Journey to End of 2010

It has been a long time between entries and a lot of life has transpired...all leading up to this time. Over the last few months I have been on a journey to the end of 2010 by pastoring a small church in Northwest Michigan. While the numbers were few, the spirit was willing and inviting.  Over that time we grew to respect each other, to trust God, enjoyed each other's company and worshiped well.  Probably the biggest moment of my ministry in that church was the day God revealed to me that while on the right track for serving God in ministry...my pace was too fast for the church. And of all places, he revealed on the faces of the congregants as I was preaching.  To see God on the faces of worshipers is one thing...to have God get your attention and to speak into your ministry in such a plain way is another.

And as believers are well aware...God's timing is perfect. As I was learning pace, God opened the door that led to the next part of my faith journey.  God saw fit to open a door similar to the church in Michigan, but in Zephyrhills, Florida this time.  An older congregation needing care and leadership. I am not complaining and find God with a great sense of humor. I always thought I would be the pastor of a younger contemporary formatted church reaching teens, young adults and families with children and youth.  And here I am called to serve a congregation with an extreme amount of retirees in a highly covetted  area for retirees...particularly snow birds (those who fly south for the winter to escape the cold of the north).  He knows best right???

If there is one thing I have learned and continue to grow into is the fact that God is not really interested in my destination or what I can do while I am there...He is interested in my relationship with him and the life long journey we are going to travel together...this portion of the journey takes us thru Zephyrhills. 

I continue to look to today and forward to appreciate where I am at with God...and where we are headed.  2011 better look out cuz' here we come...ready or not!