God can do whatever He wants to do....

Full Quote: "God can do whatever He wants to do, however He wants to do it. And He chooses to work in our lives because He loves us. He's good. Hope today's a milestone for what He can do for the rest of your life if you trust Him." Facing the Giants

Last night we announced to East River Community (ERC), our church plant, that we would be moving. Starting October 3, Mr. Curly will be the pastor of a small, traditional church in Iowa.

Some of you may recall from reading the Weekly Taming of the Frizz (see here for explanation) that I had been struggling with many things I wanted God to answer that I felt He was just ignoring us on.

1) A baby - He answered that with a great surprise! (See here for the announcement)
2) Finances - Everybody's finances are tight. We know that. Mr. Curly has been volunteering at ERC since January because the church ran out of money. On just one income, things have been very difficult, like they have for many, many people. And we have been incredibly blessed by loving and giving friends and relatives over the past year. Ministry is hard though when you're not sure how you'll pay the mortgage next month.
3) Ministry. ERC is on its third group of people since January 2008. Various reasons have caused our groups to fall apart (the last one was due to the economic fall out hitting our town and every one in our church moved away to find jobs). Mr. Curly's passion is for lost people, and while we are reaching the lost here, the chance for ministry is greatly hindered by a number of reasons that are difficult to explain.

This move, while difficult to leave behind our loyal group here, really is a great opportunity for Mr. Curly to fulfill the calling God has put on his life. There is a possibility here that Mr. Curly can be just a full-time pastor, instead of a full-time pastor with 4 other part time odd jobs. There is a possibility here that I will be able to stay home with the Curly Kids, instead of Mr. Curly attempting to work full time while also providing full time care. This will enhance Mr. Curly's ministry opportunities even more, and also let me live out a dream I've had since Curly Girl was born.

Most importantly, however, is that we feel God's leading in this. No matter what happens there, even if the dreams we have aren't completely fulfilled, we know that we are going where God is calling. And we know He loves us and has a plan.

As Romans 8:28 says "We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."

We have been called to a new town for His purpose, and I believe He will bless us in that, even as He has blessed us here.