When Ministry Moves Your Friends Away

justin

Last weekend our Worship Pastor and personal friend, Justin Hoeppner submitted his resignation.  Justin’s last Sunday with MCC will be November 24.  For the past four and a half years Justin has helped us move through major transitions.  He has been part of the team that has helped move hundreds of people closer to Christ.  He has been in the middle of a move of God.  He has penned original songs which we have shouted as praise.  He has mentored.  He has pastored.  Together we have laughed, dreamed, cried, and travelled the world.  He and I often talk about how we are blessed to be in this move of the Holy Spirit.  We see God move every single week.  Lives are being put back together.  Addicts are recovering.  Marriages are getting firmed up. Small and big miracles are all around.

And Justin resigns.  Why?  Why leave something as great as this?

Because God asked him to.

It hurts.  It is frustrating.  But I made a commitment long ago that my life was dedicated to the King and to the Kingdom.  And when the King says “Move”,  we move.  When he says, “Stay” (as he did to me), we stay.  My allegiance is to helping people take a step closer to Christ.  This move will help Justin move thousands a step closer to Christ.  MCC will continue to move thousands closer to Christ.  The Kingdom will be stronger.

Our personal comfort and preferences take a back seat to the call of Christ.  Jesus even radically stated how we should follow him. “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple.”  – Luke 14:26

Carry on my friend.  We were blessed to work should-to-shoulder the past four years.  We still work toward the same goal, just a little more space between us.  Thanks for what you have given to us.  We are grateful that God shared you for a season.  Thanks for showing us what it looks like to listen and obey.  Major respect.

Adios.

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This post has 3 comments

  1. At first I was mad, then angry, and tben glad. I looked back over the past 2 years and realized the healing and restoration that not only I have had but our family. My daughter is part of the youth and help leads worship for the kids. Emily wants to be at MCC anytime she can be at age 12. My marriage is stronger than ever and I am closer to God than ever before. Justin was a part of this but God\’s movements within the walls is the main reason and this will not change. If I truly want Gods kingdom to grow why not send Justin with thankfulness rather than bitterness. Yes it hurts but I am excited to know that healing could be headed to California. Love you Justin and love MCC.

  2. I am very sorry to hear this. He will be missed. Adios.

  3. Justin,
    When you first arrived my husband and I shared a table with your family at a Scot Longyear performance downstown. We both thought your family was so sweet!! I don\’t think we have really had much face to face time but you have helped my heart on several Sundays.
    Thank you so much for being a part of our MCC lives. As an older person, well over 20, I was a little apprehensive when it came to the style you brought our music ministry. I can say you won me over and I have loved every worship service. I wish you and your family continued success as you move the kingdom forward in your new location. They are blessed to have you!

    Kathy

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