New Beginnings

Its finally begun.

Today I had my first day of real work post uni. Nothing much to say really because I didn't do a great deal and there's a certain amount I cant disclose because of the line of work I am doing.

For those of you unaware, I'm working in residential house for adult ex-offenders. My first week or two will mainly be reading up on policies and procedures so I know what do to in every circumstance.

The work is shift work involving one over night sleep a week. I've also realised this will be the first year of my life that I wont be home with my family for Christmas, which is a real shame for them... and I guess for me as well. Seriously though, I'm gutted. Gotta work a night shift on Christmas eve, then I get off Christmas day at 8am and am a free man till 1pm on Boxing Day when my next shift starts.

Still, I don't wanna complain. Having a job is great, the money is much needed, and the skills and experience will be invaluable for later in life. So I'm still giving thanks to God that I got this job so quickly (relatively speaking in this current economic climate).

Small Beginnings

Church planting is tough, especially being one of the first to arrive on the ground.

I haven’t written anything in quite a while and I guess in part it’s because I struggled to know what to write. The first few weeks here were fine but as time has worn on the reality of living in a new place where I don’t know anyone kicks in. I guess I’ve hit some low points over the last month and this past week has seen that again. The Kellett’s have been away on holiday which has left me to fend for myself. Although I did have some high points, such as; a great evening with some friends, and some great results from Arsenal this week, I think this was the first week I have let myself entertain the thought ‘If only I had stayed up in Manchester’.

I know however, the temptation to have stayed in Manchester would have only been the ‘comfortable’ decision. It would have been the easy option. I would have had a great job with my last placement, a whole host of friends, and would have lived in a buzzing city with lots going on. But I know it wouldn’t have been good for me. It’s not where God wanted me to be.

God is currently stretching me and growing me in ways that I just wouldn’t have had the opportunity too if I had stayed in Manchester. Stretching is always a painful experience but reaps huge benefits later on. A good friend of mine, in Manchester felt God say that I shouldn’t despise these days of small beginnings. I totally agree with him. It’s painful at times but I know God is building in me character and gifting that will bring increased fruit in the future.