Lisa Reidel: Laid Off, Now What?

Laid off, now what?

I was working as a Sales Manger for a group of hotels. I loved what I did, but didn’t care for the management team.  I started praying for another job opportunity.  After a few months God told me to pray for the management team as well.  I finally said it is in your hands God. 

I walked into my office on June 4, 2009 and was told today was my last day. The General Manager had packed my personal belongings and pushed the box toward me without saying a word.

UGH!! My pride was crushed. I MEAN CRUSHED!!! What the hell! I was the one who left the job, who do they think they are? I picked up my pre-packed box and walked out to my car. I had to calm my heart, breath, breath I told myself. Tears began to flow. I calmly called my husband – “Hey, what ya doing? Guess what, I just got laid off!!!” More tears! We talked for a few minutes and I headed home.
Five minutes later my husband called and said “Lisa, there is nothing to worry about, we will be fine. We will take the girls out of daycare.  This will give you the summer with them and we will save money. Do not worry, we will be fine.”

Within 24 hours I knew I was going to be fine. I had my faith and God would continue to guide me. There was something bigger and better for me.

I had been praying for opportunities to serve God. I was doing small things, but I knew there was something more. I started volunteering more at my church.  The “real” more didn’t happen until December 2009 – Vince Antonucci was a guest speaker at my church. He said he was planting a church in Vegas.

When I woke up on Monday morning the first thing I thought about was Vince. I emailed Vince requesting information on volunteering. He quickly replied and asked that I complete the attached volunteer application.  I started the process. The first page was general information – easy! Second page, what? You want me to  share my personal spiritual journey, explain why I believe I should help plant this Church, list my strengths, skills and spiritual gifts. Describe my past ministry experience.  REALLY?  This took three days.

And the last question  - How confident are you at this point of Gods’ calling on your life to be a part of this team?  Here is my answer -  "LOL – very! As I complete this application and start to doubt myself and I know that is because I am going into uncharted territory and feel a little scared, but excited!"

I thank Jesus everyday for that lay off on June 4, 2009. My life at Verve has been enriched with many wonderful people and opportunities to serve.  My relationship has grown stronger with my husband, children and God!

Now I embrace change –God has the plan, I just need to listen and follow.