launch & lent

We started Sunday with launching weekly services for our church. It was fun, lots of visitors from our sister churches in Auckland, full worship band (electric & acoustic guitar, drums and three singers, living the dream), and after service BBQ. In case you forgot, kids love bouncy castles, like seriously freak out.

Lent surprised me, but excited to re-read through N.T. Wright's series on Matthew. Today's reading so fitting:

"...God always wanted humans to be part of the action, not just spectators. God made humans to reflect his image -- his presence, his love, his plans -- into the world... What should the church be doing today that would make people realize that 'heaven' is actually in charge here and now? When we find the answer to that question, there will be lots more spectators -- and, we may hope, lots more players too." 

Reflecting on what that looks like in this season, really thankful for all those players, past and present that have blessed my faith. Those models of living and giving. I can't imagine being on this journey without the overwhelming support and prayers of our churches in the States and Auckland. Humbling and amazing. Word feels small, but thank you again for praying and encouraging.

beginnings

Remembering all the prayers for this church. Realizing the journeys that led these individuals to this moment. Reflecting over a month ago the uncertainty of when this service would happen. To find a place, to plan and organize, to meet and invite.

God is neat. I love how he intertwines stories and dreams, hopes and hearts. Connecting us to him and each other. His provision, his calling. Humbled he could use us, inviting us into his story for the world, desires us to be agents of his grace. Thankful for those who came, excited for them.

To be able to look back at how he has come before and to find comfort that he will remain throughout the unknown, celebrations, any bumps and fears. Praying he is glorified, nothing of our own strength, but testimony of his Spirit that unifies us.

hello new zealand

We made it to ChCh. We feel incredibly loved by those praying for us in the States and welcomed by so many in New Zealand. Praise God we're not alone in this.

partnerships

Since returning to Indiana, we started raising support for the Well. Understandably, most people ask with an inquisitive but usually more I feel bad for you face, "How's that going?" By all means, if you asked me in New Jersey about it, I had that look. I had that uncertainty. I was nervous.

It seems silly but the other day, while watching the Olympics, the commentators were talking about a gymnast and said, "You know a lot of these girls feel anxiety and stress. But this girl channels those nerves into excitement." Whether or not that seems cheesy, it has been challenging. God is correcting my thoughts. God wants that for us.

So, how has it been going? Of course, Logan and I find ourselves tired and stretched. But by far, we are more encouraged than we could imagine. These opportunities to share the vision and the work that has already begun in New Zealand fill our hearts. I'm amazed by the hope and peace I feel after meetings. To feel so overwhelmed by generosity. It's more than raising a financial sum. It's relational. It's unique. It's kingdom work.

The conversations that we've had, the wisdom and encouragement from others, the excitement and interest, is a blessing. It is a gift. Thank God for His Spirit that leads. Thank God for individuals who believe in the church. Thank God for people of faith. Thank God for people who generously and freely give. Thank God for you, for those who have and want to meet with us.

One of the most special moments was last night, sharing with my grandparents the importance of their faith and how that has enriched my life. "We have and will always pray for you," they said. To be able to affirm that wherever I go, wherever I am, I take their Spirit and faith with me.

That is the essence of every meeting. To partner, to carry the Spirit that unifies us, to share the hope. To carry the faith of those here in the States that care about the spiritual condition of New Zealand is a blessing not just a burden. We carry every partner's prayers for the individuals and community of Christchurch. To be a church that experiences and expresses God's love. That is God's Kingdom.