Change in the Wind

As I sit at my desk, ready to leave the office I am feeling my heart beat a little faster than normal.  Tomorrow is the last day our office will be open this year.  We close at noon for Christmas holidays and when we open in January, I will not be here. I am excited for this change but am human (and perhaps female) enough to feel some sadness and nostalgia.

Church Triumphant has been a major part of my daily existence for over 30 years.  I have learned so many things here and made so many wonderful friends.  Heck, I have practically grown-up here!  This place and these people (those from the past and present) have loved me, taught me, supported me, strengthened me, stretched me, challenged me and encouraged me.  They have made me laugh and cry!  They have given me reasons to fast and pray and to be diligent in my Christianity.  We have shared triumph and struggle and tragedy and joy.  I am so grateful to have served here.

When other pastor’s were struggling, our congregation was working to find new ways to bless us.  When other churches were having secret meetings to discuss ways to get rid of their pastor, ours was openly rallying around us and supporting the vision God had placed in our heart.  This place never has been normal!  It is above normal in so many ways.   I will miss being here daily.

Working as an administrator and children’s director has been awesome.  While serving in this capacity, Church T has been gracious and patient with me and I never leave a service without dozens and dozens of reasons to smile. When I stumble they laugh and help me get up.  When I try something new, they cheer.  What a family I have had!

The desk I have been using is Eric’s.  I am awed when I think of the many sermons prepared here.  I remember having many conversations with him on one side of this desk and me on the other.  I remember lots of laughter here.  I remember issues being discussed and I remember a man who diligently pursued Jesus.  I even remember a kiss (or several!) where this desk was an observer!

Now it’s time for change.  I am leaving CT but mostly, I’m taking it with me.  My friends are still my friends.  What I have learned is inside and goes with me.  God is guiding and I am following.  I am excited for the privilege of soon allowing my son to be my pastor!  I hope he’s as ready for it as I am!  I anxiously await the connection and direction God has for my new year.  My heart, like that of my pastors – past, present and future – is to serve God to the fullest and make sure others know He loves them madly. I am equipped.  Now I go.

Thank you, Church Triumphant, for so many, many things!