Tuesday, November 14, 2006

Preacher props

I remember the moderate nervousness, maybe even a little trepidation, we all felt in the time following our loss of David Lewis. I had a strong confidence in our Elders and the integrity of our congregation, we would march on. Nevertheless, the immediate significance of the decisions being made loomed over us all. For me, it was all relieved in an instant.

I distinctly remember Dad informing me that the Elders have been talking with Steve Miller about the possibility of moving to the area and serving as our minister. I felt confident that this was God’s deliverance. I knew Steve was the right choice. He knew us, he knew our situation, and most importantly, he knew himself. I sure Steve could relate to us many ups and downs he has experienced in the 12 or so years he has served us. But for me, he has been a steady presence, a constant and patient prodding toward the higher calling.

It is no small task to serve as a minister of a local congregation. It takes a broad skill-set, a thick skin, and a strong heart. Steve is that man. We are blessed to have him with us.

Don’t you agree?

[P.S. Bill Gnade is in fine form with a penetrating discussion of the idols of Christianity -> Contratimes ]

6 comments:

Scotty G said...

I agree Steve is a great presence and awe-inspiring speaker and a first-rate asset for Sunshine.

Eric said...

Steve has a unique ability to work behind the scenes as well as being visible in the pulpit. So many ministers and church leaders have such a love affair with being "visible" and seen that they neglect what just might be their true, albeit less visible, talents.
We are fortunate that Steve is so dynamic.

jamie riley said...

Hey guys I know Steve would really be blessed to know you all feel this way.
I can't vouch for how things were upon Steve's arrival at Sunshine. But I can tell you that since I've been at Sunshine he has always been wonderful to work with, and he has a heart for God and God's people. I've been blessed to work with him wery closely under a lot of different circumstances and he's always the same godly man.

He really is a gift to us.

Anonymous said...

It really is nice to see God work through Steve. I believe his heart is for the lost. We truly have been blessed with great elders, ministers, and other leaders in our congregation. Other people in the past like Fern Thompson, Don Lemon, and others have been great examples and encouragers. It really is nice to see what a Christian looks like.

Anonymous said...

i wasn't there (wrong country, wrong state)... but can appreciate what you're sharing!

God bless
Maria in the UK
www.inhishands.co.uk

Aaron McCray said...

Steve demonstrates a true passion of what it is to be a servant of the LORD. You can tell Steve steps aside and lets the LORD use him in any capacity he needs him.

We are truly blessed as a congregation to have ministers, elders, deacons, etc.. that want to be servants of the LORD.