Old Friends

There are some people in my life where the relationship runs deep. We are separated now by geography and we don’t stay in touch as much as we could, but the bonds that have been established still remain strong. There is one particular friend that I am thinking about as I write this. He was my companion in ministry as we both tried to figure out some things together about twenty years ago. He is one of my heroes.
A salesman when I met him, he changed careers to become a high school teacher and have a direct effect in the lives of young people. He hosted a home group that was one of the most meaningful church experiences of my adult life. He stood by me in some difficult church politics conflicts. He even helped when I was called to pastor a church in a nearby town.
I’ve watched him battle a debilitating disease with dignity, hope and grace. I don’t talk to him on the telephone as much as I would like to, but he and his family are on my mind. I was there when both of his children were baptized in his backyard pool.
My friend is an example of the kind of impact a life that is sold out to following Jesus can have. The kingdom invaded every part of his life and from viewpoint he wasn’t holding anything back. An ordinary person who made an extraordinary commitment that changed his life and the life of his family. All of this happened because some brave and pioneering folks decided to listen to the call of God and start a church to reach people like my friend. The echoes and ripples of their decision will be felt through eternity.
All I can really express is gratitude for the sacrifices made and the risks that group of church starters took. They stepped out their comfort zones and invested time and treasure for the cause of Christ, and lives were changed for the better. People who were far from God were welcomed home to experience his love, acceptance and forgiveness. Lives without hope were given hope. Healing came from addictions and physical illnesses! This is the legacy of the work those people did over twenty years ago now.
My prayer this morning: Father, give us the grace and strength to hear your call over and over again in our ever day life. To step out and take a risk for the sake of your kingdom, Amen.