This man has been coming to Creekside for about two years. He has never joined a Real Life group. He hasn't ever been a team leader. And in fact, because of certain situations that existed when he first started coming to our church, he wouldn't have been welcome in most churches (in fact, some people in our own congregation had issues they raised with Greg).

But Greg believes in a Jesus who died for all people. Even people who don't have their act together. He believes in a church that welcomes all who walk through the doors.... and the job is ours to invite them to walk through the doors!

Okay, back to this man. He and his wife are perhaps two of the most generous people in our church, yet no one would be able to name any of the things they have done. They are quiet, good-hearted, followers of Christ. Their lives have been changed by God since they arrived at Creekside...and they give so that others lives can likewise be changed.

This man built the fence for our kids new playground. He bought all the materials, and used his own equipment to drop the posts and build the entire fence. Only a handfull of people would ever know. (okay, those of you reading this who go to Creekside now know, but you can keep a secret, right?)

I love this picture because it is probably the most emotion I have ever seen him show. And I love that it comes out of him as he is serving God with the gifts and talents God has given him...

And that brings me to this man....

Greg Garcia. He has taught me so much about Love. And he believes in people, and he believes that God loves every single one of us. And his life and his ministry reflect those beliefs... He also believes in Children's ministry.

This two guys bring me to my reason #4... our new playground at church! Without these two guys it would not have happened. This is what the body of Christ should look like...people finding joy in serving together. People working together to meet the needs of the church... and of course, people valuing Children's ministry!

The end result....

JOY!