"We're having a lot of fun." That's how I've usually responded when people have asked me, "How's the summer going so far?" My answer is true, and I use the pronoun "we" intentionally. I certainly haven't felt like the world is on my shoulders this summer, which is made possible by the amazing people whom I serve beside on our staff, session, and in other leadership roles throughout the church. I'm certainly enjoying this journey because I'm surrounded by such great, capable, Christ-honoring people - and because we're having a lot of fun together.
My answer also lets people "under the hood" just a bit to see something deeper than simply getting stuff done. The role I'm inhabiting this summer gives me great joy. Looking back on the last four weeks, there's a few things that have given me a lot of joy as a leader. Most of the time, the things that produce this sensation in my life are small, but I love to look back and take stock of all God is doing and continues to do in our midst.
Just yesterday, one of our key youth ministry leaders hosted a group of about a dozen students and leaders through a time of prayer and preparation for this summer's mission trip to South Dakota. This leader had everything lined up for this training session, and it felt wonderful to see her bring everyone together and lead well. I also got the chance to play a small role in their meeting: technology assistant. I tracked down a couple of cables and components so that this leader could show a few training videos on her laptop, using the big-screen in one of our classrooms, along with a speaker to help people hear just a bit better. It really was a small thing I could bring to the table, but in a lot of ways, leadership - at least where I sit - involves brining small things which Jesus turns into things that benefit others in important ways. He did this long ago with a lunch of bread and fish from a young boy, and he continues to do so today.
Thanks for continuing to pray for me, for the leaders at FPC, and for our ongoing mission in our community and around the world.
Solo Dei gloria,
Travis
