Thank You, Ridgecrest

For the past 25 years of ministry together. It has been pure joy. It feels like yesterday when we were starting here at RBC. Like Paul, I can say, “I thank him who has given me strength, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he judged me faithful, appointing me to his service,” (1 Timothy 1:12).

Alison and I were overwhelmed by the kindness expressed to us last Sunday from the church and through your gifts, beautiful cards, encouraging words, and messages. There are so many, it is going to take us weeks to get through them all—we are reading and cherishing each one of them, Thank you! It continues to be my honor to be your pastor, and Lord willing our journey together will continue for some time to come.

As I was contemplating all the years of ministry, and in particular these last 25 years, I reflected on some things that the Lord has done and taught me, and since I am currently preaching on “Lessons for Life…” I thought I would share a few things that I’ve learned through these years.

1. I’ve learned that a God-given vision is vital for traveling with God. God really did put us here on purpose. Capturing that purpose and living according to the plans of God is the most important life ambition we can have.

2. I’ve learned that all things really are possible with God. I’ve had a front row seat that has allowed me to see God do things that people told me could not happen. During these years I’ve seen God do the miraculous. I’ve seen Him heal the sick. I’ve seen Him save those that some thought were hopelessly lost. I’ve seen Him restore marriages. I’ve seen Him miraculously provide resources to accomplish ministry when we did not know where the funds would come from. I have seen Him call out young and old to the ministry and mission field. And so many other expressions of our miracle working God.

3. I’ve learned that the Church of God really is the greatest institution on earth. With all its frailties and all its imperfections, the church is still the most powerful army God has established for accomplishing His work.

4. I’ve learned that there is no substitute for Worshipping God. It is true that God inhabits the praise of His people. Spirit-filled corporate worship lifts our soul, exalts our Savior, and soothes our heart when we are weary.

5. I’ve learned that the people of God are good. They are not perfect, but they are good and willing to serve each other, love each other, trust each other, and demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit.

6. I’ve learned that years together makes the shepherd and the sheep’s hearts grow fonder. It is true that the journey is made sweeter by the company you travel with. I still love getting up each day and coming to the church to do the work of ministry.  

7. I’ve learned that the Kingdom of God advances with the help of a great team. As someone said, “There’s no ‘I’ in team.” I have been blessed with a wonderful team. Including a wife who has been behind the scenes to strengthen, pray, and encourage me in the work.

Well, I could go on with more and there is certainly more ahead, but space does not permit. So, for now, thanks again for 25 years and remember, God is always trying to take us some place new. I love being your Pastor!

For God’s Glory Alone,
Pastor Ray

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