As many of you know, my work with Cherokee Presbytery will conclude on December 31st of this year. Due to financial constraints, the position I’ve held will be part time beginning in January. I have decided NOT to apply for the new position for two reasons. First, the revised job description does not appeal to me. Secondly, the last six years (professionally and personally) have left me pretty tired, worn out, worn down, and in need of a break.
Questions abound. People are asking what I plan to do next… will I return to the west coast? Seek another call? Consult? What about the fact that I just bought a house in Woodstock?
The answer, at least in the short term, is that I will do nothing.
I am quite fine with having a home in Woodstock. Last year, I felt that God was telling me to put down roots here, and so I began to look for a permanent home. I have made friends and developed some community in Woodstock. Home ownership is somewhat better for my cash flow than renting. (And my dogs are CERTAINLY happy to have a backyard to play in.) So, I will stay in Woodstock, and continue to build a life there.
In terms of work, I will be taking retirement at the end of the calendar year. That, plus the survivor benefit I get from Wayne’s Social Security, should cover my cash flow needs for the most part. For the first three months of 2016, I have committed to take the “sabbatical” that I didn’t take while in service. I will use the time for deep rest, refreshment and listening to God. I will not make any work commitments during that time.
It has been a blessing to be with Cherokee Presbytery during these last 6.5 years, and I believe that we have done much good (and much difficult) work in that time. The timing of all of this: buying a house, Wayne’s death and the elimination of my job, are feeling like a “God thing.” I believe that God has cleared the decks for me to have a fresh start to this last third of my life. I don’t know what it will look like, or what it will involve, but I do know that with God, it WILL be an adventure, and it will be GOOD.
“For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for your welfare and not for harm,
to give you a future with hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
Thoughts & Images from the Heart 
Rebecca, I wish you God’s blessings as you embark on this new adventure in your life. You have lead Cherokee Presbytery with strength and grace in these challenge times. You have cared for your mate with exquisite love and a grand sense of humor that has been an inspiration to me and I’m sure to others. You have my love and prayers and it warms my heart to know that you will be close by. Blessings!
❤ this, Rebecca. All will be well.
Rebecca, you deserve the rest. May God bless you in whatever you do.