It seems like only yesterday I loaded up my library and a few changes of clothes into the back of our van and relocated to Benton. Of course, yesterday is now fourteen years today. When I came in view of a call to First Baptist, I was only asked two questions. One had to do with my college allegiance and the other my political registration. I answered both questions incorrectly, but they called me anyway. After fourteen years we still do not agree about our favorite teams or politics, but the reason I came to Benton had nothing to do with politics or favorite teams.
The one unifying factor that has always tied me to others has nothing to do with who we yell for at ballgames or who we might seek to have elected to public office. There is only one election I am even remotely concerned about and that is the one dealing with our salvation. There is only one person for whom I have ever actively campaigned, and His name is Jesus. (I Corinthians 2:2) When our lives conclude, we will not be judged for our loyalty to our team or to a political party. We will be judged on how we have responded to the call of God upon our lives, and since I am a teacher, the judgment will be done more strictly. (James 3:1)
One of the great joys of living in Marshall County for the past fourteen years is having the opportunity to see how God is at work throughout our area. He is stirring hearts and drawing people to Himself just like He promised He would. It has simply been exciting to be a small part of God’s work in the western end of Kentucky. I am especially grateful to the members of First Baptist who have been so helpful and supportive, and I would also like to thank many other people who have been kind to me and my family. May God bless each of you.