Well, I made it through tax season, and I think my husband and kids still know my face (I think—haven’t seen them too much to ask!). It was very busy this year. I love telling people they are going to get money back and hate disappointing people when I have to tell them they have to pay or they aren’t going to get back as much as they’d hoped.

Come to think of it, that’s how my life is too. I love “giving gifts” and hate disappointing people. Our decision to leave the Vineyard has been disappointing for people. I hate that! Some of our friendships may never be the same or recover. I hate that! But as Paul said in Galatians: “Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.” 1:10

I think I’ve known longer than Mark and Jason that we would be leaving. Amidst the pain and grief I’ve felt, the Lord planted a new vision within me. He has given me an excitement—a thrill about our new mission. I find myself looking forward to this as an expectant mother looks forward to the birth! You’ve all heard the “transition” thing so I won’t bore you with it again. Suffice to say that it is a painful but necessary part of any new birth.

Looking forward to the death of self, and new birth!