The Week of the Lasts

This week just gone has been the week of the ‘lasts’.
The last Sunday fellowshipping at Heretaunga Christian Centre, the last home group gathering, the last day at work and saying our last good-byes to our close friends and family.

The week started off with a fantastic farewell dinner on Monday night put on by our church, Heretaunga Christian Centre. From the moment we walked through the doors, we were absolutely overwhelmed and humbled by the number of people who turned up to farewell us. The fellowship was fantastic, the food was plentiful and we came away feeling uplifted and greatly encouraged. Praise God for the way His love was demonstrated through His people and boy did we feel it! Thank you Heretaunga for a great send-off.

Tuesday was my last day at work.
It was sad for me. I really enjoyed my job. I worked with a fantastic team of people, reported to the best manager I have worked to and worked for one of the most reputable company’s in New Zealand.
But I love Jesus much more and have felt for some time that my future lay in ministry rather than I.T.
It has been a very enjoyable four years at the New Zealand Fire Service and I will miss my colleagues immensely.
It is going to take some adjusting to not having a job since 1987!

I couldn’t resist meeting with my Home Group on Thursday night. I have briefly described my time with them here, but it was great to fellowship with them again and to prayer with them and for them (at least Maritess had the sense to bring a camera, unlike the absent-minded leader. Thanks Maritess!).

The rest of the week has involved the last catch-up with friends (mainly Denise’s as she has far more than me), packing, culling items and more packing.

Tonight is our last night in New Zealand (for a few years anyway).
Good-bye New Zealand. You will always be our home.
Good-bye to our family and friends. We will miss you while we are away.
Please stay in touch and let us know how you are all doing. We are praying for you.

See you on the other side.