JCISONLINE

It’s been incredibly interesting how much I’ve learned in the past few weeks. I’m so thankful for a few people that have helped me to sharpen my leadership saw:

• J-Pat. My boss, pulled off an incredible retreat last weekend for the High Schoolers and he’s been leading me through the budget process. (Which I’ve never officially done before). I’m thankful for his leadership, his heart and his desire for excellence.
• Hepman, aka Family Pastor, has helped me think strategically about my family and has challenged me to set the pace for my ministry. He pushes me more than most I know.
• Schwanny, our Axis (7th-8th grade Pastor) is a beast when it comes to leaders. I’ve seen it first hand and I pray that one day I can invest into people like he does, have challenging conversations the way that he does, and builds relationships like he does. He’s a guru.
• Melinda, our admin (yes we have one admin for 3 ministries) and mother of 5. I literally have no idea how her husband and her do it. Not just surviving but she has intentional time built in for her, Pete and the kids. No cable, very little tv, and lots of family activities. Her kids will be blessed for her and her husband’s sacrifices. I pray that I am a small piece of this for my son and maybe more future kids
• Sam Luce, from afar. He’s been bringing it on his blogs lately and I’ve been challenged big time by a few. I’m thankful for those that have been there that are pouring into those who, God willing will get there one day.
• My volunteers at Switch. We are a growing ministry and we are getting new volunteers left and right. I cannot do ministry without them. They not only pour into preteen students, but they do it without a paycheck. I’m thankful for them and that my students have many, many youth pastors!!
• Last, but certainly not least, my wife. We’ve been having some difficult conversations over the past few weeks about what our life will look like in a few months with a baby. I’m so, so, so thankful that she is my wife and partner in this thing. She makes me feel as though I can conquer the world and yet reminds me that I need to take out the trash.

I haven’t blogged consistently in the last few months, but I’m better for it. I’m thankful for all the people pouring into me. I’m praying that God will bless those that invest in my family.

Who’s been investing into you lately? Is it always the opposite? Take a break if that’s the case and let God in your space again.

image via NeoGaboX