Passing the Torch

It’s hard to put a finger on the things that have so significantly figured into making us who we are today. Sometimes it is hard to even pinpoint who those people are. My friend John Dobbs has encouraged his friends to post tributes to those who have significantly influenced them in their ministries. For me, this is no easy task. I’ve not possessed a mentor who has been able to work with me in the way I would like and need. Thankfully, of late, men have begun to fill that void, but we are just starting the process. Therefore, their influence is minimal at the moment.

There are a number who have been vital to my life. I’m truly indebted to Trey Morgan. His passion and heart for people has forced me to evaluate the quality of my own ministry. By being the light of Jesus, he has caused others, in particular myself, to glorify God in their own lives (Matt. 5:14-16). I wouldn’t be who I am today, in part, had I not come to find friendship with Trey. My friend and fellow minister, Clay Martin, whom I’ve known since 3rd grade has been a strong presence in my life. He’s been there for me through think and thin. There are numerous others for whom I frequently give thanks. But there is someone to whom I am incredibly indebted who flies under the radar. This person wouldn’t be considered a “minister” in the professional sense. This person doesn’t stand behind a pulpit. This person doesn’t get paid by a church. But this person is a minister to be sure. Every Christian should minister in whatever capacity possible because this was the life of their Savior.

My wife, Tisha, has been an amazing ministry presence in my life. Unfortunately, I haven’t always been one who was willing to value her thoughts about things. When I began to, though, I found her insights intriguing and informative.

Most of all, though, she has been an incredibly stable source of support to me in my ministry. She has sought to keep me grounded. She has reminded me that I cannot please everyone, nor do I have to. When I get down she is there. In my darkest moments she has been there. Even though we both know that the life I’ve given her wasn’t what she really signed up for (the minister’s wife thing), she has been a trooper through it all.

Tisha has not confined her ministry to me either. She has served women who were contemplating leaving their husbands. She even gave up a kidney to save the life of a child not her own. Her rationale? Jesus died for her, so giving up a kidney to help a five year-old boy parents not lose their son was her faith in action. That single act has affected me, maybe, more than anything. Her faith is amazing. She believes in agape. She shows it to me, our kids, as well as to others. People have learned that she will speak her mind, so beware what you ask of her. She is, truly, a gift from God!

This is my tribute and I am thankful that someone like Tisha has walked with me the way she has for my 1o years of ministry. I’ve made many mistakes. We both have. She has seen me through them all, and that has made all the difference!