It Was an Honor Wearing You...
Today is my last day as a full time employee at one of the greatest organizations on the planet, and 9 days ago it was my 2 year anniversary at North Point Ministries. I still remember day 1 like it was last week and year 1 like it was yesterday.
I remember the excitement that was in my mind and heart as I announced that we would be coming back to Atlanta after a 3 year stay in Austin, and how quickly God started building community in this new season.
Get this: I have made more friends here than all of my previous jobs combined.
I started meeting people I had met online like @Dewde who would later become one of my best friends; my family even moved into his basement when we needed a place to stay temporarily.
God was moving then in powerful ways and He’s still moving now – in fact, He’s never stopped.
I Travel Pretty Light...
So much has happened in the last 2 years it would take a lifetime to share.
I have learned (and continue to learn) from some of the very best and brightest within any organization and they have helped me develop a deeper appreciation for the Cross, for the Church, and for the unique ways in which God has made me for His service.
I’ve had the pleasure and joy of partnering with nearly all parts of the ministry on incredible projects that are changing people’s lives and will continue to impact generations to come.
I’ve also walked through “valleys of the shadow of death” and the ministry has supported my family through some of the toughest moments of my life.
It’s been an unbelievable journey and this blog post couldn’t possibly thank everyone that has impacted me personally because it would simply never end (either that or my hands would actually get tired of typing…). But, here’s an attempt anyway:
- Andy – For allowing God to use you to establish foundations in my spiritual life that are eternal.
- Rick – For your honesty and being the straightest shooter I have ever known.
- Bill – For your humor and incredible wisdom. And for making fun of me. And for inspiring my new hair style.
- Fran – For being my coach and kicking my butt.
- Tim – You helped me see the lighter (and brighter) side of things.
- Dan – For your leadership from Day 1. You never gave up on me.
- John – For being a model husband and father.
- AJ – Your partnership and teamwork that kept me out of a lot of trouble.
- Jeff – You taught me humility and you believe in me. You are my forever champion.
- Scott – I needed a fellow journeyman and God provided you.
- Kristen – Your availability to listen when it counted was priceless and most certainly divine.
- Brad – Your friendship and insight was (and still is) invaluable.
- Chris – For being you.
- Kevin – For giving me an opportunity to serve in a capacity that is both thrilling and scary as hell.
- Micah – There were only a few people more competent in their role than you. Thanks for modeling excellence and passion.
- Erin – Letting me be a part of your life as you walked with God was amazing. And sharing seminary classes was cool too.
- Amber – For constantly entertaining me with your laugh, and the food in your desk.
- Julie – Watching you lead your team was inspirational; I’ve never seen anyone lead like you do.
- Suzy – You are one of the most positive people I have ever met.
- Lizett – Your smile was always welcome.
- Billy – Your perspective was always the right one.
- Wayne – Your candor. Period.
- Justin – Your message on Romans is burned into my mind. I will never forget it.
- Tom – Your friendship and the burgers. I mean, seriously. That’s a real friend.
- Mike – Your ministry to my wife and I.
- Russell – You always reminded me that family came first.
And the many more that touched my life day-in and day-out at North Point. I am most certainly leaving someone out and I apologize in the most sincerest way possible but you know who you are!
What’s Next?
TentBlogger!
Nothing too exciting actually since not too much is changing – I’ll be continuing my work with 8BIT and the neat things and new things that we are doing over there (and more to come) as well as an increased role with a next generation communication platform.
I will also continue doing strategic consulting, a little bit of contracting with North Point (so you may see me in the halls), and a few other random things that I’ve always wanted to try. And, if you have any crazy ideas, I’d love to hear about them!
In addition to all of that stuff (and I never thought that I’d be able to call myself this) I will become a Full Time Blogger.
I can now scratch that off the bucket list. I’m very excited about that and expect a new blog (or two) in the near future.
8BIT Network
Why?
I know that I’ll be asked this question even if I articulate it fully here (and that’s fine) but the reason that I’m leaving one of the finest organizations in existence is simply because that season of work is finished (for now).
After completing some amazing projects both North Point and I began to feel that the season was coming to an end and we collaboratively (staff, leadership) decided on the next step. After prayer, counsel, and time-tested consideration, the decision was an easy one.
I feel completely supported by my staff and the leadership team and I know that there is definitely an “open door” if God leads me back to NP as a Full Time Staff person. I couldn’t feel more empowered and encouraged to pursue the opportunities that lay ahead and before me! This feels like the right way to head out and is the best “exit” possible.
SoChurch
Where?
Finally, we’re not going anywhere. We love our church, we love the Mission that the church and leadership have for impacting the lost, and we love our friends here too much to go anywhere anytime soon.
We’re going to make it through this pregnancy and then find a more permanent home soon in Atlanta. We’re still members at Buckhead Church and I’m going to be hanging out with my high school small group for the next 4 years (God willing that they and I survive!). Sue is actively volunteering in the college ministry and has loved the opportunities to volunteer with a number of the event teams. Roenne, of course, is super-excited about the Week Day program (North Point Pre-school) and absolutely loves her teachers!
We haven’t felt a call to leave the metro Atlanta area and so we’ll be planting ourselves here for (it seems) a good bit of time.
So we’ll see a lot of you guys around definitely want to continue growing these amazing relationships that God has brought to us!
And, if you would, pray for us and this next “season” of life. As confident as I am in my Lord to set our paths straight I’m uncertain that I’ve developed a very good “listening ear” to the Lord’s voice!
But it’ll be fun, that’s for sure.
epic
Excited for you guys!
thanks bro.
praying that there is crystal clear clarity of His voice for you. Grateful for your heart and sharing the journey. blessings!
praying for crystal clarity too! thanks tom!
