This weekend it was announced that, due to financial issues in the church, my position was being eliminated. For more than five years I’ve grown to love the people of this church. I have prayed for you, tried to encourage you and also to challenge you to love God and love others.
This has been an interesting past few days: first being told the news on Friday and then having the privilege of performing not one, but two weddings over the weekend.
One of the weddings is for a couple that committed their lives to the Lord at the beginning of this year. In fact, one of the relatives told me of the incredible life-change that has taken place in the groom’s life since then!
I am reminded of Paul’s words to the Romans in the twelfth chapter: “… his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Rom. 12:2).
Generally speaking, none of us likes CHANGE – unless we are initiating and leading the change. (Even at that, there isn’t a guarantee.)
When change is imposed on us, we can fight it – which really results in fighting for control – or we can submit to it. I have learned to accept change, even though I do not always enjoy the process of change.
Our perspective to change means everything. I may have been serving in a particular local church body, but they have not been my master. My Master is in charge of changes and none of this has surprised him.
My Master has a plan that is “good”! It isn’t bad for you (us) and nothing could be better!
My Master has a plan that is “pleasing”! It will satisfy you (us) and provide contentment!
My Master has a plan that is “perfect”! Nothing you (we) can come up with will be better!
Yeah, I like change better when I’m in control, but it makes it easier (not easy) when I keep focused on seeing my master in control.
Love you guys and appreciate your ministry to CLC! We will commit to prayer and fasting as you search for God’s direction. I am excited to hear of God’s next adventure.
Seriously?
As a heart attack.
My heart hurts for you, my friend.
Pastor John – always remember that you and your family have touched many heart’s with God’s love. And it is with His love that you are being called to move on.
Thanks Bill.
Wow!!!! Just read your post. 🙁 I am so sorry for your news and the life changes that follow. We LOVE your family and know that God has the best for you and will bring you to the exact place that He wants you. We are praying for you, Joanna and the kids during the transition and adjustments that have to be made.
Oh my goodness!!! We have been watching our wedding video (over and over) enjoying our ceremony with our family and friends. By the way, we love the “audible” during the ceremony. We had no idea that you were to be leaving CLC. We were shocked to hear of this news!
Pastor John, we would like to thank you for your influence in our lives. You have been a great navigator in our path to commiting our lives to the Lord. You will be missed at CLC, especially by the newlyweds “Tom (Animal) & Peg”. How many times do you hear of a couple getting married in February during snow storm with no electricity in the church and then doing it again the same year in August! Determination.
I am sure that wherever God is Leading you and your family, he is leading you to great things.
If there is one thing I have learned, it is you should never worry, just trust in the Lord, pray, make right with the Lord and all will be GOOD!
We will pray for you and your family on your new endeavor.
Thank you Pastor John
Hey guys! I was so happy to do the ceremony for you on Saturday. I was even more happy when you agreed to take my counsel in January! Thanks for your kind words.