Making an Entrance

 

  leap copy

“All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players: they have their exits and their entrances; and one man in his time plays many parts, his acts being seven ages.” - William Shakespeare

My wife often jokes about the theatrical flavor of some of the statements I make. She says I have a flair for the dramatic…I say, that I prefer a pencil. Bad puns aside, I do have an announcement.

Cue the bright lights and theme music

This Sunday (January 6, 2013) I walk onto a new stage, I will be ordained as an Associate Pastor at Bridge Builder Community Church. OK, dim the lights and cut the music, the drama is over.

Or is it?

This has been a remarkable journey for me, but I’m not going to rehash past blunders, miscalculations or ministry mishaps. No bright lights, no theme music…nothing that dramatic.

I’m just going to thank Him

“God often takes a course for accomplishing His purposes directly contrary to what our narrow views would prescribe. He brings a death upon our feelings, wishes, and prospects when He is about to give us the desire of our hearts.” - John Newton

Something stirs in my heart that is more than theatrics…it’s a hunger to see people set free. A burning to speak to hurting, lost people and introduce them to a Savior that loves them passionately. This is not because I’m great, gifted or glowing with Moses-like holiness. It has (I believe) nothing to do with my calling.

It’s because I’m redeemed

I am reminded about something my wife wrote about a few years ago. I was clearing out some old paperwork and came across a letter that my wife wrote to honor me on one of my birthdays. I won’t bore you with the whole letter but there was this one section that grabbed me by the throat. (BTW…it still does)

“Some men build massive skyscrapers, awesome bridges, complex computers, things which can be destroyed. My man builds lives.”

His life, His power, His Spirit…through us…brings life. This is what I’m thinking as Sunday approaches.

“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.”
Isaiah 1:17

I want to build lives…what about you?

 

del.icio.us Tags: ,,,

Comments

Bill (cycleguy) said…
This is absolutely fantastic Jay! Congrats! I admire a man who will shift gears in the "senior" years (LOL) and do it with his wife's support. You are married to one awesome lady. I look forward to seeing what God has planned.
Jay Cookingham said…
Thanks Bill...it will be part time for now (I still need to work) but we're excited about what God is doing! Hopefully I'm not having a "senior" moment in accepting this gig! :-)
jasonS said…
So excited for you, Jay. Thank you for stepping out in faith and trust--I know many lives will be blessed and BUILT because of your love and commitment. I want to build lives too!
floyd said…
Wow. That's the epitome of a great like based on Biblical principles. I'm praying for you, brother. I know God is in control of your life and the journey is the highest of roads.


I actually build structures... I mean literally. But I also realize that only the things done in this life to honor God count for anything.
Jay Cookingham said…
Appreciate those kind words bro'! I'm starting to get a bit excited as the day gets closer...it has been quite a journey to get to this place.
Jay Cookingham said…
Thanks Floyd, I appreciate that! As for actually building stuff...not my gig....they shun me at places like Home Depot!
Michael said…
Looking to be present tomorrow for the ordination service, Jay. (Sheila won't be able to come but I'll be representing the two of us.) I love it when the church confirms what Father has made apparent.


And yes, I consider it an affirmation of your calling and love how Christine put it: "My man builds lives." Your calling is that which requires all of you. Your entire heart. It is more than your job but rather something that expresses itself in every relationship and activity you engage in.
Jay Cookingham said…
Thanks Michael...I'm glad you'll be there (and sorry Sheila can't make it). I so appreciate the kind words and the truth in them....bless ya!

Popular Posts