lifeasmission

reposted from when I erased my blog
One of the most difficult parts of making the decision to leave Canton 2 years ago to attend Fuller Theological Semiary full-time was leaving the students who had become so important to me. As you might expect, one of my favorite parts about coming home, whether for a weekend, or for a few months, has been the time I have gotten to spend with these students. I wonder how many youth pastors have the luxury of continuing the relationships they have begin with students after they move away? It has been quite normal for my girlfriend Maria in a Norwegian context, but seems less common among the youth pastors that I know. I consider myself lucky to have been able to do this. Anyway, I have enjoyed getting together for coffee, attending vaious games, matches, and competitions, and stuff like that. Fortunately for me, Benny, the youth pastor who followed after me has been incredibly gracious in inviting me to be around (also something too uncommon) and even doing some guest teaching. Consequently, I have even been able to forge relationships with new students who I didn’t know from my time at RiverTree. I was home for two months this last time and had many opportunities to spend time with my high school and ex-high school friends. Here’s some pictures from a really fun lunch a bunch of us had the day before I had to leave.

So, I guess I just want to say to all my student friends (past, present, and future) I love knowing and sharing life with you guys. I think of and pray for you often. Thanks for being who you are.