A month of Sundays

Twelve years ago we piled our belongings into our two door Ford Escort and a cube truck.  The two of us, with the promise of a third in 9 months.  We didn't know then what we were coming to, how we'd grow and change in our new home.  We were excited to move closer to family, to familiar territory, to new faces and new ministry. 

I remember plainly how at home we felt the moment we set foot into our church.  From the first interview we knew we had "come home".  They welcomed us as though we had always been a part of their family.  We quickly settled in.  Warmed by this wonderful group of folks who were as excited for us to be here as we were to be with them.  I remember one of them commenting during a gathering that first summer we moved here- "It's like you've always been here".  A compliment.  An encouraging word for a young new pastor and his wife.  We were tickled.

Both Wayne and I feel that we've been given a tremendous gift from the people of Norton Baptist.  They opened their arms and their hearts wide for us.  Letting us make mistakes, to try on different hats, to figure out what worked and what needed to be shelved.  They are a gracious people.  A people of Love, who don't know how important they are to us or how difficult they have made it to leave them behind. 

A very large part of me wants to stay. 

I think a part of me will. 

This leaving is difficult.  

I long for a month of Sundays. 

For time to drag on just a little slower so we can enjoy Norton for just a little bit longer. 

I'm in no rush.