The life of a church planter/site pastor is not an easy one, especially at the beginning. I knew it was going to be that way - all the books had warned me. But even when things are not easy, they are still good and that is a change from what I would have said even a year ago.
It only became clear to me recently, but for the first time in my ministry I actually miss my congregation. The students that are the primary part of The Bridge at this point are gone for Christmas break and I miss them already. They just left at the end of last week, less than seven days ago and I really miss them. In prior times of ministry, I would have missed certain people and I would have been concerned about certain things going on in the lives of my parishioners, but not like this. I truly miss those I am working with/serving in this new calling and I imagine that is a good thing.
I guess that I am shocked that I have never missed a church before, but I can honestly say that this is very new for me. Time away, for all of my ministry up this point, was something I longed for and felt that I truly needed. Time away now only serves to make me wish they were here so we could continue this journey together.
For those special folks that are at home across the state, country and world this season, know that your new pastor here in Radford loves you very much and can't wait to see what God will do with us when you return. I know that He has big plans and I am so thankful that I get to be a part of those plans with you guys.
Merry Christmas!
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