Q-Why are you leaving?
A-In a nutshell, I’m leaving because God is asking me to. Some have wondered if I’m tired, discouraged, frustrated, etc…all of those are the normal emotions and experiences of regular life and church life, but in NO WAY or FORM would I let those motivate me to make such a change. Negative emotions rarely propel you towards a positive decision. I am simply doing my best to say to God, “…as you wish”. The Lord spoke very clearly that He was going to “move me on”, and through much prayer and a series of confirmations over the past four weeks, my family and I are clear that God has a new adventure in store for us and for the people of
this church.
Q-What will happen to
this church?
A-It has been and remains my deepest prayer that God will lead all of us through these changes. My vote is that
this church would continue…I see all kinds of good reasons and possibilities in that… mostly because of the people who make up
this church. What kept me going at
this church were the people and community we have.
This church's future now rests on you as individuals and as a body to hear a fresh and clear call from God. It is imperative that you listen carefully to what God is saying to you as a member of
this church. Over the past 10 years, it has been my burden to instill into the people of
this church that we all are the Church. We all do the work of the ministry, and we cannot rely on one single person or small group to carry the load for everyone. We each have a responsibility to press in to hear what Jesus wants to say to His church.
Q-What would happen if we decided to continue?
A-First of all, I offer you my support and coaching. I have deliberately made arrangements to be available over the next year if you’d like that. Secondly, it is important to recognize that God is calling us all into a new future. We need to seek Him for clear plans and purposes. The shape and form of
this church will undoubtedly change – it may even disappear, but we can be certain that as God moves us it will be toward greener pastures! God has never taken his hand away from the people of Harvest. His desire for us is to conform more and more into the image of Jesus, and sometimes that takes moving us around to give us those opportunities. Please pray for the Lord to clearly communicate His plan.
Q-How can we make this a good transition?
A-The biggest challenge I see is managing the spectrum of our emotions. There is loss here. There is disappointment. There are a lot of questions that emerge from these changes. We can’t ignore those…in fact, to ignore them gives place for them to rule over us in a negative manner. So, the first challenge is to present and release those to God. He knows. As you bring those thoughts, questions, and feelings to God, release them; don’t rehearse them. The Psalmist illustrates this over and over again in his “journal” to us.
We need to listen carefully to what our hearts are experiencing and how God may desire to touch that. Moves like this bring us into a vulnerable place, but the Lord loves to minister to us there. Working to be still and listening for His words can bring great peace and transformation to your heart. I am praying earnestly for all of us to sense God’s great heart for us.
His word says, "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom.” (Luke 2:32)
Finally, I want to share my heart with you. My ministry is largely driven for the quest of family. Part of that is because I grew up longing for real family. I can honestly say that I have experienced the greatest depths of that here at
this church. To leave is a call, not a joy. You guys have been deeply woven into my heart.
Somehow in the gift of family, God has seen fit to have a transitional flow…babies turn into kids who grow into teens who soon leave the nest while parents become grand-parents and ultimately pass on to the other side. All those changes and transitions bring challenge and potential blessing. I don’t think God would plan for it unless it ultimately winds up for our good. Here, we are facing a similar transition. For me, I am fixing my eyes on a Creator who is continually working all things together for good. I have to. I invite you to as well.
It has been my honor and privilege to serve you and for that I am deeply grateful.
Together in Christ,
Pastor
Christianity,
Church
