“YOU’RE IN THE RIGHT PLACE”

by Kelly Johnston

​Lisa Hontz is a familiar face around Lakeland’s church. When she sits down with us, she’s dressed in sneakers and blue jeans. Brunette curls frame her face. Her answers are succinct, speaking to the organization and effective leadership skills we see in her dedication to her church community.
We start off by asking how long Lisa has been with Lakeland. “I’ve been at Lakeland since 2006, so 12 years. It’s a long time.” She laughs. “Someone described me as an old-time Lakelander once and I thought ‘really’?”
Lisa knows that the journey of faith can have ups and downs. When we ask her what advice she would give to those experiencing a low, her answer is simple and straightforward. “You’re not alone and get into a small group. Go to the kiosk and ask for someone to talk to about faith. You’re in the right place. Lots of people helped me when I was struggling with my faith.”
From supporting Lakeland’s youth to running her own small groups, Lisa stays active at the church. After 12 years, we’re curious as to what makes Lakeland the place for her to be.
“Authenticity, the people who tell their stories, the pastors.” A small smile crosses her face. “I like both our pastors and the messages they deliver. They’re different.”
Her time with Lakeland has included not just activities in Lee’s Summit, but trips to places all across the country. “My favorite memory is the hiking trail with the youth group when we hiked in South Dakota. At the end of the night everyone went around complimented each other and it was tear-jerking and vulnerable and…” she pauses and gifts us with another smile “it was wonderful.”
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
-Galatians 6:2
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ABOUT MY STORIES
Every month Pastor Marta Gillilan and members of the Lakeland Social Media Team interview an individual, couple or family. From struggles in faith to joyful events, Lakelanders are sharing their stories through the “Humans of Lakeland” blog series. Get to know the people who call Lakeland home.

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