Shifting Winds

Over eight years ago, in May 2001, I graduated from Central Bible College and moved home to start a new church in Metro Detroit.  I was twenty-two, full of faith, and young enough to not know what I was getting myself into.  Six friends from school joined me, and we began laying the foundation for Church of the King.  On September 16, we launched the church just five days after Islamic extremists attacked the World Trade Center.

We started Church of the King because we felt God shifting spiritual winds in Metro Detroit.  Since then it's been our privilege to hoist our sails and experience an unforgettable adventure.

Leah and I have sensed God shifting the winds in our lives again, culminating in a burning bush experience that God gave to us a few weeks ago.  I'll share more of the story later, but here's the word God specifically spoke to us.

God controls the winds, and when the winds shift, God can do a new thing.  But you can't catch the next wind if you're not courageous enough to cut the chord.

This morning we cut the cord.  I shared our story with our church and announced that we feel God calling us to plant another church.  We're not sure where yet.  We feel a bit like Abraham in that regard.  But we've heard his voice so clearly.

On one hand, this has been the toughest decision we've made since being married.  It's difficult because of the deep love we have for our church family, Metro Detroit, and the significant relationships that we've developed here.  To think about change in the context of those relationships makes us very sad.

On the other hand, this has been the most simple decision we've made since being married.  It's clear, because of the confidence we have in what God has spoken to us.  As we've shared our story with family, mentors, and the leaders of our church, they've affirmed what we believe God is saying.  And the only intelligent option for us is to obey God.

I know this announcement raises a lot of questions, and I'll be processing many of them on this blog over the next several days.

I addressed a few of the big questions during my message this morning, as well as shared more extensively about what God has been doing in our hearts.  You can listen to the message here.

You can also read a letter that is being mailed this weekend to the Church of the King mailing list. You can read the letter here.

Shifting winds produce anxiety as well as exhilaration.  Leah and I feel both.  Most of all, we feel honored to joyfully obey the voice of our Commanding Officer.

Let the adventure continue...

Comments

[Chilly]

Netta and I (as well as Real Church) stand with you, Leah and COTK during these exciting days! You have our prayers & love.

Chilly

[Tory farina]

You have been a true friend and inspiration. Yet again you challange me that we are always subject to Gods lead and not our own. Fallow the wind with confidance and know Elizabeth and I stand with you.

[Craig T. Owens]

Wow, huge decisions! But Betsy & I know from personal experience that once you commit to follow god, the doors begin to open. God knows exactly where to place you next (although, selfishly I hope it's not too far away!) and He will show you the perfect place and the perfect time. I'll be praying for you & Leah and COTK.

[andrea & jason huang]

wowwww, what a huge decision! we'll be praying for you guys -- thanks for all the ways that you've modeled risk & taking steps of faith for us. cotk was really home for us during our time in michigan -- thanks for your friendship & guidance, brad & leah!