This post is more vocational and personal reflection than anything. If you are looking for something earth shattering or overly insightful, I apologize. If you want some honest, happy and grateful reflections you are in luck. 

This past week was full of conversations, meetings and meaningful work. I give thanks for all of it. It wasn’t entirely an easy week, but it was a great week. There were conversations with friends and mentors about calling, opportunities and possibilities. The choir and bell choir that I am currently directing at their first rehearsals of the New Year, and it was a joy to be back together again for the first time since Christmas. Then, the next morning Allison and I had our Endorsement Interviews as part of our candidacy for rostered leadership in the ELCA. Both interviews went extremely well and we were both endorsed for different ministry rosters. I am grateful for all of the leaders who were part of those conversations, as well as to the mentors who have been in conversation continually through this journey (and will remain part of it for the foreseeable future).

This weekend featured a wonderful conversation over dinner with the first ministry couple we met in Minnesota as a young married couple. They took us in, mentored us and have been our number one cheerleaders here ever since. It was such a joy to be able to spend time with them earlier this weekend, and to laugh and imagine together.

This afternoon we had some of our Minnesota “family” over for food, fellowship and football. Yes, I admit, I had a bit of interest in the game between the Seahawks and Packers. Many of our friends did as well out here (who happen to be Packers fans). What a game. It went from feeling a little bit like the “worst of times” to the “best of times.” It was a strange game, but it was a joy to be enjoying it with our friends and family out here.

It’s weeks and weekends like this, where all I can say is really thank you. Thank you all! Thank you for being part of our community, for the conversation, encouragement, the willingness to wrestle with big questions and to work and try and do something good in the world. And thank you for being with us. It is a joy to be in community with you!