One of my favorite songs is sung by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman. It is called “Time to Say Goodbye”. He is starting on a new journey with a loved one, heading into unknown and uncharted waters.
Our Hispanic Church, Luz Y Verdad, may be feeling a little of those emotions. We have given Pastor Claudio and the Luz Y Verdad family, the final word of their time to say goodbye. Their last Sunday on the JIBC campus will be this coming November 29. We have concluded that the building we refer to as the Ministry Center is not safe for use. We gave the Hispanic Ministry over a year to find a new place to gather. It was hard because everywhere wanted to charge them commercial prices. For over 24 years, JIBC was so blessed that we never needed to charge them anything. For 24 years they only paid for their electricity. No rent, no water, no sewage, no insurance, nada. It was a part of our mission purpose and mission strategy to partner with Great Commission believers to reach a significant part of our community. Their leadership totally understands and has expressed only gratitude toward JIBC for their 24 years of support.
William Shakespeare wrote the famous line in Romeo and Juliet: “Parting is such sweet sorrow”. There is always sadness in saying goodbye to the ones you love. You may remember we did a similar thing with the Chinese congregation when they outgrew our facility. One day, we will likely do the same, say goodbye, to the Ukrainian Church that meets on the JIBC campus as they outgrow our facilities. “Parting is such sweet sorrow”.
Acts 20:36-38 records the church leaders from Ephesus gathering to say goodbye to the Apostle Paul. Paul knew they would likely never see him again. So, like Paul and the Ephesian leaders, let us kneel and pray with Pastor Claudio and Luz Y Verdad. “The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine on you and be gracious to you, the LORD turn His face toward you and give you peace. Amen”
By God’s grace, mercy and timing, I have a coffee meeting with a pastor from West Ashley that is interested in having a conversation about Luz Y Verdad. Could it be that before they leave, the LORD has provided? Once we stepped into the Jordan with the decision, the waters parted? That would be just like our Great and Good God.
Pastor Tom
