It is too easy in life to take almost everything for granted. We don't take the time to consider how blessed we are; and how things could be completely different...in a moment. Today, this thought hit me after my daughter informed me that a Chick-fil-a was robbed at gunpoint last night; and it was the Chick-fil-a she had worked at for almost a year while we lived in Georgia. To make matters worse, the young man that carried a gun into the store was a friend of hers, a fellow employee; and was the guy who had come, at her invitation, to the graduation party we held for her.
I just took it for granted that a Chick-fil-a would be safe from armed robbery, especially from employees; that no one we knew would ever do something like that; and that as my daughter worked there, her friends could be trusted. But today I am praising God for the things I often take for granted. I praise Him for: the fact that my daughter did not have a closer friendship with this guy; the fact that she was not there to work last night; the fact that no one was injured, and that he and his alleged accomplice were found and arrested; protecting my daughter; being the God who is always in charge and who can be truly trusted...always!
Hopefully, after today, I will not take as many things for granted as I usually do. Praise God for all He does, unnoticed, in our lives every day.
Friday, July 5, 2013
Friday, June 7, 2013
A NEW BEGINNING
Fresh starts are awesome, in any area of life. For me, to have a new beginning as a lead pastor means so much to me, it is beyond my ability to adequately describe. I am humbled and privileged to serve the Lord in this way. He has blessed me throughout the process of His leading; and to put me where He has put me, for ministry, is just incredible. There is no perfect church, but God has placed me with a perfect fit for ministry. The people of Weymouth Community Church have welcomed me with open arms, and have truly made our family feel special. Our first two weeks here have been filled with meals in different homes, and the blessing of getting to know some pretty special people.
There is already a freedom to approach ministry in the way God has wired me, and to be accepted for my God-given personality. I am diving in to investing in people and just getting to know as many as I can. More than any program, or ministry strategy, God will honor a people (a church) that is dedicated to Him and to one another. I want to be a part of what God has planned for this special group; and I desire that we will be moving forward, together, toward His divine plan. It is too easy for a church to get splintered, with everyone (including the pastors) having their own desires and going their own direction. My prayer is that we would all follow God's lead, as we take next steps together.
A new beginning allows me to focus on laying a good foundation for this fresh start. Over the years, I have learned more about what is really important as I begin a new role. First and foremost, it is all about staying connected with God, and intimately pursuing Him. If I am walking with Him, nothing else, including disappointments in ministry, are going to derail me, or cause me to lose my joy. There is nothing more important that walking with God each day, and being all about glorifying Him. My strength, endurance and guidance in ministry is going to come from Him; as well as any effectiveness in serving Him. And secondly, in the horizontal aspect, it is about investing in the lives of these precious people, and truly caring for them. It is my joy and privilege to do just that. Thank you, God, for new beginnings!
There is already a freedom to approach ministry in the way God has wired me, and to be accepted for my God-given personality. I am diving in to investing in people and just getting to know as many as I can. More than any program, or ministry strategy, God will honor a people (a church) that is dedicated to Him and to one another. I want to be a part of what God has planned for this special group; and I desire that we will be moving forward, together, toward His divine plan. It is too easy for a church to get splintered, with everyone (including the pastors) having their own desires and going their own direction. My prayer is that we would all follow God's lead, as we take next steps together.
A new beginning allows me to focus on laying a good foundation for this fresh start. Over the years, I have learned more about what is really important as I begin a new role. First and foremost, it is all about staying connected with God, and intimately pursuing Him. If I am walking with Him, nothing else, including disappointments in ministry, are going to derail me, or cause me to lose my joy. There is nothing more important that walking with God each day, and being all about glorifying Him. My strength, endurance and guidance in ministry is going to come from Him; as well as any effectiveness in serving Him. And secondly, in the horizontal aspect, it is about investing in the lives of these precious people, and truly caring for them. It is my joy and privilege to do just that. Thank you, God, for new beginnings!
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
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.
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.
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
My Passion
God has given every one of us a passion for something. He has gifted us for a particular purpose. He has called us to do something for Him that would be impossible without His calling and provision. Recently, I have been focusing on a particular verse in the book of Colossians; and I have realized that the passion God has given me is all about what this verse describes:
"Him we proclaim, warning everyone, and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ." - Colossians 1:28
This fits with my life mission: "My dream is to help people take the next step in their spiritual journey."
