In case you have not yet heard, it was announced today that I have recently accepted a position with Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary to become their Vice President for Institutional Advancement. You can read the whole news release here. My principal role will be to build a strong network of relationships with pastors, churches, individuals, and foundations to help continue the seminary’s strong growth and advance the training of more pastors, missionaries, and gospel laborers for the next generation. I am very excited about all the Lord is doing as I step into this new role. But the decision has not been easy.
Christin and I recently celebrated twenty years with LifePoint Church. When you plant a church, twenty years seems so far away and little more than a dream. But when you reach that milestone there is a special sense of gratitude to the Lord and to His people for the privilege and blessing of shepherding the same congregation for two decades. We had no plans but to remain in our God-given assignment. So, I can’t tell you how surprised Christin and I were at this opportunity, both in its nature and timing. We had never considered a role of this nature. And while I have been privileged to serve as a Trustee at Midwestern for the last six and a half years, I was not only surprised to learn of the opportunity when it was first presented, but doubtful that what they were looking for would align with my calling, strengths, and gifting. However, the more I listened the more intrigued I became, and the more the Lord began to steer my heart in that direction.
Of course, the excitement in considering this new role was met with waves of sadness at what that would mean; we would have to resign and leave LifePoint. Most people would look at our situation and question my sanity for even considering this. LifePoint is enjoying a high season of health and happiness, as well as strong fruit from gospel ministry. And I would concur with people’s question but for one exception, the Lord was making clear his will and direction. After several weeks of prayerful consideration, I went to the Elders and asked them for their counsel and prayer. They were gracious and generous with both, and for their friendship and brotherhood I could not be more thankful. They have continually encouraged me, prayed for me, and expressed their love, confidence, and support. LifePoint has been our life work in every way. But it has become clear the Lord is leading us both in new directions, with mutual love, encouragement, and blessings for one another. We are praying with great anticipation of the future for LifePoint Church. Twenty years is a great beginning for a church plant, but it barely scratches the surface for the advance in gospel mission the Lord has prepared for this church in the years to come. Christin and I could not be more confident and clear of the Lord’s leading, both for the Harrisons and for LifePoint Church. We are forever grateful to the Lord for our years at LifePoint. Nothing will ever dull the love we have for this great congregation of people. LifePoint, we love you dearly, and we will return to see the work the Lord continues.
As for the labor and mission at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, I could not be more excited to work with such a strong team of dedicated people. Dr. Jason Allen has proven to be a man of integrity and a leader of strong conviction and compelling vision. Even with the reports for this most recent Trustee meetings, the incredible growth over twelve straight years continues. I have always held a passion to raise up the next generation for gospel ministry and mission. I am thankful to Dr. Allen and his team for the opportunity to come alongside and serve with them.
Many have asked, “Will you continue to preach in your new role?” I will not preach regularly as part of this role, but I definitely plan to continue a preaching ministry. My father left a legacy of rich, gospel preaching through full-time, bi-vocational, and interim ministry. I have a clear vision for how I believe God will call us to serve in the future. I will also continue to give myself to coaching, equipping, and encouraging pastors and consulting with churches. This is a passion for me, and as much as the Lord gives me opportunity, I will continue in this work.
Christin and I covet your prayers in this whole endeavor; our relocation to Kansas City, my new role at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and future ministry among churches, our children as they adjust to mom and dad leaving “home”, and countless other challenges that will no doubt be encountered. While we hold a high excitement for this next season of ministry the Lord is leading us into, we leave with the deepest love and joy for and sadness in leaving LifePoint Church. There will always remain within us a great blessing of God’s love known as LifePoint.
I would love for you to come along with us on this journey by following me here at the website, mlaneharrison.com, on my Pastor Lane Harrison Facebook Page, and on Instagram, pastor_lane_harrison.
In all, may the gospel advance and the name of our Lord Jesus Christ be made known as we seek to serve His call on our life in this world.
Because Jesus Lives,
Pastor Lane Harrison
