The power of vision.

## The Power of Vision and Service to God

**Good morning, everyone.**

Today, we gather with joyful hearts to celebrate a truly significant milestone: **12 years** of dedicated service by our beloved **Stella and George** here at Gates of Zion. Twelve years! That’s a testament not just to time, but to deep commitment and faithful hearts.

The title of these brief remarks is “The Power of Vision and Service to God.” What connects these two things – vision and service?

**Vision** is the divine spark, the glimpse of God's purpose. It’s the "why" behind our "what." It’s the calling, like the one spoken of in Isaiah 43:19, where God declares, *"See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?"* Gates of Zion, like any church built on faith, operates under such a vision – a vision of God's kingdom, His love made manifest, His new things springing forth.

But vision alone remains just a dream. It requires **Service** – the hands and feet, the consistent, often unseen work – to become reality. This is where Stella and George step so powerfully into the picture.

For **twelve years**, they haven't just *heard* the vision of Gates of Zion; they have *lived* it. They have translated that divine spark into faithful action. Through their service – whether seen by many or known only to God – they have been the steady hands helping to build, the caring hearts supporting the community, the dependable presence that keeps the vision moving forward.

**Their service *is* the power.** It’s the power that takes the grand idea of "church" and makes it tangible. It’s the power of showing up, week after week, year after year, not for recognition, but out of love for God and His people. Their dedication fuels the engine that allows the vision to flourish.

Stella and George, your **twelve years of service** are a powerful witness. You show us that true vision is sustained not by words alone, but by the quiet, consistent offering of yourselves. You embody the truth that serving God *is* participating in His vision. You make the "new thing" God is doing here at Gates of Zion visible through your faithfulness.

So today, we honour you. We honour your **vision** to see God's purpose for this church. We honour your **service** that has brought that vision to life. We thank God for the power of your combined commitment over these twelve years.

May the Lord continue to bless you both abundantly, strengthen you for the journey ahead, and fill your hearts with the profound joy that comes from serving Him so faithfully.

**Congratulations, Stella and George! Thank you for your powerful witness.**