This is why I have a great passion to be a pastor again, so that this is what I can devote myself to full-time. I don't of any greater privilege, then to pastor a group of people, and help them grow in Christ. Not only that, but I get to help a group of people see others come to Christ and we all get to help them grow as well.
More than just sharing the gospel and seeing people saved, discipleship is about the entire process of helping people become more fully devoted followers of Christ. My desire is to keep maturing in Christ until He takes me home; and until then, I want to help as many people as possible take their next steps toward Christ as well. As far as I am concerned, there is no greater way to spend one's life. No matter where we are, or what we do for a "living", we can take the next step in our spiritual journey, and help someone else do the same. We can all live out the truth and challenge of Colossians 1:28.
"Him we proclaim, warning everyone, and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ." - Colossians 1:28
This fits with my life mission: "My dream is to help people take the next step in their spiritual journey."
This is why I have a great passion to be a pastor again, so that this is what I can devote myself to full-time. I don't of any greater privilege, then to pastor a group of people, and help them grow in Christ. Not only that, but I get to help a group of people see others come to Christ and we all get to help them grow as well.
More than just sharing the gospel and seeing people saved, discipleship is about the entire process of helping people become more fully devoted followers of Christ. My desire is to keep maturing in Christ until He takes me home; and until then, I want to help as many people as possible take their next steps toward Christ as well. As far as I am concerned, there is no greater way to spend one's life. No matter where we are, or what we do for a "living", we can take the next step in our spiritual journey, and help someone else do the same. We can all live out the truth and challenge of Colossians 1:28.
Monday, April 15, 2013
LIGHTHOUSE
It was one of our dreams as parents: to take a family mission trip before our oldest graduated. For years we have been thinking and praying about it; and then the time came closer, and we were wondering how God was going to work it out. Our living circumstances changed, and our financial situation was not pretty. And yet, God came through! Although we originally hoped to take an overseas trip, and have our kids see real poverty, God had something else in mind. He kept us here in the States, and tuned our hearts into some very needy people, in a very different way.
Last week, we had the privilege and opportunity to go on a family mission trip to Lighthouse Family Retreat in the panhandle of Florida. They are a special organization that serves families living through childhood cancer. And they do an amazing job. This is was our first experience with them; and it was so positive and made such an impact on us, that we would love to go back. Our family had to raise almost $3,000, but God provided through the generosity of family and friends and through some money we had saved for a trip such as this. Raising funds allows Lighthouse to invite families dealing with cancer in their children to come experience a week of retreat at no charge.
The houses that are shared are on the beach and are beautiful. Although that is different than housing arrangements on most mission trips, it is fitting that these precious families get to enjoy these incredible vacation homes in this incredible location for a week of their lives. They really do a great job treating these families with special care during this week. They give the parents an opportunity every day to meet with the other parents while we took care of their children. They had a parents night out, where a local, very nice restaurant, gave those parents a free meal. And there were many other cool things they did to make the week very meaningful for the families (including a talent show, featuring their children, and a slide show featuring these special families).
We had plenty to do, in order to serve during the week. We helped with one of the meals each day, and during every meal, we served a particular family we were matched with. Our family was matched with a family that had 6 kids of their own and had been missionaries in India. Their 9 year old son was now going through his second round of cancer and chemotherapy. Our hearts were touched, and in a very short time, we felt very close to this family. It was our privilege to help set up their home every morning and night and to serve them in any way we could throughout the day. We also were able to serve many of the other families in small and big ways each day.
The most encouraging thing that we, as parents, experienced, was to see and hear good things about how each of our children served during the week. They each, in their own way, gave of themselves and invested their time and energy in serving others. That meant alot to us. I think they realized that when you give of yourself in serving others, you gain quite a bit yourself; and God uses those experiences to change you. We are very grateful for the experience God have us, and know it will have a lasting impact on our family. I would highly recommend Lighthouse to anyone looking to make a difference and to experience important, personal change as well.
