Looking Back (and Ahead)

One year ago tonight, I felt God leading me to consider planting a church as the lead pastor. In my previous years of ministry, I felt I best worked as a support staff person, filling in the gaps of the leader. But, rather suddenly, God showed me that I could be a person of influence.

I was at an annual men's retreat, and, due to rolling blackouts in the area, our meeting room was pitch black. So, some guys started sharing what kept them coming to the church. I was amazed that a lot of the stories included me. My role was mostly behind the scenes. I was overcome with a sense from God saying, "See, you could do this! Don't sell yourself short." I actually left the meeting room for while, to collect my thoughts. I spent that night on my bunk in prayer, asking God to strip away any sense of pride or selfishness from this decision. And, since my personality needs detailed information, I asked for him to simply confirm his desire for me to pursue this course, and I would follow wherever that may be.

Erika was surprisingly cool with the idea as well, something that is against her personality as well. And as I pursued God further, Hutto came into view. Good friends of mine, Brandon and Cindy, decided to join us as well, and have made a lot of sacrifices to make it here and to stay here.

It was a very bittersweet decision. I was at a church I loved, doing what I loved, with people I loved. I had real friends that were closer than family. But I had stepped out on faith before and seen God move, so I knew what I had to do. And through the good, bad, and ugly, it's all been worth it. I've made some great friends, seen people come to faith, and found some leadership blossom within.

I'm right where I want to be, in every possible way.