Reflecting

I've been thinking... I've been reading a book called, "High Calling, High Privilege," by Gail McDonald with my friends here, whose husbands are also in Brian's program. It's been really interesting because it was written by a pastor's wife about being a pastor's wife. And since all of us are pastor's wives, most can relate. It's been a little different for me though, because I'm still new at all this "pastor's wife stuff." The author speaks from years of experience, a lot of heartache and struggles, and a whole lot of perspective. It's really scary for me as I think about what may lie ahead. Brian and I have been truly blessed in both churches we've been in thus far. We've been in great churches where I haven't really ever felt like a typical "pastor's wife." But- never being the senior pastor, our experiences have been different.
The author was saying that after each church she had to take a serious time of reflection to think about what she'd learned and what lay ahead. I thought that was great insight and thought I might do the same. So, please bear with me as I try to sort it out on here.
What I've learned...
-To serve in ministry where it fits me best
-To be intentional about getting involved and developing relationships
-To step out of my comfort zone
-To use my gifts- (lead, organize, shepherd)
-Protect time with our family
-To be patient with things that are new
-To be faithful in prayer
-To make the best of what doesn't always seem ideal
-Be fully present in where God has lead you
-Pray for Brian's ministry
-Be hospitable
-Do things that fill me up
-Find someone to invest in me
-Find someone to invest in
-Find joy in the small things
Being in Marion was hard, and scary, and wonderful, and amazing all at the same time. I'm so thankful for our time there and have priceless memories there. I miss our time there very much.

What's ahead...
I wish I knew!! If you have any insight, please let me know! As an avid "planner," it's super hard for me to have know clue where we will land in 7 short months. (I think God is teaching me in that!) I am taking time each day to pray specifically about where God will have us and what that will look like. I'm excited and anxious all at the same time. The bottom line is that we're trusting in God to take care of all of the small details and the timing and each part of where we'll be, and I have to rest in that.