Changes

One thing that is just to be expected in life is change. For many, this word can stir up many different emotions. For some, change is like a root canal. For others, it is an adventure that makes their mouth water. Depending on the change, I'm usually found in that second category. I don't mind change. I try to view change as an adventure and something to be conquered.

Our family is experiencing a great deal of changes at the current time. We are awaiting the arrival of our third son at any time. Each of our sons has brought about a great deal of change to our lives. We are eagerly expecting and anticipating the changes that will come with Cole (#3).

Another big change has to do with ministry. Today, I announced that I am stepping down as the Youth Pastor at First Baptist Church of Birmingham, Alabama. My last day will be Sunday, August 14th. I have felt for some time that God was changing my heart. Since 1998, I have been involved in some form or fashion in student ministry. I have served as student ministry intern, part-time Youth Pastor, worked at the MS Baptist Children's Village, and full-time Youth Pastor. I have watched God do miraculous things in the lives of students for the better part of 13 years. The shift in my heart is from students to the entire church. I feel that God has equipped and gifted me to serve Him as a Senior Pastor of a local congregation.

This change that God is bringing about calls for a HUGE step of faith on my and my family's part. I know that for me to move forward in the direction of becoming a Senior Pastor that I have to finish something that I started in 2007: seminary (MDiv degree). I have about a year left since I was doing it through New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary via their extension centers. Our family will be moving to south Mississippi so that I can commute to the New Orleans campus full-time and finish out. The faith comes in trusting God to provide for our needs. After August 14th, I will not have income coming in. We are trusting that God will open up something soon. Also, anyone who has been to seminary knows, it ain't cheap. But as God guides, He provides. We feel that He has not only called our family to this, but He will also provide the needs. A verse that has really stood out to me over the past year is Hebrews 11:6

Now without faith it is impossible to please God, for the one who draws near to Him must believe that He exists and rewards those who seek Him.

I firmly believe God's Word is true and trustworthy. As Christians, we are called to live by faith and not sight. I know that this doesn't mean to be wild with it. If we live our lives in the comfort of what we can do, we will miss the hand of God many times.

We have no idea what the days to come will look like. One thing's for sure though, it will be a ride! We ask that you keep our family in your prayers. I will be looking for opportunities to serve as I finish up seminary. If you know of a church that is looking for a pastor in the south Mississippi area, please contact me. If you would like to join with us in the phase of our ministry by helping with costs of school, please contact me directly and I will let you know how that can be arranged.