Last week, we had the privilege and opportunity to go on a family mission trip to Lighthouse Family Retreat in the panhandle of Florida. They are a special organization that serves families living through childhood cancer. And they do an amazing job. This is was our first experience with them; and it was so positive and made such an impact on us, that we would love to go back. Our family had to raise almost $3,000, but God provided through the generosity of family and friends and through some money we had saved for a trip such as this. Raising funds allows Lighthouse to invite families dealing with cancer in their children to come experience a week of retreat at no charge.
The houses that are shared are on the beach and are beautiful. Although that is different than housing arrangements on most mission trips, it is fitting that these precious families get to enjoy these incredible vacation homes in this incredible location for a week of their lives. They really do a great job treating these families with special care during this week. They give the parents an opportunity every day to meet with the other parents while we took care of their children. They had a parents night out, where a local, very nice restaurant, gave those parents a free meal. And there were many other cool things they did to make the week very meaningful for the families (including a talent show, featuring their children, and a slide show featuring these special families).
We had plenty to do, in order to serve during the week. We helped with one of the meals each day, and during every meal, we served a particular family we were matched with. Our family was matched with a family that had 6 kids of their own and had been missionaries in India. Their 9 year old son was now going through his second round of cancer and chemotherapy. Our hearts were touched, and in a very short time, we felt very close to this family. It was our privilege to help set up their home every morning and night and to serve them in any way we could throughout the day. We also were able to serve many of the other families in small and big ways each day.
The most encouraging thing that we, as parents, experienced, was to see and hear good things about how each of our children served during the week. They each, in their own way, gave of themselves and invested their time and energy in serving others. That meant alot to us. I think they realized that when you give of yourself in serving others, you gain quite a bit yourself; and God uses those experiences to change you. We are very grateful for the experience God have us, and know it will have a lasting impact on our family. I would highly recommend Lighthouse to anyone looking to make a difference and to experience important, personal change as well.
Saturday, April 6, 2013
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Happy Birthday, today, to Alex and Isabella: 18 years old!
Alex and Isabella,
It is so hard to believe that, today, you are 18 years old. I guess we have to accept it: you are growing up and almost gone from our home. I want you both to know how grateful we are to God for bringing you into our family so many years ago. We have watched you grow up, and have seen God's work on your lives. There have been many challenges, but those are all a part of growing up. In fact, I wish I could tell you the challenges lessen or get easier as you get older; but I would be lying. The key is that God will help you through your challenges in the future, as He always has. He has used you in these years, and He has great plans to use you for His glory in the future. You just need to walk with Him.
Alex, we are so proud of you, as you signed up for the Navy and get ready to head to boot camp soon. Although it will be hard not having you here everyday, we know this is what God has planned for you; and we are excited to see how He grows and uses you during this next stage of life.
Isabella, we are also proud of you. We know this senior year has not been the easiest, but you have persevered and it is almost over. We hope you can do what you would like, as far as college next year; but if God has something else for you, even staying around home for awhile, we would be in favor of it! We know He will lead and guide you, as He has planned.
I hope you both enjoy your special birthday, and that this next year will be one of incredible blessing from God on your lives!
Love,
Dad
Alex and Isabella,
It is so hard to believe that, today, you are 18 years old. I guess we have to accept it: you are growing up and almost gone from our home. I want you both to know how grateful we are to God for bringing you into our family so many years ago. We have watched you grow up, and have seen God's work on your lives. There have been many challenges, but those are all a part of growing up. In fact, I wish I could tell you the challenges lessen or get easier as you get older; but I would be lying. The key is that God will help you through your challenges in the future, as He always has. He has used you in these years, and He has great plans to use you for His glory in the future. You just need to walk with Him.
Alex, we are so proud of you, as you signed up for the Navy and get ready to head to boot camp soon. Although it will be hard not having you here everyday, we know this is what God has planned for you; and we are excited to see how He grows and uses you during this next stage of life.
Isabella, we are also proud of you. We know this senior year has not been the easiest, but you have persevered and it is almost over. We hope you can do what you would like, as far as college next year; but if God has something else for you, even staying around home for awhile, we would be in favor of it! We know He will lead and guide you, as He has planned.
I hope you both enjoy your special birthday, and that this next year will be one of incredible blessing from God on your lives!
Love,
Dad
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