Bethany Bible Church - When we left ABF after 25 wonderful years of life and ministry there, my heart was so full of the people there that I couldn't ever imagine loving another church family that much. I just didn't think there was enough room in my heart. But God has shown me through our time here that He can expand our hearts. I have loved ministering to and with the people God had waiting for us here and the people He's brought to BBC since we came. This place is truly filled with people who are opening their hearts and hands to God and saying "Lord use us all together to do something great for you." And He's answering that prayer day after day after day.
The Music Pod People - Cath, Gay, Dave Merdick...it's been an incredible ride together. Who knew when Dave said, "I want you to start a contemporary service" that we would end up where we are today with The Chapel. And that we would have so much fun together along the way. What a blessing to to be able to work with all of you. You're the best!
The Chapel - oh my goodness. Every weekend I am in awe at what God has done, and is doing, in that building and those services. The incredible team of people God has brought together to minister in there continues to amaze me. It's truly a place where week after week people from any walk of life can come and connect with God and learn more about who He is and what it truly means to walk with Him.
Sunsets - I must admit that the desert has some of the most beautiful sunsets ever! I can still remember that time while Dave & I were still waiting to see where God was going to take us after ABF. Dave had just done a Walk Thru at a church up in the high desert in SoCal. We were driving back home and there was a gorgeous sunset. I remember staring at it and thinking (1) wow...the desert has incredible sunsets! (2) It was as if I heard a little voice saying, "Even in the dry and dead and ugly desert, I will give you glimpses of heaven." (3) Oh no God...that's not a sign to me that you're taking me to the desert is it? No no no.
Wildflowers - There really are a lot of flowers in the desert. Who knew?! When ever I see them I smile and remember that even in the midst of a dry and dead and barren place, God is there and gives us glimpses of heaven.
Things I won't miss:
- Scorpions - Oh Lord, why did you create those awful creatures?
- Five+ months a year of blazing hot weather - Who were those crazy people who first came through this area in their covered wagons and said, "Hey, let's stop here and build a city" ?
