Last night we spent the evening with the teens explaining everything that is going on. Today was the big announcement at church. If you missed it here is the text I read to the congregation.
"By now many of you may have heard that Jane and I have accepted a position at a church in Texas closer to home and family. I would like to briefly relay to those of you who have not heard yet what the opportunities are that God is presenting in my life as well as extend my deepest and most heartfelt thanks to a church that has taught me so much.
Several weeks ago I was approached by a church in Midland Texas named Golf Course Road Church of Christ about a position they had open as head of their student ministries department. They where looking for someone to lead their high school youth ministry as well as direct 2 additional youth ministers already on staff. At first I told them I was not interested. Even though it appeared to be a wonderful opportunity for my family and me I felt it would be bad timing for our church family here in OP. After much thought and prayer about it however I felt God softly calling me to investigate the opportunity further. After several weeks of prayer and several conversations with the church leaders in Midland and recently with the leadership here, Jane and I felt confident that this opportunity was from God. While God never sent me an e-mail, or wrote in the sky what I should do, I feel confidant that God is behind this opportunity. This opportunity represents a chance for me to do what I love in an environment that allows me to be closer to family while giving me the chance to grow new talents and experiences needed for me to be a better servant of the kingdom. OP has been a wonderful church and I have loved serving her. Over the past 4 ½ years I have been able to serve alongside some of the most Godly men and women I have ever met. The experience I have had here will serve me and Gods kingdom for many years to come. In short OP has made me who I am and I will never forget that.
I realize the timing of this might look to some to be “suspicious” because of the transitions we have experienced this year. Please don’t believe that. While I cannot explain to you Gods timing or control your thoughts I can do one thing. I can tell you with all of my heart that OP is a good, healthy church in capable hands with leaders that love her and care for her. The leadership here is the most Godly and capable leadership I have ever worked with. OP is a flagship church, a city on a hill, and I will always hold my head high that I got on opportunity to serve her and to serve along side such Godly leaders.
In closing I would like to read from Col 2:1-5
I want you to know how much I am struggling for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally. My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments. For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how orderly you are and how firm your faith in Christ is. "
"By now many of you may have heard that Jane and I have accepted a position at a church in Texas closer to home and family. I would like to briefly relay to those of you who have not heard yet what the opportunities are that God is presenting in my life as well as extend my deepest and most heartfelt thanks to a church that has taught me so much.
Several weeks ago I was approached by a church in Midland Texas named Golf Course Road Church of Christ about a position they had open as head of their student ministries department. They where looking for someone to lead their high school youth ministry as well as direct 2 additional youth ministers already on staff. At first I told them I was not interested. Even though it appeared to be a wonderful opportunity for my family and me I felt it would be bad timing for our church family here in OP. After much thought and prayer about it however I felt God softly calling me to investigate the opportunity further. After several weeks of prayer and several conversations with the church leaders in Midland and recently with the leadership here, Jane and I felt confident that this opportunity was from God. While God never sent me an e-mail, or wrote in the sky what I should do, I feel confidant that God is behind this opportunity. This opportunity represents a chance for me to do what I love in an environment that allows me to be closer to family while giving me the chance to grow new talents and experiences needed for me to be a better servant of the kingdom. OP has been a wonderful church and I have loved serving her. Over the past 4 ½ years I have been able to serve alongside some of the most Godly men and women I have ever met. The experience I have had here will serve me and Gods kingdom for many years to come. In short OP has made me who I am and I will never forget that.
I realize the timing of this might look to some to be “suspicious” because of the transitions we have experienced this year. Please don’t believe that. While I cannot explain to you Gods timing or control your thoughts I can do one thing. I can tell you with all of my heart that OP is a good, healthy church in capable hands with leaders that love her and care for her. The leadership here is the most Godly and capable leadership I have ever worked with. OP is a flagship church, a city on a hill, and I will always hold my head high that I got on opportunity to serve her and to serve along side such Godly leaders.
In closing I would like to read from Col 2:1-5
I want you to know how much I am struggling for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally. My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments. For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how orderly you are and how firm your faith in Christ is. "
posted by Paul at Sunday, December 31, 2006
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