I began my day by having coffee at Kidd with one of my closest friends and partner in ministry, Keith Wrassmann. He always has a "fresh word" from God and a great perspective about life and ministry. I always leave challenged and encouraged. Thanks Keith, I am so thankful that God brought you into my life. WE MUST GOLF SOON!
I really have a great staff at LCC. Today was our first "monthly staff lunch". We will be meeting together on the last Wednesday of every month at noon for a delicious lunch provided by the Food Service Ministry of LCC (thanks Lynn), a encouragement and prayer time and a book study. Our first study is the book Simple Church. We only got into the first chapter but it was a time of stretching and growth for all of us. I know that there were moments of frustration and even disagreement, but I walked out of that room feeling extremely excited about the future. Thanks Jared, Dan & Holly (we missed you Tawnya)! I am blessed to work alongside each of you.
This evening I got to share a meal with my family. Truly the best part of my life! Lauren slept through dinner, but she was still close by. Caleb, Jen and I enjoyed the few moments of peace and quiet. I am so thankful that we continue to protect (as often as it is possible) our dinner time.
The day concluded with our D-Group meeting. I have said it many times, but I LOVE OUR GROUP! We had a full living room at the Temple's tonight. It was obvious that everyone wanted to be there and wanted to share life and relationship. We got so much accomplished this evening and had a great study time. We finished week 1 of ? on baptism. I love the mix of our group. I think we have almost every denomination and background covered. The cool thing is that EVERYONE is hungry for Truth! It is going to be an amazing study and I truly believe that Eternity will look differently in the next few weeks.
Finally, can I offer some reading encouragement for anyone in ministry. Read Philippians 1! I realized that Paul and Timothy (staff) is speaking to the entire church and especially the deacons and elders. He says that they are ALL partners in ministry, he says that they pray in joy for ALL of them, he says that he has them ALL in his heart and then offers an amazing prayer for them. I JUST LOVE HIS ATTITUDE. Ministry is hard. Communication is difficult. Keeping pride out of the way is almost impossible. Oh, that I would pray this prayer for my elders, deacons, congregation...why can't I? Anyone want to join me?
B. OUT!!