When we launched Lakeside Church in 1987, I was coached and encouraged by a group of northern California pastors in a network called Next Generation Churches. Some of the best men I have known have been pastors in this group. When I was younger, they prayed for me, encouraged me, took me to lunch. (The lunches were helpful because I was broke and hungry.) They have been my friends and colleagues for nearly 25 years.
Over the years I have sought to return the favor that these leaders gave me. I have become the encourager, the hope-giver, the lunch-buyer to a new generation of pastors. I love the people who are leading churches along with me in our network. Many are making great progress in advancing the kingdom of Jesus in our region. I do whatever I can to serve them.
In August the Director of Next Gen Churches retired. Several pastors from the network asked me if I would be interested in serving as the next Director. I prayed about it for a minute, then said No. (I know, pretty spiritual response, huh?) I have a high calling from God to lead and serve Lakeside Church.
Then the leader of our national association called. He asked me to consider taking the role of Transitional Director of the network.
And then the convergence began.
I was sitting in a meeting with the group charged with leading the association forward in this transition period. As we talked about the mission of Next Gen Churches, it struck me that what they were talking about is exactly what I wrote my doctoral thesis on: Healthy Churches Coaching Other Churches. Hmmm.
Then I talked to my wife about the possibility of serving Lakeside and Next Gen Churches for a season. I told her about the doctoral "coincidence." She already knew I loved these pastors. But I was certain she would say, "What, are you crazy!?" Instead she said, "I think you should do it." (I think I said, "What, are you crazy?")
Then I told the Elder Team of Lakeside about the invitation to serve. I knew they would say No. One of their roles is to protect Lakeside. They would not want me serving in two places. They'd say No. But no, they said, "We think you should do it."
Meanwhile, this could never happen unless the staff at Lakeside was healthy and at peace. It is. Hmmm.
I asked God if he was certain. He said, "What, are you crazy?" OK, God is always certain.
When I was certain I had heard all this correctly, I called the national director. "I'll do it," I heard myself say. "What, am I crazy?"
That's how I became the Transitional Executive Director of a network of 140 churches scattered across northern California and Nevada. (It's also how I became the driver of a 2000 Buick company car. I hope you don't see me in it. It's sort of like a pastor's car.)
So when you are praying, please pray for me. I don't know what I'm doing. I'm not crazy, but I am seeking to follow the Lord's lead. The state of California needs healthy, vibrant churches to touch the neighborhoods and communities we live in. I know the Lord has had is hand of blessing on Lakeside. I am praying that he will do the same for Next Generation Churches. We could use your prayers.