Update 3/23/06

So, I have been pretty overwhelmed over the past few weeks. Not overwhelmed in a stressed out sense, really. It is more like being overwhlemed by the struggle between my will and God's.

Let me try to explain. After a great five years, I felt God leading me away from my church home. Now, sure, there have been ups and downs, some hurt feelings, and impatient moments along the way; but I was really committed to sticking it out and working through any "issues" that might have been present.

Well, 2 weeks ago today, I resigned my membership from that church. Why? Because I honestly believe God wanted me to. I can't explain it any clearer. If you would like to read the letter of resignation, it is available here. Anyway. That leads me to the current struggles I face. School, 3rd Place, and a Church home.

School:
I started back this week at CCU. I am working towards completing my B.A. in Ministry/Leadership. I hope to pursue my Masters as well. This is a great opportunity for me to learn and grow, to challenge and question, and to network and gain experience. I really do love the opportunity God has given me there. The struggle? Time management. I am such a procrastinator. Because I put of my school work, other areas suffer. THis is something I am going to change.

3rd Place:
Closing in on 2 years! I can't believe it. What started as a "small group" is developing into something much more. My personally desire would be to plant it as a "house church." But I am cautious to pursue my own dreams. I really want to let God make things happen. If God wants the same thing then there are a few things that need to be addressed.

1) a new meeting place. We currently meet in a townhome, and although cozy, it can get crowded. If we grow in numbers, we will need to meet somewhere else.

2) funding. right now there are a few financial contributors to 3rd place, but if we are to meet the needs of more people, we will most likely need to have more financial support.

3) leaders. if we grow, we will need people to step up to the plate as leaders. people who can use their gifts and talents in ways that glorify God and help others as well.

A church home: if 3rd place becomes a house church, then it will be my church home, but if not, I still need somewhere I can be fed. I work on Sunday mornings, so a Saturday night service is a great opportunity for me. Although I have attended a church on Saturday nights lately, it has been inconsistent to say the least.

Finally, I have a couple project that have been calling my name. One is a book I started writing about a minister named Ray and his friends. This book is going to be completed, I just don't know when. The other project came to me this week and is potentially another book, although it feels more like a screenplay, i have to figure this one out. Let's just say it is potentially the best thing I have ever written. Ever.

Well that is the update for this week.

Please check out the 3rd Place site. See ya!