I’m not highly motivated to write a blog post right now. Maybe it’s writer’s block or a general lack of feeling inspired.
But another year is quickly coming to an end, and I do want to take a few minutes to reflect on God’s faithfulness in our lives.
Church/Ministry
We began this year by implementing a few adjustments in the ministry programing of our church. I had only been the pastor for about 3 months, but God gave me a burden and a sense of urgency for our congregation and its future.
God faithfully led us through these first steps of becoming more effective in reaching our community with the gospel. The overwhelming majority of our members were extremely supportive of the new vision. Words can hardly express how grateful I am for their willingness to embrace change.
The rest of the year seems like a blur as far as the church goes. We started a new small group ministry (part of the before-mentioned changes), had some really enjoyable outreach events (Vacation Bible School, Trunk-or-Treat, etc), and journeyed through three sermon series (the third will be completed next year).
See also: My First Year: Confessions of an Ordinary Pastor.
Citizenship
One of our main goals for this year was to acquire Mare Cris’ US citizenship. It has been a long (expensive) process that began back when we were still living in the Philippines–it started with applying for her spousal visa.
We applied for her citizenship while we were still living in Alabama, and moving here in the middle of the application caused a few delays. Our patience was eventually rewarded when Cris was invited to an oath-taking ceremony a few months ago. My wife is now an American citizen! 
Expectant Parents
There is one blessing that eclipses all others for 2017: the news that I will soon be a father. I sensed that we would be having a boy, and this was confirmed back in October with the second ultrasound.
Our boy seems to be making his presence felt a little more every day–we jokingly call him our “little kick boxer.” My wife will begin her third trimester as 2018 begins.
We are blessed beyond measure!
God continues to faithfully lead us on this amazing journey.
Plans for 2018
*I have enrolled in the Doctor of Ministry program at Gateway Seminary (formerly Golden Gate Seminary) and will begin in January.
*Our son should arrive some time in March!
Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves and knows the One who is leading.
—Oswald Chambers
To be continued . . .
