Ten Years In

It was ten years ago we took the plunge and planted King of Grace Church.  What an amazing ride it has been!  God has faithfully kept us and grown us into a wonderful community of believers intent on knowing the Savior and making him known.  I want to reflect on some of the lessons learned and glorify the Lord.

When I say ‘a ride’ I mean it!  The early years were a roller coaster ride!  The ups and downs of church planting were enough to do me in.  I had to learn to fix my eyes upon the Savior in order to stay relatively sane.  If I focused on such things as numbers I was sure to be as unstable as they were.  

I have seen God’s faithfulness proven again and again.  He has always been there, each and every time we have gathered together.  Whether the small and precious gatherings for care group (which are still, by the way, the heartbeat of our church), or the Sunday worship times.  His Presence has met and nourished and encouraged and propelled us forward to this day.  He is the most faithful one and the Head of our church.  

He promised to provide all our needs and has done so without fail.  Whether it’s just enough to pay the bills or the need for a worship leader, He has answered every time.  Of course we prefer the cushioned life, but have learned that He often does not!  He is jealous to show us that indeed He is the only Portion we need.  We can trust in Him to provide in unexpected and unforeseen ways.

Church planting is not for the faint-hearted.  But if God calls, He will enable you to step up to the plate if you’re the pastor, or cheer your man on if you’re the wife.  He will help your kids enjoy the ride as well.  Our four kids have grown deeply in the Lord through trusting Him, serving Him and watching Him come through.  They have never suffered want and have enjoyed serving the Lord in so many ways that simply would not have been possible without the church plant.

As we celebrate this tenth anniversary, I must give honor where honor is due.  It just so happens to be to my husband, so please excuse me.  Paul has poured out his sweat and tears (thankfully no blood!) to love this church with all his might.  I have seen God meet him and enable him in astounding ways to serve faithfully the precious people entrusted to his care.  I get to see him at home and am so thankful that he is the same man who walks into church.  His passion is Jesus and all he wants to do is be faithful.  His comfort zone was engineering, but he enjoys the grace and pleasure of God in preaching and pastoring.  He is also an amazing husband and father, always keeping his day off for the good of his own soul and ours.  

After parenting, church planting has been the most challenging thing we’ve ever done, but also the most rewarding.  What a privilege to serve the Lord and watch Him build His church.

Thank you Sovereign Grace Ministries for sending us and serving us to this day!!!