8 Things I’m Grateful for on my 8th Anniversary as Pastor
Dear church,
Today’s the eighth anniversary of the day I started as senior pastor of First Christian Church. My heart is filled with gratitude for this journey I’ve been able to take with you. Not only is this a significant event in time for me, but it's also a celebration of how much each of you has meant to me personally. In honor of my eighth anniversary, here are eight things I’m eternally grateful for…
#1 I’m grateful for my Libby.
It’s kind of crazy that I pastored for a few years without Libby in my life. I barely remember those first couple of years, and I think that’s a good thing 😉…Libby, your unwavering support has been the most impactful factor in my ministry. Your quiet strength helps me deal with the challenges of being a pastor. I can see how strong our partnership is every time we take a step forward because of how committed you are to us. You have taught me the strength of vulnerability, the joy of adventures, and how to live in the moment. And now we have a baby girl on the way?!?! How amazing is that?
#2 I’m grateful for the spiritual growth I’ve been able to see in our church family.
The fact that our church family has grown spiritually is not reflected in just numbers; it’s evident in subtle ways our church family has grown over a period of time. It has been an honor to see people embrace the life Jesus has called them to, get through tough times by leaning on Him, and show God's love in their lives. It’s my desire that First Christian Church continues to be a place where we love God and love others through living out an authentic faith, developing strong and healthy relationships, and giving every person the opportunity to meet Jesus.
#3 I’m grateful for a church family that has been patient with me as I’ve grown as a pastor.
Here’s something wild…eight years ago when I started I was a single pastor. And over the course of these eight years – you have allowed me to grow. Libby and I started dating. We got married five years ago. Then we started our journey in foster parenting. And now we’re expecting our baby girl in June of next year. All while I was a pastor! You all are amazing to allow me to grow as a person and a pastor. It’s the joy of my life to serve as your pastor and I’m very grateful.
#4 I’m grateful for my friend and associate pastor, Darren.
Darren is a trusted friend, and our relationship goes beyond our jobs. We've been through difficult moments and have enjoyed the bright moments of ministry together, and it's this shared journey that has brought us closer. Support and friendship from Darren have added a layer of joy and satisfaction to our work in the ministry together.
#5 I’m grateful for the elders I’ve been able to serve with over the years.
Our church stands strong because of our elders and their many years of experience, steady leadership, and dedication to our shared purpose. I'm thankful that we've been able to work together with unity and purpose. Over the years I’ve had the pleasure of working with some of the most amazing people. Some of whom have passed over the years. I think of them often as our church grows and moves forward. The spiritual health of our church family is a shared responsibility at our church and I’m grateful for the elders that share that responsibility with Darren and me.
#6 I’m grateful for the community of pastors in my life.
Most of my best friends are pastors. In the complicated web of pastoral life, the community of local pastors is a lively thread that connects, encourages, helps, and supports one another. I’m often reminded of how rare this is for many pastors. Many pastors face the challenges of reaching their communities for Christ on their own. Fortunately, that is not true for me. The cheers for victories and words of comfort during hard times create a network of support that goes beyond denominational lines. In any given week I can call no less than a dozen pastors to get counsel, advice, wisdom, or just a listening ear. What an amazing faith community we have in Douglas County! It’s an honor to serve alongside so many godly pastors and Christ-honoring churches. We’re better together.
#7 I’m grateful for the close friends, spiritual guides, and mentors in my life.
Their help has been a constant source of strength for me. The advice they have given me, the prayers they have offered, and their sincere interest in my personal and pastoral growth have all been incredibly encouraging. The truth they have spoken into my lives has been so needed and welcomed as I seek to serve my church family. These close friends have been there for me through all of life's ups and downs. When there is joy, their laughter rings true. When things are hard, their understanding brings comfort.
#8 I’m grateful that since starting as pastor eight years ago the Lakers have won a championship.
Oh, come on! You knew I’d mention the Lakers at some point, right?? Plus – could you imagine how unbearable I might be if the Lakers had won multiple championships? I mean, I guess you all can be grateful that they only won one championship in eight years. But still. They've won one since I've been pastor (so far). And for that I'm grateful.
Eight years. So cool. So blessed. So thankful. So ready for a whole bunch more…
I love you, church.
~ Daniel
