The Christmas lights and decorations have all come down,
including the trees, wreaths, and bright-colored poinsettias. The ball has
dropped in Times Square and the calendar has rolled over to a new year. As one
season ends another one begins. There are so many thoughts that flood my heart
and mind this time of year. God is always working in our lives and it’s
important that we remember and celebrate His goodness.
Several years ago I began journaling, which has been helpful
in recording and remembering all of the details of the Father’s activity. The
following words were recorded in an entry dated June 2nd, 2013:
“I received a phone call today that caught
me completely by surprise. I’m overwhelmed and need to commit everything to the
Lord in prayer. I feel inadequate for the task, but God is more concerned with
my obedience than my ability. God always equips the called. Since I know He has
called me, I know that I can fully trust Him. Soli Deo Gloria.”
Returning to Green Hill was never on my radar. I recall building
a sand castle at the beach with my nieces and nephews, when my phone began to
ring. I grabbed my backpack and began digging for the phone. It was too late. I
had missed a call. The 803 prefix piqued my curiosity, so I quickly listened to
the voice mail. Immediately I knew that God was up to something. The request
was simple and kind – “Would you prayerfully consider returning to Green Hill
as our pastor?” And so the journey continued.
Life is about a journey not a destination. We often live life
from one “destination” to another – “If I can just graduate…if I can just get
married…if I can do this or do that…” Unfortunately, this can cause us to
overlook God’s activity along the way. The Children of Israel probably learned
more about God while wandering in the wilderness than they ever did in the
Promised Land. Such is the case with us.
Often we are unaware of the big picture, yet we need to know
that God is constantly weaving together the fabric of our lives. From the
backside of a tapestry it appears to be just a series of different colored
threads, random knots, and loose ends. But, when we turn it over (or look back)
we can see what the Grand Weaver was doing all along. Hindsight always gives us
greater clarity, but it should also bolster our faith for the future.
While we look back, remember, and celebrate what God has
done in the past, let us also look forward with great anticipation. Church, God
has much in store for us. We are on a new journey together. And so, God continues
to weave together the fabric of our lives – individually and corporately.
God bless our Green Hill Family. Happy New Year!
Pastor Brett