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Simply put, it is our desire that everyone who comes in contact with Ridgeview would do these three things: enter, connect, serve. It’s that simple. No more than we ask of ourselves; no less than what Christ has done for us. >more

I love vacations.

I love vacations. Most of you would agree. But I especially enjoy going to new places and seeing new things. I’m getting to do all of the above this week and next as my family and I get away for a few days. We’re headed north (actually northeast) to see family and share some cool moments with our kids before they start counting days till school (yes, they passed boredom a long time ago and, though they would never admit it, are probably ready for school to start back).

As I go, I wanted to leave you with a couple of promises:
1. I will be back. Sounds alot like Douglas MacArthur (go look him up if you don’t know what that means) but it’s true. I hope you will be as well. I love Ridgeview too much to stay gone too long. I’m ready to preach again. I’m ready to worship with my RCC family again. I’m ready to be back in the fellowship…and I haven’t even left town yet.

2. I will relax…I promise. So, you probably won’t see a blog again until July 14th. I will eat well, sleep late and even do some reading that I’ve gotten backed up on. Oh…I won’t be calling into the office every day. That leads to my next promise…

3. I will trust in my staff to get it done while I am gone. I know you will too. They are absolutely the best. Pastor Eddie will be wrapping up the One Prayer series this week. Paul and Kelli will keep the student and children’s minstries cranking. Scott and the band will be blowing you away with God-focused worship and, as usual, Pam will be behind the scenes holding it all together. If you need anything—I mean anything—my team will be here to help you. Give them a call.

4. I promise that Lisa, the kids and I want your prayers. Not just for the typical things—good weather, good times, non-whiny kids, safe travel—but that God would use this vacation to strengthen Lisa and I for the continued battle back home. Satan is busy. He is after people…all people. And while we will take a break, we will be back, ready to stand in the gap beside you, to fight with you, to proclaim the love of Christ to every single person God brings into our sphere of influence. Pray that these days away while re-energize us for that task.

I love you, Ridgies. You are the best. I am proud to be your pastor and shepherd and I look forward to being back in my place on July 13th as we kick off our final series of the summer “Life. Faith. Action: A study of James” It’s going to be off the charts!! I expect to see you in your place when I return. Later…