Two Years

(This is a copy of my weekly article in the church news letter for today)

I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:3-6, NIV)



But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well. "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. (Luke 12:31-32, NIV)

Dear Church Family,

Rebecca and I were just recalling yesterday that it had been two years since we moved to Taylorsville, though, as time seems to fly for a full-fledged adult, it feels as if it should only be six months. Though you made us feel at home with your warm welcome, care and concern for our transition, it has been only recently that it has felt like “home.” Rebecca said yesterday how much she loved it here, and that we are thankful for the wonderful people at First Baptist and in the greater Alexander County community. However, it takes time for a home to be a home. We’ve gotten to know many people, seen our little girl, who was just a newborn infant when we met you, blossom into a beautiful and unique little girl. John Alan began kindergarten at Sugar Loaf Elementary School, and he loves his home in Taylorsville. We’ve shared many joys with you in baptisms, weddings, homecomings and Christmas celebrations. Too, we’ve shared in heartbreaking times of saying goodbye to loved ones. It seems as if we have had more than our share. However, through all this, God has been faithful.

We are thankful for our church family. While we are “different” members of the congregation in that we serve the church as pastor, we have been made to feel like part of the family, rather than an outsider on an extended stay. And, we are thankful to share in your journey, at this stage in the church’s history and ministry to the Alexander County community and beyond.

Where will this all lead? The end result of all our labor is in the hands of God. We are part of a bigger plan, a plan greater than anything God can and will do in the life of one congregation. We are part of God’s plan through His Son Jesus Christ to defeat sin and evil wherever it might be found through the unconditional love only possible through His Spirit. Just as a drop of water could take many routes to the ocean, we are part of a winding journey that could go many paths, but still will one day arrive at the ocean.

We are privileged to be a part of the Kingdom Story and to serve with you as we contribute to God’s purpose for the world. Thank you for two wonderful years. We are looking forward to many more with you.

Grace and peace,

Tim, Rebecca, John Alan and Natalie Marsh