Change

I have been waiting to write about this until I had my thoughts together. They're not totally together, but I decided to give it a shot anyway...

**I first have to say that these are my feelings and emotions...I'm being vulnerable about my process. They are not necessarily the same as Brad's feelings, emotions and process.

I had mentioned before that we are going through some changes...changes for our family and extended family which include changes for our church.

Ross and Aimee, my brother-in-law and sister-in-law are going to plant a church in Austin, TX. Ross has been the main worship pastor here, and so now Brad will be fulfilling that role.

It's definitely a bittersweet time. More bitter than sweet, right now.

I am so excited for them. I know that this is God's plan for them. I know that He is in it and OneChapel will be amazing. I think it's going to be great for them and their kids. It's going to be great for the people who are choosing to go with them. It's going to be great for the city of Austin.

When they first told us they were considering this move, my first reaction was to jump on board. I tend to be loyal, to a fault sometimes. I love them and believe in them and want to help them in any way I can, even though I'm not ready to leave New Life. Brad and I began the process of thinking and praying about what God has in store for us.

One thing I learned years ago...whenever Brad and I have a decision to make regarding calling and moving, I ask the Lord to tell him first and confirm it in me. I got burned once before by feeling like I knew what God was saying. When Brad and I didn't agree, I defaulted to him, which is what I feel the Bible instructs me to do. So, then I was left with a decision. Did I miss God or did Brad miss God? Yuck. You may not agree with my reasoning, but it has worked out much better for me (and my heart) to trust Brad. I am not the silent wife and I give my opinion, but ultimately, it is Brad's decision.

Brad has felt for a few years now that New Life Church is where we belong. We left here once, for a short time, and knew we were being obedient. We loved the people we connected with while we were away. However, 18mos into our time there, God called us back here. Our hearts are here. These are our people. We know that this is where we belong.

Emotions aside, I know that we are in God's will. I know that He has some amazing things in store for us personally, and for New Life Church. I am excited for what is to come. I think Brad and I are both growing and stretching (which is uncomfortable, sometimes!) and I look forward to what's ahead.

But, right now, I'm sad. Our family is moving away. We have had the dream situation. 3 brothers working together. Sisters-in-law that I adore. Our kids knowing their cousins well, playing together and going to school together. That part breaks my heart. Birthdays and holidays are going to be different.

The good thing is, they are moving to a great part of TX and we are excited to visit!

I know this isn't the end, it's just the beginning of a new chapter. A different chapter. And I will embrace it, even if it's a little uncomfortable.