This Is My Story

There’s a principle in church ministry that states that any ministry should have volunteers from the church to lead and handle the whole idea of the specific ministry. Until then, the ministry should not start. You wait until people with a passion and gifts to lead a children’s ministry to start a Kids Korner Explorers (ages 3-6) and now to launch the next phase of children's ministry - Discovery Kidz (ages 7-12).  Now is the time for these things and more as seen in the timing of God.

When we trust in God to open the doors, allow Him to inspire the hearts of the people, and let Him raise up volunteers, leaders, and behind-the-scenes worker, the road ahead will be worth the journey.

It is similar to the journey we as individuals and families take in life. As I look back on my three-plus decades of life here in New York, there are ups, downs, victories, defeats, surprises, embarrassments, and learning experiences. As you enter each new stage in life you quickly realize it comes with a new set of responsibilities and expectations.

The college years you experience freedom that you can exploit for your own demise or you can capitalize the opportunities to build your future. After getting that degree and landing that job – where in this economic state of the country might be hard to do – you feel the pressure of having to find a spouse. (That’s a whole other post.) You get married and start your family life and wear the husband/wife hat. Up to this point, most of us have only worried about our self-preservation and maintenance. After getting married you realize there is someone else’s well-being you are mandated to care for. Then comes the greatest joy and responsibility – being a parent.

Each stage presents its own challenges and questions. Which college do I select? Which major/profession do I pursue? Which company do I work for? Do I stay in New York or move out of state? What am I looking for in a spouse? Where do we live? How do we pay the mortgage?

Each stage has its highlights. You get the scholarship to your first choice college. You graduate with honors and have a job lined up. You get promoted. You get engaged, married, and then comes a little bundle of joy. You become new homeowners.

I’m glad to say that God will only lead us where His grace can keep us. If we are in the will of God, just enjoy the ride. Even with all the bumps along the way, the journey is definitely worth it because you know that God’s hand is on your life.

There is one principle I try to live by which is to not stress or complain over things I cannot control but put my best effort into things I have influence over and trust God to do the rest. Let the defeats roll off your back and move forward. Learn the lesson from the experience and apply it if similar circumstances present themselves in your life. Don’t let the victories get to your head because pride comes before the fall (mom’s occasional advice). Learn from the victorious experiences as well – there are lessons there too. What did you do differently that gave you the victory? Hopefully, God is involved in the process.

Enjoying This Ride,

Cecil