February 24, 2025

I'm not a great fan of change.  Although, I do anticipate an occasional adventure, I then like to settle back into a holding pattern, most often preferring comfort and familiarity.   Truth be told, I'd still be wearing my 80's Cosby sweaters if I could find them (and they still fit).  I did have them going into marriage but somehow they disappeared.  
I suspect my wife had something to do with that.

I got saved in 1992 and, not long after, became a part of a church in the middle of Omaha.  After marriage, we took part in a church plant until we moved to Gretna.  In 2004 we were three years married with a six-month-old baby named Alec (who looked remarkably like the boy from Jerry Maguire, having glasses at a very early age).   We began attending Gretna Community Church.  Still here (why change? - even though the name changed).  

I had no thoughts years ago of being a pastor.   It is interesting how our thoughts are so often not God's thoughts nor our our ways God's ways.   He says, "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."   If we want God, we must be willing to seek His thoughts and His ways.  This means change.  And here, I'm still looking for my old sweaters!  

I have been blessed with many changes over the years.  Including the blessing of your honor yesterday - Thank you SSB!   I began attending GCC with a wife and a young son and have now been asked to lead SSB with the same wife (and a few more kids).   There is certainly a time for everything and a season for every activity under the sun.  Change in life is a constant and we handle it holding onto God who is our constant source of strength.   We are promised, by the God who never changes:   Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand (Isa. 41:10).    Sometimes the change can feel overwhelming but God can also overwhelm us in those times with His presence and strength. Hold on to God!  

Onward and upward!  (Phil. 3:14)

Beginning this Sunday, March 2nd, we are going to suspend the worship service option in the basement.   We will no longer simulcast the 10am service there.   We understand this will be disappointing for a few;  we thank you to those who joined in downstairs.   It was a help when crowds were larger and during 2020 . . .   We have room for you in the sanctuary and desire all to be together!  
Thank you for understanding.