Won't You be My Neighbor?

I had an interesting conversation today. Much of what was said confirmed a decision that Roy and I have made.

We have decided that after almost 18 years, we are going to seek G-d in a different direction. We are going to change churches. Yes, our pastor recently resigned. No, we are not leaving because he left. We do wish he and his family all G-d's best as they continue to seek after His Heart. We are not mad at anyone. We just feel a great sense of release and an opportunity to follow G-d's Heart in a different direction, down a new path. This is both exhilirating and terrifying at the same time. We feel like we're "leaving home." We pray for those we are leaving behind that they will continue to seek G-d's will for their lives and for the church.

So...the conversation. Here are a few of the comments that were made:

...We sure need you around here.

...There's a lot of old folks left. You need to minister to them, encourage them, lift them up.

...There aren't many people who work as hard as you.

...No church needs you more than this church does.

Here are a few comments I wish I had heard, and hope to remember if ever in a similar situation:

...How are you doing? Feeling?

...What kind of ministry are you looking for?

...How can we help you to grow?

...Is there a way we can come alongside you? Can we help you?

...We sure would miss you around here. Not because of what you do, but because of who you are.

The person I had this conversation with told me they love me...and I know they do. Or they think they do. Because how can you love somebody if you do not take the time to get to know who they are and what is important to them? "Love your neighbor as yourself." Jesus said this was the second greatest commandment.

It's time for me to get to know some new "neighbors."