2012

I realize that I am defying all of the known research on how to handle a blog.  They keep it updated, keep it fresh, keep people coming back, get more people to follow you.  My response is, I hope they follow Jesus and not me, but I will try to comply from now on.  Our last entry was from right after our sabbatical.  It was a good time to get away, our family had a good summer, although there were some bumpy roads coming back.  I realized our need for more lay leadership.  But God has been good, He is answering that prayer as we speak (or write). 

2012 has been a good year, somewhat unremarkable.  We began with a new members class that went better than expected, culminated by an Easter celebration with six people getting baptized.  It was certainly the highlight of my year.  Our music ministry has continued to flourish as has our community and denominational participation.

Our kids continue to grow and mature.  James (5) and John (2) are the light of our eyes.  They keep us perpetually tired, but always mindful of our blessings.  We are all healthy, praise the Lord, and we look forward to staying that way.  God has been good, what can I say.  The church continues to grow, little by little, and we continue right along with it.  We certainly are not perfect pastors, but we are trying to make a difference in the life of each person we come across. 

We were recently blessed to be able to officiate at the wedding of a dear couple in the church, who were wanting to get married for a while.  It was such a special day, and a joy for us to be a part of it.  This week we got a hand written letter (who writes hand written letters anymore) from a friend of theirs telling us how much they enjoyed our sermon at the wedding.  They concluded that they want to come to church sometime.  It's things like that which keep me going, keep me pressing on towards the goal. 

This year our church celebrates 170 years of ministry, and we are once again pleased to be a part of this great church.  We assume the role of leaders, but honestly the Holy Spirit is our leader and teacher, our encourager and healer.  We praise God for the 8 years in Dixon, and look forward to many more. 

Until our next entry.  May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ guide and protect you from all harm.  Amen.