As 2025 comes to a close, my heart is full. Gratitude has a way of slowing us down and helping us see the goodness of God that might otherwise blur into the busyness of life. Scripture tells us to “give thanks in all circumstances,” and this year has given me many reasons to do just that.
Here are 20 things I am deeply thankful for in 2025.
1. A Renewed Passion and Love for the Lord
This year began—and continues—with a simple joy: starting each day by saying, “Good morning Father, I love You.” My walk with the Lord feels fresh, alive, and deeply personal. There is no greater gift.
2. A Beautiful New Granddaughter
In April, our son and his wife welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world. Holding a newborn grandchild never gets old—it’s a reminder that God is still creating, still blessing, still smiling.
3. Leading and Growing the Worship Team at Neighbourhood Church, Calgary
It has been a joy to lead and watch the worship team at Neighbourhood Church grow—not just musically, but spiritually and relationally.
4. Four Unforgettable Days of Worship in Banff
Leading worship for over 500 pastors, wives, and ministry teams in Banff—alongside my daughter and many of my favourite worship team members—was extraordinary. Easily one of the Top 5 worship-leading experiences of my life.
5. Seeing People Come to the Lord Through Alpha
Opening our home weekly for Alpha and watching people come to faith—and grow in faith—has been deeply rewarding and joyful. The gospel still transforms lives.
6. A Surprise First-Class Trip to Maui
A completely unexpected, free first-class trip to Maui with my wife and close cousins felt like pure grace. A gift we didn’t ask for, but thoroughly enjoyed.
7. A Fruitful Ministry Trip to Albania
Our ministry trip to Albania—with unforgettable side trips to Istanbul, Rome, and Sicily—was rich in purpose, relationships, and perspective. The countries of Turkey and Albania are now number 73 & 74 on my travel map.
8. The Gift of Pickleball
Pickleball continues to be a source of joy, fitness, and community. I played three times a week and enjoyed games in Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver, Surrey, Napa, and Maui. Who knew ministry, family and pickleball would overlap so often?
9. Teaching the Next Generation of Musicians
Teaching over 30 students—piano, guitar, vocals, saxophone, flute, and bass—has been a privilege. I truly believe many of them will become future worship leaders and musicians in their churches.
10. Time With Our Kids and Grandkids
Multiple trips to Napa and Toronto to be with our kids and grandkids reminded me that family is one of God’s greatest ministries.
11. A Reunion With My Mom and Siblings
Gathering in Vancouver with my mom and all five of my brothers and sisters was a rare and precious gift.
12. A Big Family Gathering in Calgary
Hosting Anna’s family along with our kids and grandkids at our home in Calgary this summer created memories we’ll treasure for years.
13. A Remarkable Answer to Prayer: A Free Car
Receiving a high-quality used car—free and in great shape—was a clear, practical answer to prayer. God cares about the details.
14. Teaching My Grandkids Music
Weekly piano and guitar lessons with my grandkids bring me immense joy. Passing on both musical skills and a love for worship feels like a special privilege.
15. Mentoring My Daughter, Stephanie
Walking alongside Stephanie as she carries the responsibility of Worship Pastor in Napa has been a privilege. Watching her lead with wisdom and grace fills me with gratitude.
16. Celebrating 42 Years of Marriage
Celebrating our 42nd wedding anniversary with my beautiful wife, Anna, reminded me how faithful God has been through every season. Our beautiful and peaceful home is a testament to her gifts and love.
17. Watching Anna Thrive
Seeing Anna grow and flourish in her wedding officiating business—and her fundraising work for two Christian organizations—has been inspiring.
18. Weekly Dinners With Dear Friends
Regular meals filled with laughter, conversation, and deep friendships have been a quiet but significant joy.
19. Writing and Reaching Millions
Writing over 300 blog posts for Worship Leaders University this year and seeing the site surpass 5 million reads still amazes me. 2025 has been been the strongest year for the site in the 11 years I’ve been writing it. I’m grateful God continues to use these words to serve leaders and musicians around the world.
20. A Christmas Sunday to Remember
Hearing that all our kids and grandkids were ministering in their home churches in Napa and Toronto on Christmas Sunday brought joy to my heart. There is no greater legacy.
As I look back on 2025, I’m reminded that gratitude doesn’t come from a perfect life—it comes from recognizing a faithful God. Every good gift comes from Him.
Lord, thank You for this year.
And with a full heart, I say once again: I love You.
