Lessons from The Last Good-Bye
November 9th, 2006Recently I began a new work at the South Yukon Church of Christ in Yukon, OK (outside of OK City). It is going to be an exciting work and I am anxious to get out of boxes and to the work.
Before we got there, however, we had to say good-bye to our former church. I have always hated good-byes. I grew up as a Navy brat and made frequent moves. I usually had made a good friend or two about the time we had to move. As a Minister, I have had a similar experience. Hopefully I have learned a lesson or two from the last good bye.
One of the things that struck me so hard in our good-bye was the outpouring of affection we received. You always think there is time to tell people how you feel about them and then suddenly time is up. We received such warm regards that we could not believe it. At the same time, we felt the need for reciprocation but were out of time. This time I want to appreciate people and TELL them. I may say it face to face, I may write a card or an e-mail but I intend to be sure I give honor to whom honor is due.
A second lesson that I want to learn and do is to invest in PEOPLE. People are the only lasting parts of creation. Jesus died for people, not the animals, not the earth, and not even the angels. It is about people. He spent at least three years investing himself in the disciples. Look at the dividends of such an investment — the name of Jesus has been heard all over the world because of the commitment of the twelve, the 120, and then the 3000+.
I want to follow the example of Jesus and teach the Bible to PEOPLE. I want to be a Mentor to PEOPLE. I want to make investments that matter in the eternal long run.
A third lesson that struck me is the value of encouragement. Scott is one of my friends from my former church. One of the reasons that I like Scott is because he is a constant source of encouragement. He is a modern Barnabas. Whenever I am around him, I feel better about myself. I want to be that kind of friend to others. I want to be their cheerleader and source of encouragement. There is too much to pull us down in the world, I want to pick people up.
The church gave us a going away party the last Sunday we were in town. The gifts were nice and appreciated. What I will always remember is the love that was shown to me. What I have learned is to love others the way Jesus did.
Keep the Light Burning!
Perry
