January 8, 2026

Dear Central Church,

A few weeks ago, on an unseasonably warm day, I was out playing golf and got paired with two guys I had never met before. That’s not unusual when you play as a single. I’ve learned, however, that golfing with strangers is a lot like a box of chocolates—you never know what you’re going to get.

We made small talk through the first few holes, and then, while walking down the fairway, one of them asked, “So, what’s your story?” I shared the highlights of my life, not thinking there was anything particularly remarkable about it. Apparently, though, he had never talked with a real-life preacher. For the rest of the round, he peppered me with theological questions—skeptical, curious, and genuinely engaged.

I was grateful for the opportunity to talk about my faith, and I was reminded of this verse:

“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”
 (1 Peter 3:15)

You never know when an opportunity to talk about your faith will arise. We may not think our story matters, but if God has done a work in our lives, it matters more than we realize.

I’m excited to begin a new sermon series through the book of Genesis called “Storytellers.” The Bible opens with God speaking worlds into existence through His powerful word. Words create worlds. In the same way, we are called to be storytellers. When we share what God has done in our lives, He uses our stories to shape faith in others.

This journey through Genesis will highlight the lives of Abraham, Jacob, and Joseph—men whose stories were marked by both triumphs and trials. Through it all, God’s faithfulness shines. Their stories were preserved to encourage those walking through similar seasons, and they invite us to share our own stories as well.

Diaper Drive Update:
This week we delivered our diapers to HappyBottoms, and the results were incredible. Our donation of 12,895 diapers was the largest single donation they have ever received! Way to go, Central. Your generosity is making a real impact in Lenexa and beyond.

I look forward to seeing you this Sunday as we tell the story of God’s faithfulness in our lives and share His goodness with others.

Until He's Finished,
Pastor Mark