The best part of my life these days continues to be my family. Kelly, now happy in a new job, provides amazing support for me in the relentless call that God places on those who work in the church. The fact that she also works in a church makes this much easier. My boys bring me more joy than I can find words to express. It's not that every moment is bliss--hardly true. When they are tired, they wear me out. And I've lost my patience too many times with them. . .even today. But they are such wonderful additions to my life that they have become part of what defines me. I would do anything for them.
Our ministry has proven challenging this past year, more than I ever expected. There are no regrets, but we've tackled a building project--something that will try the most tested pastor. Yet, we are on our way and the process is full of hope. We've changed many staff people, we have endeavored into new areas of mission, and we have pushed the limits as we know them. And in this final week of Advent, we have said goodbye to four people within our church community. Death is especially hard this time of year, while we are so focused on preparing for new life. Yet, there is no better time to proclaim the gospel than at the Advent of Jesus.
There is so much for which to be grateful, and even amidst the sorrow of death, divorce, broken relationships, of lost faith, of vengeful spirits, of hopeless cynics--even when we are dog-tired, I'm full of joy today. I think tomorrow looks just as good.
