I've been in Philly since Monday afternoon. I attended an elder's meeting last evening and was encouraged by what I observed. Specifically, I appreciated the heart-felt prayers that were offered up for the people of COS. These are men who care about the people they are charged to shepherd. I am looking forward to the opportunity of partnering with these men in the glad labor of feeding, caring for, and equipping God's people for the work of ministry.
This morning I was encouraged yet again by the staff meeting. Kerry J. does an outstanding job of leading those faithful men and women. There was a healthy mix of prayer, theological reflection, and strategic thinking. For lunch I was blessed to hang out with Kerry J. and Jason G. These are great brothers! They love the church and the cause of church planting. I am looking forward to attending the Vine my first few weeks in town. I am especially anxious to spend time with those of you who attend the Vine and hearing your own thoughts and dreams for that important ministry.
If you are a member or regular attender of COS I hope that will pray for and encourage the elders and staff persons who count it a joy to partner with you in the work of the Gospel.
I am a bit preoccupied with the fact that this coming Sunday will be my last as pastor of Metro East. I try not to think about it too much but so far I haven't been very successful. The thought of my last sermon to my beloved MEBC family makes me very sad. The only way I know how to describe it is that it feels a bit like someone is peeling a piece of flesh from my side.
I am also thinking a lot about John, Doug, Matt, James, and Jason. It has been such a blessing to serve with friends. These are men that I trust. They have some very challenging waters to navigate in the days ahead. I trust the people of Metro East will love and encourage them as they have so faithfully done for me.
If you are a member of Metro East please be praying for the men who are responsible to lead you. Encourage them and let them lead. They are bearing a great weight. Keep the cross before you by determining to serve, love, and practice mercy. You have a wonderful opportunity to be a blessing to our Lord's under shepherds. Metro East can and should thrive in these days. While this depends entirely upon God's grace please keep in mind that God uses means. It is a blessed thing to a means of God's grace.
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6 comments:
In the spring of 1999 Metro East faced a greater challenge/test when we were rather abruptly released from the direction of our downtown parent church. I had the privilege of seeing the men of Metro East rise to the occasion and move forward in a spirit of prayer and unity as we sought our first pastor. God richly blessed us then and I have no doubt that He will richly bless Metro East now. The pastoral staff, support staff, deacons and prayer warriors that inhabit the Metro East campus are true men and women of faith. During the last interim time I remember sending out an email that the church need not wait for a shepherd, we already have that in God. The work of the church can move forward without a head sheep. Metro East, know that you are in my prayers daily. Susan and I still (even after a 7 year absence) consider it our home church. Remember the wisdom of Hebrews, "encourage one another daily. . .lest you be blinded by sins deceitfulness."
COS - I know you have been without a Teaching Pastor for awhile. Do not allow the presence of Todd and Karen to allow you to slip into complacency. Protect and pray for this precious couple and their family. We entrust them to you and ask for your prayers as you will be in ours. Rise up all the more and may revival come to Wayne, PA and Wichita, KS!!
Spot on Rick.
Thanks for the good words.
We're praying for you, Todd.
Go Phillies!
Casey,
Good to hear from y'all. I trust that seminary and marriage are both going well. Stay in touch. I'll be at Church of the Saviour in Wayne, PA. I'll be keeping up the blog so I will expect you to keep checking in.
How 'bout those Phillies!
As a former member of COS who has recently moved to Houston, I am thrilled to hear of the progress there in hiring you. I had been very discouraged by the lack of a teaching pastor for so long, and although I haven't been part of the recent decisions, I have been praying for my home church and I will be praying for you now as well. God bless!
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