Turn the Page

In the words of a wise old king; To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace. (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8) In seven years you get to know some people very well. We have been blessed to have been part of some tremendous friendships. These are the kind of friendships that will last as long as there is breath in our bodies. Friendships born out of love. Friendships born out of passion. Friendships born out of adversity. We have known them all. When we first moved to Reno, it was a time of national turmoil. We signed a lease on a home on 9-11-2001. Our arrival here was met with the uncertainty of the day. It was five months before I could find employment. I've never had that challenge before. The adversity of that time allowed us to develop friendships built around prayer and a common desire to see God's people prosper in a downward economy. Our desire to help with the vision and mission of Pastor Flowers allowed a friendship to grow that was based on the passion of doing God's work in northern Nevada. This friendship actually started in Antioch, CA eleven years ago. I am sure it will last until the Lord calls us home. And what can be said about the congregation at Skyline that would not be an understatement? These people are filled with love. They have a deep appreciation for the ministry. They have great support for the labor that is needed to see the results that Skyline has experienced. The wonderful support of the leadership was witnessed continually. Oh yeah, and as Pentecostals we know a few things about fellowship. The great barbecues, the fun church picnics, snacks at Small Groups, meals at Newcomers Class. All churches seem to be blessed with kitchen talent, and Skyline was no exception. To the great department heads, I admonish you to stay faithful to your field of labor. Whether it be Sunday School, Greeters, Music or any one of the others, it is a great thing that you are doing. It is impacting Reno and the surrounding communities. Just as God had in mind when He called your pastor here. Stand behind him in all that he endeavors to do for God. He will follow the Lord, but he needs your help to accomplish it. Ladies of Skyline, you have been so dear to my wife. Your kindness, love and friendship has strengthened her when she needed it. Your laughter, love and prayers have spilled over into our home. Stand behind Sis Flowers as she supports and complements her husband's ministry. Support their family in all ways. Love their daughters as your own. Pray for them continually. Linda and I have felt for sometime that we needed to get away and develop our teaching ministry, and so we have made the decision to leave and pursue our ministry goals. Skyline church has blessed us so much. The opportunity I was given to teach was most generous. I hope that you have enjoyed it as much as I have, but I feel that I truly received more than I gave out. We love you all and you will be in our prayers. May God grant mighty revival in Reno. May your building be overflowing. May your lives be enriched by the great God, Jesus, whom we all so dearly love and serve. It is time to turn the page. God bless you all.