is leaving. The time is approaching quickly, too soon, really. Our final day at SLWC is May 18th. As much as we are certain that God has released us, it doesn't make it any easier to leave. Bittersweet is a good description of letting go and moving on. Although we find ourselves grieving what we will leave behind, the past two Sundays have been such a blessing to Dennis and I - a wonderful celebration of the last 11 years.
Too many people gave us hugs on Easter Sunday (not saying that's a bad thing), along with endearments like, "We're going to miss you next Easter," or "Can't imagine church without you guys." We feel so loved, but it sure makes it hard to leave.
Today we combined our two venues for one service in the main auditorium for baptisms. If we thought Easter couldn't get any better, this service may have well been just as rich a celebration. If Jesus' resurrection power didn't change lives, where would the Christian faith be today? Nothing excites me more than this! We witnessed just over 40 people declare their faith in Christ through baptism, with many sharing their story of transformation. There is no explanation, except for the fact that God's Spirit entered in and that has made all the difference! I only wish everyone could know the stories behind each individual.
Besides the fact that we will miss Lake Michigan, walks on the beach, Coast Guard fireworks, pier walks, dune hiking, haircuts from our dear friend Jill, The Pointes Café (and Sally), breakfast at Morning Star, Prueblo's, our home for the past 11 years (and the season of our children's lives during that time); much greater than all that will be saying goodbye to dear friends, a great team, a great church, and missing out on the continued journey of people discovering Christ and watching them change and grow through his transforming power. It isn't like we won't gain new friends or ever be a part of those finding new life in Christ, because we will. It's just that we've had 11 years to see the amazing journey that many have traveled and that's been one of our greatest joys.
That's the hard part.
5 comments:
I celebrate all that God did through you at SLWC, and anticipate the future he has for you. You are right: following God's leading isn't always easy. I'm becoming more aware of just how much He identifies with us in those times. We love you guys!
gwen-
you and dennis pop in my mind at unexpected times...very random but i pray.
encouraging you thru prayer,
holly le blanc
Know exactly what you are going through. When Jon and I left Roanoke, it was so hard, but we kept reminding ourselves that we would rather have it that way. Then it meant that we had good friends and good memories. You know what I mean? Praying for you lots though.
A year ago we were in your same position. It is hard. I loved the people of SLWC and the town it self too. Some of the best friends I have ever had are still there. Leaving West MI in July and moving to the sun scortched grasses of Marion about made me cry at the time. But following Gods lead made it ok. When we got to where God had called us somehow He comforted me in a way that I can not even explain.
You're right Gwen, the last 2 Sundays were amazing. God is giving us an extra dose of the "GOD FACTOR" before you leave. I will miss you too.
Jill
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