Dear Crossing Family,

In many ways I feel like I am retreating, but I know that we often have to step backwards before we can step forward. I've got some hurts that I feel God is leading me through right now, many of which deal with loss and rejection (can you relate?). These hurts have dictated too many of my wrong decisions and I know that in order for me to step into the next chapter of my life I need to re-visit the past to deal with them. For that reason I needed to step away from FloodGate, though that was really hard to do. God has armed The Crossing with some amazing teenagers who are hungry for Jesus and who I now have the privilege of calling my friends. Being a part of FG8 has been quite an experience and I will never be the same... With all that said I would simply like to thank you as a body for your support and love over the past couple of years and during this transition.

The Ipod also kicks butt!!!  :) I've put 740 songs on it and I still have over a Gig to go... Thank You so much for such a wonderful gift!!

Gaters,

Amanda, Cady, Cecily, Chelsie, Cassie, Kami, Samantha, Chris T., Chris W., Cody, Colton, Derek, Jakey, Joel #1, Joel #2, Keeger, Mitch---- The last few Monday nights have been hard without seeing you, but I still believe without a doubt that the timing of my departure was right on. Some of it had to do with me and my personal struggle. Some of it had to do with Luke and Laura and the fact that God is ready to multiply them in ministry. A lot of it had to do with you and where you are as a group and as individuals. I am not joking when I say that God often humbled me through the realization of how mature and wise you guys are and it has been a blast to serve and learn with you. God is simply calling me into new battles and I am unable to lead you to where He wants to take you now. But it has been exciting to see God's provision in this with the coming of Luke and Laura. I look forward to seeing you blossom and grow under their guidance.

Now I know that God will have a lot for each of you to walk through and if you remember anything that I tried to impart I hope it would be this:

Some of life will be easy. Most of it will be difficult. All of it will be satisfying if you remember to keep your faith simple and focused on the relationship you have with Jesus. Do not approach Him through formulas or steps (would you do that with your parents or friends?) because that leads to religion, which leads to confusion and puts limits on how (and where) He can use you. Please don't be surprised when things get hard or think that it's the devil trying to hold you down. Hardships (and pain) are often the hammer and chisel He uses to sculpt us into something beautiful. I've found most of my greatest moments with Him have accompanied my greatest hurts. So please don't resist the struggles He places you in but rather face them with courage and remember that peace (resting on all that Jesus is rather then wrestling with all that you are not) will be your greatest ally in any situation. I love you guys and I am always available if you need me.

Lee