When Life Feels Messy and Untimely

“And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.” - Luke 2:4-7 ESV

I can’t count the times I have heard a pastor share this text from Luke 2, then talk about how “messy” and “untimely” the events surrounding the Christmas story must have been for Mary and Joseph. Engaged. Mary pregnant. Joseph making the choice to still marry Mary. Census in Bethlehem. Road trip at nine months. Crowded city. No vacancies. Giving birth in a stable. Yes, it seems and sounds like an absolute disaster waiting to happen. No doubt Mary and Joseph had their fears, anxiety, and apprehension. And yet, in what looks like an imperfect mess, we see God’s perfect plan and timing.

But isn’t this how life is? In what we think is “disaster waiting to happen”, God is moving to bring about his perfect plan at his perfect time. It’s not always easy to see in the moment, but when we back up and look at the bigger picture, we can begin to see what God is doing.

Messy? Untimely? Not to God. It was just as he wanted, when he wanted.

This is true for us today. At first, our recent news felt messy and untimely. Starting a new ministry role with Bay Presbyterian Church, shifting roles with NNYM, house hunting during the holidays, relocating in the new year, and Breya starting a new school in January all felt overwhelming. But none of this is new to God. In fact, this is all how he planned it.

​The last couple of months have been filled with questions. How will it all work? Will it all fall into place? Are we really going to be able to move and starter in the new year?

​Amy and I have always looked at new opportunities with a philosophy that says, “If God opens the door, we will walk through it.” And that’s what we did. As each door opened, we stepped through it. Again and again, God provided. With each door and with each step we saw God answer a prayer. With each answered prayer, came the confidence to trust God more and more.

Starting January 2025, I will begin my new role with Bay. It’s an opportunity to introduce students to the grace and love that God through the gospel, and partner with parents as they seek to raise and disciple their children. I will also begin serving  youth leaders throughout the Cleveland ares as I create collaborative spaces for youth leaders to be personally encouraged, professionally equipped and spiritually strengthened for faithful and effective ministry with the next generation.

We have a place to live. Breya is excited to begin her new school. Amy has been given an opportunity to work with students and adults with disabilities. And, we are preparing to move in just a couple of weeks. With each of our concerns, prayer requests, and hurdles; God has been two steps ahead of us.

Christmas might seem a bit messy. Life might seem a bit messy. But God’s timing is always perfect. As we look back and these last couple of months, we can see God’s provision over and over again. He is a good, good Father. Now as we step into this new and exciting partnership, Bay Pres. and NNYM, we are can’t wait to see how God might use us as we serve students and families, AND the youth leaders through the Cleveland area.

We want to invite you to continue in the mission with us. Your partnership through prayers and financial support will allow us to reach out and connect with youth leaders.

Would you consider a year end gift? We are 64% funded, and would love to be able to start 2025 fully-funded and ready to serve Cleveland.

In His Grace,
Jay and Amy

click here to support me in 2025