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Unique Day Yesterday

Yesterday was my last day working for Bayshore Christian Ministries. It started out very appropriately by having breakfast with Kimberly Marsheck (Li) who I worked with for about 4 and 1/2 of the almost 6 years at BCM. Kimberly was key to helping me transition into the organization. Last Thursday they had a lunch for me. It was great to see old teammates like Susan Martin, Steve Joh, Ben Rodriguez and others.

I had to stop at the end of the BCM driveway for a moment and thank God for allowing me to serve BCM for the last season. It seems like ages ago I was at Youth For Christ in Modesto. I appreciate Andy Hartwell for allowing me to serve. I clearly remember the early September day I drove in from Modesto to start work at BCM. I remember how different EPA was from Modesto, LA, NYC, Tijuana and the other cities I know. I remember how intimidated I was by the BCM staff, they all are so educated, passionate and committed to the cause. As I reflected I also thought of the unique transition moments I've experienced - when I was 18 years old, sitting on the bus from Dallas to Tyler, Texas for my school with Youth With A Mission (YWAM). When Melissa and I were newly married and driving down to the YWAM location in Tijuana to live. When Samuel was a baby and moving to Escalon, CA to work with Joe and Brian at Stepping Stones Christian Fellowship. All of these times proved to be important and key transitions.

Now, looking ahead to NCUDC and serving at St. Samuel. Wow - it's not been easy - but also it's not been boring. I really can't ask for more.

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