First Day's Reflection...

So much I want to say right now, as my thoughts, feelings, emotions are so scattered. I thought about whether or not should I even blog about what's going on in my life right now, but decided to share.

God has a way of showing Himself in our lives that often times we never see coming. Trust is the key, and obedience unlocks the door to a world of possibilities and blessings that we can never dream of. Today was for me the start of a new beginning in ministry as I joined the Shiloh Metropolitan Baptist Church as their new Pastor of Christian Education. I believe I've shared this before, but I'll reiterate again: this was a God-orchestrated moment. One that I whole-heartedly believe is ALL for His glory.

This process has been (and is) one of faith, trust, and obedience. I'm thankful to the few that have been praying with (and for) me during this time of prayer, counsel, advice, as I sought God's Will for my life. Some felt this move was a "no-brainer," given both the popularity of Pastor H.B. Charles, and the size of the Shiloh Church. That anyone in their "right mind," would jump on this opportunity for ministry. I didn't feel that crowds sentiments. I felt that I would rather remain at Philippi MBC IN the WILL of God, than to join the staff of Shiloh MBC and be OUTSIDE the Will of God. The past few months have taught me more lessons on prayer than the whole of my Christian journey.

Needless to say, I am ever confident this is the Lord's doing and for that, HE gets ALL of the glory. I thank God for Pastor Charles being obedient to God's leading, and the leadership and people of Shiloh to be receptive to the vision he has for the Shiloh Church. I'm overwhelmed with the reality of the fact that God could've (and should've by some accounts) chosen anyone, but I'm ever more grateful that HE chose me. 

My first day on campus will be one that I will not ever forget. From the warm welcome from my fellow co-laborers in Christ, to Pastor Charles praying for me with my fellow Staff Pastors. To the Edible Arrangement display (that I'm eating as I type), to the many well wishes and blessings from family, friends, Shiloh members, AND Philippi members on today. Hearing (and reading) the words from you all made this young preacher feel special. I thank God for the people He's placed in my life, and grateful that in spite of me, HE still loves me.

A long road ahead, with much work to be done for His Glory. I'm just excited that I'm able to be apart of it, in this unique albeit aspect of ministry. I solicit your continued prayers as I settle in here at Shiloh. That all we accomplish as a church will be for His glory and not vain ambition, conceit, or rivalry. Remembering 1st Corinthians 10:31, "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." (ESV)

Soli Deo Gloria

An Honorable Discharge: An Ode to Philippi

With such a busy schedule the past few weeks, I didn't get a chance to organize my thoughts concerning this past weekend. What can I say other than TO GOD BE THE GLORY! This moment still feels surreal to me on so many levels.

As many of you know I celebrated my 3rd Pastoral Anniversary as Pastor of Philippi MBC over this past weekend. I thank God for 3 great years of serving His people. What some of you may not be aware of, was that this past weekend was also my last weekend of serving as Philippi's Pastor.

God has ended my time and tenure with the people of Philippi and has given me a new assignment. I am eternally grateful to the people of the Philippi family as you know I've been apart of this congregation for 20+ years. Joining this fellowship at the age of 9 when they called my father, Rev. John Perry as her 2nd Pastor. So much has grown since that time, and I was very shocked when I got the call 3 years ago when I was informed that I was chosen to be her 3rd Pastor.

These past 3 years have been nothing short of amazing, and I have learned so much about myself during this time of leading God's people. Philippi has and will always hold a special place in my heart as a people who love God, love His Word, and love one another.

Thank you again Philippi for loving me and serving with me these past few years. I thank you for accepting me, flaws and all and how encouraging this experience to serve you has been for me and my ministry. As you know, this decision wasn't easy to end our time together in ministry. But I take total comfort in knowing that this is GOD's doing. With the same faith, trust, hope, assurance I've been preaching and teaching about these past 3 years, I take it all to heart as God has given me a change of assignments.

I'm humble and joyful of your responses, words of encouragement, prayers, and excitement during this time of transition for me and Danielle. Your love for God, and growth in Christ has encouraged me greatly during this time. I'm proud to say I've pastored such a great group of Christians. I am also excited about the direction the ministry will go under the leadership of your next Pastor, Rev. Stavius L. Powell. A man of faith, with a humble spirit and a love for God's Word, Will, & Way. It further encourages me in how you handle this transition which further let's me know that this is the LORD's doing. I pray that you love, support, follow, and serve with Pastor Powell with the even more enthusiasm, commitment, devotion, and honor that you have with and for me.

I ask that you continue to keep me and Danielle in prayer as we embark on this next season of ministry. That we remain even the more faithful to this assignment in ministry as we have with each of you. All praises belong to God and God alone.