A Journey to Mars

The picture is of the Seattle waterfront, only 2 blocks from the church. Its beautiful here.

Walked into work this morning, like I usually do, after grabbing coffee to celebrate December and making a deposit at the bank. I didn't have my ipod so it allowed me some good time to imagine what people do in their eternally interesting jobs as I walk by office windows and try to inconspicuously peek in. I imagined that there where talented people making lots of money and toasting each others latest accomplishment at the local martini bar. I thought it would be really cool, for a second, to have 'break-room' friends who didn't know that I have a hard time staying disciplined but only that I have wicked graphic deign skills.(I dont) Then it all came crashing down like a vacant building as I began to think about my day, what was ahead of me by 5 or 6 blocks. I started to get warm and unbuttoned my vest as I started to think about the people who I would call and ask if they would like to get connected to a community group, the meetings I would have discussing the Sunday services. I noticed the wind as I quickened my pace, becoming more excited about the stuff I have to write this week: ministry proposals and discipleship curriculum. The truth is, I love what I do. I've been an intern for almost a year, working for free, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. I have the honor of taking care of a building that God has miraculously provided for us in downtown Seattle, I get to spearhead the mission of mars hill in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, I get to disciple several guys and walk with them weekly as they grow in Jesus, I get to provide biblical counseling to people in pain, I get to meet extremely interesting people who have been given amazing gifts from God, I get to paint on occasion and talk about art and music with other like minded people, I get to read and study and teach, and I get to do it all for for the glory of God, by the work of Jesus through the Holy Spirit!

So that said, Ill move on to the topic that most of these posts consist of: the purpose of all this, what it is leading to, and what is going to happen for sure. As its the last month of my internship, some prospects have developed, although Ill have to wait to give more details till the end of the month. Ill start with the purpose, to reiterate. The purpose of this internship has been to better develop my obedience to Jesus and His calling for me to pastor. This purpose has been more then accomplished this year, not say that I won't keep growing in this because I will of course have growing and learning to do for the rest of my life. But I am more confident then ever that my life on earth is meant to be spent as a shepherd of Jesus' bride. Now by prospects, I mean opportunities that will further enable this growth, not an opportunity to make money. So as I draw near to January, I can say that I will be able to continue my role here at MH in a manner that will allow me to maintain my responsibilities. I will be here part time and will also be working in the marketplace part time to cover bills. I also think that my main role will be transitioning a bit which is exciting. Ill also give more info about that in January.

As we enter this last month of raising support for December and January's rent, I would like to say thank you to all of those who have seen us through this year. I cannot express our heart's gratitude for all those who have financially supported us. You are the hands of Jesus in our lives and I pray that He blesses you infinitely. One thing I am taking from this year is a huge conviction to be generous. God has provided in magnificent ways and I will never be able to say again that I have anything that is not His. So again, thank you from the depth of our hearts for your generosity, prayer, and encouragement during this tough year.

Please pray for rejuvenation during the next month and for Gods will concerning what kind of part time job Ill have to find in January.

Grace, peace and blessings to you.
Joel