Written by: Becky Hunter in Becky Hunter's Random Bits of Wisdom on June 12, 2012

June 11, 1985: Josh, our oldest son, turned 10, and Joel became the senior pastor of Northland. We sang "Happy Birthday" to Josh, ate cake, and then our family of five hit the ground running. We all headed to the yet-to-be-renovated roller rink turned church where we threw sod to upgrade its sand parking lot, made new friends and learned more about God. Fast forward 27 years to June 11, 2012: Our sons showed up at our house for their bi-monthly "Breakfast with Pop." We wished Josh a happy birthday, ate breakfast, and then the five of us hit the ground running ... in distributed fashion. Sons, Josh and Joel, headed to Hunter Vision to help people see everything better. Son, Isaac, headed to Summit Church while my husband, Joel, headed to Northland Church to help the people in those congregations see God better. And I headed back into the house to thank God for His faithfulness and for such great blessings.

For a moment, I thought about what has changed since we got here. Not surprisingly, given my sodding experience, the first thing I thought of was the parking lots with real asphalt and professional landscaping. And, then I thought about things that matter much more than that. I thought about how the Northland family has grown and how most of us are making friends not only with church insiders but with those outside as well. This congregation really cares about others and serves those who are struggling. Northland’s never-been-a-roller-rink building makes it possible for people all over the world to learn about God and makes it possible to include millions in worship. On a personal note, there are lots more Hunters in our family now that our sons’ beautiful wives and awesome children are included. No doubt about it, a lot has changed since we got here.

But even more amazing is what has not changed in all those years. Joel and I came here with prayers that never change: "Lord, help us love You well, serve Your people and do what we can to bring 'up there' down here." These requests are not unique to us. They may be yours as well.

Northland is such a joy-filled place to serve. The time Joel and I have already had here has brought us more blessings than we can count. We’re grateful.

"We always thank God for all of you and pray for you constantly. As we pray to our God and Father about you, we think of your faithful work, your loving deeds, and the enduring hope you have because of our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Thessalonians 1:2-3).