Possibility

In January of 2017, I boarded a plane from Oklahoma to Florida.  I was nearly 40 at the time and had never flown on a plane by myself.  

A few months earlier, I stumbled upon an organization called the International Network of Children’s Ministry, or INCM, and discovered that they hosted a pretty large Children’s Pastors Conference each year.  

I had been in children’s ministry for years but had never attended a conference.  Something about this particular event seemed like just the right fit for me.  My church found a way to send me, and I was off.  

That was a trip of firsts.  It was my first time in Florida, my first time renting a car at the airport, and my first time away from my family. 

I showed up at the Children’s Pastors Conference that year, and I did not know one single person in the crowd of 2500 people.  

I was so weary.  I had felt alone in ministry for longer than I even realized.  I wasn’t really sure I could keep showing up and serving our community as the children’s pastor.  

I attended the first general session and wept as I worshipped with 2500 other children’s pastors from many different denominations and parts of the world.  All of them intentionally gathered to meet with Jesus for three days.  

I went to so many breakout sessions.  I heard stories other people told that helped me to know I wasn’t alone.  I discovered that somewhere over the years, I had lost my voice.  I had stopped speaking up.  I had stopped dreaming.  

I came home that year encouraged, hopeful, and excited to see what the next season might look like.  And honestly, those three days in Florida - away from all the things, anchored deep with Jesus - started a deep work in me that would propel me into the next stages of life and ministry.   

I didn’t know then how the INCM/CPC community would become like a family.

I just returned home from another week in Florida.  My family and I went together this time.  They spent time at Epcot and Hollywood Studios, while I spent time at the Children’s Pastors Conference.  

This marks my 5th year at this event - four years in person and one year online.

A million details from 2017 to 2024 have woven together a story of connection, friendship, and community in this space.  A million details I could never have planned or expected.  A million details that began when I got on a plane eight years ago and walked into a conference knowing no one.  

Walking through the halls this past week, I found myself smiling as I stopped to hug dear friends and catch up on their stories.  As I sat at tables and ate meals with friends, new and old, I felt such deep thankfulness that a moment of bravery eight years ago was a yes for which I will always be grateful. 

You never really know where one yes will lead you until you look back and see the journey you’ve been on.  

As we find ourselves in January of a new year, I wonder, is there a yes you feel Jesus inviting you toward in the coming weeks or months?  

Imagine the possibilities! 

~  Melissa