My time at LifeWay Worship is quickly coming to an end. Many of you are aware of this. Many of you have lots of questions and I want to answer what I can.
Did you see this coming? No.
Are you still planning on going on the Sozo mission trip? Yes. Canceling the trip was certainly a consideration, but the decision to keep the trip came down to two overriding principles:
- On a very practical level, I’ve already purchased non-refundable airfare. If I were to cancel our trip, I would need to refund the support dollars given to me and be stuck with the personal debt of the airfare. For a trip I didn’t go on? Not a deal.
- More than that, though, we believe that the Lord has called us to go on this trip. If this is true then He knew this would happen when He told us to go. He cannot be caught off guard. He is not in heaven saying, “wait, this changes everything!” He knew. He wants us to go. We want to obey.
So, what are you going to do now? Take it one day at a time. For now, my focus is on finishing well. There is lots to do at LifeWay (I’m still employed until the 15th). I have paperwork to sign, computer files to migrate, emails to go through, an office to pack, and lots of conversations to have.
Regarding my new career, I don’t expect much traction for anything permanent between now and the Sozo Festival. However, I am open to vocal session work and worship leading opportunities (contact me!). Mostly, I’m trying to absorb my new reality, run hard after God, and take some time for introspection.
Many of you are concerned and have lots of ideas for me. Thank you so much. However, I am not yet ready to discuss working at this place or that; calling up this person or that person. Please do not forget me. The time will come, but right now I need a little space.
I am grateful to have been employed by LifeWay Worship over the last eight years, especially my work with LifeWayWorship.com and Please Stay on the Rock. I liked working on a new and meaningful project with some incredibly talented people. I enjoyed having my songs recorded, being in the recording studio, and earning my MBA. But mostly I liked the people. I’ve had the opportunity to come to work with friends every day. I will miss them dearly.
Thank you for being so loving and supportive of my family and me during this time of transition. We are full of hope and are excited to see what He has in store next.
In His peace and perfect provision,
Jonathan
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Can I make some suggestions that will help you in your career search? Please obtain letters of recommendation from as many people as you can ask, WHILE YOU ARE STILL EMPLOYED THERE. It may seem awkward, but right now you are on their minds, and they will be willing to help you. Once you leave, your request may be put on the back burner and will not be a priority that it will be with you there in person. Ask many people, not just your managers. Even co-workers. These look really good to future employers.
Collect samples of your work projects, including descriptions of projects, samples of the work, even business trips you took. All these things show different skills you can take to a new position.
Then once you leave your job, make a book to showcase your achievements. Include your resume, letters of recommendation, college and university transcripts, awards, honors, work samples, etc. anything that shows all the things you can do. Employers like to see all the skills an employee can bring to the table.
You will do well. Let’s look at this time as an opportunity for God to show you a new chapter for your life.
Jonathan,
We know that transitions can be difficult and exciting at the same time. Praying for peace and direction for you and your family.
God is too wise to be mistaken. Praying for you and your family as you seek to bless others with the gospel of Christ.
Joshua