"It is so encouraging to watch one generation teach and encourage the next in something they are so passionate about. "

“Now, who are your grandparents?”

How many times have I been asked that question over the years? For years and years, I was not known as Quinn Steffen but rather ‘Aaron’s grandson’, ‘Matt’s boy’, or ‘I love the devotional your grandma wrote!’ For many of us, genealogy, heritage, and family names mean a lot. They tell others where we come from and help each of us connect to each other in special ways. For us, knowing someone’s family tree is a way to get to know them faster because so many of us follow in the footsteps of our parents and grandparents.

When I first started working at Gateway Woods in January 2021, I had only attended one live Auction in my life. Seven months into my new role, we were going to have 2,000 people on campus, sell 1,700 items (both online and in-person), and interact with around 400 volunteers. Needless to say, it was a bit overwhelming. Now, I have been working here at Gateway for three and a half years and have had the blessing of witnessing the miracle of my fourth Auction as an employee. We have been incredibly blessed by God’s faithfulness every year. It is so encouraging to watch one generation teach and encourage the next in something they are so passionate about.

The beauty of the Auction lies not just in its scale, or the funds raised, but in the fellowship it brings. Each year, I see families coming together, united by a common purpose and a shared history. Parents and grandparents share stories of past Auctions, instilling in their children and grandchildren joy and enthusiasm. It’s not just about the items being auctioned; it's about the legacy of service and the joy of giving that is passed down. As we engage in this labor of love, we are reminded of Proverbs 22:6, which encourages us to "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." This verse resonates deeply as we see the younger generation stepping up, inspired by the dedication and faith of those who came before them.

In all of this, we see a reflection of Christ's teachings on serving others and living in community. Just as Christ served with humility and love, we too are called to serve each other and our community. The Auction at Gateway Woods is more than an event; it is a testament to God's work in our lives and His unending faithfulness. As we move forward, may we continue to nurture this heritage, passing on our passion for service and our faith in Christ to the generations to come.