Change...

Yesterday was the last day of work here at my church for my friend and fellow missionary Justin Browning. It was a tough day- for me and for many that have grown to know and love Justin. He is still yet a young pup (22) but is wise with spiritual wisdom and tenacious about his pursuit of God's will and work in the church. I had the blessing of working with his these past months and learning from him so many things... I learned that fear is way overrated and that when God calls you being faithful means unapologetically leading towards His goals and will. Justin rocked the house at this- I gained a lot of courage from his examples of conflict and resolution, challenge and growth, peace and war. I was constantly reminded that our family, no matter how "different", doesn't have to affect what we are as God-filled leaders. I learned a lot about leadership, friendship, and the power of having someone that always has your back- we need that in life.
Justin is wise beyond his years. I look forward to continuing in the friendship we share. He is going to be a world changer for God and I can't wait to support him as he lives out his call.

Now about change... well in the words on many of my teenagers "It sucks". It is inevitable though that doesn't make it any easier. Our life is in many ways like the seasons. We may set in to a long time of summer warmth, comfort, peace and then all of a sudden the wind shifts and change is in the air. Before you know it the scenery has changed. Shorts have gave way to jeans and life sheds a few pound of foliage and you are sad. The cold sets in, the sad cold of desolation and death but never fear for spring is on its way. Soon new life, new growth, new hope, and new possibilities arise. I pray for the season of fall and winter in my life and the life of our children's ministry. I do know, however, that spring will come soon enough. Hope FULL of glory and God's grace will again water our lives and gift us with a new adventure. I can't wait. I pray these things also for Justin. May courage lead him into the dangerous wonder of God's work in Tupelo. May the truth of being found by God season the experience and light the direction of our days and may grace fill our missteps and pave our path. Lastly, may courage, relentless courage take root deep in our souls and refuse to go quietly when need manifests itself.