This past week I had a chance to spend some time in Indianapolis. I just started a 3-year term serving on a mission board (Christian Missionary Fellowship International) whose headquarters are located there. I have some fond memories of my days in Indy. It was the first "big move" for my wife and me on our journey in ministry. We made the move there from North Carolina when I was only 23 years old.
I invited my wife along on this trip because I wanted to take the opportunity to see some old sites and visit some life-long friends. I think it's a good thing to take an occasional trip down memory lane because there are some great lessons to be learned. So before leaving Indy we took advantage of the time to visit the two churches we served there.
Here are just a few thoughts, impression, and lessons from going back to these two ministries:
- Regardless of the number of miles or years that separate, good friends can pick up where they left off. We're so grateful for the life-long friends we have in Indy.
- Sometimes we forget how much God has worked in our lives until we are reminded of where we've come from. There's nothing like a look back to see what God has been doing in your life through the years.
- Some churches never change. They look the same, smell the same, and do things the way they've always done them. It's kind of sad!
- Some people never change and some change a lot! It reminds me that I want to keep changing and growing.
- In order for God to take us to new places and develop new things in us, He may need to take us through and eventually remove us from painful situations or stir up discomfort in comfortable situations. Either way, it's so good to know that He is the one in control and nothing takes Him by surprise.
- Sometimes it takes a look to the past, as good or bad as it may have been, to be reminded of how blessed you are today. I'm so thankful for my ministry at Abundant Life. What great leaders I get to serve with and what a great church!
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