Uncategorized Murray McLellan on 09 May 2009 08:31 am
Home from San Diego
Though I was hoping to be able to “blog” you through my trip, the full schedule just did not permit the time. I’ll try to give you a couple of highlights … On the final day (Thursday) when I did have a bit of free time in the afternoon in warm and sunny San Diego, I just didn’t want to spend it inside the hotel blogging! Now that I am back in cold and snowy Saskatoon, being inside blogging on my computer doesn’t seem so bad!
The entire trip was great from start to finish. In the grace of God, I got to connect with some great people whom God used in my life to gospel me, sharpen me, encourage me, refresh me, and amaze me. What an incredible blessing God has graced me with to be a part of the Acts 29 church planting network! The coaches’ training, which filled up the bulk of my time, was incredible. Scott Thomas led us through 17 hours of practical, life-changing coaching. The class was small - seven of us [Steve Fuller (son of Daniel Fuller who taught John Piper the big picture of the Bible and how to “arc” which has equipped Piper to preach as he does; and grandson of the founder of Fuller Seminary); Abe Meysenburg (of Soma in Tacoma; Abe was my roomie for the week and I learned much from this man of wisdom); Shaun Garman (dry, crusty sense of humor - but with a clear passion and love of Jesus and His gospel); Steve Inge (from Missouri - a man who would bleed in front of us for Jesus’ sake); Dusty Thompson (the Texan - a gifted man - yet ever desirous of growing and a huge blessing to each of us there); Adriel Ifland (she is Scott Thomas’ assistant and she provided not only beauty to the group, but great insight to the whole process of coaching. In addition Adriel went out of her way on a daily basis to serve us that our experience in San Diego was incredible - from rides to hotels to every other detail); and myself (what was I doing in this group?).
Scott Thomas, the director of Acts 29, led all the sessions. He is an incredibly gifted kingly leader with a keen eye and wisdom to get to the heart of issues. The sessions took us right where we were at - exposed us - led us to Jesus for our refuge, acceptance, identity, and joy - and instructed us how we can make our lives about others - serving them for their good and God’s glory.
On my final day in San Diego, Dan and Debby Jester took me out to a great little restaurant. Not only was the fellowship and food great, but there was an antique sign from Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan on the wall - in San Diego!
There is so much to tell, but my greatest prayer is that what I profited from this trip will be “seen” in me by all.
To God be the glory both now and forever!