Goodbyes

Saying goodbye is never easy.  Saying goodbye to people you love, care about, and respect is even harder.

I've had the privilege of sitting under an incredible pastor and teacher the last several years.  He loves Jesus, and he is passionate about sharing Christ with people.  God has gifted him with an amazing ability to communicate, and He's given him a vision to spread the gospel by meeting people where they're at and moving them to where God wants them to be.  I've seen God use him for His purposes and His glory.  God has used him in my own life.  I've grown in my walk with Christ.  I've been challenged by him.  I've been encouraged.

I've also had the privilege of serving with and being mentored by his wife: a wonderful godly woman who oozes Jesus from every pore.  She is a beautiful example of grace and loving kindness.  I've known her heart to reach out in empathy, and I've known her to speak the hard truth in love.  I've been touched deeply by her giving spirit.  She's recognized God's gifts in me before I've even realized them myself.  God has used her in my life.  I've grown in my walk with Christ.  I've been challenged by her.  I've been encouraged.

So I want to say thank you.  Thank you for investing in the church, in the community, and in my life in particular. You've been a gift, a blessing, and an amazing source of wisdom and encouragement in my life.  Thank you for being an incredible example of godly character. You've been transparent, raw, and honest, and also gracious and loving.  I'm so thankful to have had the privilege of knowing you and serving with you in an effort to help people move closer to Christ.

You are leaving today.  But know that you are loved.  And you will be greatly missed.

Change is hard...and even moreso when it is born out of pain.  But God works everything for our good.  I believe this with every fiber of my being.

Romans 8:28
Genesis 50:20