March 3, two years ago, Camille and I made our way into Mississippi with a final destination of Fulton. We brought all we owned in a U-Haul truck and anxiously arrived at what would be our new home. I remember the day very, very well. The sun was shining, the flowers were blooming, and great anticipation filled us. In some ways, it seems like these 2 years have passed very quickly. In other ways, it seems like a lifetime ago. What we hoped would be the launch of a grand new adventure was happening and we were eager to get started.
Looking back over those 2 years has been fun and enlightening. We have learned so many things about Mississippi as well as discovered truth about ourselves. Some of the experiences have been hard. That doesn’t surprise me, and it shouldn’t surprise you. Life as a follower of Jesus will include many highs and lows but along with each, a reminder that we don’t face anything in life alone. We have certainly felt God leading us, not only in the decision to come here and the move to get here. We have sensed God helping us and meeting our needs of every type. We have felt your love and acceptance as you have had to deal with a new minister and spouse. The pressure a new minister often feels to try and fit in and not disappoint people’s expectations especially after a beloved, long-tenured minister can be overwhelming. Some will occasionally slip and call me Bro. Jim. I take it as a compliment and perhaps even as a sign that we are starting to fit in here.
There also have been some very good days and experiences. The development of new friendships takes time, but we feel like we are starting to get to know many of you. The appearance of new people who you have invited to Church with you is also something that makes me feel good. I take it as a sign that you are reaching out for Jesus and feel positive about the community of the faith that we share.
So, looking back is what I am doing today but not for too long. One harsh reality on celebrating on this day is the fact that I am two years older. In the past, this fact probably wouldn’t have meant as much to me as it does now, but since I know I am much closer to the end of my life and certainly my days to effectively minister than I am the beginning, it is always in the back of my mind. I really want to finish this life that God has given to me, well. I know my life and ministry won’t go on forever and so I feel the urgency to keep moving forward.
What I hope you will get from this blog post is a better glimpse inside of what makes me tick. I hope what you see is a guy who loves Jesus and wants us all to be best prepared for the day He either returns or He calls us to Himself. I also hope you know how happy we are with our decision to move here and live among you. We look forward to sharing the highs and lows of our lives together in Christ for hopefully many more years and sharing many victories for King Jesus along the way!
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