As I sit down to write to you, I feel a bit like those in the Scripture who knew that what they were about to write may be their last opportunity for communication. I would imagine they thought and wrestled with just what they needed to say. Obviously, this is not the end of communications, connections, and shared and treasured friendships, but it is the end of my tenure as the Pastor of Crossroads Chapel. People keep asking, “Are you excited about what is ahead in Idaho?”
Of course, we are looking forward to being retired, surrounded with incredible beauty, more oxygen, being able to build our home, and leave an inheritance to our children. We just wish we could take you all with us! We know that the timing is right, our location for retirement was well thought out, and we believe that God’s hand and direction were paramount in choosing Idaho. Thus, we have a confidence that we are moving in His time, and that we have been directed by His hand. There are moments, however, when our hearts are not convinced that we are prepared for all the goodbyes.
In 3 John vs. 2, John writes, “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers” (NKJV). In Acts 20:29-31 Paul states, “For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves” (NKJV). He warned them to be watchful and prayerful.
That would be my exhortation as well. Watch your own hearts. Change is inevitable, but none of us like it. We naturally want life to stay the same and be comfortable. In this time of change and uncertainty, don’t make things worse by bailing out on your church family. Hang in there and be the church! Be prayerful. God has not changed. He is the only true constant in the universe. You are His, and Crossroads Chapel is His. That is my greatest comfort and the reality that gives me hope, and the comfort I need to face the changes with resolve and courage. Paul continues in verse 32, “So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified” (NKJV). Linda and I love you and it has been our great honor to serve the Lord and you in Lucerne Valley for the past thirty-one years.
-Pastor Gary Schlenz