October 7, 2014
The office was packed. The final details complete (at least all I could think of to do). The recycles dumped in the trash can and the things to leave behind put away as neatly as possible. One last look around, then it hit me...
Six years ago when I came, one of the first things I did was go into the sanctuary and pray. I prayed for the church. I prayed for me - please, dear God, don’t let me mess this up too bad. Help me love the people. Help me be faithful in teaching and preaching and ministering with and to them. Show me what to do and help me do it. And help us work together for good for you.
Obviously, my last thing should be to go into the sanctuary and pray. So I did. Thank you, God, for bringing me to this place. Thank you for the work that has been done, the growth that has taken place, the love that has been shown. Thank you for guiding me, strengthening me, and humbling me. Thank you for the ones whose life on earth ended and thank you for the ones who came into their life on earth while I was here. Be with those who are struggling at this time and those I will not be honored to watch grow up. Help them all to love one another in the days ahead, have hope for the future, and be faithful in sharing the Good News.
You are in God’s good hands. Until we meet again….
Blessings.
Oh my! More tears as I read this! What a beautiful gift from God you are! I pray that your new congregation will be receptive and appreciative of the gifts that you bring, because I know there will be many! As you continue your ministry I send with you my blessings of thanksgiving, peace, love, joy and excitement! Oh yes! And laughter!!!
ReplyDeletePraying for God's peace and strength for both you and Doug through this transition; you are blessed to be a blessing, what wonderful adventures await you as you continue on this journey! Sending love and hugs for the road~
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