There’s been a lot going on lately. As much as I dislike writing about my personal life on my public blog, I want to give a quick update to inform readers of this site about some life changes. This personal update mostly consists of two things: a degree and a pastoral ministry call.
A Degree
For those who have been keeping track of my seminary journey, here’s an update: I’m officially a Master of Divinity graduate of Covenant Theological Seminary. I graduated with honors which, of course, is only possible by God’s grace. I give glory to God for the opportunity to formally study Christian theology at an amazing institution.
My time at Covenant was life-changing. I know that sounds like hype in a world filled with exaggerative descriptions, but that first sentence is true. I have grown so much in my personal sanctification, self-awareness, preaching, counseling, biblical knowledge, and theological acumen. While seminary cannot possibly give me everything I need for a lifetime of faithful Christian ministry, I certainly have a strong foundation to build upon.
That said, it was hard. Probably the hardest thing I’ve ever done. I’m exhausted. Seminary is not a theological and personal paradise as some make it out to be. It is financially, mentally, and emotionally exhausting; it’s hard on you and your family.
But I suppose this is the perfect formula for formal ministry preparation.
Speaking of ministry . . .
A Pastoral Ministry Call
I am thrilled to announce that I have accepted the call to serve as associate pastor of Bethesda Evangelical Church here in St. Louis, Missouri. With over 100 years of history, Bethesda is a wonderful congregation that is a part of the Evangelical Free Church of America (EFCA). Pastoral ministry is something I have prepared for and worked toward for a long time, and now it’s finally here. What a feeling. I’m excited to serve the Lord and his people in this role. Today June 3rd is my first full-day in vocational ministry. If you think about it, I’d appreciate your prayers.
Sometimes people commented on how I was able to keep up with this blog during my seminary career. I had to write papers, exegetical notebooks, sermons, read voraciously, and prepare for a myriad of tests and exams. How was I able to post something new almost every week? It was tremendously difficult. But I think I was able to keep up with it (and hopefully will still be able to) because I love to do it. It’s not the clicks or links that propel me to keep going, but the sheer love of blogging and the opportunity to provide godly edification for a few lives.
Special thanks to those who helped chip in for my seminary books. Nobody is self-made. Every accomplishment is the product of many hands and hearts, which includes you. Many blessings to you and yours.
Thank you, seriously, for reading this far.
Soli Deo gloria.
