It’s been a long time coming friends. 

So many of you have witnessed, supported, prayed for, pushed, nudged, and provided me endurance along this long, winding road. I’ve felt this call since I was an elementary student, offering enthusiastic reflections on scripture and faith, during Merienda.   

Since that time I’ve faced peaks and valleys I never saw coming. And through it all God walked alongside, quietly waiting with me in moments of fear, despair, doubt, and anger. Whispering words of comfort and hope through many seasons of growing and healing. Laughing and delighting in all the joys of ministry on this unfolding path towards ordination. 

When I reflect on this upcoming service and the days that follow I hear this song and think of all of you: 

Your Labor is Not in Vain by Porter’s Gate

I have heard God sing these words to me:

I am with you

I have called you by name

Your labor is not in vain

And I bear witness to the way this song addresses all of you! You have labored for me in a variety of ways past, present, and future. It was not in vain. Let me be a reminder that your labor of love for others matters profoundly even when you can’t see it or don’t see it just yet.