- I've had a lot of heart pain. Not the physical kind (thank the Lord). It's been the emotional kind. Today is one month since I resigned as Pastor of Capstone. I knew it would be hard but I had no idea that my guts and heart would actually ache over the loss. Like my friend Cliff said, since God birthed this church through me, it's like giving up your child who isn't yet grown. That really is a great description. I don't say that to mean that the church was mine in the first place - it's always been the Lord's - but when God planted it in your heart and you've been there from day one, you feel an incredible sense of responsibility for its well-being. Yes, God is continuing to teach me to let go of many things in my life. Sometimes I realize that I'm a slow learner.
- I'm looking for a job --- something I haven't done in 20 years. In some ways I feel good about what I've accomplished during this month. I've been able to reconnect with some great friends that I had during my business career and they have been more than willing to help me out. That's been really great. And, many of you are looking around for me as well. I appreciate you!
- On the flip side, I haven't found a job during this first month and so things aren't that good yet! Ahhh, the waiting game. God is teaching me through it. Again, I'm a slow learner.
- My aunt died last week. Bobbie Davenport was only 54-years-old and was a valiant cancer warrior for 12 years. I was honored to do her graveside service on Saturday. She and her family have lived in Texas for the past 20 years and so our time together has been somewhat limited. My uncle Ronny and cousins Brett, Amanda and Tami were here this past weekend. I really enjoyed the time spent with them at my grandmother's house and at mom and dad's. The whole family was together for the first time in many years - that was great. And even though we were mourning Bobbie's passing, we laughed a lot and enjoyed being together. I cherish family more and more as the weeks pass.
- My daughter Claire led one of the worship songs at church on Sunday. It was AMAZING! Claire has loved music from day one and sings constantly. We never pushed her to sing publicly - especially since Yvonne and I both did for many years. So on her own, she got involved in the band and led us Sunday. It was GREAT. I cried many tears watching her praise the Lord. I continue to be in awe at what God did when He created her. She is such an incredible blessing and I'm proud to be her dad.
- I'm getting tired of the Olympics.
- I know a lot of people battling cancer right now. Pray for my friend Mike's dad, Larry Marcie. He was just diagnosed last week and it doesn't look good.
- I am ready to go to work. I'm not one to sit around. And even though I've kept fairly busy, I need some long term projects (that pay) in which to be involved.
- Thanks to those of you who've called to check on me and those who've taken me to lunch. Jim, I enjoyed today, my friend.
- The enemy has been all over my family for a long time now. Not just at my house but the extended family as well. There are many battles going on but the war is already won! Gloria a Dios!
- I have ants all over the kitchen. Everyone says they're looking for water. So, if I put a bowl of water outside, will that take care of them????? Can I send them over to your house?
- We're putting together our next Cuba Mission Team. I will be leading the trip November 14-21. I'm excited to be able to do this. If any of you Capstoners are interested in going, we have room for a few more. Also, I'll be funding my trip myself this time. So, if any of you want to be a part of that, send me an email and I'll tell you how to get involved.
Finally, thanks for all the prayers you've sent my way over the recent days. They are much needed and much appreciated.
