I had a conversation with a friend today about some directional issues concerning Clearwater. My friend initiated the discussion with an absolute spirit of humility...I'm so thankful for that. I know from past experience that it's not easy to voice concerns about something you're so passionate about to the one who gives the primary thrust to its direction. I'm passionate too, and as such, I love seeing others not only embrace the vision, but ingest it...live it with so much fervor that it keeps them awake at night imagining what might be. And so my friend and I surrendered a couple of hours of sleep to arrive at the conclusion that though we are aware of the enemy'e schemes we're confident that God will build His church and the gates of hell won't prevail against it. He could certainly do it without us, but He's invited us into the mission with Him...to tell His story in this part of the world..our part...and we've accepted the challenge...side by side...arm in arm...linked by the common thread of wanting to see God's kingdom advanced for His glory. I mention this today to express my gratitude for the desire I share with anyone who loves this mission that "beckons deeply". I've come to love conversations like the one I had today with a co-laborer. I know I'm not necessarily the leader of this church because I'm the best person for the job. I'm here because this is where God has placed me for a season. I won't be here forever...sooner or later I have to pass this one on to someone else. But while I'm here I want to serve with an unwavering commitment to being undone...broken...humble. I asked our pastors the other day, "If you were the Lead Pastor of Clearwater, what would you change immediately?" These can be some of the sweetest pastoral moments. The men that give answer to the question are so gifted and have the ability to bring clarity to so many strategies for moving us forward, I'd be ill-advised not to hear it. If they're thinking it, I want to know. Why wouldn't I? What reason other than pride or turfism would keep me from listening intently? So I look forward to hearing the thoughts...concerns...fears..and ideas of those who love this movement, and endeavor to listen with a teachable spirit.