Long Talk….

Long before cell phones, cable television, or streaming channels existed, hours were spent playing dominoes, Yahtzee, and Wahoo marble board games. I remember spending lots of time growing up learning to play the domino game 42. I was surprised to learn that it is known as the state game of Texas; who knew?  The older I get, the more I think that 42 could be a great analogy to effective ministry.  Playing 42 is about strategy, leaning on your partner, and playing the hand that you have drawn.  

As of July 1, I will begin learning to play a different hand in ministry. I will be the Conference Superintendent of the Northwest Texas Conference and the Acting District Superintendent for the West and North Districts of the Central Texas Conference. It’s been like drinking from a fire hydrant the last few months!!

I never thought I would be “playing” this hand in a million years.   However, with God’s grace, strength, and love, I will commit to leading with ONE strategy, the strategy set forth by Jesus Christ.  42 is hard to play without a partner.  Fortunately, I have many ministry partners.  The congregations, clergy of each district, colleagues across the three annual conferences (soon to be the Horizon Texas Conference), Bishop Nunn and Bishop Saenz, my family, and most importantly, a daily, living relationship with Jesus Christ.  Finally, I will seek to play the hand God has called me to this season with integrity, joy, and prayer. 

I look forward to meeting each of you and hearing how God is working in your life and what new thing/purpose God is calling us to.  I also look forward to introducing you to a new vocabulary, Tom’isms, but mostly, walking together, strategizing, partnering, and playing this new hand together!!

I look forward to “playing disciple-making 42” with you. 

Always Remember and Never Forget…..GOD LOVES YOU!!

Peace—

Tom