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Moving Forward One Step at a Time
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The Farther Along Blog

Looking Back, Looking Forward

Last time I blogged, we had just entered the unthinkable quarantine season of our lives. The world has changed significantly since March. Our lives, our world - even generations will be forever marked by the events of 2020.

Looking back on these past several months, here are some things that happened:

  • We started having family dinners regularly, something that had become an occasional happening in the preceding months.

  • We learned that church online is actually pretty legit - and the challenge of engaging people virtually is exciting for me as a church leader.

  • We visited more state parks and outdoor sites than we had in the previous five years combined.

  • We learned that restaurant curbside pick up is brilliant and allows us to order carry-out food from restaurants that are actually good.

  • The need to be active was amplified after spending the first month eating more and being less active than possibly ever before.

  • We created a time capsule as a family to remember this season.

  • Finally, the toughest part was losing my Uncle Matt, my Uncle Ted, and my father-in-law John.

Looking ahead, here are some things that are different or coming up:

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  • We now have hooks on our wall to hang our masks (pictured).

  • Two of my girls will go to school in person while my 8th grader will join a virtual classroom.

  • My wife will start a college program locally to get a degree in Physical Therapy.

  • We will open children’s and student ministry with masks, social distancing, and hope that we are able to help kids and students be known and experience God.

  • I will get a week sabbatical this fall where I’ll travel solo for the first time since January.

  • There will be moments when I might actually have the house to myself (AT LONG LAST!)

It’s a year we will not soon forget, but what can we do other than press forward?

I’ve been amazed by the ways God has blessed us and worked difficult circumstances for good. This year has proven us that we don’t control what’s ahead - but because of Jesus I am confident the best is yet to come.


Rob Chagdes