What’s Next?2

Following my announcement earlier this week that I’m resigning as pastor of Project Church at the end of 2011, the most frequently asked question is this: What’s next?

This was a decision I couldn’t make for my community, Project Church. It’s one the other leaders (my dear friends) needed to pray and search their hearts to answer because they would be the ones to carry the ball. They’ve met, prayed, met, and prayed some more. And I’m happy to announce the Project Church story will continue. Not only that, but something beautiful is blooming in the midst of the whirlwind my news has created.

From the beginning, we wanted a community where strangers could become friends and friends could become family. And that’s what happened. This family recognizes this church is much bigger than one person. As it should be. It’s about Jesus and his mission in the world.

As I observe folks rallying together, stepping up to fill voids, and loving one another, I see this original hope becoming an active reality. While I may have been the leader God used to start this, the thought never occurred to me that I might be in the way of what God wants to do. Yet, what I’m witnessing has me excited about what’s next. Even though I will no longer serve as a pastor at year’s end, I will always consider Project Church my family.

Personally, this decision has been extremely difficult. It’s a terrible feeling knowing you’ve disappointed a lot of people.  However, as the week has gone on, the amount of support and understanding has helped. It’s comforting to know my church loves me and I love them. I’m so thankful for that.

I pray God’s not done with me yet and am open to wherever He leads. In fact, I’m getting more used to the idea of new frontiers and more quality time with my wife and kids.  The next thing on my list is to begin planning for a real family vacation that lasts more than a weekend. It will be a first for us…and it’s about time.

Thanks for your prayers, encouragement, and support.

The best is yet to come.

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