At a recent church leaders meeting in Columbus, Georgia, Rose, a passionate and dedicated leader, opened the gathering with a warm welcome to all in attendance. She addressed the group with the same energy and excitement she had brought to many meetings before, but today, the conversation was focused on something deeper: the future of the church and how it could continue to serve and grow in the context of this beautiful, historic city.

“Thank you for being here, everyone,” Rose began, her voice clear and filled with purpose. “Today, we’re gathered to talk about how we can continue to serve the Lord and our community in Columbus. The world is changing rapidly, but our mission to spread the love and hope of Jesus Christ remains the same.”

She paused for a moment, allowing the room to settle. The church leaders nodded, ready for the discussion ahead. Rose’s leadership had guided them through many changes, and they trusted her direction.

“Columbus is such a special place. It’s a city that blends rich history with new opportunities,” Rose continued. “And just like this city, we as a church are constantly evolving, trying to reach more hearts, build stronger relationships, and create spaces where people can encounter God.”

Rose’s eyes glistened as she spoke about the community. “The Chattahoochee Riverwalk, which stretches along our city, reminds me of the spiritual journey we are on as a church. The river flows constantly, nourishing the land, just as the Holy Spirit flows through us to nourish others. As we walk this path together, we are called to spread God’s love, just like the Riverwalk brings people together to experience the beauty of this city.”

The leaders exchanged thoughtful looks, some of them reflecting on their own journeys and how God had been working in their lives. They understood the significance of Rose’s analogy. The river, with its constant flow, symbolized the never-ending love of God, and just like the Riverwalk, they were called to build pathways for others to experience God’s grace.

Rose continued, shifting the focus to the physical and spiritual transformations that had been taking place in the city and in their church. “I think about the old mills and warehouses that have been revitalized into new businesses and spaces. This is a bit like what the Lord does in our lives—taking what seems old or broken and making it new, bringing restoration where there was once ruin.”

Her words resonated with the leaders, reminding them of the power of redemption and renewal. They had seen this firsthand as many of the people in their congregation had experienced personal transformations. Families had been healed, marriages restored, and individuals had found new purpose through their faith.

“And as we grow, we need to remember that our role is to help others find that same renewal,” Rose said. “Just like those old buildings that have been given new life, we must keep offering hope to those who are broken, hurt, or lost. This city—this community—needs the love of Jesus more than ever.”

She paused, letting the weight of her words sink in. “And that’s why we must be intentional about reaching out to others, just as the Riverwalk connects people to the heart of the city. We, too, must build pathways that connect people to the heart of God. Our church is a place where people should feel welcomed and loved, no matter where they’ve been or what they’ve done.”

The leaders nodded in agreement, many of them already thinking about the practical ways they could improve their ministry efforts. Rose’s vision was clear: the church was not just a place for worship on Sundays; it was a living, breathing community that needed to be a part of the daily lives of the people of Columbus.

“We also have a responsibility to take advantage of the outdoor spaces and activities around us,” Rose continued. “The Riverwalk provides not just a place for walking, but for biking, kayaking, and even ziplining across the river into South Carolina. It’s an adventure—a challenge—just as the Christian life is an adventure, one full of challenges and opportunities to grow. We need to encourage our members to step outside their comfort zones, both spiritually and physically.”

One of the leaders, Tom, spoke up, “I think we can create more opportunities for our church members to get involved in outdoor activities. Maybe we can organize group outings to the Whitewater Park or bike rides along the Riverwalk. These experiences would bring our members closer together and also give us opportunities to engage with people in the community who might not come into the church but would join us in the parks.”

Rose smiled and nodded. “Exactly, Tom. And these activities are not just about having fun—they’re about connecting with others, building relationships, and showing the love of Christ in tangible ways. Our church must be a place that isn’t just about Sunday mornings; it’s about being present in the lives of those around us all week long.”

She looked around the room at the group of leaders who were all actively taking notes and brainstorming ideas. Rose’s heart was full of hope as she saw the passion in each one of them, their shared vision to reach the lost and help the broken-hearted.

“We must also remember that as we grow, we should remain focused on what really matters—serving others,” Rose added. “Whether it’s helping someone navigate a difficult season in life, or coming alongside a new believer to help them grow in their faith, we are called to be a reflection of Christ in everything we do. Just as the Riverwalk leads people through the heart of the city, we are called to lead others to the heart of God.”

The leaders spent the next hour discussing practical steps they could take to reach their community more effectively, whether through outreach programs, service projects, or simply inviting people to join in the activities they were organizing.

As the meeting came to a close, Rose closed in prayer, asking God for wisdom, guidance, and strength. “Lord, help us to be faithful to the calling you’ve given us. Let us walk the path you’ve laid out for us and lead others to your loving embrace. May our church be a place of healing, hope, and restoration.”

The leaders, now inspired and unified in purpose, left the meeting with a renewed sense of dedication to their mission. They knew their work had only just begun, but they were ready to walk this path together, serving their city and spreading God’s love throughout Columbus, just as the Riverwalk connected the city to its heart.