25 Years

In January of 1999 I started my second semester at Freed Hardeman University. I was dating a young lady by the name of Tara Mears. We would be married later that year. Her mom realized that if I had a reason for coming back to Fairview every weekend, her daughter might have a reason for coming home every weekend. So Dovie (Tara’s mom) got us in touch with a small congregation nearby that needed a preacher. Well, they got me instead. I was working on trying to pursue preaching as a career, but I needed a lot of work. If you are keeping count, I have been preaching now for twenty-five years. That may not seem like a lot to some of you, but I have been preaching over half my life. That seems a little crazy to me.

I want to express my gratitude to all who have let me be their preacher. I needed the grace of those who heard me in the beginning, and I am still in need of grace by those who hear me today. I am a product of so many who have invested in me. That list includes Tara, my kids, teachers, elders, deacons, co-workers, church members, family, and friends. Thank you. As I study 1 Thessalonians 5 for my class tonight, I am reminded of what Paul said to the Thessalonians in verse 25, “Brethren, pray for us.” I hope that you will pray for me and my family as we labor for the Lord. One of the greatest blessing you can bestow on someone else is prayer.

I hope that in some way I have helped you on the road to heaven. I am not perfect nor am I everyone’s cup of tea, as they say, but I want you to know I desire you to be in heaven one day. I want to be there, and I want you to be there. I close with this summary. Thank you for all you have done for me, my family, and my ministry. Pray for me, my family, and my ministry. I want to see you in heaven. If I can help, please let me know.