August 10th was Bill's last Sunday at Stony Point. I will leave these past "Pastor's Corner" articles online so that they can be available to our church family.
Looks Like Heaven (Bill's editorial from the Pointer on 08/10/09)
I was honored and humbled to be at the center of the celebration of ministry. Frankly, it is a place that I like to avoid. Last night’s celebration, though, was incredibly meaningful for me. The chance to hear what you have meant in the lives of the people you love and care about is a remarkable opportunity that not everyone gets. I am so appreciative of those who made that possible for me. I was moved by all those who spoke, came and put together the entire evening. There are a few things that I thought I would share in this last column that I observed from last night.
First, you may not always recognize that what you are doing or saying is having any impact. I was struck by quite a few of the things said about my ministry here. I did not know, at the time, how important what I was saying or doing really was. It is good scriptural advice to "make the most of every opportunity" and be ready to share with others the things that matter.
Second, I was reminded of how important it is to lead by example. I didn’t always realize it, but there were people watching what I did and, more importantly, wanting to follow my example. All of us, as Christians, cannot take lightly the challenge to be authentic in our walk and not compromise what we believe by how we act.
Third, invest yourself into God’s work and people. It is an investment that pays rich dividends. I would not trade for anything the feelings and joy of last night. It was worth more to me than wealth or possessions. The greatest gift that I received last night was the joy in knowing that the investment of myself in others mattered. All those who pour themselves into the Lord and into people will not be disappointed.
Well, it is time to close, this column and this chapter in life. Thank you for reading each week. I have certainly enjoyed writing. God loves you. Heaven is real and Jesus died and rose again so you can go there. Remember these things. I won’t say "goodbye." This is simply, "Until we meet again." God bless you.