As a youth pastor 25 years ago I met weekly for breakfast and Bible study with six college guys. We grew together. Three of those men are pastors today, in North Carolina, Louisiana and California.
One of them, Tony Hand, blessed me recently . "You have had such an impact on my life," he said, recalling our past times together. "And I've tried to carry that on with others."
His comments brought to mind one of my favorite verses, 2 Timothy 2:2, "And the things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, these entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also."
And I was reminded of those men who impacted my life spiritually. Ken Lyle, now retired in West Texas, was the pastor in New York who awakened me to the idea that there was something more in the Christian life than just being saved. Robbie Goss, Danny Daniels and Peter Lord impacted my life greatly during the '70s. Robbie was my youth team leader. He trained me for ministry. Danny discipled me and I am forever grateful. Peter gave me a vision for ministry, preaching and pastoring. He has remained my friend and encourager to this day.
Where would we be without men (or women) who have poured themselves out for us.
As I write this I'm reminded of the woman who similarly impacted my life -- Lila Frances Foote, age 95, my high school English teacher, senior class sponsor, who I've come to realize was like a mother to me in my high school days. She believed in me.
Thank you all!
You definately on the top of my list for people who have been a great influence in my life. I was just talking to folks about Christias they knew who to them don't have very Christlike behavior but feel they are saved. There is more to being a Christian than not going to hell(being saved). It is a lifestyle-reality-living.
Posted by: Villa Willis | April 10, 2007 at 05:17 PM