On this day, December 27, 68 years ago, I entered the world. As far as I know it was an unremarkable arrival. I am the youngest of three. I am the only boy. What I discovered, over time, was that being the youngest and only boy was much like being born a royal. You were pretty much granted every wish…well not really. However, I was able to mange blaming my sisters for some of the stuff I did. Unfortunately my unique status did not allow me less discipline, but what’s a kid supposed to do?
Turning 68, with my retirement from my current role slated for July 2023, I have found myself engaged in a great bit of reflection. I’m not prone to melancholy, but I have to say weird things make me a bit emotional. And I have never been accused of high emotions.
I have done a great deal of reflection in three areas: Faith, family, and ministry. Here is a snippet from each of the three.
FAITH
We went to church as long as I can recall. My first memory was of a small Presbyterian Church. I ran with the pastor’s and music minister’s sons. We were quite the gang. Found all kinds of places I guess you weren’t supposed to be. Who knew?
In those days my sisters and I were given a nickel for the offering plate. What you need to know is that up the block from the church was a corner drug store. Just so happened you could get two bubble gum cigars for a nickel. That was a much better trade off than dropping the nickel in a plate. However, when you pretend smoke a bubble cigar during church, make sure your dad is not an usher. It does not end well.
When I was in 4th grade we began attending a church closer to our home. It was a Wesleyan Church. It was there, the summer before my 7th grade year, that I discovered it wasn’t a church I needed, but Christ. I gave my life to Jesus at a Sunday night church service (anyone remember those?). Changed me then. Continues to change me now.
FAMILY
June 21, 2023 Joni and I will celebrate 48 years of marriage. And even now I am preparing the hearts of our kids to throw us a great 50th Anniversary Party!
We got married young. I was 20 and Joni 19. I know of many couples who married young, but then divorced. Why? They said they should have grown up more before marrying. I guess we could have done that, but we just decided to grow up together. As in all cases, our marriage has had its challenges. There were times we may have wanted to quit. Except one thing: We decided not to. We simply decided to wade through the ups and downs…and we have carved out a great relationship.
Our kids are all responsible, hard working, and successful in their chosen professions. They have married well. They all love Jesus. We have 8 grandchildren. I heard it said, ‘If I had know how wonderful grandkids would be, I would have been nicer to their parent.’ Or my version: Grandkids are the reward you gain by raising their parents well.
MINISTRY
I recognized my call into full time Pastoral Ministry when I was a Senior in High School. When saying yes, I had no idea the ride it would take me on. I have served at every level of the particular movement I have been a part of for the past 50 years. I have never been in a ministry I did not enjoy. There were things I was not thrilled about, but enjoyed them all.
Ministry has allowed my family to experience life in four different states. I have traveled extensively both in North America and internationally.
My big takeaway: wherever you go, people are people. When you treat them well, you will have marvelous joy and build long-lasting relationships.
Thanks for indulging me in a very quick review of some of my reflections. Many have asked me, “What’s next?” Lots of connection with our grandkids will be the priority. And, if God sees fit, more opportunities to add value to others.