Last week I arrived a little early to school and to do some long overdue studying. Then, to my surprise and delight a blast from the past walked in the door. Now, you should probably know that the school I attend is now located on the same campus as the church where I spent 25 years of my life - it was there that I started attending when I was 4, accepted Christ at age 9, heard God's call to ministry at age 26, and served on staff from age 26-29. It is a good place of incredibly, faithful and godly men and women - whom I have had the joy and delight to know for many years. I always get a bit nostalgic each week as I walk to class. There has been some remodeling to classrooms, but each time I walk down that hallway a flood of faces come to mind. I have good memories about that place and those people. And that day, I was thrilled when I got to sit and visit with Mr. Guy Cagle - the church's Worship Pastor.
We talked a little about the past. He shared incredible vision for the future. Hopefully, we encouraged one another. In the days after our conversation, I just couldn't get him off my mind. You see, on November 3, that church will honor Guy for 25 years of service. Yes, you heard my correctly --- 25 years at the same church! Wow. Some of us haven't the courage or strength to last 2.5 years in the same ministry/church. So, I decided to write a little (okay, maybe more than a little) blog to my friend and co-laborer in the Gospel....here's to you Brother Guy!
What an incredible thing to celebrate the years, days and moments that you have experienced as part of the body at Park Place Baptist Church. You are an example of stead-fast faith....through all the different situations of life. You have walked your own journey and have never abandoned the 'others' you are called to walk alongside. These days, there is much talk around Christians about 'being real and authentic'. You, sir, are a true embodient of that very attitude. Your ability to simply be who you are gave many of us the permission to simple be who we are. I love that after 25+ years your compassion for people and desire to equip others is as fresh as when you first began. What an encouragement for those us who are still in the early stages of a ministry "career"! You approach relationships with deep sincerity and refreshing silliness at the same time. Thanks for not being so much of one - that you are not the other. Thanks for speaking truth into my life - what a blessing. It has been a joy to know you and your family. I pray that the words spoken and the expressions shown to you on Saturday help you understand how God has worked through you to impact so many lives. Guy Cagle - you are a hero of faith to me!
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