The Goal
By Rachel Gardiner, Executive Director of FP Johnston County
We have truly had a year of unprecedented growth here at FP Johnston County. From volunteers to clubs to student leaders we are blown away by how God continues to grow and provide for our ministry. To be honest with you, I wasn’t too sure what would happen as students returned to campus post-COVID. I, like many of you, felt nervous, unsure, but still hopeful. Yet, I had no clue what God had in mind for us.
The past two years for our team at FP Johnston County have been marked by prayer. We’ve added staff members, board members, two paid interns, and countless student leaders and volunteers. We’ve seen God build, tear down, re-build, and make new. He’s provided for us financially. He’s been faithful to give wisdom, clarity, unity, and encouragement. This is His work after all, not ours. We are building His Kingdom, not our own castles.
Through the growth and provision, I found myself leaning into God’s presence more than ever before. As we build, we must build upon His firm foundation and as we grow, we must be guided by His Spirit. We do not want to make one decision, one action without His authority and guidance.
Through this period of growth, I began to reflect on where we have come from and dream about where we can go. God has graciously allowed me to be a small part of this ministry for the past 4 years and it has been such a sweet season to be a part of the work He is doing. As I reflected and as I dreamed, I felt as if God gave us an “anthem” that would keep us faithfully grounded to our mission through it all:
May we leave a legacy of love for Jesus that remains long after we are gone.
This is our anthem. This is why we host training events. This is why we gather for prayer walks on campuses all across the county. This is why we equip, encourage, and disciple students. This is why we wake up early and get to bed late. This is why we send emails and write letters. This is why we raise money and gather for fellowship. This is why we don’t give up.
Our mission remains to see the hope of Christ in every student. Our goal for each aspect of ministry under that mission is to leave a legacy of love for Jesus that remains long after we are gone. I see generations and generations, their children and their children’s children, carrying a revival of the faith that we are a part of now. Long after our names are meaningless dust, may the work of our hands leave a legacy that boasts of the name of Jesus. Amen.
“One generation shall commend your works to another,
and shall declare your mighty acts.
On the glorious splendor of your majesty,
and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.
They shall speak of the might of your awesome deeds,
and I will declare your greatness.
They shall pour forth the fame of your abundant goodness
and shall sing aloud of your righteousness.”
Psalm 145:4-7
