This is a really random blog as I relish the last few hours in Southern California. As I type, 
I sit in almost perfect conditions, by a pool in a beautiful house just by Huntington beach. I’ve got engaged to the most beautiful person I know, Emily (after my mum of course), seen Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam and met some amazing people that I will never forget, now I long for a return to home.
Far be it from me to suggest that Derry has a patch on America, but they say home is where the heart is. My heart is for the people of my city and to fulfill my call (with Emily) in Christ. I’ve seen things and experience things I only once dreamed about, yet I long for the life I know so well.
Cornerstone: We have countless foreign visitors that continually take up residence in our great city. Like Emily most say its the people that they love. For the first time I totally agree. My family, friends and peers all love life; and so do I. Without goals and excitement I am only a boring drone just seeing out my days in a ‘normal’ life. The honor of being part of Gods plan in Derry, through Cornerstone City Fellowship is the most demanding, exhilarating and deeply fulfilling service to date in my spiritual life.
At a very young 30, you think that you have it all worked out and you know yourself completely, but I guess I have discovered more about my life and Emily’s come to think of it. Some feel called to mission in foreign countries and argue their Samaria awaits. For me, for now, the call is The Walled City. The future,.. I dare not say “I wish I knew” as God knows I’d take my eye of the ball in my current situation. Both Emily and I are open to Gods call and are excited about our team diversity.
My countless references to Mark Battersons Book in previous blogs have regurgitated in my thoughts with
the mention of Mark’s name by our Pastor Andrew McCourt. Andrew was speaking at a conference recently with Mark in Scotland and commented on how accurate and refreshing his speaking was.
The whole concept of living as a ‘lion chaser’ in his book In a pit with a lion on a snowy day really got my engines motoring. Guess it fits a lot like my current situation and my grasp on what it means to follow Christ. Not for everyone, I know, but I’ll take that!
The very fact now that my fiance is also a ‘lion chaser’ makes our future unpredictable, faith driven, synchronised and hopefully as fulfilling as it has been. Again this is not for everyone, but we both want no regrets. With Birch passing on most of these thoughts are as vivid as ever considering life is short with only one shot at making the most of God’s call.
Who knows what is going to happen? We may end up in Derry forever or outer Africa, whatever the master wants we will go. John Wimber, founder of the Vineyard movement illustrates that we are all like change is Gods pocket. He comments that its not what we get spent on, but the fact that he wants to spend us that is the marvel.
Next Blog may be on this side on the continent- who knows. Until then thanks for dropping by again.
Lovin’ you guys comments, they have kept us going with humor, encouragement and thanks.
Never give up.
{ 3 comments }
hi norms keeping track of you on blog thanks for your lovely comments your a very special young man we keep you upheld in prayer each day looken forwar to see you soon mumx
big guy. it’s such a joy to be in a position to watch your life transform and continuously be transformed. there is no doubt that God has a mighty plan for both you and your amazing fiancee. i’m looking forward to watching the rest of the story unfold and hope to be a great source of encouragement along the way. stay true to the call and keep marching on big lad. God bless you
E and N (or is it N and E??)
I haven’t commented much on your blog but just wanted to say, as has been said, how utterly happy Jules and I are for you two. You obviously make a great team. It will be great to see you and SOON!
Thunderballs
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