One of the disciplines that I’ve had over the past several years is to take some time in late December to reflect on the past year. Like many people, I try to keep a journal, but I must admit I’m pretty sporadic. My journal entries this past year mostly surround my trip to England in April and the conversion of our minsitry software database in June.
This has been my first full year on the leadership team at FamilyLife. It’s been a year of growth in so many areas. I’ve been challenged in my leadership skills to lead a larger group of people than ever in my life as well as leading an organization through one of biggest changes in many years. The software change has gone pretty well, but migrating the full complexity of all major ministry functions in an organization the size of FamilyLife is pretty overwhelming. It has impacted the daily work-lives of over 200 people and that creates a lot of stress for people. It has definitely been a stretching experience.
As I look forward to 2008, I am most excited about the expected launch this year of our new eMentoring outreach. I’ve been asked to lead this overall project and there’s a lot of work to do. We’ve got to help lead the development of the software, but also chart a clear course for how to train and equip lay people to offer sound biblical advice through email. There are many other waters to negotiate as well. Please continue to pray for this.
Finally, this has been a year of growing faith. I’ve grown in my love for God and his glory and in my understanding of my own sinfulness. We’ve also been asked to exercise faith around our support as we’ve seen our reserves drained this year and enter 2008 with a significant monthly gap. However, we’ve also seen God close that gap late this year and we’re trusting that He will continue to provide for the work that He’s called us to. We’d ask for your prayers on this as well.
So, there’s my thoughts on 2007. We want to thank our friends for all your support and, ultimately, proclaim ‘Soli Deo Gloria’.
