Mark Darling – Story 111

I stepped into The Rock for the first time in July of 2002.  I had recently received Christ (April 7, 2002) on Tahquitz Rock in the San Jacinto Mountains, CA.  When I returned to Minneapolis, I visited a number of churches.  I found The Rock through an online search.  I felt an immediate connection when I entered the halls of Jefferson School.  People were genuine and welcoming.  I connected with the relevant teaching and worship.  I knew I had found a church home and put my roots down.

I praise God for The Rock.  It has been a place of refuge and place to anchor into my faith.  It has been a place to worship “in spirit and in truth.”  It’s been a place to challenge me in my walk and apply spiritual truth to my life.

I have watched you walk through the rivers of difficulties, celebrate the sweet victories, inspire people to a deeper faith and commitment, and tirelessly serve people in a Christ-like way.  Your love for the Lord and for the saints is evident.  Your passion for your calling is unwavering.

You have helped me through a lot of difficult passages of life.  The wisdom, insight, and encouragement you’ve offered me have been invaluable!  You’ve entrusted me with responsibilities and spurred me on to grow in leadership.

I appreciate how you’ve laid down your life for the sake of Gospel and for Christian brothers and sisters at The Rock, Evergreen and beyond.  You’ve been a great example to me in that respect.  I didn’t realize how complex ministry and leading people can be.  You’ve shown that sort of humility and priority in many circumstances.

At The Rock, I’ve connected with friends for life.  The people I enjoy being around the most are Rockers and their families.  I’ve been impacted by life on life moments, missions, GCLI, and ministry over these past 15 years.  We have a special group of people.  I’m so grateful our lives have intersected at The Rock.

I appreciate that you followed the vision and the Lord’s leading for starting The Rock and other endeavors.  Faithwalkers has been an annual highlight for me and strategically positioned to start off each new year.  Thanks for your vision and support for the Rock Mission House and reaching out to internationals in the Twin Cities.

Shared by MH