Before tomorrow's official announcement of the city we're moving to, which at this point is ultra obvious thanks to my not so difficult clues, let me expose part of my heart that still feels a little raw.
One of the most difficult parts of this decision for me to process has been leaving Metro Detroit. I've spent the majority of my life here. When we started COTK it was with the intention of filling Detroit with church plants. My family lives here. I love the Pistons, the Tigers, the Wings, and even the Lions. And up until recently, I believed I would spend the entirety of my ministry in the Motor City.
When I began to sense God releasing me, I had a tough time reconciling all of that. And to be honest, it's still a struggle. If you search the archives of this bog you'll probably find posts that at least on the surface seem to contradict this change my life. And while I feel confident that God is leading us, I'm still concerned for Detroit.
This morning I bought a bag of salt at the gas station. As I was paying, the attendant joked, "It's that time of year again isn't it?" I laughingly said, "Maybe we should all just move to Florida," to which he responded, "What reason would any of us have to stay in Michigan?" I understand that mentality is prevalent. It dominates our city. I've pushed back on it for several years. So it's difficult for me to join those who are moving away.
I don't believe that God is done using me in Detroit. I will continue to support friends and ministries in this city with my prayers, finances, and encouragement. I've also wondered if God might allow me to come back later on in my life.
I do know this. During this process God has taught me to loosen my grip on my plans for the future. I'll be slower to make sweeping statements that involve the phrase, "the rest of my life." Really, as followers of Jesus, what right do any of us have to our own plans? Jesus is a King, and his sovereignty gives Him the right to spend my life anywhere He wants.