I have thought about starting a blog for some time now but I have always talked myself out of it. I assumed that no one would read it and/or I thought I had nothing to say of worth (even if people did decide to read it). I have come to realize that whether people read this blog or not, I do have some things to say. But in reality, nothing I really have to say is new or original. Some people may find some things written on this blog helpful, and some may not. I am a follower of Jesus Christ and I am striving to be the man that God wants me to be. I am striving to be the husband and Godly leader to my wife and family that God has called me to be. And, I am striving to be the pastor and servant of Jesus Christ that God has called me to be… for all of my efforts, it is by the grace of God and through faith in Jesus that these things are possible. I fail often and God restores me just as often.
Under the title to this blog, there is a quote from Andy Stanley that is taken from his book The Grace of God. It says, “In the beginning there was grace. But that was just the beginning.” From the very beginning of time and the creation story, God was a God of grace and he proved it time and time again. He proved it even in the midst, and even in the fallout of humanity. He proved it all throughout our human history as recorded in the Bible. The biggest proof is the life, ministry, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
It is with this in mind that I go through my life’s journey. It is with this in mind that I follow Jesus. And, it is with this in mind that I write this blog. God has always been gracious and faithful to me and my family. So, the only worthwhile things that I have to say are the things that God has taught me (or is teaching me), through his Word and the Holy Spirit. As God teaches me what it means to lead with humility, serve my wife and shepherd students, I will attempt to share my experiences here on this blog.
God is good and all glory belongs to Him. My prayer is that everything I do and say will be in obedience and service to Jesus. I invite you to come with me on this journey. My hope is that the things God encourages me with may also be encouraging to you.
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. – Ephesians 3:20-21
_Andrew
P.S. – Thanks to Brian for inspiring me to finally try this whole blogging thing out.
Andrew's Blog 