This post is way overdue, but the past three weeks have been not only some of the longest of my life, but also packed full of tremendous amounts of change. Let me try and recap things for you.
Four weeks ago: My mother came into town to be with the boys while Melanie and I flew down to Atlanta to interview for two positions. We were gone for 5 days, meet some amazing people, and had a great time.
Three weeks ago: After 6 very tough months of praying, searching, and listening, God has very clearly led us to a place we never would have picked on our own . . . Florida!!!!! I accepted an offer to be the Service Programming Director for a North Point Strategic Partner Church called Anthem Church (No web site yet, but soon!) launching in Gainesville, FL on October 5th. That’s right, I am moving form one Ohio State rival to another! HA! Can’t get away from them. Anthem Church is supported by and modeled after North Point Community Church in Alpharetta, GA. Our mission is to help lead people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. Our Sunday Worship Environment (or service) is designed to be a place where people can be real, relevant, and feel like they are accepted no matter what. Melanie and I can’t believe where we have landed. Anthem really is an answer to prayer. This church resonates fully with who we are. We feel at home here. And on top of that, we are right next to one of the largest universities in FL (The Florida Gators) with over 50,000 students!! Again, I can’t believe we have been given this opportunity. Who am I to be used b God in this way. It is sooooo amazing.
I drive by palm trees all the time now, and can’t believe I am here. God plans are so much better than our own. The tough part is letting go and following.
One Week Ago: We moved fast! In less than two weeks we packed the whole family in the pontiac and headed south on I 75 for over 1,000 mies. Two days and one Pecan Nut stand later we were in Gainesville. After 4 days together in our new city, Melanie and the boys flew back to MI while I have stayed back to begin working for Anthem.
One day ago: Today was my first full day on the job for Anthem. I absolutely love it. The people here are awesome, this city is awesome, and our new church is awesome. God is so good to us. I know these next few weeks will have their challenges while I am down here and Melanie and the boys are in MI working to sell the house. However I have no doubt that we will look back on this entire time and see how God’s hand was with us all the time, and be so grateful for what we learned and who we became through these experiences. Heck, I already see this!
Since I have more time these days, expect to see more posts. I want to document this new season and transition in our lives and intend to use this blog as the primary means to do that.
till next time . . .
Derrak
P.S. Now if we can only sell that house! : )
