This past Sunday was a powerful service at Trinity Evangelical Missionary Church. The worship was wonderful. During the worship time, the congregation was encouraged to stand and share what they were thankful for. The response was amazing. We heard testimonies of God’s healing power and testimonies of God’s comforting presence in the midst of trials. We even heard a woman from the congregation express her deep gratitude to God in her native language. It was beautiful.
I too have much to be thankful for. God has blessed me with a beautiful and loving wife, three beautiful children and a beautiful home. But the one thing I am truly thankful for this Thanksgiving, is for the calling of lead pastor of Trinity Evangelical Missionary Church. I’m not going to lie. I read the blog of Plattsville EMC’s lead pastor and was inspired to write this blog. He too is thankful for the calling of lead pastor. But like him, I truly am amazed to be used by God as a pastor.
About 7 months ago, Allie and I had no clue what we were going to do next. There was a possibility to go out west and serve as a pastor out there, but for the first time we felt at home with a church (Trinity EMC). I applied to many jobs that would keep us here in the Waterloo region so that we could attend Trinity, but I absolutely did not think it would be possible to be the next lead pastor. But God had other plans.
A brother from the congregation believed he got a word from the Lord saying that there is yet another person who needs to apply for this position. This was already well after the search process began. He then approached me and asked if I applied for the position. I said, “no, are you kidding?” He proceeded to encourage me to apply and told me that God would equip me if I were to be chosen as the next lead pastor. So… with fear and trembling…. I applied.
Then on July 29, 2012, the congregation voted and both Allie and I were awestruck with our jaws dropped. The vote was 97% approval of me as the lead pastor of Trinity EMC. I was like a deer caught in headlights. I couldn’t believe this was actually happening. “Is this for real God?” was my thought as I walked up to the front of the congregation with the congregation in applause, welcoming me to the church as their pastor.
God is faithful. He is so awesome.
This thanksgiving, I give thanks to God for calling me into His service, to advance the Kingdom of God here in the Waterloo region and beyond.
May we continue to Praise the Lord from whom all blessings flow! May God’s mighty presence continue to astound us and invigorate our faith to walk the way Jesus walked. May His Glory fall upon us and never leave us, that we may never… ever… be the same again. To God be the Glory, Forever… Amen…
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