“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven...” Ecclesiastes 3:1
My friend and colleague, Bruce Johnson, A3 Vice President for Leadership Development is well along in the process of becoming the next U.S. Director for SIM "Serving in Mission." The Lord has masterfully orchestrated this surprise to Bruce, SIM and us here at A3. My sense is that what Bruce describes as a kairos moment has truly come to pass. A3, SIM and Bruce have all been well prepared for this Kingdom change. However, we simply didn’t anticipate it; it was a complete surprise.
Bruce is a remarkable leader who has served faithfully and fruitfully with our ministry for the last seven years. He brought focus to our work across Asia and has capably led our field ministry in both Japan and the eight countries we currently serve. Fortunately, the Lord gave A3 the perfect window for Bruce to invest in my life as the new president and help me transition into this role before calling him to a new ministry vineyard. I couldn’t have asked for a better friend and partner as I’ve entered this assignment.
Bruce also served as the interim-president for our ministry and did so during a very challenging economic season. He is a seasoned leader who will be greatly missed. Losing Bruce is a huge loss but I also concur with him that God has a kairos moment for our ministry, for him and for SIM. For some reason, when Bruce shared with me this news, I wasn’t worried. I was deeply saddened to be losing Bruce but not worried at all. My sense is that the Lord will provide for A3 just as He has faithfully done for many years.
I admire and respect Bruce for following the Lord's call and I encourage and commission him in this new assignment. Bruce will do a terrific job for SIM as he is uniquely gifted to help them during this season of their life. Would you join me in giving thanks to God for Bruce's terrific service with A3 and in blessing him in this new ministry calling?
Bruce & Mary Johnson, with Silk and me, and Elliott & Lori Snuggs at my installation celebration.
A3 Leadership Team, September 2008
The Handleys with Bruce Johnson
