Well the journey is taking us to some new places...after 7 years of student ministry at Orangewood, I am being called out to the next stop along the way. I shared this news with our high school students last night and it was a bit surreal to say the least. However, I do have a peace that this is God's plan for my family and me.
In case you're wondering, here's what the next part of the journey will be about...over the past couple years I have felt God's call to church planting. God has made it clear that His timing is now. I finish with RTS in a couple of weeks. I will continue working with the student ministry until the end of June (most likely) in order to assist with the transition. August will more than likely bring the start of a 12 month church planting apprenticeship at CrossPointe Church here in Orlando. This is not a "done deal" yet, but it is moving in that direction. The leadership at this church have put together this program to assist future church planters in this risky endeavor. CrossPointe has already helped plant several churches throughout the area and I believe I have a lot to learn from them.
I am extremely grateful for my time at Orangewood and the leadership continues to be very supportive of my family and me and the plans we are making. They see it as kingdom work. Too many pastors leave churches because of all sorts of "messy" situations--I am thankful that I get to leave because of a calling God has placed on my life.
Though we certainly have a ton of questions and unknowns, this has been and will continue to be, a time of faith growth for Heather and I. This is new territory. Many times we are scared of what the future may bring--will we be living in a van down by the river this time next year? You know, random thoughts like that. Yet we are learning to trust in Jesus in new and profound ways.
Well I should probably wrap this up. More info/details to follow. I will say this...it feels good to be able to "talk" about this more openly now. As surrreal (my word of the day) as this all is, I have beeen looking forward to being able to share/talk/blog about this openly. If for no other reason than we need people on this journey. So with that in mind, we would certainly covet your prayers.
Peace.
Congrats on the job change and God's clear direction in your life. I can't wait to hear how he uses you to further His kingdom.
ReplyDeleteAnother one of life's bittersweet moments. You and your family will be greatly missed, but how excited I am for your calling! As long as you keep blogging, we will keep in touch.
ReplyDeleteSounds good, my friend, I do look forward to a time that we can catch up on the phone... I am sorry I have been negligent, things are starting to slow down, so we can check in soon.
ReplyDeleteI'm in Hutchinson Kansas today sitting in the Holiday Inn waiting for an appointment. I printed off your church planting outline and will get a chance to read it today on my way back home. Look forward to seeing you guys in a couple of days
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