While the rest of the world records the passing of years in B.C. and A.D., we in the New Orleans area have adopted our own designation for the advancement of time. Because August 29, 2005 marked such a dramatic turn in our history, all historical items area referred to in reference to this date. For example, we’re entering into the fourth Mardi Gras season after Katrina and we just had our second snow since the December before Katrina. It’s basically a B.K. and A.K (Before Katrina & After Katrina) timeline and for many of us, it will be the dominate timeline for the rest of our lives.
This is important to remember as we enter into 2009, or the fifth month of A.K. 4, because each new year brings us further into our recovery and as we make this journey we have questions to answer and obstacles to overcome. As we’ve pushed forward, I’ve given my own description of each year. It helps me see where God is taking us and how that differs, the majority of the time, from were we think we are supposed to be. This is how I’ve labeled the past several years:
2005 – The year of Katrina
2006 – The year of preparation
2007 – The year of prayer
2008 – The year of turning the corner
So what do I think 2009 will be? I believe this year will be the year of new beginnings. For all the work we’ve done since Katrina, I really believe we are just getting started. Some believe we should already be done and have this Katrina business behind us but they don’t live here and are only thinking about the bottom line. However, where the rubber meets the road, things are about to get very interesting. Yes, even more interesting than they already are. 2009 will bring a completely new BAGNO, new Director of Missions, new staff, new vision and direction. It will also see new ministry opportunities that did not exist before Katrina. The Sharing the Peace of Jesus evangelistic emphasis will give our churches the opportunity to reach more people in 2009 than in any year before. Church planting efforts in places like Central City are now underway, an answer to at least three years of fervent prayer. These are just the things I know are taking place in 2009. No doubt there are numerous surprises the Lord has for us and I am excited about being a part of His great plan.
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