It's amazing to me all that needs to be done and placed on the "to do" list when you transition. Thus far I've opened up a bank account, got a new cell number (which is kind of annoying now that I have to let everyone know it somehow!), got a new phone (not a priority but a fun toy), and began to cast a vision for ministry.
What's even more amazing to me is ministry! It's amazing how in one quick moment you can go from hanging out with a bunch of kids getting cake in the face and the next you have two students in a serious brawl, a student telling you some of the deepest darkest secrets of their life, another fight almost break out...and no sooner did you finish a message on respect and those very kids who were sitting there are the ones gossiping and disrespecting the adults around them! It's so much discouraging as it is confusing!
I think I'm finding that ministry is so volatile and can change at any moment! The people are great and you enjoy being with them...the next moment you can't believe what you are hearing or seeing and want to get away!
Thank God that ministry isn't about me and whether or not I have all the answers, techniques, styles, dynamics, etc. I just pray that as I strive to be faithful to God and allow God to use me as his vessel to share love, grace and mercy - in some way I pray for God's transforming presence and spirit to be real and evident in these lives (including mine)!
Grace and Peace!