Jason Carr Writes

I recently have made a big decision- well a big decision for me.

For the last 14 years I’ve always had at least one (at times many) student small groups that I’ve had a chance to lead and invest in. My current group of guys (aka the studs) are about to be Seniors. They are incredible and it’s been an amazing journey so far with these guys, in fact I’m really looking forward to the next year with these guys. I shared something with them tonight that I’m excited about…

This next school year will be my last leading a group. I think it’s time to land the plane. After a lot of thinking/prayer/discussion with some friends and mentors I think it’s time for this season of my life to come to a close.

I don’t share this on the blog to ask for your sympathy or emotion- I share that because it’s a huge deal. It’s hard to remember not having a group I’m leading or a group of guys I’m regularly hanging out with. It’s pretty much been one of the main priorities of my adult life. At this point in my ministry there are generations of students and former students which is super cool. Unfortunately I don’t always have the margin to connect with all those former guys- but such is life.

I know that God has been so faithful over the years in so many ways. I know that He’s called my life to be about investing in people and that’s not going to step.

It’s just become more and more clear that the next season of that will potentially be on a level different than hanging with a small group in my living room. I don’t want to underestimate the importance of that- some of the greatest heroes around are quietly doing their thing and investing in students and others one life at a time. It’s not only worth it- it’s crucial. And I believe in my role at the church and some other potential things down the road that I’ll be able to leverage all these years of doing that to help others hopefully do that to the best of their abilities.

Exciting times in my world. Not gonna lie- it’s kind of emotional to stop and think of the last 14 years. Lots of faces, early mornings, late nights, chili, football, small groups and simply life happening comes to mind. And I’ve loved every moment of it. It’s just become clear to me that in about a year it will be time to land the plane on this season of my life. The cool thing is that I believe that God has another one getting fueled up and ready to go. I’m excited about that journey too.

I was talking to a good friend/mentor this past week about this. As I was telling him about what God has been doing in my heart his response was timely “Well, good because I was all set to challenge you not to lead another group- it’s time.” Amazing how God does that isn’t it? Confirmation is a good thing.

I’m beyond excited to land the plane on group with the studs well over the next year. I’m hoping and praying God gives me the wisdom to help these guys move onto college as men chasing after and living for more of God’s heart. Man, this journey is amazing. Looking forward to what He has ahead…