i haven't had the chance to post about it until now, but sunday was easily the most powerful i've been a part of since coming on staff at waters edge.
we finished up our series "in the dark" with a really cool, really different kind of service. myself and two others participated in a rountable/panel type discussion with stu. the focus was on painful circumstances in our lives and the choice we have to either let those circumstances define us or destroy us. it was such a unique and personal service.
it was humbling to be on stage with two new friends who have such amazing stories. i'm so proud of melissa and john. the circumstances they've come through... the way they handled them... so inspiring.
it was my first time speaking (not just doing the welcome or the pre-show) on stage, and i was surprisingly calm. i have no idea why it didn't make me nervous, but i'm thankful. i was able to share the story of losing my mom, talk about some of the mistakes i made in dealing with it initially, and how God used those circumstances to draw me closer to Himself and define who i am today.
over the last couple of days, we've heard some really cool stories of life-change from this series. people who have been hurting so bad... finding hope. i say it often, but i'm so thankful to be part of such a healthy church that is doing absolutely everything we can to reach people who don't know Jesus.
if you'd like to listen to the service from sunday, you can listen to the podcast (in the dark pt.2).
you and the other two "panelists" did wonderful. I was truly touched by your stories.
We really missed you tonight at CG and look forward to reconnecting with you next week. (seriously!)
Posted by: Jessie | March 17, 2009 at 11:37 PM
thanks jessie! i appreciate it.
we HATED missing group last night. i heard from scott that everything went really well, though. can't wait to be back next week!
Posted by: jake | March 18, 2009 at 12:29 PM
proud of you, bro! and...really glad to see how God is already using you and your family in your new home.
we love and miss you guys!
Posted by: jay hardwick | March 18, 2009 at 02:38 PM
You were great on stage. Your story helped many people connect to God even when they are in the dark.
Posted by: Rob Shepherd | March 18, 2009 at 04:36 PM
jay... thanks, dude. we miss you guys, too!
rob... thanks for the encouragement! so thankful i get to be a part of this!
Posted by: jake | March 19, 2009 at 10:05 AM