Happy Marriage… and Life Guys!

Before I start this, let me wipe the tears off the page. (Just joking. Not!) I’m still smiling. Today, I married off my son. Shawn Joel Mitchell Jr. got married today (Sept 19, 2015).

There are very few moments in life, where - in the moment - you know you are experiencing one of your life’s most memorable & amazing personal experiences. That was today!

My son of 23 years – only child and namesake – absolutely blessed me and had me so proud. He married a nice, wonderful and Godly young woman named Eva, and Shawn’s mother Laurie and I couldn’t be happier. Whenever I am around Eva, I think to myself, “I’m looking at a miracle!” Laurie prayed for her son’s eventual wife since he was a little boy. And God sure delivered. We pray for long lives, happiness and God being the center of their lives (and, Lord wiling, their future children’s lives together).

Now… for us. What are Laurie and I going to do around the house?! No more noise, typhoon-blown bedroom, sudden depletion of refrigerator food. Sheesh… I’ve got to get used to this “Empty-nester” thing. But hey, I was told that Barnes & Noble has got some great books on getting through the empty-nest change. That’s good to know! Couldn’t be happier for them… but got to admit… a slight twinge of  melancholy… and a little sadness. You see, Shawn Jr. was more than a son – he was and is – my friend. And one of the finest and truly nicest human beings I’ve ever known. Thank you Lord, for allowing Laurie and I to have him on “borrow” for 20+ years.

The Bible says that a longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul. [Proverbs 13:9] A parent always envisions and prays for their child(ren)’s happiness. Today that vision was fulfilled. Whether it is for a loved one’s happiness, some prayed over answered prayer or a dream God has given you that you see coming to fruition, the sweetness that comes through fulfilled vision makes the journey worth it. Whatever may have brought you happiness today -- that’s come from Him -- let’s be sure to thank Him.

Well, pretty soon – I’ll go fire up the grill… and get Laurie to join me and start praying for grandkids. Wow – this “life” thing sure has its moments. Today… was one of the absolute BEST!! 

Happy marriage and life guys. We love you!

Football, Family & Faith: The Fall Season is Here

There’s something special about the Fall. For me it’s the best time of year.  I could say it’s the slight chill in the air, and the beginning of the changing of leaves- but that wouldn’t be accurate. Being a native-born San Diegan, I’ve hardly seen any seasonal color changes in leaves in my entire life. But what I can tell you makes the fall my unquestioned favorite season of the year is football, family (the holidays) and the Lord (not that He’s seasonal). It’s just easy to identify Him in breezes through trees, cumulous clouds and clear night skies!

I’m also thrilled about all of the plans New Venture Christian Fellowship has for the coming season.  Programs, activities & events geared for individuals and families. I am convinced God is going to use them to touch thousands in our church and surrounding community. I hear it everywhere- there’s a buzz around New Venture right now.  I just love being around our church family!

On September 26 & 27 we will have a special guest joining us at New Venture- national speaker and Faith & Fitness expert Kim Leto. I heard her testimony and knew that she would be a blessing to the New Venture Family.  (Click here  to see a brief interview).  She will speak to us on Spiritual Fitness and bless us with her passion for Faith Inspired Transformation. Don’t miss it.

Ecclesiastes 2:25 says, “For without him, who could eat and find enjoyment?” at New Venture we find our in enjoyment in Him, His blessings and gathering together. Today in prayer, spend some time thinking about the joy found in the Lord.

Yep, the fall season, there’s nothing like it-a time to harvest, a time to gather together and a time to reflect on the goodness of the Lord.

May God bless you and yours, 

Pastor Shawn