Refining Moments

I am jamming out to a great song called “Glorious One” by Steve Fee. I heard it last year at a conference and then again at Buddy’s church two weeks ago. I just kill a song when I fall in love with it. I have it on my itunes playing on repeat as I write this….I think I’m up to my 8th time…I asked Jeff to fast-track it on our schedule so we can sing it soon. Check it out if you get a chance so I’m not the only one screaming it when we debut it…you know, help a brother out…

Paul said in Philippians 1:6, “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” Paul is saying that God is still writing our story. As long as our hearts are beating, He isn’t finished with us. Every day is another page in the story of our lives. That said, there are times that aren’t “everyday”…forks in the road where we must be decisive…moments where our decisions can help define who we are and who we will become. God can use these times to literally “sling-shot” us forward in our journey. These are moments when history is made and teams come together. The crazy thing is we rarely know when we are in the midst of a “defining moment.” They are easier to spot in your rear view-mirror than oncoming traffic.

Last night I got to hang out with one of our deacon/elders who is a great friend of mine. Our board has been through the ringer lately. They work so hard and sacrifice much. They get very little time in the spotlight and most of them prefer it that way. They are the backbone of what God is doing at Fellowship…Godly guys, loyal guys, humble in every way. Unfortunately, sometimes because they are linked to me, they take some shots. People who don’t get what Fellowship is about, or don’t line up with where God is taking us, have gone after them with their criticism. Usually people will just go after me but lately they have gone after our leadership as well.

Last Wednesday, I had the privilege to “have their back” in our business meeting and set the record straight. My buddy told me how good it felt for me to help hold up their arms for a change…I felt humbled and honored at the same time. As I drove home I began to see what God has been doing…it’s as if He has drawn a line in the sand to “define” and “refine“ us. As He takes us forward, it is going to be with a new sense of purpose and solidarity…He whittled down Gideon’s force to only 300 before they went into battle. He wanted to show His glorious power through it all! So let’s get this party started! I am looking for the most incredible fall we have ever had. Mike, Steve, Dan, Ray, Gary, Greg, and Gus, it is such an honor to be synched up with you. Thanks for standing on the edge of the ledge with me. I love you. Let’s keep driving forward with the work God has called us to do until it is finally finished when Jesus comes back…With the end in sight….John