Most of us like to be acknowledged on our birthdays. On a Sunday, what would be better than a birthday chorale singing in our honor?
When I first posted this, it was my wife’s birthday and she was directing the children’s ministry at our church. Since her birthday fell on a Sunday that year, I got the kids in Happy Birthday to her.
Some churches are always searching for the latest technology to enhance a worship service. So one day, I thought of this “Sermons in 3D Cartoon.”
Isn’t it amazing what a little creativity and technology can add to a sermon or presentation? Still, I think 3D technology would be a bit distracting. However, it could be effective, and a little convicting when a pastor would reach right out to you.
I’ve been in church life since I was an infant. My grandfather was a pastor and my parents were heavily involved. So I used my church experience over the years to come up with this different kind of shepherd cartoon.
Leadership can be tough when nobody wants to be a follower. It’s even harder when everyone in the group is about aggressive as a sheep, yet refuse to be led. I’ve seen a few pastors face this situation. You have to beware of sheep with fangs!
Last night, I got to see a very good man and woman honored. They are a couple of great integrity. Rolland Daniels is a man whom I have seen in various situations. Firstly, I have seen him has my pastor. Secondly he was my wife’s boss, and as someone who remained the same through good and challenging times. Thirdly, I’ve even seen him as a client when my company published his book.
In addition, I’ve seen his wife, Ellen in action as a pastor’s wife, classmate, and friend.
Through it all, I’ve seen their integrity shine through. Last night, we held an event as Rolland retires from ministry as a pastor. But like many have said about him, he by no means is retiring from ministry.
Over the last several months, I’ve read his latest book, Legacy Maker: Life a Life that Matters.
He writes it as a tribute to the values his father passed down to him. They are values I’ve seen him display as well. As a result, it was good to see a man and his wife honored for decades of faithful ministry. It has also been so good to see a faithful man being honored for these values.
The first conversation I remember having with Rolland was at the Anderson University Kardatzke Wellness Center. It was before my wife or I worked with him. I considered him an acquaintance. We were both in the weight room when he spotted me.
He walked towards me. With a warm smile he said, “Hey, Kev! How’s G?”
“G” is short for my son’s name. I told him how he was doing well in football, and about to finish up high school I mentioned he was considering Anderson University for college.
He replied, “Man, Kev. You must be proud! That boy is going places. God has his hand on him. I hope you know that!”
I thanked him and we went on with our workouts. That touched me. Did he know my family that well? And he was speaking life and affirmation about my son! He didn’t have to do that. But it made my day. And you can bet I let my son know!
Later, he became my church’s executive pastor. My wife was the children’s pastor and she reported to him. We learned he was just as effective and genuine as a boss compared to behind a pulpit. We were so impressed because those are two very different sets of skills.
He was very supportive of us when my daughter was diagnosed with arthritis. He would ask my wife about her and encouraged my wife to take her on trips to the children’s hospital. Last night, he was honored for being a good family man. I also know him as someone who honored and nurtured my family.
He was gracious and encouraging when we felt called to another church and another state. Later, my wife loved working with him so much, she agreed to work with him one more time before he retired. We haven’t regretted it.
Rolland’s wife, Ellen was also honored tonight. She and I were in MBA classes at about the same time Rolland was our executive pastor. I found her to be just as genuine, caring and encouraging. There are so few couples who walk the walk. They are a couple that exudes integrity, teamwork and hospitality.
As the husband of a pastor, I’ve had few role models. Ellen showed me that you can work on your own career goals while supporting your spouse in ministry.
Therefore, last night was bittersweet. We will miss them as they pursue a new stage in their lives. No doubt, they will show their integrity, warmth, and love for God wherever they go. My wife and I will genuinely miss them! They are the real deal!
I recently wrote an article for Church of God news on a California pastor’s effectiveness at developing leaders. It is good when someone takes a leadership role. It is even better when a person mentors others to be leaders as well.
This has got me thinking about how I can be more effective as a leader.
This pastor is making an impact in his community. I got a lot of great lessons from his example.