The Journey Continues . . .

Now that some of our plans have been revealed, I would like to take the opportunity to share our hearts, and what the Lord has been doing in our lives during this time of waiting.  We are now 75 days from “I Do” day, yet still living 500+ miles apart.  We’ve had the opportunity to see each other about once a month for the last 8 months, a pattern that will continue until moving day, the first week of December.  We are very ready to drop the “long distance” label of our relationship, and move forward to the next chapter in our lives. 

When Brent and I first started talking to each other, we really struggled with the knowledge that, if this relationship worked out, one of us would have to move.   To be honest, on more than one occasion, it was nearly the death of the relationship.  We weren’t confident we were willing to take such a big risk, knowing the outcome.  Long distance marriages just aren’t our thing, so if this worked out, someone was headed for a cross-country move.  Considering both of us have experience with this, we were apprehensive to get involved.  However, every time we let fear of the unknown take control, we felt the Lord assuring us it would be okay.   Since He had brought the two of us together, He would surely work out all the details to bring us together geographically, too. 

So, the million dollar question we have heard ever since our engagement back in May is, “Who’s moving?”  Tough question, and one we weren’t willing to answer right away.  We spent much time in prayer as we discussed our options and asked the Lord to reveal His plan for our ministry as a new family.  Let’s face it, many hearts were going to be broken no matter what choice we made.  Neither of us wanted to disappoint anyone, making this decision that much more difficult.  We had to stay focused on the fact that God would prepare the hearts of everyone who had to say a goodbye.  Once again, we were trusting that He would take care of those details, same as He has all along this journey.  I must continue to remind myself that the God who provided for my family in the aftermath of such a major loss, is the same God who is providing for us now.  So long as we continue to seek His will for our lives, that will never change. 

So, who’s moving, you ask?  We are finally ready to answer this question.  Yesterday, Brent had to make the difficult announcement of his resignation at Second Baptist Church effective December 2nd.  After nearly 6 years of service at this wonderful church, he feels led by the Lord to step out in faith towards our future together.  My heart was extremely heavy for all the members of SBC who learned of this transition yesterday.  I spent much time in prayer asking the Lord to prepare and protect the hearts of the students and their families.  We know this will be a difficult 7 weeks, as goodbyes are never easy.  In the short amount of time, and few visits I’ve had at SBC, I cannot say enough about the caring attitudes and loving hearts from the people there.  You will always hold a special place in our hearts.  Thank you for being so gracious and understanding despite the sadness you're feeling.  We are continuing to pray the Lord will bring the right man to lead the youth in this next adventure.  Just as God has a plan for our new future together, He also has a plan for the future of SBC.  We know he will provide for you as well. 

During the first week of December (approximately 50 days from now, but who’s counting?), Brent will be closing the 500+ mile gap between us.  Once and for all.  While we are still uncertain where the Lord plans for our new ministry together to take place, we are confident that He has a plan.  He has gone before us to prepare the next place for us.  I’m sure this time of waiting is preparing us for whatever may lie ahead.  As you continue to pray for us, pray for clarity of direction, peace of mind, and willingness to follow wherever the Lord is leading our family. 

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.  Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.  You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:11-13.  We are seeking, while expectantly waiting for Him to reveal His plan.  Never could we have imagined this path in our lives, but we are so grateful, blessed beyond measure, to be experiencing it together.  God is good ALL the time, and His ways are FAR better than anything we could ever imagine!!!