Watch this message from Executive Pastor, Bryan Eck on Jodie's departure from our staff. We are so thankful for the ways she has impacted our community and are excited for her next steps and new journey.
A Note From Jodie
Friends,
Over the last few weeks, I took some time away from IBC to rest, reflect and process. This led me into an intense season of discernment about my future and what was best for me, and of course, you and IBC. During this time, the Lord made it clear to me that it is time for me to move into something new and resign from my position as Adult Ministries Pastor and Pastor to Women. Yikes and Yay.
As you can imagine, this invitation from the Lord comes with many mixed emotions. First is grief. Mostly, I’m grieving the loss of my pastoral role and time with you. I’ve been a pastor here for nearly 13 years. That’s a long time. And in those years, I’ve had the deep privilege of journeying with you through the highs and lows – and all the in-between. Truly, this has been one of my greatest joys. I don’t think I can adequately express what an honor it has been to see God show up and teach us together as we have sought to walk with Him.
The second thing I’m feeling is fear. I’ve repeatedly asked, “Really, God?” And he has repeatedly said, “Yes, really.” He’s been clear, and so I’m doing my best to replace all those fears with the truths I so deeply believe about him. Namely, that if He says go, it is always best to obey, even if obedience is scary and the path you’re on seems to dip out of view pretty quickly.
And then, of course I feel excitement. It’s been awhile since the Lord has been this bold and clear with me. You may wonder what I plan to do. The short answer is I’m not entirely sure. (Remember that path that dips out of view? That’s the one I’m on.) However, He does seem to be opening the door for me to continue teaching, writing and doing my little podcast. I’m not sure what he plans to do with these things, but I’ll keep doing them as offering to Him until He tells me differently.
He’s also given me confidence for IBC and the ministry to women. Tiffany and Amy, as you know, are well-equipped and perfectly placed. We may not realize it, because it feels normal to us, but we are so blessed at IBC to have gifted and Biblically trained women on our women's team. Truly, there aren’t many places on the planet with this much God-given talent, preparedness and calling.
I am hopeful that my next season of ministry will involve connecting with IBC and with you. I’m also hopeful that I can continue to be a source of encouragement and support to you, as you have been to me. If you would like to stay in touch and/or follow along with my journey you can connect with me at my website jodieniznik.com, email me at [email protected], or follow me on Instagram at jodieniznik.
Thank you, deeply, for loving me over these years. And for allowing me to love you back and point you toward Jesus as a fellow traveler.
I pray you will continue to follow Him boldly.
With love,
Jodie