Rising Growth, Deepening Need in a Growing City

What Is the Church’s Role, in a Changing Lake County, FL?

Some Lake County cities are growing fast. New homes, new schools, and new families are moving in every month. But with rising growth comes a deepening need. Many give little thought to the changes happening around them. Their main concern is their own lives, their routines, their schedules, and their families.

But for others, these changes raise deeper questions: What kind of neighbors will move in?
How will this growth affect the culture of our city? Will Clermont, Minneola, Groveland, and the surrounding areas feel too crowded or too unfamiliar as diverse cultures converge?

As a pastor and as someone who genuinely loves these communities, I often reflect on a simple but urgent question, what is the deepening need in our communities as we grow?

Many would answer: more outreach, more sports leagues, or more after-school programs. And to be clear, those things matter. They meet important practical needs. But are they truly addressing the deepest need of our neighbors? Are they cultivating the kind of wholeness, belonging, and transformation that people are longing for?

The deeper question is, what truly satisfies?

Our city may be growing numerically, but it’s not just about population. It’s about people—souls carrying invisible burdens. Many feel isolated even in a crowd. Many are running hard after success, security, or survival, yet still lie awake at night wondering if they matter or belong.

The church must ask, are we offering what they’re really looking for?

As a 9Marks article reminds us, “Discipleship is not just a program or a class. It’s the intentional, relational investment of one believer into the life of another, helping them follow Jesus more faithfully and deeply.” This isn’t about mentorship programs or surface-level connection. It’s about deep transformation. It’s about introducing people to the only one who can fill the void they carry. Jesus Christ is the answer to the longing beneath every other desire.

Turning the suburbs into a mission field

Growth is inevitable. People are moving in and some, feeling displaced, are moving out to reclaim a "small town" feel. But if you're tempted to disengage or withdraw, let me challenge you to press in instead. Ask yourself: How long do you think you’ll live? How many years are guaranteed to you?

Scripture reminds us “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 3:20) “So, teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12) As believers, we are not here by accident. We are citizens of heaven placed here on purpose, to shine as lights in the midst of a changing city.

Our role, light in the middle of growth

I believe the greatest need in Lake County right now is the presence of gospel-centered communities, churches that: Pray persistently. Engage relationally. Proclaim clearly the hope of Christ.

Yes, God is bringing the nations to our backyard. You don’t have to buy a plane ticket to reach the unreached anymore. They’re your neighbors, your coworkers, your classmates. We have an awesome opportunity to live as salt and light among the very people God is placing around us. Let’s present them with the greatest gift. Not more programs but the gospel. Not better activities but real hope. Not good intentions but a Savior who loves them and calls them into His family.

This is the church’s role in a growing city

To be a beacon of truth, hope, and love, faithfully present in a community that desperately needs more than comfort or convenience. It needs Christ.