Matters of Prayer

Well, we are in the downhill portion of our journey to Durango. Houses are on the market, replacements for our jobs are being found, and opportunities for closure are being sought. Right now, the matters of greatest concern are the sale of the Johnson's and Daniels' and Peggy's homes. The housing market is pretty slow (for this area) right now, so we are really hoping the sales go quickly so we can then turn our attention to buying homes in Durango. Peggy's replacement as admininstrative assistant to the worship pastor at SVCC has been found! Fortunately the replacement is willing to wait until Peggy moves to step in, so Peggy has that income until she is ready to go. Steve has set up the Nexus (college/career ministry) with new leadership that is already beginning to assume responsibility. The search continues for a new youth pastor to replace Chip at SVCC. We could use prayer that they are able to find someone who will not only do a good job, but specifically someone who will be able to bond with the group of local youth pastors in the Salinas area.

I could personally use prayer for wisdom and discernment as I complete my final months as youth pastor. I am really struggling with the dynamic of making plans and laying the groundwork for a program I may or may not be present for in the coming months. I would appreciate prayer for clarity and direction as to the status of my job and continuted favor with the leadership of SVCC.

Another matter of prayer is the ongoing discussion of what Chip and Steve will do for work. We are having some great conversations about our philosophies of bi-vocational minstry. Right now, we both feel pretty strongly that we don't just want to work to supplement the church's ability to support us, but we want to do work that will establish cerdibility for us and CTK in the community of Durango. I've even met with a local tow truck company owner to see if I might be able to get some training to qualify me for that line of work should it be available in Durango. Heidi is also trying to figure out what her work situation will be when we move. She wants to find the right balance between community connection and bringing in the funds necessary to live and invest in the church.

Overall, we are excited about the coming transition--impatient even--as we count the weeks until we get to move. I am especially excited about the Daniels' trip to Colorado this coming week. They will be seeing Durango for the first time since commiting to be part of our team months ago! I am praying that they will be overwhelmed with a sense of affirmation of their decision to trust God in this great adventure.