Movin’ In-Movin’Out

When was the last time you had to move your family and all your belongings?  For some, it is very recent, for others, it has been a while.  We have two families right in the middle of such moves.

On the moving in side:  We say hello to Dave and Lauren with their two boys.  They moved from Orlando to James Island.  By the way, they were very good about doing a self move and not incurring the expense of having to use professional movers.  Our thanks to the Johnsons and the many volunteers on the Orlando side that helped pack them and the volunteers on the James Island side that helped unpack.  We laughed this morning as Dave was saying he is still looking for and trying to find things he needs.  In the office we are trying to give Dave the extra time he needs to get his family settled, get his home in order, get used to the new environment, make sure the boys are adjusting, etc.  Moving can be stressful.  He comes on board at JIBC at a very busy time of the year.  He also comes to a worship and music ministry very different from the church he served in Orlando, and that means more adjusting.  So, that is the long way to ask that you keep Dave in your prayers, be gracious and understanding, and look for God’s blessings.   I am already loving his heart.

On the moving out side:  We say goodbye to Rhodes and Jess Roberts and family.  They are leaving us to serve full time in Vapor Sports Ministry located in Alabama.  They will serve in a support role operating a thrift store helping to support this ministry.  This sports ministry uses soccer as a platform to enter third world impoverished countries helping to provide sustainable resources and discipleship.  Wow.  I am hoping for the day when all those who play soccer at JIBC will be able to partner with Vapor on a mission trip.  Rhodes and Jess were a vital part of a small group that met weekly.  Jess in particular grew significantly from her time with her small group.  What a joy to send them out.  We will miss them greatly even as we rejoice in what God is doing through them.

By the way, do you realize we have JIBC family now serving in Asia, South Africa, Nepal, New Orleans/Tennessee and now that foreign land known as Alabama.  To God be the glory.

See you Sunday, good Lord willing,

Pastor Tom