A dream without a plan is a just a wish.
This might seem to be a contradiction to the quote on the previous page, and in a way, it is, and, in another way, it isn’t. But I am not a five or ten-year plan kind of guy. I believe in goals and dreams and thoughtful considerations, but I also believe in the Holy Spirit.
Not the one we so often hear about or watch on TV in our western world of prosperity theology, but the one that my friend Derek Archer speaks of when he says,
“I LISTEN TO THE RISKY WHISPERING OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.”
The Holy Spirit does whisper and at times He Shouts! So why do I reference Derek’s quote? I reference it because I believe God is compassionate when He calls someone into Risks. I believe He Shouts when it is time to move on His calling and Our dreams.
His Calling and Our Dreams? Yes, I believe He intersects the two and makes them into one and then His Plan is initiated. Some years ago, I began to dream about making a move for health reasons. I began to think deeply about community and friendship, location and affordability. I was given a cottage for two months to see if Auburn, Alabama would be a fit? Before I moved into the cottage I stayed with dear friends and began “to know” the community and “to love” the community and I began “to dream” about remaining in the community. But to remain meant I had to leave… it would mean leaving 71 years of relationships and familiarity and comfort and being known. It would mean a complete re-start. This was a risk, but was it? Humanly speaking it was, but when God whispers, the risk(s) dissipates, and the possibilities of the dream become reality, and it makes one feel fully alive.
And so, I have moved to Auburn, Alabama. My Board and my closest friends and my family have always said, “You can live anywhere and do what you do, Steve.” At the end of August, I became an Alabama resident. There are many positives in staying in the Pacific Northwest and, in my case, many more in relocating. The biggest being health. I am a “smiling, depressed guy” and I have done it pretty well. I’d rather not do it any longer. I spent 3 months in Auburn having a “look” to see if it was a fit? I love my church and my friends and the weather. I will spend a number of weeks each summer back in the Pacific Northwest when there are blue skies and sunshine.
“I want my life to be used like a rag to wipe away the dirt that has obscured the breathtaking beauty of God.”
Malcom Duncan
I have purchased a home that I had renovated. It is a great location. Buying a home in Auburn is about 50% less than in the Seattle area. I have ALWAYS benefited from having a home where ministry can
happen in a multiple of ways. Here’s my new address:
1114 Grayton Court
Auburn, AL 36830
What will my life look like in Auburn? Much the same as it has in Washington state. I will continue to travel into the “hard and hostile places.” I will continue to disciple and mentor men, young and old. I will continue to speak when asked.
Speaking: In May I was asked to speak at a Rotary Club in Auburn. When I concluded there were five men who asked me “if they could give me a hug?” I said, “Sure!” Several of those men have asked if they could meet with me and I said that I would love to do that! These are not men that follow Jesus, but men who want to have conversations about Jesus and a place to ask questions.
People: I have and will, continue to meet with people here. One young man said, “I don’t know about this Jesus? But I do know this, I don’t want to get it wrong.” I asked if he would like to meet with me and begin conversations about Jesus? I told him that I would not in any way try to convert him. He said, “Meet with me? You would do that?” I told him that I would, and I would count it a privilege.
And so, whether in the Pacific Northwest, The Middle East, Southeast Asia, Gaza or Auburn, Alabama there are those who desire to know Jesus. It’s not difficult to step toward others if we would open our eyes and ears to the silent sounds of those who are hurting and lonely and those who are longing to be loved. Jesus hears them and He wants us to hear them as well.
Story: We all have our story. That story is made up of many stories. It is God’s grace to us that He has allowed us into His story. What’s your story? Let’s tell our story well because it’s ALL about Him. Your story matters more than you might think. The people, places, and opportunities I have create story and each individual has played a huge role in who I am and why I do what I do. Your story has the power and the inspiration to do the same. Tell it well and tell it to those who intersect your life. But ask the person across the table
from you, “Tell me your story.” Their story matters as well…
