915 9th Street, Altavista VA

Today was more than just another Sunday… it was Mother’s Day, a beautiful reminder of love, sacrifice, and the grace-filled hearts that nurture and guide us.

On this very special day to spend time with my family, my journey led me back to a place my heart has come to cherish deeply, Crossroads Ministries COGOP. I’ve visited several times before, yet each return feels like coming home.

From the moment I stepped into the sanctuary, I always feel the spirit of love. The warmth of fellowship enveloped me like the embrace of an old friend, and I felt deeply grateful to be worshiping alongside my family in this sanctuary of grace and belonging.

This congregation is a family rooted not only in the love of God but also in their profound love for one another.

One thing that always touches my heart deeply about Crossroads Ministries is their earnest commitment to prayer, not only for themselves or their immediate community but for the world.

This is a praying church, a body of believers who understand that the power of prayer extends beyond their four walls.

Worship here is not simply music, it’s a profound experience. The worship team is exceptionally gifted, and today was no exception. As their voices rose to the heavens, lifting our hearts along, I could feel the sweet presence of the Holy Spirit filling every corner of the room.

Among these precious moments of worship, a truly emotional highlight was the deeply moving solo performance by the pastor’s daughter. As she sang the lyrics to her mother, Hope, many of us had tears streaming down our faces. It was a raw and genuine moment.

Then came Pastor Jeff Rhea, a man whose sincerity and passion for the Gospel never cease to move me. He stepped forward today with a powerful message titled “Don’t Be Choosy,” a sermon that challenged us deeply. He illustrated his point by bringing out a fishing rod and net… symbols reminding us of our calling.

With passion and conviction, Pastor Jeff reminded us of the commandment to love one another without judgment or condition. Too often, we become selective, reaching out only to those who look, think, or live like us. But Jesus didn’t choose selectively, He offered His grace, forgiveness, and love freely and abundantly.

Jesus called us to reach everyone, not just the people who make us comfortable or the ones we think deserve it. Everyone deserves to encounter Jesus, just as they are.

In that moment, I felt a powerful reminder, Jesus met me exactly where I was, in my brokenness, my struggles, and my imperfections… and loved me fully, without condition.

This Mother’s Day service was more than just beautiful, it was thought provoking. I was reminded again today of the very heart of Jesus’ message, love without boundaries.

Thank you, Crossroads Ministries COGOP, for continually reminding me what it truly means to live a life filled with God’s abundant love.

This special church family will always be in my heart in ways words can hardly describe. I am grateful for this Mother’s Day spent here, grateful for family, and grateful for a Savior who calls us, loves us, and empowers us to love others fully and completely.

As I continue on this extraordinary journey, I carry with me today’s lesson deep within my soul.

May I cast my net wide, embracing and loving all who cross my path.

I eagerly await the next step, the next church, and the next divine encounter God has in store.

In Jesus’ loving name, Amen!