Pain and Promise

Deciding to pack up our entire family, resign my job and move to Tennessee to attend Seminary was something that took a long time of prayer and discernment for our family. It was a very difficult decision for us, but one in which we ultimately found peace by following God's will. The last few weeks in Greenville have brought back the pain we went through in making the decision. What was painful while the whole endeavor was merely theory is very real in practice.

David and I both grew up in this area, and our families are still here. We have an incredibly strong prayer and support community in Christ Church and our 20:20 group, as well as amazing friends in the Greenville community. We love our neighborhood and the city of Greenville. Saying goodbye one by one to our dear friends and family has brought each member of the Jolly family to tears many times.

While we struggle with the pain of leaving, our house is a very real reminder that we are being ripped out of our comfort zones. Boxes everywhere, packing peanuts strewn around the floors, and items we can't find have even the animals not sure what to do.

Even with all of this pain and anxiety, we live in the promise that our Lord has called us to Sewanee to Seminary. He has called us, will provide everything we need while we are there, and will give us a family in faith there as well. We know that as long as we continue to seek and follow God's will for our family, we will live in His peace. We are praying for our friends and family here in Greenville, as we know our departure brings them pain. We are also praying for our new friends in Sewanee, that God will surround them with His peace as they live into His calling in their lives. We are so very grateful for all the support and prayers from so many people we know and do not know. We feel them, covet them, and rest in them when we feel overwhelmed. May we all take the time to praise our Lord for His work in our lives everyday!