Wow! What a great party, and a complete surprise! The twentieth anniversary of my ordination was something that had crossed my mind, but I didn’t really dwell on it – Just another day, month, year of ministry. I’d like to share some highlights with you:
• God has completely turned some people’s lives around, and used me to be a little part of it. Alcoholics, addicts, suicide attempters, kids going down the wrong path, husbands and wives straying, angry people – God is not done with any of us. To be honest, there were times when I personally had no hope for some of these people. I was simply playing a role at times: “How can I represent God’s love?” God has taught me that “With God, all things are possible!”
• Mission trips have played a vital part in my ministry. I’ve led trips to Mexico, Jamaica, Virginia, Florida, New Jersey, Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio, Harlem, Vermont, Maine, Cuba, Pennsylvania and Honduras. It is so easy for us to begin to think that everyone lives the way we do. When we get out of our comfort zone, our worldview expands and God can deepen our faith as well. I have seen many people become life-long Christians and life-long missionaries while sleeping on the floor in a church basement.
• I have been privileged to hold people’s hands in crisis and even in death. That’s a hard thing to do, but it’s also a beautiful opportunity. God’s presence is often palpable in those times of crisis. I have witnessed people of extraordinary faith go through difficult times, and they taught me much about trusting God. I’m sure when my time comes I’ll be whiny and have my doubts, but I’m just as sure that God will love me anyway!
• I’ve been honored to work with some wonderful servants of God. There are many gifts for ministry that I lack, but God has provided partners. At Orangewood I am blessed in partnership with Peggy’s dedication and commitment to all things behind-the-scenes; by Christopher’s musical talent and Southern grace; by Bernale’s passion, wisdom and creativity; and by Tully’s insight and youthful willingness to step outside the box. Add to that all the volunteers, the deacons, the elders, the ministry of all believers and it is clear that God is at work.
• The Scriptures continue to be a wonderful treasure. If you had asked me when I was a new pastor at 24, I would have been sure that after 20 years of preaching, I would have run out of things to say. I would have been right. God taught me that preaching is not about what I have to say, it is about seeking God’s Word. God’s Word is always fresh to those who are willing to read the Bible in one hand and the newspaper in the other.
• God’s people have been wonderfully receptive to my ministry, and always ready to minister back to me and my family. There have been some crises for me and my family over the years, and God has used you as pastors. That is what I will remember most, when I look at the beautiful crystal bowl you gave me, and remember the wonderful lunch put on by my partners in ministry. Thank you!
How about ALL OF US go for another 20!
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