It’s been two years since I last wrote on this blog, but as the running gag of this blog, I’ve been doing a lot of stuff. When I last posted, the world was still grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic and many were still living in fear. While the situation has improved, that fear has shifted to other issues.
In my last post, I wrote about the “church failed us” narrative that still persists, my belief still remains that even if you took God and faith out of the equation, the church as an organization has been more beneficial than any other organization in the world. As a local church pastor, I am aware that there is room for improvement and growth within the church. The way we do church is undergoing changes, some good and some not so good. I used to serve as a youth pastor at my local church, CenterPoint, but have since moved on to a new role as a Connections Pastor. Although we are still figuring out what that means, I still serve and love people. I preach a few times a year, which is always a joy, and I believe God is building something great. In the past few years, I’ve felt that God is moving in a specific direction and this year feels like a year of building, rebuilding, and restoring. I will elaborate on this in a separate post.
I’m still bi-vocational and still work in Technology Services at Columbia College, but transitioned to Cyber Security. In this new role, I have been researching and blogging about internal security awareness and preparing for a certification. This has been a steep learning curve, but I am enjoying it and look forward to where God will lead me in the future. I even gave a sermon about cyber security and identity, and have started outlining a devotional on spiritual identity protection. I plan to write more blog articles on security in the future.
I have also taken up cast iron cooking in the past few years, which has led to some interesting theological reflections. I plan to repost my Facebook posts on cast iron theology and share some of my cooking tips here as well.
In August 2022, I bought my first house and it has been a big adventure. My family dynamic has changed a bit, with my wife Haley working at a retail store most nights, but we know it is just for a season. My kids are growing and doing amazing things
The future of this blog is still uncertain, but I hope to use it to capture more of my thoughts, life experiences, and journey in life. I plan to write about faith-provoking topics, as well as personal reflections and musings.
Thank you for reading, and stay tuned for more updates!
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28
Dear God,
Thank you for all the adventures, growth, and opportunities you have provided in the past two years. I pray that you continue to guide me in all areas of my life and use my skills and passions for your kingdom. Help me to trust in your plan and always remember that you are working for my good.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
John Johnson Does Stuff 