Do what you need to do man. It’s always awesome to take a leap and follow God. Love it.
following god is tough. taking leaps… a bit easier.
Best wishes John!
thanks ron!
Where ever you go… you will be followed. Not only by the One who loves more you can imagine but also by all the people you inspire via your web presence.
thanks charlie! that sounds kinda creepy.
Awesome Post, John. Congratulations. I know that you will continue to inspire and push the envelope. Thanks for all you’ve done.
thanks for your support andy!
Can I have your office?
Good luck dude!
haha. my office was… uh… not so attractive.
This is awesome. Really. I will continue to pray for you friend.
Expect a big bear hug from me when I see you next month!
… gross…
John, it was a privilege to work with you! Thanks for your encouragement, your authenticity, and your friendship (even if you are an “NT”). It’s going to be fun seeing what God has in store for you next as you live out your many callings.
See ya in class!
erin, it was awesome to get to know you! looking forward to it!
Awesome! I love hearing that you’ve finished well at NP. Looking forward to the new stuff.
thanks stephen!
You are like the @loswhit of IT.
eewwwwwww. gross.
Excited for you! Thanks for what you do! God moving people forward #FTW!!!!
thanks jc! definitely FTW.!!!
Very cool, John! It’s hard to believe you’ve only been at Northpoint for 2 years. Blessings on the next phase of your life’s journey.
seriously! it went fast, right?
God Bless brother. Keep up the great work!
thanks matt…! (do you go by matt)?
Agreed. I’m excited tp see your new direction!
chase, thanks man!
Congrats John on a successful run in full time ministry and on finding your next step! As someone who has just come out of that transition, I can tell you there will be quiet mourning mixed in with your passion for what’s next. Great organizations get in you like that and the team is unforgettable, but even the transition brings clarity. I am so excited for you bro and know you can knock down whatever giants you and the Lord set your eyes on together. You’re proven that way!
i hope so! i need a really big sling………
Awesome, praying for more blessings that are sure to come ahead.
thanks ken…!
wow, keep following God’s call! Thank you for being a tremendous resource.
i try! thanks jeremy.
Congratulations on the move. Exciting. Very much so. God leads and we follow… He takes care of the rest.
Press on!
yes,… he will!
John, man, thanks for always being transparent with what you’re up to. Us non-locals appreciate it. Does this mean that we won’t see you running in any more NP promo vids?
Great to see God’s work in your life–sounds like another great season is ahead of you!
i think so! looking forward to this season. not sure how long it’ll be…
Freaking exciting time for you man! And it sure sounds like you & the staff managed to hit upon the “right” way to leave
Looking forward to your next steps.
And that avatar of you sitting & blogging is hilarious.
they’ve been a major blessing. love my staff!
blessings to you and your family!
thanks ksc!
Congratulations John. Looking forward to all He has to do through you in the next season. g
thanks gina!
Awesome dude. I’ll keep you and your family in my prayers
sweet kevin. thanks a lot.
wow man, wow.
all the best on this journey.
thanks phillip! you’ve been a long time supporter……!
Good Luck John and thanks for your leadership in Church Technology. It can be a daunting task I am sure. Praying for you….
daunting but fun……!
Wow. Big congrats. When your passion intersects with your day job it seems like a perfect fit. So blogging full time? So happy for you. Three cheers for the next chapter.
blogging full time…..! yup!
Congrats dude. Wish you luck in the future. Can’t wait to see what 8bit does.
it shall be grand.!
I need a moment . . . (sniffle, sniffle).
John you made my first “web project” out of this world. (literally)
Thanks for all you have brought to North Point and continue to bring to my life.
thanks brad. you’re the best.
So very proud of you. Well done, John.
thanks justin!
Big stuff dude. Been thinking about your movement forward and this next step in your family life…excited for you all.
word up.
John:
Thankful for the past. Sad for the present. Hopeful for the future.
You enrich me.
Chris
go away.
Way to go John. Human3rror is still misspelled in your line at the bottom of your blog.
ah. thanks…….. ………… ……..
Though we’ve never met (and I hope that may change if you’re at Catalyst), I feel I have shared a little in your journey through your blog. You have blessed me with your wit and wisdom as well as your candor. My prayers are that you will continue to follow our Lord on this amazing journey and I will have the privilege to see how He works that out in you and your beautiful family. God’s blessings to you and His strength and power for this next leg of the race.
we have to meet!
no longer a part-time entrepreneur… welcome to the fold as a full-time magnate.
awesome.
Congrats on taking the next steps! Sometimes hard but always worth it.
thanks daniel!
John – God has a great, great plan for you and Sue. I look forward to seeing the next steps. We’re cheering you both on. Thanks for two great years at NPM.
See you around,
Jeff
jeff,
you’ve been a major inspiration. thanks for all your support.
Good stuff bro. Excited for you and the fam.
thanks marcus for your support!!!!
God bless! Will be praying for you.
http://jonwellman.wordpress.com – Not a Camouflaged Soul
thank jon!
John, I’m late showing up here, but wanted you to know how much I’ve learned from you so far. Congrats on your leap of faith – God will provide and guide. The kingdom needs your gifts.
thanks brandon!
John, I already left a comment on http://tentblogger.com, but wanted to leave a different one here. Thanks for helping me with some much needed clarity in our ministry. You were very helpful!
Congratulations on your new gig. I know you will do well.
Kerry
thanks kerry!
Hey, firstly, I would like to let you know that I think it’s a fantastic web site you got here. What I wanted to ask is, I haven’t understood the way to add your website rss in my feed reader – where is the link to your RSS? Thanks
on the right side?