Mixed emotions....

Today I feel a bombardment of emotions. There are a number of things happening around me.

Of course we are one week out from Christmas and that brings much joy and peace. (Not to mention the time off!) However, as a Pastor, I know that this season of joy and gladness often fills hearts with depression. Suicide rates and depression increases dramatically during this time. This year it has touched our church. We had a family experience a suicide in their family this week....I got the call. Saddened doesn't do it justice.

A lighter note...this is my last sermon in Oasis....a Wednesday night ministry I launched on March 3rd of 2oo4. It's the right thing and the right time to move on, but......

I also heard this week that a friend from school is being promoted. This saddens me as well. Not because we are the same age and he is now leading the largest church in our denomination. Not because I am jealous or think he is unworthy. I believe in him. I know he is called. I know he can and will do it. I just know he did not want it this way. No son could. I have been thinking about it as if it were me. I pray for you Jason. I cannot imagine. No judgment, no ill will, no secret celebrations....I am broken for your family. I love you and your father. He has had a great impact in such a little time with me (one ride to and from the airport). I pray for grace from the family, grace from the congregation, grace from the community, grace from the denomination, grace from God. I know you will never hear these words, but they are prayed and God will sustain you.

Other emotions....

I am excited....we are having our third child in January. We are celebrating our 1st year at Turkey Creek Church. We are launching a new prayer and fasting initiative. I sense God is preparing TC and PW for great things this year. I want to be ready.

I pray for you that God would prepare you for this coming year with anointing and wisdom for the harvest.......

God bless