Thankful Thursday: Church Family

Since I'm trying to get back into the swing of things here, I figured I would start off with a positive note!

Today, I'm thankful for our church family, both here in Texas and back home in Kansas.

When Kyle and I got married, we lived an hour away from "home" and we kind of floated around to different congregations, trying to find the right one for us. But typically, we would make the drive home to go to church with my mom, instead of the ones that were closer to our house. There are actually two congregations back home that are near and dear to my heart, but the one we were actively attending before our move to Texas is the one with the most memories for me!

Ya know, I cried the last time we attended services in Kansas, before the move. They gave us such a heartfelt goodbye and presented us with this piece that now hangs in our entryway area at the new house.

Our congregation back home is full of people I've known my whole Christian life, as well as some pretty important new ones. It was after my mom and I started attending this congregation that I went to church camp for the first time, and soon after that, I got baptized. I feel like I learned so much from these folks over the years, and I grew up carrying the knowledge they shared. Most of the people my age have moved on to other towns, like we have now, but I have very fond memories with them. One friend in particular, the one who convinced me to go to church camp, has been in so many of my memories since then. We spent a lot of time together in high school and summer breaks from college. The dynamic of our friendship changed with marriage and starting families, but I'm so glad that God placed her in my life. He knew I needed someone like her as an influence.

Kyle and I weren't exactly Bible class regulars until Lindyn was two and we felt we should start going, for all of our sakes. She grew pretty attached to her Bible class teacher (who was also the preacher's wife). She still asks about her every Sunday as we drive to class here in Texas. I'm so grateful that her first teacher was so gentle and patient, leaving such a mark on her heart as well.

Last month when we were back in Kansas for a weekend, we walked in the doors and were immediately greeted by so many who wanted to know all about our life in Texas and how we were doing. These wonderful people genuinely care about us and our well-being. We felt so at home, even after being away for six months.

During worship, my mama anxiety was so much lower just knowing I had my parents there to help out with the kids.. I still think they misbehave more than any other kids at church!

Our Kansas congregation will always be "home" for us, no matter how far away we get.

But, the one we have found here in Texas is pretty fantastic as well. It's quite a bit bigger, so it may be a while before we get to know everyone, but despite its size, we were still noticed the very first time we walked in the doors. In fact, our "newness" is still noticed each day and we get to meet someone new every time.

Also, our first time there, we sat next to someone who, unbeknownst to us back then, would become one of our most helpful resources here in Texas. She has introduced us to several other young families to connect with, talked me through our first potential hurricane, directed me to my daughter's first school, and much much more! (She and her husband also host a young families game night each month.)

After several weeks of attending as "visitors," we decided we were ready to place membership and start making this one our new church home. We've gotten to do play dates, game nights, and the Facebook group for members has been another great resource for us as we learn more about the area!

Our move to Houston has been...hard, to say the least. Honestly, I've really struggled with the change and miss everyone back home like CRAZY. But, having such a great God-given support system has been AMAZING! I can't imagine what it would have been like for us had we not had these wonderful people helping us out along the way.

Finding a solid church family is so important, no matter where you live. The Bible tells us not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together in Hebrews 10:25. We NEED to have that time with other like-minded people, who will encourage us and help to hold us accountable. We NEED to have those moments when we know we can depend on their prayers when we're struggling and going through trials. We NEED to be there for them too. We NEED to experience that love and unity that we can only find amidst our Christian brothers and sisters. We NEED that message from the preacher each time, even when it's not necessarily easy to hear. God puts these people in our lives for a reason.

And I am SO thankful, because I need them. Thank you to all who have contributed to my walk as a Christian. You've been amazing! God bless.