Better Things

I am in constant prayer for my Oasis family. The Hunts who are flying to Arkansas today- officially beginning their journey separate from Boston and Oasis. The Joneses who are waiting for Noah to be born and the many changes that are taking place for them as a family and a church; muchless the constant goodbyes they have said in the past few months. The Latimers who are in Colorado now and adjusting to their firstborn- Zadie. Stacey who will be taking on Doug's position for a season. Melissa who is wearing many hats to serve the Oasis. Clint as he has a new living situation now that Jed is getting married next month. K.C. pursuing more school and finishing her time in school in Boston. Heather possibly moving her life as well away from her home of New England. Tears come so freely as I think upon what a joy it was to live, love and serve with you all. I miss you more than words can express. As I was praying for all of us and all that God has for us in this crazy time I read this- Hebrews 6:9-10 "Though we speak in this way, yet in your case, beloved, we feel sure of better things- things that belong to salvation. For God is not so unjust as to overlook your work and the love that you showed for his sake in serving the saints, as you still do." So for us as "heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose, he guaranteed it with an oath, so that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf [...]" (Heb. 6:17-20)
I have tasted and seen God's goodness, grace, mercy, love, forgiveness, and his heart because of the people of Oasis. You are my brothers and sisters and I hold fast to better things because I know Jesus is running ahead of us and leading us to serve Him whether it be Boston, Colorado, Kentucky (only for a season), or Mississippi. I often ask why can't we just all be in the same place again as it was such a beautiful picture of the body of Christ. But for reasons beyond my comprehension- God has us serving in many different places. As I tell new friends about our time in Boston I am amazed at all the ways God changed me and yet I know there is still so much more He wants to teach me.
Doug, Shelley, Emily, James and Pete Hunt you are all in my prayers for God to guide you and for you to feel his Hand during this hard time. I pray for unity among your family as you began anew. Brent, Sharla, Cavin, and baby Noah I pray for God's peace and wisdom. You all have loved our family in such amazing ways and I know he will give you strength to continue on in Boston with a new team in his timing. I pray that your hearts would be revived for your new journey ahead with two kids and raising support. Stacey and Melissa you are women of faith who have brought so much joy and life to us and everyone in Oasis. May you have spiritual cups running over to be filled with the Spirit and to give that love freely to all in need. Stacey God has prepared you for such a time as this- He has brought you to this place to lead this team for a season. I know he will equip you for each task ahead. Melissa you have such a huge heart and I am so glad you will be staying in Boston for now. Many will be blessed by your service and leadership in the church. K.C. you bring so much laughter so I'm glad you aren't going anywhere for now. I know you are so busy but you still always manage to help everyone and be available to serve. As you say- "It's true, It's true!" So as much as we would love for you to be closer in Nashville I know God will do great things in you as you finish strong in Boston. Clint- I'm not sure what your life looks like right now but I can imagine there is much change with a new place to live and new roomies. I am praying for God's guidance as you find what God has for you in Boston and in Oasis.
Latimers- hmmmm. We have shared many meals and many tears and much laughter together. Jack was blessed to have you around and I am so grateful for the many ways you supported and helped Josh and I in difficult times. I pray for healing in Naomi and protection over Brett and Zadie. What a blessing to have been given a baby girl! I look forward to sharing over the phone all the exciting times ahead. We love and miss you all and the cats!
Ok I am finished being mushy but it is just necessary since I can't give you all big hugs in person. We love you all Oasis!
Above is a pic from yesterday when I took the kids to the zoo.