“And the saga continues…”or a more fitting way of saying that we’re heading back down a similar road, “AGAIN?”
I’m once again part of an exciting church-plant team that’s looking to do some really cool stuff in the city of Atlanta. Although I’ve been down a similar path before, I’m all the more grateful to God for the opportunity and can’t wait to see what all He has in store.
My initial church-plant-team journey began in August, 1995 when my wife (who wasn’t even my girlfriend at the time) and over 20 others accompanied a man with a vision. We were all young and full of creativity & passion to “do some good” in the city of Marietta. And, some good is what we did: the church was built, lives were changed, families were restored and probably closest to my heart, students were impacted.
After close to a decade of it all, my wife and I transitioned out to focus a little more intently on the task set before us. You see, shortly before the transition our son (Myles) was diagnosed with Autism. To say it “rocked our world” would be a gross understatement. In spite of how difficult it was to even consider leave this incredible work (where we both were playing such significant roles) we were clear and resolute of what was required.
I was certain at the time that I was leaving a once in a lifetime assignment or opportunity. I couldn’t fathom being a part of another church plant team at the time. There was such potential & promise our team brought to Atlanta. Some of it was realized…some of it wasn’t. The bottom-line is that we were a team and a formidable one at that!
Again, I never thought I’d see another opportunity come my way like that one. Quite honestly, I never prayed for it. I met Dhati Lewis (lead pastor of Blueprint Church) while I was on a very specific track to get back into the classroom and eventually, become a principal somewhere. That was my 10 year goal. Church planting wasn’t even on the radar!
After much prayer and conversations w/ EVERYBODY (wife, parents, in-laws, pastor, small group leaders, mentors, best friends) I decided to accept Dhati’s opportunity to build this thing. By the way, I did have a couple of friends ask me, “are you sure you want to do this again?” Yo, I’ve got some GREAT friends around me…that’s one of those questions an effective leader WANTS TO HEAR!
Fortunately, I can say with excitement that this is EXACTLY what I want to do at this stage in my life. Sure, it’s not going to be easy and there’s a ton of work to be done (also worth noting, the economy isn’t the BEST it’s ever been…YIKES). I don’t fully know nor understand all that the Lord’s planned for Blueprint Church…I’m just glad for some reason ” He coerced me” (yeah, right) to be a part of it!!!
Recent Comments