“The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. As it is written, “He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.” He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God. By their approval of this service, they will glorify God because of your submission that comes from your confession of the gospel of Christ, and the generosity of your contribution for them and for all others, while they long for you and pray for you, because of the surpassing grace of God upon you. Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:6–15, ESV)
It has been such a wild ride these last few months. It is overwhelming to think of all the things that have happened from the time I first received a phone call from the St. Paul’s call committee to today. It was difficult to even consider leaving our beloved congregations and friends in Iowa, a struggle to pray through, and heart wrenching to say goodbye. It was also scary. To step out into the unknown with my wife and four daughters without knowing if we could find a place to live, the way to pay for it, or how we would take care of the thousands of different tasks, was overwhelming to consider. Even the worry of whether we would fit in and find friends and community was daunting. Yet in the midst of the storm God granted peace to us. It is not that we knew what to do specifically with these many things, or that we still weren’t in over our heads, but God assured us that He would take care of us. We found God’s comfort through prayer, wise counsel, and His Word. So we stepped out in faith.
Now as I look back on what has happened I have to laugh. God not only took care of us through countless things that seemed impossible, but He has also done so much more. He has lavished His loving care upon us in such abundance that we feel spoiled. It brings tears of joy and thankfulness and unworthiness to my eyes. Much of this He has done through you. Yes, you. I can’t even count the number of ways that you have been kind, supportive, and generous to us. You have welcomed us with love, filled our fridge and cupboards, stomachs and gas tanks. You’ve sweated and strained for us in the move, helped us overcome numerous obstacles, and sought out ways to help.
All of these things cause me to rejoice and to give thanks to God. Thanks be to God for HIs inexpressible gift!
