“As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” – Isaiah 55:10-11 God continues to awe and amaze! The growth in the North Sound Church of Christ in Bellingham, Washington is a testament to God’s power and to the vision and determination of his people. Ten years ago, Landon and Gina Rawson, a young couple from Seattle, desired to make disciples in the college town of Bellingham. Already, six disciples were living there and commuting to Seattle. With the help and support of the Seattle Church, the Rawsons moved 90 minutes north, along with seven other brothers and sisters. In just a short time, the church grew to 28 disciples. In 2010, the Rawsons took a ministry position in Copenhagen, Denmark. They passed the torch to Ben and Jess Sanders who had been serving the church in Guangzhou, China. Knowing they’d need help and support from married couples to continue growing in North Sound, the Sanders put out the call to those willing and able to relocate. The call was answered by three amazing couples! The Andersons, the Lathams, and the Mills all packed up and moved to support the church. Again, in just a short time, the church grew. Many disciples have been made. College students have been baptized and gone back to their home towns to strengthen their local churches. In 2017, the Sanders began serving and supporting the church while working secular jobs. So, the search for a full time ministry couple began in earnest again. Earlier this year, the North Sound Church put out the call on Disciples Today. By the grace of God, myself and my wife Amanda were called to leave Bakersfield, CA and lead the church here. With the help of the Spirit and of the disciples throughout the Pacific Northwest, the church in North Sound continues to grow. So far, in 2018, five new Christians have been baptized in addition to two new members being added, and many more are hearing the gospel and growing in faith. On September 30th, the congregation will celebrate its 10 year anniversary with the original church planter, Landon Rawson, preaching the word. The words of Jesus continue to ring true, “I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it” (Matthew 16:18). Whether the church you’re in is small or large, these words bring great comfort. Our Lord has established his church and it will not be overcome. The word of God will produce fruit! To God be all glory and praise!
