At the start of the Bible, God establishes His story in relation to creation and humanity. It’s important for us to remember that God is the Author of life. And considering those two things – that He is God, and that He is an Author – we should also remember that God is infinitely better at storytelling than any person could ever be. In fact, your favorite storyteller – whether it is C.S. Lewis or Stephanie Meyer, JRR Tolkien or JK Rowling – those storytellers are capable of doing their craft so well because they are made in the image of God.

So, the Ultimate Storyteller begins His masterpiece, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth…” He goes on to tell of the creation of humanity, their fall, and His ministry of mercy, grace, reconciliation, renewal and righteous judgment over all creation. And God concludes His work with a glimpse of what is to come. In summary – the returning of the Hero on a white horse, to slay the villain, rescue the Bride, and establish His kingdom where He and all of His people live happily ever after (sorry Walt Disney, God penned that one first!). All this considered, because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, gives us the chance to join His story.

This week exactly 25 years ago eleven people moved to the suburbs of Columbus, OH to plant a church in faithfulness. Jay and I have had the privilege of befriending one of the men on that team and he has really spurred us on in what we’re doing. Funny enough, down to the week 25 years later Jay and I moved our families to Columbus to plant a church in the city. This week we are celebrating all those that have gone before us – praying, proclaiming truth, ministering. We know that we stand on their shoulders and that together we are co-laborers in the gospel as God’s people, joining God’s story of transformation and renewal.