So Far, So Good

A very wise and talented man once asked me if I really wanted to be the leader of a mega-church student ministry.  My gut answer was, "of course."  After a few minutes of conversation I was second guessing myself and my abilities as a leader.  I do like being the one who has the last say.  I think most people do.  I enjoy having the pressure to make the right decision when the pressure is on.  However, I don't like the tedious minutia that comes with being the leader.

I don't enjoy having to continually draw attention to the details; details that should be second nature to be done.  I don't enjoy having tough conversations that usually leave people I care about being frustrated or upset with me.  At my core I'm a people pleaser.  People pleasers aren't usually great leaders.  That's why I'm trying to focus hard on learning how to be a better leader.

Two months in to my position here at Northwood Church I'm glad to report things are "so far, so good."  Then again….two months into my last job I thought things were going pretty well too.  Another two months and I was out on the job trail for the first time in four years. 

After a very good leader recruitment and vision casting meeting on Sunday, I'm starting to see people connect with the direction I feel God is taking us.  I think (and hope) my staff team is trusting me more and more each week.  Sure we have our days and disagreements but on the whole I believe we're learning how to work well with each other.

The next few weeks and months will bring not only a new direction and purpose for Northwood Student Ministry but almost everything from names of environments to our camps and retreat schedule will be different.  This is an exciting time at Northwood and I'm so thankful that God has allowed me to be a small part of what He's doing.  Please continue to pray for our church and leadership as we make HUGE decisions over the next few weeks.  I still can't believe I get to do this for a living!