On March 22, Kim, Delaney, and I pulled into Seattle, Washington where we will begin the process of planting a church. Thus far, the journey has been marked by a burdensome joy. We are still trying to get settled. All of our possessions remain in storage. We will not be able to move into our home for another couple of weeks. As a result, we have been living in suspension–that has been the burden.

Joy has come through the ways in which God has provided for us. Not having a home has allowed us to fashion a friendship with John and Amy Cook as well as their two boys–Jake and Brady. They welcomed us into their home and have shown us tremendous hospitality. What we thought would be a week has lasted over a month and will continue for another couple of weeks! Meanwhile, God has lead them to join us on this church planting venture. We are grateful to have them as co-laborers.

Additionally, the Lord has connected us with several people who are interested in planting with us. We started meeting weekly with each of them to pray and seek God’s presence, power, and provision for the near future. Building relationships with like-minded laborers is a joyful experience.

The next few entries will be part of a series titled “The Burdensome Joy of Church Planting.” I will expound upon our church planting experience–both the pain and the pleasure.

walking,
Andrew