Thank You, Lopez

 

    Twenty months ago, Valerie and I headed up to Lopez Island to say "No." The Community Church on the island was in the midst of a difficult transition, had experienced a failed pastoral call vote, and was looking for an interim pastor. Someone thought I might be a good fit. Just to be clear, that someone wasn't me. My plan was to preach that weekend, politely explain to the elders why I was not the end of their search for an interim, and go home. God adjusted our plans (that's another story; he does always know what's best), and we became frequent commuters between Kent and Lopez Island.

    The last twenty months have been an unexpectedly wonderful adventure as we have walked this interim journey with folks whom we have come to love. Some of the walk and the work has been hard; I guess that's normal. Ninety-six ferry rides later, (some of them were actually on time) that adventure came to a happy conclusion this last weekend as the church enthusiastically welcomed their new pastoral couple and allowed me the privilege of participating in his installation (which, by the way, is a terrible term; a pastor is neither a refrigerator nor software). 

 
    When we boarded that 96th ferry on Monday morning, it was with great memories and deep joy. The memories are not focused on cancelled ferries or crowded freeways or the common occasional frustrations of ministry. They center on a bunch of new friends and on the incomparable privilege of witnessing the work of the Lord among them. I shudder at the thought of what I would have missed if I had simply said "No."

    It's been a great adventure and one of the most joyful chapters of our lives. Thank you, Lopez!