a new beginning

When we left Dallas to come to Tupelo, we never in our wildest dream thought that we would now be leaving Tupelo to plant a church in Memphis. In fact, I remember so clearly both of our prayers as we made the journey to Tupelo. God, just let this be a place where we can really put down some roots. Let this be a place we can be at for the long haul.

I can also remember leaving Memphis for Dallas with the question, "What if?" on my mind. What if there was a really gospel-centered church that was contemporary in worship, believed strongly in discipleship and was highly missional in the Memphis area? Memphis has been on our heart since the day we left Memphis. There's something about growing up in the city and watching the apathy towards the gospel and people who are tired of being disappointed in churches that makes your heart ache and grieve to see restoration in the city.

When we came to Tupelo we never thought that God had given our pastor, Sam Shaw, the same desire. We thought he was done with Memphis, been there and done that. But, God had continually placed Memphis on his heart since he left.

I truly believe that God has allowed us to have unrest and to move around many times in order to prepare us for this moment. Our journey has led us to this point with Pastor Sam in order that we can plant this church in Memphis. Also, we have been out of our comfort zone. We have not been allowed to get too "comfortable" in any place. I think that is because with church planting you have to be flexible and roll with the punches so to speak. So now after having asked God so many times ,"Why are we moving again?", He has given me the answer. It is for such a time as this. I now see the hand of God so clearly writing out this story.

So now we step out into faith and truly believe that God is holding us in his hand, guiding our every move.

"When I called, You answered me; You made me bold with strength in my soul." Psalm 138:3.

"Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the Lord your God is the one that goes with you. He will not fail you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6

A passage that helped me get confirmation...

"The God who made the world and all things in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands; nor is He served by human hands, as though He needed anything, since He Himself gives to all people life and breath and all things; and He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their habitation, that they would seek God, if perhaps they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us;" Acts 17:24-27

Leaving is hard. Leaving is hurtful. I pray that our relationships we have made in Tupelo are not contingent upon us serving there at the church. I am praying diligently for Hope Church, and I hope they will do the same for us.

As for now, it is time for a new beginning...