Six years ago this week, I was pastoring a growing church of over one hundred members in Kansas City, Missouri. I had my wife and six children living at home in a spacious three-story house. We indulged in leading edge technology. We had our own cell phones and a computer with Internet. Things were hectic and exciting. I was full-time in the ministry, and I loved my life. My plan was to spend the rest of my life as Pastor of Trinity Independent Baptist Church.
Five years ago, February 23rd, I became the pastor of All Seasons Baptist Church; a church with ten drive-in members in Bettendorf, Iowa. I had never heard of Bettendorf, Iowa. We moved into a 900 square foot "parsonage" with my wife and three of my daughters. I took on a secular job to support my family. I lived through below zero temperatures. It still amazes me how much changed in one year. From a human standpoint, I felt my world had been turned upside down.
As I reach this five-year mark here in Iowa, I reflect on the roller coaster ride these years have been. I've seen my precious wife go through near-death illness. I have said good bye to beloved church members who have gone home to be with the Lord. I saw the tragic and sudden death of my sister's husband of thirty years. (He was great man.) My children have all moved away, while one moved back. Its been a full five years.
Today, my wife and I serve our church of about thirty. We live here with one daughter and a wonderful grandson. I'm still working a full-time secular job. We are living an exciting, hectic life; and I love it. I don't know what the next five years will hold, or where I will be. But I have learned, no matter what, there are three things that will never change.
First, I know in five years, God will love me with a never-ending love.
Second, I know God will have a purpose for my life should He tarry His coming, and should I remain on this earth.
Finally, I will always know that God is just, and holy and righteous.
These things will never change. Just a thought. Thanks for reading.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Your thoughts here have made me reflect on my last five years and, like you, many things have changed. But I am glad that we can count on our God who will never change.
ReplyDeleteII Tim 2:3-4. You are a "trench fighter" enduring hardness. I am glad to be able to fight along side of you bro. Praise God! for clearing our path. Isn't HE wonderful! Thanks for the testimony. Very encouraging!
ReplyDelete