The appointed time

These are my feelings upon hearing news that the ministry we are currently serving may soon end. I am happy and excited for the congregation as they look to God for their new pastoral leadership. I wouldn't dream of dampening their enthusiasm, but I am saddened by the thought of leaving this place and the people God has brought us to.  

The time would come
The appointed time
He said it would

It's not yet good-bye
but it seems
the end of this chapter
is near

Another chapter may open
That is up to God
for us
is the choice
to go on

Sadness comes
But
it's not my wants
nor my desires
but God's ultimate purpose

I should not be
selfish

We here in the interim
between a former time
turned to mourning
and a new time
of rejoicing

We here
to encourage
and rebuild
as God desires

Yet still
sadness comes

Friendships formed
will they remain
or fall away

Remove my sadness Lord
and bring me
to the place You prefer --

a place
of fulfillment
wherever we are
wherever we go

a place
of faithfulness
and obedience

a place
of love
and hope
and truth

a place
where
You
may always
be found

a place
where
You
are
always near
always present.

(c) September 7, 2014