John, sorry for the long lapses between responses. We will continue to pray for you guys engaging with Jack and getting him established, and for finding your place and beign fully established and grounded. You sent and earlier bit asking for feedback as well, and I’ve been meaning go reply on that as well, so here’s a couple things that have been on my heart for you guys.
We went through (I more than Renae) a period where I had little interest in being engaged with Church in general. I’ve been in places where I really couldn’t have cared less about re-establishing myself in a new situation and going through all the background and catch up that relationships somehow require to build trust and credibility. And at times I am still frustrated by where we and the church are in relation to where my ‘vision’ is for the future.
With all that said, I believe we are, and I know that you and Laura are, pioneers, catalysts for change as the Church moves forward and grows in bringing the Kingdom to earth. I am firmly convinced that we need a clear and very solid connection to the apostolic leadership in the region that we are working into – so Peter is that for us at least for the foreseeable future. I also believe strongly that as change agents it is easy to be frustrated when things don’t change as quickly as we’d life. As you have said, you have some level of connections in churches that may or may not fully embrace what you want to bring, what you can bring, what you have deposited. That said, I would encourage not withdrawing unless you really hear very clearly from Holy Spirit – those connections and what you’ve planted my take a while to take root and grow (process, hearts being softened, change in the atmosphere of those churches).
I am constantly challenged (in my moments of frustration) with the thought that Father never runs out of time – He is outside of time and sees the end from the beginning, knowing the things that need to happen and He is not worried about running out of time.
I’m sure this is probably a little random and may not tie together for you, and would be happy to talk further, but I wanted to send something back to share some thoughts, and to let you know that Renae and I do have you in our thoughts.
Grace and peace.
Mark