affirmation

July 7th, 2011Blog, Slider5 comments

Everyone said this summer was going to fly by. They were right. With an extremely busy schedule in the month of July, it will only increase the velocity at which it seems we are traveling!

I can’t believe that we are only mere weeks away from moving across the country to Richmond. The more that I meditate on the greatness of God and His graciousness to include us in His plans, the more I am blown away and humbled. I know that this next step is the one that we are supposed to take as a family. The affirmation that our decision is the proper one has been overwhelming! There is no feeling like feeling the leading of the Lord in a certain area of your life, walking toward that calling and hence seeing numerous and blatant points of affirmation that it is, indeed, the direction you should be moving.

Along with our steps toward Richmond, I’ve also taken some steps toward furthering my education at the masters level. Because moving to a new city and serving in a new capacity in ministry is a big undertaking, I was a bit hesitant in committing to the idea of seminary. As I prayed and pondered, a had the increased sense that I was to journey toward this, as well. In a number of ways, the decision to submit my application has been affirmed, as well. (I still haven’t received word on whether or not I was accepted, though.)

I realize that California is a great distance from Tennessee, but as each day passes, the move to Richmond feels less like a giant leap of faith. Let me explain. As I’ve shared before, I’ve committed to live out the know will of God and allow the unknown will to reveal itself. I know that the known will of God for my life is to preach the Gospel, serve the poor and love others well (make disciples). I will have the opportunity to walk toward all of these things, it just so happens that I will seek to be obedient to the known will of God in California. I want to do all that I can to serve my wife well as a leader in our family, and I feel that I can only do this in the best way by being obedient to what the Lord is leading us toward.

It’s hilarious… we’ve been hearing the words Richmond and Living Hope (the name of the church) in passing so often! Even as I’m sitting in a coffee shop writing these very words, I just overheard a man loudly say “Richmond” to another gentleman in conversation. Some may say that it’s the “new car syndrome”. You know, its like once you decide to purchase a new car, you start seeing them everywhere. Well, that’s what some may say… I say that it’s our gracious Lord giving us just a bit more affirmation. I love it.