The LEArning Curve

Throughout my years of contributing to this blog, I have worked to give you slices of real life, even when my topics have wandered off the beaten path.  I have tried to be “real” and authentic in what I bring to you.  There’s no reason to change that now; so, here goes…!

We’re moving!  Ecclesiastes chapter 3 comes to mind a lot these days.  There is a time and place for all of God’s great design through all of life’s changes and challenges.  A time for this, a time for that, and ALWAYS a time for Him!  My wife is wrapping up 38 years at Concordia Publishing House, and I have cobbled together many years of teaching and preaching. We’re cashing all of those years in, and we’re heading into retirement on Nancy’s family farm, about 20 miles north of Corpus Christi, TX. 

On the one hand, we are excited and ready to begin the new chapter of our lives together, back in Texas and among family.  We are ready to be near Tex-Mex cuisine, Texas Bar-B-Que, Buc-ee’s, and Texas dance halls.  We may also find many opportunities for new adventures with family. As both Nancy and I have been church workers in various capacities, we certainly will not be surprised if God raises up opportunities to use His gifts among His people in our new home.  I understand that our new circuit has several pastoral vacancies to fill.  Also, as Nancy and I are both organists, I wouldn’t be surprised to hear from congregations seeking musical support in worship!

On one hand, we are excited about all of this.  But, on the other hand, we are both leaving behind co-workers, fellow congregation members, and other dear friends we have come to know and love over the last many years. We can’t forget that we will be moving many miles away from Ted Drewes frozen custard! (Those of you who are acquainted with St. Louis know that Drewes’ withdrawal is real!  Also, while we will be moving closer to family members and a number of friends from our college/Concordia U. TX days, we will make new friends in a new place.  What will that be like for people our age?

We hope to have the move finalized within a year or so.  There is much to do to prepare the house we are moving into in South Texas, and a lot to prepare the house in Saint Louis we will eventually be selling.  Over the months ahead, I’ll be chronicling the ups and downs and all the experiences of these unique days as we head into retirement. You will see firsthand what you may experience when you reach this season of life.  Until then, we ask for your prayers, and we invite you to reach out if you have any questions along the way.