As you conclude over three decades of service to Yates Baptist Church, it is humbling for me to consider that I am your third called pastor here at Yates, with a smattering of interims thrown in for good measure.
What words suffice to speak about your ministry with us? I think of what John wrote when considering all he left unwritten about Jesus in his Gospel: “I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written!” Jesus’ life was too large to be contained in any one place, and I think lives lived in him have that same quality. Your legacy here at Yates is so far-reaching and longstanding that I have not yet found a corner of church life that doesn’t have your family’s fingerprints all over it.
Your ministry with us has been distinguished by tireless, humble and faithful service of our Lord and the people of Yates. You’ve graciously entered our lives and walked alongside us through our private and public milestones. You have celebrated our joys with good humor and you have carried our burdens with deep compassion. You have taught us and led us to countless encounters with God in worship. Your commitment to practiced excellence has brought the very best, musically and otherwise, out of the people before God. I am thankful to you, and thankful to God for you!
As I write this, I am also reminded of Jesus’ promise: “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” You have done much. The branches of your life and ministry have brought forth an abundance of fruits in the lives of our members, in our life together and in the wider world. When we trace all those branches back, we inevitably find they share a common origin: Jesus Christ, the True Vine. No matter where the wind of the Holy Spirit may blow us, it is in that Vine that we abide—together.
That is an encouraging thought, because I will truly miss your presence, your companionship, your leadership, your steadfastness and your faith! May God bless your next steps as much as those you’ve already taken here at Yates.
Grace and Peace,