The Grand -- If you cut me, I would shine. - the conversation i was having in my head

beyond Grace

Last Friday I worked my final day at Grace Chapel. I worked there for over two years printing bulletins, writing checks, and dealing with Mike. Who knew that something that started out as a parttime job to earn money during graduate school would lead to so many relationships that the Lord would use mightily.

I loved working there, not because of my job description (who has a passion for making up nursery schedules?), but because it was a place where I felt safe. A place where I was loved and taken care of. I think this stemmed from the fact that I was basically the only girl in an office that was inhabited at various points during the day by 3 men who saw me as their sister and a pastor who had the floating role of brother, father, friend, and shepherd.

Ben W was always a welcome face in the morning and he showed me what it means to truly love kids. To pour yourself into the lives of middle school and high schoolers to the point where you are ready to weep over their need for discipleship. We shared coffee from the Mill, caramels from the candy jar, and 99 cent value meals from Wendy's.

Ben L cared for me the only way Ben can, in words and in hugs. Plus he has a great talent for making up raps to my name.

I have been amazed at the wisdom these two "Bens" have in loving and serving their wives with a total of only two years of marriage between them. It is a joy to see their faces light up when they talk about Renee and Katie.

Abel normally found himself talking to me while waiting in the office for Mike to show up. Sometimes for 10 mintues, other times an hour, and some times he just never came! But during these times our conversations ran the gamut from zombification plans for the city of Lincoln to the role of parachurch organizations on university campuses. He sharpened my thinking and is the one person who believes that I could some day play rhythm guitar.

And Mike. I learned a lot from Mike. It's been said that we have a "unique" relationship. We've both argued like siblings and shared ideas like old friends. We can both be stubborn, especially when it comes to the details; he loves them, I hate them. But I respect his love for the church, his desire to understand, and a heart that grieves for the hurting. The Grand has spent many an hour with Mike & Tanya on the deck with cigars and wine. They have ministered to us by opening their home and their lives. And for all of this I am thankful.

These relationships won't end here. And in many ways they will grow and change to fit into the context of "life outside the office". They already have.

Thanks guys.

Posted by Charity at October 3, 2004 11:19 PM