The Heart of America250
In 2026, our nation will mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. As we reflect on this historic milestone, we are reminded that freedom is ultimately a gift from God, and that our calling as followers of Christ is to live as faithful citizens of heaven while seeking the good of the places where God has planted us (Jeremiah 29:7).
Downtown Campus Pastor Leon Brooks reflects on this moment, saying:
This milestone stirs within me gratitude that I get to serve our great God as a pastor and help shepherd His people. I have the freedom in this country to not only do what I love, but what I truly believe I am called to do.
Ministro en Español Kike Puig also shares:
Para mí, la libertad de adorar y compartir mi fe no es algo que doy por hecho, es un regalo que valoro profundamente. Nací en España y viví los últimos años de una dictadura donde la libertad de expresión y de fe Estaba limitada. Por eso, hoy, poder levantar mi voz, y predicar el evangelio con Libertad es algo que me conmueve.
[For me, the freedom to worship and share my faith is not something I take for granted; it is a gift I deeply value. I was born in Spain and lived through the final years of a dictatorship where freedom of expression and faith were limited. That is why today, being able to lift my voice and preach the gospel freely is something that deeply moves me.]
Through the America250 initiative, this milestone becomes more than a celebration. It becomes an invitation, one that calls us to live out our faith in bold and meaningful ways.
At Houston’s First, we are deeply grateful for the freedoms we enjoy and the opportunities they provide: to love our neighbors, invest in our city, and share the hope found in Jesus. What a privilege it is to gather, worship, and proclaim our faith without fear! May we never take this freedom for granted, but instead use it to shine His light even more brightly throughout the world.
Married Adult Minister and The4 Venue Pastor Brad Talbert reflects on serving others as a vital expression of our faith:
Matthew 20:28 says, “the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Jesus showed us that the way to truly live is not by putting ourselves first, but by finding meaning and purpose in serving others. I believe part of the reason so many people today feel discouraged is that they focus too much on themselves and too little on others. Serving is not only a way to love and honor people, but it also brings deep joy to our own lives.
Throughout this season, we will gather for prayer, worship, and service, believing that even simple acts of kindness can leave a lasting impact.
Sienna Campus Pastor Malcolm Marshall shares what he has witnessed through a life of service:
When the people of Houston’s First prioritize “Giving Our Lives Away,” a key pillar to living out our church mission and vision, something beautiful happens: the lines between “the helper” and “the helped” begin to blur. Needs are met, but just as often, hearts are softened. I have seen friendships form, loneliness fade, and a renewed sense of purpose come to life.
Serving others is a tangible way to remind fellow image-bearers that they are not forgotten. And often, those who serve find their own faith deepened, as compassion becomes something lived, not just believed (Proverbs 11:25).
From gathering online for the National Day of Prayer, to serving our communities during Good Neighbor Day, to celebrating together across all campuses, each moment is a mission and an opportunity to be part of something greater than ourselves.
Cypress Campus Pastor Jason Swiggart adds:
Our mission as a church, and as Christians, is the Great Commission: to go and make disciples. But we must pair that with the Great Commandment to love our neighbors as ourselves. The most effective way to live this out begins with relationships. As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of America, we are reminded of the freedom we have to worship and live out our faith every day. So live as free people by loving, serving, celebrating, and truly knowing the people around you. Be Jesus to them!
In the end, the most meaningful way to honor the past is by how we choose to live and serve today.
At Houston’s First, we are grateful for the freedoms we enjoy and the opportunities they give us to live out our faith, serve our neighbors, and share the hope of Jesus. We invite you to join us as we give thanks to God and love our communities well during this historic season.
As we celebrate 250 years as a nation, we remember this truth shared by Pastor Gregg:
It was not independence that was forged first - but dependence [on God].
May we continue to depend on God as we love our neighbors, serve our city, and shine His light for generations to come.
Discover how you can be part of what God is doing during America250 here!