[lead dropcap="yes"]Happy birthday VOUS! It’s been one year since we opened our doors in the heart of Wynwood and so far it's been one incredible ride.[/lead]With our party hats on, we kicked off the day with an intimate time of worship that led to a victorious slow clap moment. Then an incredible dance had us cheering and pumped as confetti popped into the air.

Looking back, we were reminded that even as we have grown and taken shape, our message remains the same. It's only been one year, but already we have accomplished more than we ever imagined. Since our journey started:

1,769 accepted Christ204 people were baptized372 are proud graduates of growth track

Now that's something worth celebrating. But as we start year two, Pastors Rich and DawnChere reminded us that in spite of all the wins, we shouldn’t become complacent; we cannot overestimate the now and underestimate the future.

Think Big

We must continue to sacrifice today to make tomorrow better. This sacrifice is not about equal amount, but about equal participation. As believers of the gospel, we must keep in mind that the measure we give is the measure that is returned to us.

Today’s celebration was not only a one-year anniversary event but also a celebration of change, the change that God has in store for VOUS Church and for our personal lives. In Isaiah 54:2, we learn about the change that results from clearing out, thinking big and being fearless.It may seem a bit scary, since we usually want change but don’t want to experience it, however, as we make space, God is ready, just waiting to give. If we are not careful, we can fall into the trap of “we’ve never done it that way.” Therefore, there are three areas we need to enlarge in our lives as we enter year two:

1. Big FaithWe must have big faith for a big God. We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:6). Faith is a gift from God, who not only opens doors but— even greater than that— creates doors. Stand firm in faith so you can be firm overall.
2. Big SacrificeWe must make big sacrifices for a big harvest. Sacrifice involves time, talents, treasure, all of which have been the underlying success of VOUS Church, thanks to the sacrifices of many servant leaders.
3. Big HeartWe must have a big heart for a big family. Make room and space for our growing family. Miracles start when we enlarge our hearts to others.

As we party on and prepare to continue in our journey, let us surrender to God and let Him light our paths. Let us not focus on fears and challenges, as they will come, but let us remain steadfast on why we do what we do. Let God take care of ‘the what’ and ‘the how’ and remember that the best is yet to come!

Listen to the Full Message

VOUS Podcast

Just once is never enough! Listen to this week’s message and more by subscribing to the VOUS Church Podcast on iTunes.Get the Podcast

Pray First

Join this Wednesday at the Miami Rescue Mission Men's Center at 7:30pm and experience the power of God, activated by our collective faith. Find out more at vouschurch.com/prayfirst.Find out more

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