The adventure continues

Today a chapter closed, or a page turned, or a season changed... whatever metaphor you want to use, I said goodbye to a lot of good friends today. I have worked a total of seven years for one company and spent countless hours with many of the same people during that time. At these pivotal points in my life I can't help but evaluate things - conversations I should have had, arguments I should not have, ways I could have loved more like Christ, places where I should have done my job better. But, I am reminded that as long as I am human (which is hopefully a condition I will suffer for quite some time!) there will always be the "should haves." So tonight I am simply thankful. Thankful for the years God has given me to walk with these friends. Thankful for what I have learned and what, by God's grace, I have taught. Thankful for the provision of a job. Thankful for facebook, e-mail, and cell phones, and in the case of a few stubborn old-timers I am even thankful for postage stamps. Thankful for the pranksters who refused me the opportunity of taking myself too seriously, and thankful for the grouchy, retired drill-sergeant types who reminded me that sobriety of mind is sometimes an equally important character trait. I could go on, but that would be bordering on living in the past when God has given me so much in the present and future for which I am, with greatly anticipated excitement, equally thankful.

To name a few, my wife of nine years who is charging down the trail West at my side. She is my best friend, trusted counselor, and the greatest joy and love of my life. My three sons, the oldest of whom I get to baptize this Sunday! Boulevard Baptist, that filled a needed gap while transitioning between ministries, and for their whole-hearted support as we move. And of course, the reason for all of this change, Grace Fellowship in Buffalo, Wyoming - my new home, my new family. I am not a gifted enough writer to explain my excitement for the years ahead. Our amazing God has blessed us in countless ways making His course for us clear. Without Him nothing in this post would be true or possible, but because of Him these words barely scratch the surface of what is praiseworthy in this life. To Him be the glory forever, amen.