Saturday, May 25, 2013

DEAR WEYMOUTH COMMUNITY CHURCH

Dear Weymouth Community Church,

You may never know how God has already used you to be an incredible encouragement to me. When we found out that you voted to invite me to be your next Lead Pastor, it was the culmination of over a year of praying, waiting, and hoping. God had some things He wanted to do in our lives first, but now He is bringing us together for what He has planned for the future. I could not be more excited about beginning this journey with you. You are an incredible answer to prayer.

I was praying for a church that had not been through a split, and that had a history of long-term pastors. I was praying for church that had solid doctrine, but was non-denominational. I was praying for a church that had elder leadership. I was praying for a church that might have some additional blessings added to it (and the fact that you  are in Ohio, and near where we were for 7 years is an incredible special blessing!). I was praying for a church that gave the first impression of being loving, welcoming and caring. I was praying for a church that desired to make disciples around the world. I was praying for a church that seemed to be a great fit for me. I was praying for a church that only God could lead us to and put us together. You were the answer to my prayers; and God went above and beyond my expectations.

There are no illusions, after 18 years of ministry, that any church is perfect. But I do believe in God's perfect will, in His perfect timing, and His perfect fit - to do in us and to do in you exactly what is needed to draw us closer to Him and to bring Him glory. So, it is with God's sovereignty in mind, that I am overflowing with joy, excitement, and anticipation of what He is going to do moving forward. After Teresa and I visited for the first time, we already began to love the people, and felt like we were home. God has given us a new home with you, and we praise Him for His wonderful gift!

Love,
Greg

Thursday, May 23, 2013

THANK YOU CHICK-FIL-A

God has answered our prayers; and after 10 months of living in the Atlanta, Ga area with family, we are moving back to Ohio and I am taking on the role of Lead Pastor once again. But, before we "move on" and just focus on where we are going, I want to pause and thank God for where we have been. Teresa's brother has been awesome, as their family has allowed us to live with them; and God has really done some pretty amazing things over this past year. One that sticks out in my mind and heart today, is the blessing of Chick-fil-a.

Today was my last day at work, and it was a bitter/sweet day. I am so excited about following God's call back into pastoral ministry; but I will miss my chick-fil-a family, and am so grateful for their part in my life this year. Kevin, the owner/operator, has been incredible, in hiring me and being so kind throughout the process. The managers, team leaders, and team members have all been so welcoming and a joy to work with the entire time. I saw how God can use a business, to really care about people, and serve their community - for the glory of God.

Over these months, as I awaited God's next call, I was able to immerse myself in the chick-fil-a family, and it was a great blessing. Here are some of the things I am most thankful for:
1) A company that does not shy away from their mission statement that is about the glory of God.
2) An owner that truly loves his employees; and continually finds ways to demonstrate that love.
3) Team leaders and managers who also care, and are all about training, customer service and excellence. They really want everyone to grow and succeed.
4) Lots of laughter and fun in this working environment
5) To go to work each day, and not dread it. It was, sincerely, a joy to work there.

May God bless Chick-fil-a, Kevin, and all my wonderful friends at our store in Canton, Ga. And if you are ever traveling close by, stop off on exit 20 off of interstate 575, in Canton, ,GA; and perhaps you will see just a glimpse of what I am talking about. God has used this Chick-fil-a family in a special time in my life; and for that I am forever grateful.