LOOKING BACK - MOVING FORWARD!

It's hard to believe that we are closing out another year. 2010 is soon to be a memory while 2011 is knocking on the door. In light of that, I'd like to take a moment to reflect upon a few of the happenin's of this past year plus look ahead to what I pray is going to be the best year ever. So here goes:

• Absolutely blessed with a wonderful wife, children, and grandchildren. Rejoiced with the birth of Aubryn Ella in April to Todd and Melissa in Salina. Had the privilege of dedicating Addy (Eric and Andrea's girl) to the Lord at church in May. The little boys, Brayden and Owen are so much fun. Kyle (#3 son) is doing well at Southwestern and has himself a great girlfriend, Molly. Me? I have a great girlfriend as well - my wife and best friend Mary Lou. So blessed, so very blessed!

• Also blessed to be serving at Mulvane UMC. I'm not going to lie, the transition has not been the smoothest. Change is never easy, for both the church and for the pastor. However, God has been doing His thing, working in and through the body. I've had the privilege to baptize many many person, receive dozens into the membership of the church, officiate multiple weddings and funerals, (both are opportunities for ministry), laugh with many, cry with many.

• Many have lost loved ones. Marriages have struggled, some have fallen apart. Cancer has impacted multiple families. Sickness, old age, surgeries, and other health issues have caused much heartache in the lives of people. Over and over again I am reminded of the hope that is found as a result of faith in Jesus Christ in those who face times of difficulty.

• Still trying to sort out all the dynamics that led to the death of our dear friend in western Kansas. Just a reminder that we can't answer the "why" questions.

• Am reminded of the reality that friends are friends forever, even when we are separated by miles and miles.

• Overjoyed that God gave us a vision at the church - "Inviting ALL to experience the life-transforming love of Jesus Christ". Now, will we live it out or just have a nice statement to hang on the walls and print in the bulletin?

• Some nice time away to catch my breath and refocus - ML and I in Dallas with the Rankins, Colorado with my hunting buddies, a day here, a day there with my wife. Good way to avoid burnout.

• God blessed me with some opportunities to preach and teach and lead worship in other places - (Walk to Emmaus, preaching revivals, Old Settler's Day, Baccalaureatte, etc)

• Wishing I'd have said something when I should have or not said something when I shouldn't have. Also, pushing the "send" button is not recommended unless you are clear that what is "sent" will be fully understood.

• Praying for wisdom, not just knowledge. Wisdom is the application of knowledge. Always learning that, aren't we?

• Lots and lots of meetings. Productivity? That's the evaluative part.

• Too many sleepless nights. Can't shut off the mind. That must change and it will.

It's been a great year but I'm glad it's behind me. Now for what lies ahead. I love the verse in Isaiah that says, "God is doing a new thing. Do you not perceive it?" I'm excited for what God has in store for me and my family and for the church that I serve. There are some people who are stepping out on faith regarding their future. You will hear about that in the months to come. There are others who are afraid to take the step of faith needed to help them understand what God seeks to do in their lives. If that is you, don't wait to find out "God's will for your life". That often is an excuse to hold back and not act upon what God is doing right now. Seek to discern what he desires for you TODAY. Then act upon it. Fasten your seatbelts. The ride into the new year is about to begin!