Last night Creekstone met for our weekly Sunday Night Fellowship (dinner and Bible study) at the Lumpkin Co. Community Center. It is a fantastic location, and thankfully, folks showed up. As I've reflected on the evening together, I've had some thoughts:

1. Serving as the church planter for Creekstone, in this place and at this time, is a huge privilege. Having the opportunity to help people come alive to the wonder of the gospel through teaching and community is a dream come true.

2. There are gospel-loving friends in other places whom I wish could be here to partner with us in person. Many of them are participating through prayer and giving, but as this ministry begins to pick up momentum, I really miss them.

3. Preaching and teaching is an art that is never perfected—at least not by me. Each time I teach I think, "This time I'm going to get it right." Well, I have never gotten it right yet. So I might as well let go of the pressure to be perfect- or even really good. If I can just be regular ole, terribly imperfect me (who sometimes talks too fast and slurs words on occasion) who is coming alive to the wonder of the gospel myself, that will be enough. God uses the foolish things...

4. I'm thankful to be teaching folks who are so receptive, teachable and encouraging.

5. I think that the music ministry is going to be the best thing we have going. Last night's first-time, informal rehearsal blew me away. Not in my wildest dreams did I think we'd have this kind of talent and heart leading worship. Maybe in year ten, but not in week 2. God is at work... going before us... parting the waters.

6. I'm thankful for folks who are willing to pitch in and help out. It's remarkable to see people serve so gladly.

7. I think God is at work in me. Not because I'm getting better, but because I am seeing just how inadequate I am. I'm coming to realize that people do not need me. They need Jesus. Almost as much as I need Jesus. So part (most?) of my job is to live like I really do need Jesus- not as a helper, but as a Savior. In order to do that, I've got to stop being religious, and start being real. Will you pray for me to that end?