Dear Leadership,
Leadership. Such a formal term. A term I have admittedly struggled understanding fully in the past 8 months. I have fought you, not necessarily outwardly, but in my heart. Not always giving you the benefit of the doubt. That you are rooted in love. And fighting for us.
And for that, I give you my deepest apology. With my whole heart I mourn the days I lost to confusion and doubt. Days I could have, and should have, spent loving and supporting you. Because your role in this journey is not easy. And the church, builds up the church. Especially its leaders. Forgive me for the days I haven’t built you up.
In the past 8 months, you have gone from a distant role of authority, to some of my most genuine friends.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to know and love you.
The things I love most about you, have introduced me to more qualities and characteristics of the Father. Ones I would have not encountered without knowing, and loving you each individually.
Like how Laura(SQL) is so steadfast. She not only seeks out people so well, just like the Father does, but makes them feel loved and seen while in her presence. She is obedient. Always listening to the Father, and letting the spirit lead. Not for a moment doubting that God is who He says He is. Consistent. and Earnest.
And how Kristen(SQL) is always willing to be a listening ear. She listens patiently, intently, and with all of her devotion to the one in front of her. She responds in truth, love, and grace. Just like the Father does. She is one of the best listeners i’ve encountered in this lifetime. You always walk away from a conversation with Kristen feeling loved and known. She brings joy to all things she does.
In how Deb(Squad mentor) respects the rules and boundaries. A side of the Father most of us are quick to turn from. Quick to discredit. But she faithfully follows the Lord into hard decisions, and in the enforcement of rules. A hard role. And a lonely role a lot of times. But she does it all the while exuding love and patience for 40 something young adults who so often stumble and fall. There is so much of Jesus in you Deb Jones.
Allie(SQL) freakin’ Goldstein walks with Jesus. Watching her walk with Jesus has taught me what true intimacy with God looks like. She speaks with the Father like an old friend. There is so much depth in their relationship. And it’s beautiful. Raw. Pure. Real. Allie girl, You know Papa. Really know Him. Really hear Him. You are a eating, breathing, living example of Intimacy.
Oh man and how Emma(SQL) is such a friend. Simply and completely. She is there. She is human. And present. She is quick to admit her shortcomings, and even quicker to exalt the Father in the things He restores and redeems. She is easy and a total-free spirit. She lives fully, not wasting a day! She lives life like I believe the Lord intended it to be lived. In total freedom. She is free! And freely gives love, and laughs! Such a beautiful role in the Kingdom. To be a friend.
To all of you. I love you. Like really love you. And i’m ecstatic Jesus gave me all you.
