Yesterday was the final Sunday of ministry for Pastor Don and Laurie Chapin, completing over 10 years of faithful ministry as Student Ministries' Pastor. I had the opportunity to share some brief thoughts with the Chapins and our congregation at the end of the morning service. I thought I'd post them on my blog in case you were not able to attend:
Today is a day of transition…not only for the Chapin family, but also for South Baptist Church. Through the years, South Baptist Church has been a significant stop along God's path for many servants of Christ. Within this church family, many people and many Pastors have had the opportunity for God to develop the heart and the skills that they will need for the next stage of their journey of faith. This is no different for Pastor Don and Laurie. God led them here for 10 years of their journey and we've had the privilege of not only benefiting from their ministry, but also ministering to them. Their impact here will be felt for generations. And our impact on their lives will last a life time. I think that’s pretty cool!
Thank you, Don and Laurie for your investment in our lives through these years! It has been a blessing to serve along side you and to share in the blessings of seeing lives changed. May God bless you and your family as you follow His call in your lives!!! We love you and will be praying for you!!!
In 1 Peter 5:1-10, the Apostle Peter gives the greatest words of advice anyone has ever given a pastor. He shares these words that I want to share with you, Pastor Don and Laurie, today as you embark on your own great adventure serving the Lord as Pastor of Solid Rock Baptist Church.
"To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: 2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; 3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. 5 Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. 6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 8 Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. 10 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. 11 To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen."
Pastor Larry Burk (12/30/2012)