What difference does a little time make?  

For me, all the difference in the world!

Just two years ago I was looking for the right home. The right job. The right church.

My wife Nivia and I were doing a lot of searching and praying. During that season I preached in several churches.

That experience and the years in ministry leading up to that point galvanized in my heart both the beauty and calling of the church. It also revealed a great need in me for renewal, intimacy with God, and a fresh calling. And a lot more praying. 

Then … Cancer

Then came a lump in my throat (literally) and a diagnosis of cancer on the back of my tongue and on a lymph node. Not exactly the answer I was looking for. The treatment was brutal, and I could do nothing but get through it. Yet during that time, God revealed Himself to me as the, “ever present help." I grew to know Him as Immanuel – God with me. He sustained us as a family and renewed me personally in ways I can never explain. I fell in love with Him again. 

How Could I Possibly Handle the Holidays?

Twelve months ago, I was three days away from the final radiation treatment. I was wondering how I would handle Thanksgiving and Christmas with a blistered throat. And 12 months ago, November 8, I came on staff at New Hope Church with a clear calling and no clue if I could possibly be a blessing to this sweet church that had already blessed me and my family so much. Just 12 months.  When I think of it, I am amazed.  

I am cancer-free (and eating much more than I should). I am in a church family that I absolutely love, doing what I feel I was made for, with people who feel the same way. I am part of an amazing staff and leadership culture (Our Elders, Deacons, Coaches and Teachers) that long to please God and fulfill His mission. I am seeing God at work every day. I want to shout at the top of my lungs with King David:

 I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. No wonder my heart is glad, and I rejoice.  My body rests in safety. Psalm 16:8-9

Are you in a hard season? Maybe you cannot imagine how in the world God could work it all out for your good and His glory. Take heart. Give Him time. Bind your heart to Him and His promises. I can testify, He is faithful.

You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Psalm 16:11

~Pastor Chuck