So what has occupied my time over the past several weeks that has kept me from posting? Several things…
The end of the school year. I know students think that they are excited by the end of the school year and the beginning of summer, but the fact is, teachers are just as excited. We just have more work to do at the end of the year. Cleaning out classrooms, getting final grades together, etc. all takes time. I managed my time as well as possible, but didn’t have a lot of time left over for indulgences.
The closing of a church. Nine months ago, I made the decision to step away from a staff position at a church where I had been serving for over a year and a half. The relationships my family had made their were very dear to us, but we knew God was calling us to step aside, and we had to be obedient. Leaving was very difficult because of our love for the people there. You read all about this by going here.
The sad fact is, many church plants do not become permanent churches. The last statistic I heard was that over 80% of church plants fail. A little over a week ago, I was called and told that this church would be meeting for the last time on Memorial Day weekend. Needless to say, my heart has been heavy, but I have a hard time considering this church plant a “failure.” The fact is that the church was a success in many ways. Lives were changed, the gospel was shared, and relationships were built. I am a changed man because of my time with this group of believers.
Grad School. I suppose I am grudgingly accepting the fact that teaching is not just a temporary gig. (Or maybe I am just willing to concede that it is a LONGER temporary gig than I am willing to admit!) At any rate, I have now officially begun my coursework. My first class was last Wednesday night. I know that this hasn’t occupied a lot of my time yet, but it has still been something on my plate.
Being a family man. What can I say? I love my bride and my girls.
For those of you who check out DeeperWater looking for updates (both of you), I promise to do more writing over the summer.
OK, I’ll admit it…I check your BLOG frequently. Much like gawking at a train wreck; once you see it, it’s hard to look away out of morbid curiosity.
BTW – I think your count is off – me, Chris, and Gunter = 3, not 2.
Cheers,
Pooch