Someone once said, “the only thing in life that is certain is change”. How true is that?? Things change, seasons change, people change, etc. In the world of church the same principle is at work. The best and hardest part of church change has to do with people. Especially when someone who has played such a vital role in advancing our mission is called to a new life venture.

Andi Longest, who has given dedicated leadership to our Mission area, is one of these people in our church. She has sensed the Lord moving her in a new life direction and part of that move includes handing over her Mission responsibilities. I’ve asked Andi to share a little bit of her journey on this blog. Here you go…

Since early last fall the Maker of the Universe, the Lord Almighty, My Best Friend, has been leading me on a journey. Destination (in this world) not quite known. His continual call to me has been “Be Available.” And some days that is comforting. Some days it has scared me to death. Lately the second. In the spring I felt the Lord asking me to give up something I loved- My title of “Missions Coordinator” here at church – Really? I loved it. I loved what I got to do. To take teams of people around the world, the nation, the community sharing Christ. To see God work through us all to impact eternity. And to challenge others to press in to what God has for them on a daily basis. Now I have to give that up? REALLY?

What am I going to do then Lord? I am not ready to move to the other side of the world. I don’t know what else to DO. I haven’t really been so okay with this latest request. While I will not be “Coordinating Missions” for Cornerstone, I will continue to work with Patrick in Uganda- Bridge Africa and Lisa Pierce with Alabama Rural Ministries. And the mission field that is my work (and it is HUGE). But I can’t tell you what is next. I would tell you that I am going to move to Uganda next year. But I don’t know that. I would tell you that I am going to work at the Nursing Home for the next 5 years. But I don’t know that.

I would tell you where I am going to live after my time at the cabin is done. But I don’t know that. But I know HE is Perfect. And so are His ways. I know He will provide. I know He will continue to lead Cornerstone in the way the church body should go. I know He will do amazing things as He has in the past. I am grateful for the part that I have been able to play thus far. To God be the glory for all His has done, is doing, and will continue to do.

Andi Longest

Wow. I’m excited for Andi! God has big plans for her. I am grateful for what she has done for our church. From local outreaches, to ministry to hurricane victims in New Orleans, to helping us blaze a trail into Buloba, Uganda (and much more). She has definitely made her mark here.
Thanks Andi! We’re praying with you as you seek His guidance for your next step.

God also has big plans for our church as we continue to vision for new opportunities of sharing the Gospel with the world. We’d love for you to be a part this growing edge here at Cornerstone. For now, if you have questions regarding Mission events or trips, you can email Brian Johnson at brian@cornerstonebuzz.org. We will be taking another team to Uganda in the Fall. Contact Brian if you’re interested.

Blessings,
Rusty