Dear Church,

As we saw Yesterday, in the Book of Joshua, God spoke to Joshua at a defining moment of transition. Moses was gone. The wilderness season was ending. Israel stood on the edge of something new, uncertain, and bigger than themselves.

And God’s words were not: “Have all the answers.” “Control the future.” “Make sure everyone is comfortable.” Instead, God consistently repeats: 

“Be strong and courageous. “Have you thought why?

Because God’s people were not ultimately trusting in a leader, a structure, or a familiar season. They were called to trust the presence of God. Yesterday, we voted to move forward as Waypoint Community Church. We acknowledge something important: God is still leading. God is building His church. And God is not finished with us. A waypoint is not the destination. It is a place that helps people find direction when they are lost, weary, wandering, or searching for home.

This is not about abandoning the past. We thank God for every prayer prayed, every sacrifice made, and every saint who faithfully built and sustained this church through the years. We stand on holy ground prepared by faithful people before us. Now we ask the Lord to help us walk faithfully into what comes next.

Church, let us not move forward merely with excitement. Let us move forward with surrender. With unity. With holiness. With courage. And with dependence on the Spirit of God. Because the future of the church has never rested on a name. It rests on the presence of God among His people.

Remember, Israel still had to step into the river. Still had to trust God. Still had to obey. Still had to fight battles. Still had to move forward in faith. And so must we. As we heard yesterday, our giving has declined, and difficult budget reductions are in place. So, if we truly believe God is calling us into a new season, then each of us must prayerfully ask:

“How can I help carry the mission forward?” What is my part in seeing Waypoint Community Church (WCC) become a place where people encounter Jesus’ love deeply, where the Word of God is taught faithfully, where authentic community is experienced, where disciples are made, and, most importantly, the Gospel reaches beyond our walls. And as we ask these questions, let’s remember the promise God gives His people.

“Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

Anchored in Christ,

Mathews