Yesterday I met with The Fulcrum Community Management Team in Midland, Texas. The team consists of representatives from the various churches and organizations that have been supporting us in this endeavor. The purpose of our meeting was to formally and officially bring an end to the Fulcrum Community.
This came after several weeks of discernment following our decision to cancel our public gathering. Initially, our hope was that we could regroup privately and then relaunch something next year. However, it was quickly obvious that once momentum is lost on a project such as this, it is very difficult to re-energize it. So we decided that it was best for all involved, as well as a prudent act of stewardship, to call it quits, redistribute the resources, and pay close attention to the lessons we learned from this experience.
Yesterday was tough, but necessary. Today I’m filled with gratitude. For years, I had the dream of starting a new church. Eighteen months ago I was given the opportunity to chase that dream. The list of those who helped give me such an opportunity is long and distinguished. To Phil Claycomb and Nexus, Stadia, the Garnett Church of Christ in Tulsa, the Golf Course Road Church of Christ in Midland, New Life Church in Odessa, Journey Christian Community in China Spring, donors across the country, and all those here in North Austin (especially our launch team) who were a part of this project along the way, I say “Thank You.” Thanks for believing in us, giving us this opportunity, and for supporting us with your prayers, money, and encouragement. I wish I had a different story to tell at this stage of the journey, but alas, this is the way things have unfolded.
As with most things in life, even though the final outcome is not what we had hoped for, the journey has not been a waste. Seeds of the Kingdom have been planted in hearts. Nagging questions have been embedded in the minds of previously complacent church goers. The grace and the glory of God has been revealed in fresh ways to those with the eyes to see.
There is a moment that sticks in my mind from earlier this year. It was on a Sunday night. Earlier that day we had enjoyed a successful Cafe Fulcrum. That night we were meeting in a home and discussing our experiences from the morning. People who had been going to church all their lives were sitting next to folks who didn’t know where to find The Gospel of Mark in their Bibles. There was food, laughter, joy, questions, insights, and a sense that God was up to something. As I stood back and observed the group while refilling my coffee, I knew that we were doing what we were supposed to be doing.
More than anything, I’m grateful to God for that moment of clarity.
The fact that The Fulcrum Community was short-lived doesn’t invalidate that moment or my conviction that God had us exactly where he wanted us.
I think he still does.
I’m not sure what’s next, but I’m sure we’re not walking this path alone.
Telling Stories, Asking Questions, Learning Lessons
Blessings on you, Wade. I know this had to be a tough and heart-wrenching decision. May the Lord be with you and your family as you explore the next steps in your Kingdom adventure.
Thanks Sean!
Wade, I’m sorry to hear that, but I want you to know that you are spot on about this not being a waste. Seeds of the Kingdom were planted, and you have made a big impact in that area of the world. I’m proud to know you, and to quote what a wise man once said:
“Because when we invest in the kingdom of God, it always multiplies. There is nothing more profitable than investing in the Kingdom of God. In one sense it’s risky to give grace, show mercy, pursue peace, and work for justice. We will be opposed by some and taken advantage of by others. But the truth is there are no losses in the Kingdom economy. What may seem like the biggest risk in the world—is actually, because of the goodness of God, no risk at all.” -(the wise man was you, just to be clear).
Jonathan–I think that’s the first time someone has quoted me to myself. I’m not sure how I feel about that! Thanks for the kind words. I owe you a phone call.
Bless your heart, Wade. Bless ALL your hearts – all who have so heavily invested in this wonderful endeavor.
So . . . what’s next for you & your family? Plan to stay in Austin? It’s certainly a great place to be all the way around, including in God’s Kingdom.
Be sure to keep all of us “in the loop,” as we pray for you and your future work.
Dee
Thanks Dee! We’re not sure what’s next, but I’ll definitely keep you posted.
I’m sad as I read this. Over the past couple of years I have thought often about your endeavor, Wade. I’ve looked forward to a trip to Austin to visit you and the Christian community there. I’m sorry I didn’t make that happen. I respect you for doing this… giving it a go… trusting God to do what he does.
I know the feeling of seeing years of effort in the Kingdom come to an abrupt end, wondering about the fruit that will go unseen in this lifetime. Soon enough we will know why we have labored in these ways… and I think God will say “well done, Wade.”
your brother,
Russ
Thanks Russ! I would have loved to have you drop in sometime.
Hope the next trip to Midland is under different circumstances…my heart is fulll for you.
Christ is enough!
Jody–Indeed! I need to come back to Midland soon just to wipe that last meeting from the cache.
I’m speechless, Wade. Reading this has made me more sad than you can imagine. Upon a second reading, however, I can feel the hope seeping through your words and know that, whatever comes next, you’ll make a huge difference to the people around you. You have made a difference to me, and I’m half way across the world. Keep it up.
Thank you Cecilia. Heather and I keep talking about finding a way to get there so she can see you again and so that I can meet you!
Thanks for your sharing. You are so right to recognize that the present outcome does not determine the value of the journey in which God has been at work. From the cross, Jesus surely looked liked the biggest failure. Yet for the resurrection to occur, death had to proceed.
Grace and Peace,
K. Rex Butts
Thanks Rex!
My prayers are with you and your family during this next season of discernment. You have meant a lot to me from afar, though we don’t know each other well. I’ve been blessed by our interactions and I’m confident God has a future for you that will bless many.
Collin–I really appreciate it! Oh, and I think it is your turn on Words.
I’ve been saying for 5 years that the greatest risk is to not take a risk (Mt. 25). Thanks for living what I’ve been merely talking about.
Josh–I’m glad we did it and I know I’ve learned some things that I would have never known otherwise. Thanks!