One unforgettable evening a year ago, David Ivey sat at our table with me, my wife, and a small circle of his newfound friends. With genuine gratitude, he looked at us and said, “You are my pit crew.” In that raw moment, he acknowledged something powerful — the irreplaceable role our community played in his recovery journey. We were more than friends; we were steady hands lifting him when he couldn’t lift himself, the encouragement fueling his every step forward.

Every Sunday, David walks through the doors of Crossroads Church, and it’s more than just a place of worship; it’s his sanctuary. It’s where he finds not only the comfort of faith but also the unwavering support, understanding, and encouragement from a community that truly believes in him. When we greet him, we say, “You belong here.” And we mean it, deeply.

Much like the precision of a pit crew at a high-speed race, David’s new community has been a constant source of fuel for his soul. For over a year now, this team of believers has helped him stay on track, offering wisdom, guidance, and — perhaps most importantly — the strength to keep going.

Together, we’ve been a lifeline, helping him navigate the unpredictable twists and turns of his recovery, always reminding him that he doesn’t have to do it alone.

And in turn, David has become a living, breathing testament to the transformative power of faith, resilience, and, above all, community. His journey not only inspires others to press on in their own struggles, but it also strengthens the very fabric of our church. It’s a bond built on shared experience, deep compassion, and mutual support — a bond that extends far beyond the Sunday service, echoing in every corner of our lives. This is what community looks like: a relentless force that lifts, strengthens, and carries us through life’s toughest moments.

This issue of Crossroads Chronicles features inspiring stories about community.