A Tough Act to Follow - A Homecoming Reflection
A Tough Act to Follow — A Homecoming Reflection
By Pastor Eric Drake
As we prepare for Homecoming at Cross Creek Baptist Church, we’re reminded that this day is about more than just coming back to a building—it’s about celebrating the people who paved the way, honoring the God who never changes, and embracing the future He is calling us into.
Homecoming naturally stirs up memories of those who have gone before us—past pastors, faithful servants, praying grandmothers, dedicated Sunday school teachers, and choir members who lifted their voices with all their heart. Their faith, love, and commitment are a tough act to follow.
In the Bible, few leaders had a tougher act to follow than Joshua, who stepped into leadership after Moses—the man who led Israel out of Egypt, through the Red Sea, and to the doorstep of the Promised Land.
As we read in Joshua 1:1–9, God met Joshua with words of strength, encouragement, and purpose. And just as God encouraged Joshua, I believe He’s encouraging us this Homecoming—calling us to reflect on the past but also to move boldly into the future.
1. Celebrate the Past, But Don’t Stay There (vv. 1–2)
God reminded Joshua of Moses’ legacy, but He also said, “Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River.”
Joshua honored Moses—he learned from him, served beside him, and deeply respected him. But he didn’t try to become Moses. Joshua had his own calling, his own personality, his own path of obedience.
As a church, we celebrate those who brought us this far. But we also ask: What is God calling us to do next?
2. Stand on God’s Promises (vv. 3–6)
Just as God promised Joshua land, victory, and inheritance, we too have promises to cling to today:
God will guide us—even when the path isn’t clear.
God will defend us—even when challenges come.
God will finish what He started—no matter who holds the microphone or leads the committee.
“If God is for us, who can be against us?” – Romans 8:31
“Let us go on…” – Hebrews 6:1
So many before us stepped out on faith to build this church—now it’s our turn.
3. Hold Tight to God’s Word (vv. 7–8)
Joshua’s courage didn’t come from confidence in himself—it came from confidence in God’s Word.
As we gather on Homecoming Sunday, let’s not just reminisce about the past; let’s recommit ourselves to the Word. It’s our anchor. Our source of strength. Our guide forward.
4. Be Strong and Courageous (v. 9)
God’s final word to Joshua is His word to us: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid... for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
The legacy we inherit isn’t just one of memories—it's a legacy of faith in motion. And now, that torch is being passed to us.
As Homecoming Approaches…
Is God calling you to step into a new role at Cross Creek?
Have you coasted spiritually, slipping into neutral when God is calling you to move forward?
Is it time to pick up where others left off and help lead the next chapter of this church’s story?
Homecoming isn’t just about remembering the past—it’s about re-engaging with the mission.
Let’s celebrate what God has done.
Let’s commit to what He’s doing now.
And let’s courageously follow Him into what’s next.
See you at Homecoming. Let’s move forward—together.
