Welcoming the One Who Comes
"Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me." — Matthew 10:40
As I write these words, I find myself reflecting on six incredible years of ministry together at Lake Cities United Methodist Church. It is hard to put into words what this church has meant to me and my family. Together, we have celebrated joys, navigated challenges, weathered storms, and witnessed God's faithfulness time and time again.
When I first arrived, I was welcomed with warmth, kindness, and grace. You allowed me to become part of your church family. You trusted me to walk alongside you through seasons of change and uncertainty. You extended patience when I made mistakes, encouragement when ministry felt difficult, and support when it was needed most. For all of that, I will always be grateful.
As I reflect on Jesus' words in Matthew 10, I am reminded that welcoming a pastor is about far more than simply receiving a new leader. Jesus teaches that when we welcome those who come in His name, we are participating in God's work. We are creating space for Christ to be present among us.
In the coming days, Pastor Tim will arrive to begin a new chapter of ministry with Lake Cities UMC. My prayer is that you will receive him with the same love, respect, and grace that you have shown me over these past six years. Welcome him into your lives. Pray for him. Encourage him. Give him room to learn your stories and to discover what makes this church so special. Just as you welcomed me, may you welcome him with open hearts.
As I think about what I will miss most about Lake Cities UMC, it is not a building, a program, or even a particular event. What I will miss most is the heart of the laity of this congregation.
You have shown me what it looks like to put service to others ahead of self-interest. Time and again, I have watched people step forward to serve, not because it was convenient, but because it was needed. You have demonstrated a spirit that chooses grace before judgment. In a world that often rushes to criticize and condemn, you have repeatedly chosen compassion, understanding, and mercy. And you have shown what it means to choose faith over doubt. Even when circumstances were uncertain, you trusted that God was still at work.
I have seen this heart in countless ways, through mission projects, acts of generosity, prayers for neighbors, support for one another during difficult seasons, and a willingness to say "yes" when God called. That spirit has shaped this church, and it has shaped me as your pastor.
As our journey together comes to a close, I do not believe God is finished with Lake Cities UMC. In fact, I believe some of your best days are still ahead. The same God who has guided this congregation through every challenge and every victory will continue to lead you into the future.
Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving as your Pastor. Thank you for your love, your friendship, your faithfulness, and your grace. While I may be leaving as your pastor, I will always be your friend and carry Lake Cities UMC in my heart.
May you continue to be a church that serves others before self, chooses grace before judgment, and embraces faith over doubt. And may you welcome Pastor Tim with the same Christ-like love that you so generously shared with me.
In God’s grip,
Pastor Chuck
