NOT Letting Go

Last month, I wrote about “Letting Go!” I appreciate the responses I received that led me to write this follow-up Medenblog entitled – “NOT Letting Go!”

My upcoming time of transition has led me to think of three key categories that will remain and for which I give thanks.

First, I would note that I am NOT letting go of relationships. Jackie and I have been privileged to meet people from across the globe. We have been welcomed into the lives of so many people. We are reminded on an almost weekly basis that seeds planted years ago can find root and return in a harvest of joy.

Just last week, I received a phone call from a former church member of New Life Church in New Lenox, Illinois. He began our conversation by recalling our history that included my being the first person to visit with him after his father died and times in the hospital when their infant son was in a NIC unit. His daughter was in the GEMS program at church and Jackie was a special carpool driver for a year. The daughter now lives in Michigan.

The father asked – “Would you be willing to officiate at the wedding of that little girl who somehow grew up and is apparently old enough to get married?” I put the phone on speaker and had him repeat the request so Jackie would hear it as well. With just an exchange of eye glances, we said “yes.” Relationships nurtured over time do not go away and we are so glad.

The second category that remains is memories. It is a bit similar to the first category. After all relationship are developed by events and are seasoned into memories. Memories that Jackie and I have shared led her a few years ago to say unprompted this simple summary – “We are blessed.” We have been blessed to see a great deal of this world that God so loves and see the tapestry of people and ministries that make up His Church.

Relationships and memories lead me to the third category of encouragement.

As I was just beginning in pastoral ministry, one wise pastor told me to keep an “encouragement file” to keep those notes or cards that were sent or given as a thank you for being there and being a pastor, friend, counselor, guide or mentor just to name a few categories.

In a day of email, I also made a Special Encouragement folder to do the same.

I still have a garbage can in my office as I continue to “let go,” but I also have a special box of “Special Encouragement” notes and cards that I have received as President.

I want to say to those of you who have ever sent a card or email or filled out a note that those do wonders for the heart and soul of anyone you know – including pastors and presidents.

I have received other notes that were not so encouraging, but when I see my box and know of the number of the blessings that I have received through the years all I can say is that “I am NOT letting go” and invite you to not let go either!

What are you doing to nurture a relationship or create a memory or send a note of encouragement? You won’t be sorry! I have the box to prove it!