mind.
One of the “gifts” I celebrated this week was our pastoral team. We had our annual staff Christmas party, and they humored me by taking me to TopGolf! I’d love to tell you I won, but let’s just say this was a good reminder that TopGolf and real golf are not the same thing. Even so, I walked away deeply grateful. These pastors, ministry leaders, and support staff members—some of whom aren’t pictured here—are an incredible blessing. I’m thankful every day that I get to serve alongside them. (Yes, I AM wearing golf shoes in this picture.)
As we approach the end of the year, I’d also like to remind you how meaningful your generosity is to our church’s mission. Year-end, tax-deductible gifts play a significant role in helping us continue “making Christ-like disciples IN our community, FOR our community.” Your giving fuels ministry, changes lives, and allows us to step boldly into the work God has called us to do. Thank you for your continued faithfulness. You can make a gift by clicking here.
God continues to surprise us in this season. Over the last two weeks as we’ve gathered for worship, He has met us right where we are, gifting us with His presence. And as the “giver of every good and perfect gift,” I believe even more surprises are still on the way.
This Sunday we turn our attention to Mary, who was called to something extraordinary. Her life was interrupted by a surprise she didn’t ask for—yet it was a surprise that would bring salvation to the world.
The gift of vocation can feel unsettling, can’t it? God often calls us into a mission far beyond our ability. Like Mary, who offered her very body to bring Jesus into the world, we’re invited to consider: What might God be calling us to surrender in order to make room for what truly matters in eternity?
Join us this Sunday as we continue walking through the Advent season together. I believe God has a surprise gift planned especially for you.
Until He's Finished,
Pastor Mark