Why I love the Church

I was talking to my husband the other day about how great this past year was for us. Some of our friends had said to us just two weeks earlier that we must have been discouraged last year because it seemed hard for us. Nick and I were quick to respond and say that this year at FBC Weymouth might have been one of our best years yet.
How could that be, one might ask with all the struggles we have had? Well, the first year at a new church is hard. Nick had to cast his vision for ministry and pray a lot, we moved 1200 miles with a 2 month old baby, and to top it all off we got pregnant after only 4 months of being here. WOW! Nonetheless, we know we are at the center of God's will for our lives.

How? looking back we see growth:

First, in us. We see maturity in us becoming mommy and daddy. We are learning how to love and nurture our little ones. Therefore we are able to empathize with parents and understand the task God has given them.
We are also experiencing radical commitment to a vision and a ministry. We are excited to move forward and recognize that any resistance or criticism is just Satan attacking. We have become sensitive to and felt a love for our home church. Once you really understand all Christ did, you have to love His Church. We are His body.
Second, in the church. Many of our students were challenged this year. They were faced with drastic changes and a good group of students trusted. They trusted that God called us here to equip them. This shows commitment and submission.
Also, we have seen students grow in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ and also in their walk with him. It has been so encouraging to see fruit blossom in the lives of these young people.

Overall, we have had a challenging year, but i think that is what we have come to expect. Ministry is a rewarding and great vocation. However, it doesn't come with out heartache and pain, but does anything that is really great?