What I want for Christmas…
Our dreams for communities spreading like wildfire all across Chicago are big. A centering question we ask ourselves is, “What would it take to see a vibrant family of Jesus in close reach, culturally and geographically, of every person in Chicago?” That’s a pretty big dream. But what is the answer to the question? Well – if nothing else, it will take ONE family (or mission team) willing to ask that question with a vision for the whole city.
Tonight it is hitting me hard just how difficult it is for one person to catalyze a church planting network. Since June that’s what I’ve been about – 24/7 it seems. Making calls, designing websites, brainstorming, and of course, sharing my faith with the lost God is pursuing. I’ve made a lot of headway, but I realize now, more than ever, how essential another teammate would be. At LEAST one other person who is putting their time and energy into this dream just as I am. Yes, there are other organic church planters in Chicago, and yes, it is encouraging having a wife who is SO there for me, helping me think through projects and obstacles, not to mention praying for me, and actively participating in our first organic church. But nose-to-the-grind stuff is understandably left up to the guy who is receiving support to do it.
This is what I have dreamt of doing for years. This is what I have gotten my training in. But in Abilene everything I had done in my residency was in the context of a team working together. I long for those days where I could sit around the room and ask questions or stare into a computer screen together trying to work out a problem, or hitting the streets to pray together. If I were to ask for any one thing for Christmas, it would be a few others who are ready to be about the business of planting churches and training others to do the same.
I suppose my other problem is timing. We arrived here in June, but others who are considering moving to Chicago to work with us won’t be arriving till January and/or next summer. That gave us lots of time to get a feel for the city, and to get comfortable. I also realize that nothing good comes immediately. I am planting seeds, I realize that – but it is still tough to have all these ideas you want to move forward on, but with several part time jobs and no one to bounce ideas off of, it quickly feels overwhelming. I’m ready to put these spinning wheels to the pavement.
I am a verbal processor – I suppose that’s partly why I have this blog. For those missionaries like me who best work through issues and projects by brainstorming and talking things out, then I recommend not leaving for the mission field until there is another person or team of people ready to leave with you…like the same day you’re moving. My wife and I love each other, and we work really well together – but we both agree there is something more still needed in a team – even if it was just one other couple. Don’t be hasty – wait.
chad, 
guy muse 12:48 pm on November 26, 2008 Permalink
I hear you. When we first began the process of “team formation” back in ’97 it took three years before things began to come together. It was a very frustrating time of feeling lost, confused, desperate, but in God’s time things did come together and for the past 8 years we have been harvesting what the Lord knew was there all along. Hang in there, and trust the One who sent you to Chicago to fulfill all He intended from the beginning.
Chadd 10:42 am on November 27, 2008 Permalink
Mark & Katrina – I know God is surely already telling you this in many ways–but I want to encourage you that I see (and have seen for some time) God’s work in and through your life. Today, I am thankful to know you…to wonder what God will continue to do in the weeks and months to come through you all.
I was reminded recently by a mature friend that God oftentimes works very slowly (I think of the “Ents” in Lord of the Rings)…that a fruit of God’s Spirit is patience.
Blessings today my friends,
Chadd
Phil McCollum 12:03 pm on November 27, 2008 Permalink
Mark,
I will pray for another teamate(s) for you. One thought I have is that God may want your team in Chicago to come FROM the harvest. In that case, it may still form slowly, but it may be the best thing that ever happened in your ministry. Wait patiently for a team, but don’t let disciple-making get put on hold in the process. You are doing such a great work, keep it up. Thank you for sharing so we can pray specifically for you!
For the sake of the kingdom,
Phil
matt 11:55 pm on December 3, 2008 Permalink
I have been enjoying reading about what you guys are up to.
Blessings,
Matt
chad 1:37 am on December 7, 2008 Permalink
what’s up. we need to catch up…i’ll try and catch you on skype tomorrow night or something. Praying for your partners-to-be!