Wake Up, Church
by Sheryl Gray
Some would say they can’t believe we’re already stepping into a new year—and yet, here we are. A new year means different things to different people. For some, it represents a fresh start. For others, a chance at a do-over. And for many, it is simply gratitude for having made it through the year behind them. Wherever you find yourself today, this is the invitation for all of us:
Wake up, Center Church.
Every January, we set resolutions and make plans to do better. Yet by the second week of the year, many of us find ourselves right back in familiar rhythms. This year, let’s choose something different. Let’s do different. Let’s pause long enough to ask an honest question:
What is God calling you to do in 2026?
Wake up, Center Church. Churches don’t fail overnight—they fade slowly. They fade when we quietly tell ourselves, not right now, I’m too busy, or I’ll help next time. Over time, those small hesitations shape a culture of spectators rather than disciples. But what if we changed the pattern? What if we began where discipleship always begins—by intentionally being with Jesus (Up), then leaning into authentic community (In), and finally living on mission in the world (Out)?
When we spend time with God, He shapes our hearts. When we walk closely with others, He forms us. And when we are sent out, He invites us to participate in His work. Service—whether inside the church or beyond it—is not the goal; it is the overflow. It may look like volunteering at church, taking a meal to someone who’s hurting, showing up consistently for a neighbor, or simply noticing and welcoming someone who feels unseen.
Wake up, Center Church. Watching and waiting for someone else to step in is not the way of Jesus. Gathering on Sundays while assuming the work belongs to others is not the life He modeled for us. In John 13:1–17, Jesus kneels to wash His disciples’ feet, redefining greatness through humility and service. He reminds us that we are not greater than our Lord. When we resist serving, pride quietly takes root—but when we serve in love, obedience bears fruit, and blessing follows.
This year, let’s wake up. Let’s do different. Let’s be different. God may be inviting you into deeper faithfulness—through baptism, committing to membership, or becoming more rooted in a community group. He may also be calling you to express that faith through service—investing in the next generation, supporting worship, showing up through hospitality, or stepping into outreach beyond our walls. Whatever that next step looks like, let’s move beyond attendance and step into purpose. We are God’s children—formed by Him, connected to one another, and sent to love as He loved.
We are the church. Imagine what would happen if each of us said yes to just one faithful next step. Lives would be changed—not only within these walls, but in our homes, our neighborhoods, and throughout the Lake County community. This is what it looks like to be a church that is alive and striving for Him.
Prayer
God, show me where You desire for me to serve. Shape my heart through time with You, deepen my love for others, and send me out as Your hands and feet. Move me beyond comfort and into obedience, for Your glory and the good of those around me. Amen.
As we step into this new year together, we invite you to participate in our Looking Back & Leaning Ahead self-assessment. This is a simple but meaningful opportunity to pause, reflect honestly, and consider how you’re growing Up in your relationship with God, In community with others, and Out on mission. There are three assessments, designed to meet you where you are. Simply click the link that’s right for you:
This isn’t about checking boxes or adding pressure—it’s about paying attention. As disciples of Jesus, reflection helps us notice where God has been at work and where He may be inviting us to take a next step. Our prayer is that this season of looking back will help all of us lean ahead with greater intention, obedience, and trust.
How can you live out your everyday faith in the middle of what you’re facing today?
For prayer or encouragement, connect with Kate Dodd, Director of Care, at Kate@centerchurch.live.
