This journey I have with Jesus Christ is amazing. There are so many things that have happened in the past few months that it's been hard for me to fully grasp. Here are a couple things that have been thrust into my spirit.
1) (Rom 11:29) For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.
2) No matter the mistakes and wrong paths I have taken, the call of God is still upon me.
A few months ago as I endeavored to draw closer to the Lord through prayer, fasting and the study of His word, God got my attention in a big way. He reminded me of the calling He has placed on my life to be a Pastor. He gave me a specific word: "I am urgently calling the shepherds who have left the fields to take up their staffs to return and gather the flocks."
This message from God hit me so hard that I was overwhelmed with emotion and tears filled my eyes and ran down my cheeks. I couldn't help but feel sorry for all the years I've strayed from the call on my life, thinking that many of my wrongful actions somehow disqualified me. But God has never given up on me. He has been so incredibly patient, simply waiting for me to get it together and move forward within His ultimate plan and purpose for my life. I sense a tremendous urgency to get going.
The plan that is laid out for me is to start a church in my community of Redding California. My days are filled with reading scriptures and books about church planting. My prayers have revolved around asking for God's wisdom and direction. My goal is to see my community changed by the good news message of Jesus Christ. The vision is to reach those who have been rejected and unaccepted by the church and the world. For me it's not some cute little plan, but it's God mandated and I HAVE to do it.
So I'm answering the call. God has already blessed me with people who are gathering together to move forward with His plan. As we do, I continue to receive confirmation from men and women of God. He is encouraging me from all directions and I know without a doubt this is what I am to do and God's blessing is upon it.
2 comments:
bGo God Go!
Tim, I know I met you in church and went to one of your in church bible study groups before, but...I feel that the experiences I have had being close to you and your family have just confirmed for me that God still loves us even though we make mistakes. I feel closer to you and your words, your faith because you are so human to me because of those trials I have watched you conquer. I know that when you speak of certain things it is from experience and the strength and love in the lord you have always had, even if not lived strongly at the time. But you are a guiding light and someone that because of those experiences people will listen to. Sometimes when you speak it is like your reching in and speaking straight to the soul, that is what makes this your calling! Have no regrets for the lord has been by your side guiding you and making you the man that is going to bring the outcast home! FOR WE WILL NOT BE AFRAID TO SING OUT LOUD!!!
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