Boy, I have dropped the ball big time in regards to an updated blog. I didn't even write one over Christmas. My apologies, and a pledge to do better.
The injury to Buffalo Bills Damar Hamlin and his miraculous recovery has been something to behold. It is something to praise the Lord for. We pray for his total healing and that he would be a testimony of the grace of God, know Jesus, and telling his story to the world. It was a moment when it literally felt like the world stopped, especially the sports world,with a life on the line. Even the wonderful support of the Bengals coaches, players, and fans was a blessing to watch and learn from. It was encouraging.
Encouragement is something we all need and thank you FSBCamden for all you have done for and given me. Next week, the first week in February marks the 30 Year Anniversary of my first sermon here in Camden. The time line is as follows: February 1993 - first Sunday - first message as pulpit supply. April 93 - Became interim pastor. July 11 -1993 was called to be your pastor. The first two years I was Bi-vocational at the Post Office in Dayton and then went full time. Where has the time gone? Thirty years is for old guys, but wait. As I looked in to the mirror I am starting to see an old guy. I am starting to be asked questions like, how old are you? ...61.How long are you going to go? Have you thought about retirement? While a specific date isn't on my radar, I realize that we are in the season to begin to pray and think about what is best for FSBCamden.
I can say I have never enjoyed preaching any more than I do right now. Being here so long has given me the blessing of seeing some born, graduate, maybe college graduation, married, maybe children born, and sadly even burying many family members.
Small town America isn't for everyone, but for Greg and Renee Jackson now, and when were raising our family, there is no place we would rather be. Camden is home.
So whatever this season brings us, we will trust the Lord and serve Him with all we have.
Until He comes...we will go!
