I realize it’s been almost two weeks since I last posted. To be honest, it’s been a very busy month. I have been meeting with the two church boards as we walk through a new partnership focus. I’m very excited with where we are going and will hopefully be making some announcements in the next month or so.
However, this is Thanksgiving weekend here in Canada. And so, I wanted to pause a moment and share some of the things I am thankful for:
- I’m thankful for a God who loved me even when I had no clue of his existence. He revealed himself to me as a young 16 year old kid and there are many days when I am still amazed at his grace.
- I’m thankful for a wife who passionately stands with me in ministry even as she struggles with her own medical issues. We have walked through many challenges in our 21 years together and yet I wouldn’t want anyone else at my side.
- I’m thankful for children who love God, love family, and want to live the adventure God has created them for. Brit is an amazing 19 year old who refuses to fit into someone else’s mould. She loves some quirky things that most 19 year olds don’t think twice about (like B&W movies, Ella Fitzgerald, and any musical). Christina is the most grace-filled 13 year old, who will give anyone a second (and third, and fourth) chance. She is incredibly generous and compassionate and is always open to trying something new. Her adventurous spirit will take her far.
- I’m thankful for Bikers Church. Who knew the journey we’d take together over the past ten years? With every new person, God has tweaked our identity. We have been nomads, moving from home to home for many years, and have now found a permanent place. This group of believers have been so gracious with me as I have “worked out my salvation” in many ways right in front of them. We’ve grown together, learned together, stood together. This past Thursday night’s service was a perfect example of that. As we changed up everything we did simply so that we could pray for a brother who has been told he has only three months to live, the members of Bikers Church just “went with it.” We stood as a family, and it was a beautiful thing to see.
- I’m thankful for City Church. Even when I interned back in 2008, I knew that God wasn’t done with me and this group of believers. Now that we are walking together, I am amazed at the passion found in so many of the people who make up this church. As I pointed out during the service yesterday, I am grateful for the long-time members who have shown flexibility in changing so much of what they are comfortable with in order to see the church not only survive, but thrive. I’m also thrilled for all the new people who have made City Church their home. They bring new life that inspires everyone who attends this wonderful church.
- I’m thankful for friends who don’t allow me to be “Pastor Rob” when we’re together. They take me to Sens games (or give me tickets to the home opener!!!!!). They take trips with me. They workout with me. They show grace when I’m miserable, and laugh when I think I’m funny. They’re real, and they allow me to be real. (And if you’re a pastor, you know how special that truly is).
There are so many other things that I’m thankful for, but this is Thanksgiving Monday and I shouldn’t be working. So, I’m going to go jump on my motorcycle and head out wherever it takes me. Which is something else I’m so thankful for.
Happy Thanksgiving!
