This Sunday I'll preach my farewell message to COTK. It will mark the end of an incredible season. I moved back to Metro Detroit in 2001 as a 22 year old, single kid. Together with six friends from school we launched COTK. When I look back at the last decade, I'm humbled by what God let me be a part of.
Here are just a few of the things I feel very thankful for from my time at COTK.
Changed Lives: There's no other way to start this list. I thank God for every life that was changed by the gospel, through the ministry of COTK. One of the pictures I'll be taking with me is a stunning piece of graphic art designed by one of the new believers I had the privilege of baptizing in water. He designed it shortly after committing to Christ, and included my silhouette against the backdrop of three crosses on the side of our church building. To me it represents God's grace that allows me to serve the Church.
Kingdom Alliances: We've had the privilege of partnering with dozens of great churches and organizations to serve Metro Detroit. I'm grateful for the friendships and opportunities to work together. Additionally, we've been blessed by dozens of churches who supported us with finances and prayer as we established COTK. So thankful for them.
Community Impact: I appreciate the opportunities we've had to influence and serve our community through relationships and events. I look forward to seeing this continue to compound for COTK in the next few years.
Diversity: Since our first core group meetings in 2000, we've prayed, longed, and worked toward the vision of developing a blended church in Metro Detroit. I'm amazed at the different kinds of people that have experienced community at COTK. It's so appealing and attractive--and I love it!
The Oaks: We had the joy of sending The Oaks in the spring of 2006. So proud of Chris and Nicki Bradshaw, and all that their leaders have accomplished. Today The Oaks continues to make a significant impact in one of the most unique mission fields in our city.
Resurrection and Life: That same year we were able to partner with a new church plant for West African Immigrants in our city. David Okai is one of my heroes! Resurrection and Life continues to impact West Africans all over Metro Detroit.
Setbacks: This might seem like an odd one to include on the list, and I probably wouldn't have included at the time of each setback. But with the benefit of hindsight, I'm thankful for every failed event, difficult conversation, tight financial month, God used them to draw me to Himself, strengthen the resolve of our leaders, and build my emotional endurance.
Interns and Leaders: We've had about 30 interns since starting the church. Many of them are still involved in church plants today. It's terrific watching them grow, get married, plant churches, pursue their call and impact people.
A Staff of Life-LongFriends: For me, the icing on the cake has been experiencing all of this together with my best friends. In particular, I thank God for the Sullivans and the Galindos. Tal and Gwen have been with us since the beginning, and will do a great job leading the church forward. Eddie has been a friend since high school. So proud of the man of God he's become. JT and I have been ministering together since College. I'm truly grateful to say that our staff has been my closest friends.
Grace: I don't even know how to communicate how young and inexperienced I was when we started COTK. I counseled married couples without having a clue about marriage. I preached sermons that I don't even agree with anymore. But the people of COTK loved me, prayed for me, encouraged me, and jumped off cliffs with me.
Fortunately I met Leah three years ago and immediately became a better pastor! So glad that we got to experience COTK together the last few years.
It's all so much more than I deserve.
To all of you who have shared in this journey, from the bottom of my heart, Thank You!
Brad,
I love and admire you. I will always see you as a mentor and role model...someone who encouraged me to go for it, the way you did. I pray God's blessing be upon you and Leah as you carry forth your calling to serve the Kingdom. I will be sure to stay in touch.
Chris Palmer
Posted by: Chris Palmer | January 14, 2010 at 12:32 PM