Today we spent the morning with our tribe, our people who have walked side by side with us over the last two and a half years.
Who is your tribe? As Reggie Joiner says, “It’s as if God designed us so we would naturally connect in Tribes. Then he used Tribes over time to reveal Himself to us, and to continue to spread His message of love.” We all need a tribe, the people who are for us and with us no matter what. We don't all have to be the same to fit. If you do not have a tribe, find one!
The list goes on and on of all our experiences together. I cannot capture it all in a photo (but I tried) or in words (here they are). But, maybe I can give you a glimpse of these years:
Big Moments
Little Moments
Death of Parents
Loss of Jobs
Birth
New Job Opportunities
Loss
Anticipation and Celebration of Vacations
Praying for Mission Trips
Expanding Homes for Safe Families
Praying for Health
Sharing Washing Machines
Coffee Dates
Lunch Dates
Neighborhood Parties
Success
Failure
New Years Eve
Adoption Fundraisers
Christmas Parades
Summer Beach Days
Chicago Trips
Karaoke
Cooking Challenges
School Events
Foodie Fridays
Date Nights
Guys Nights
Girls Nights
Sleepovers
Serving Together
Challenging Each Other to Serve
Birthdays
Outings of all sorts
And more...
And through it all we've grown together, we've become family. Today a new chapter begins as we send our group ahead without us. Our brave leaders have loved us all well. Our group is a safe place to learn and be challenged and move closer to Jesus. It is a launching pad of mission in our neighborhood.
I wouldn't have been as brave without you all. I wouldn't have stepped outside of my comfort zone as much without you all. I would not have been able to invest in our neighborhood and school as much without you all. Thanks for letting me be me. Thanks for loving our family unconditionally. Thanks for being loyal and faithful. Thanks for letting us stay.
So, now as we go, may you expand your influence. I cannot wait to see the community you invite others into as you share yourselves with them. I cannot wait to see people come to know Jesus because of the way you live together. I am looking forward to hear stories about how you continue to invest in our neighborhood and your workplaces. Keep Making Waves in Lake Geneva.
And, remember, for awhile at least we are just a block or two away. Our door is always open for you.
We love you...
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