That’s not just our statement of identity—it’s a guide and pathway for us. The beauty of that statement is that it emerged after years of watching God shape us as a church.

In 2008, Robin and I were pastoring in Oklahoma, and we were surprised by multiple conversations with friends and mentors about a church called McDowell in Scottsdale, Arizona. We weren’t looking to make a move, and to be honest, we were more interested in remaining in Oklahoma or moving toward our families on the other side of the country. But with each conversation came more conviction and confirmation. Sacrifice rarely matches our best-laid human plans.

We took a step of faith, and what an amazing journey it’s been! God has done abundantly more than we asked or imagined. Those first few months were difficult. At times, they were painful. But it was evident that God was creating something special in and among these people. We watched families and individuals sacrifice for the good of the church in ways that were unexpected and beautifully generous. Those sacrifices have paid huge dividends for others who have come to Christ and made McDowell their home over the last 30 years.

If we sacrifice to pay off our debt, it will free us and future generations to dream new dreams of what God can do.

What would happen if each of us made a financial sacrifice now? Could it begin a ripple of ministry and mission that will change the future? Imagine the legacy we would leave as we step out from under the weight of debt. That’s THE GENERATIONS PROJECT.

When I arrived as the pastor back in 2008, our debt was $4.2 million. We’ve added well over $3 million worth of buildings and campus additions. We’ve also helped seed two church plants that are thriving, and another that is just now taking root. Today, our debt is under $1 million. Now is the time, and we are the ones who will finish this chapter—and begin writing the next.