Tuesday, July 07, 2009

FINISHING 32 YEARS AT MEMORIAL THIS MONTH

On the 15th of July I will begin year 33. I've already reminded my staff to be signing the anniversary card which should be circulating the office. I've enjoyed a lengthy tenure at a most wonderful place.

In my early years I developed a philosophy regarding my assignment here:
  1. If things are going rough with the church, such is no time to leave.
  2. If things are going well with the church, such is no time to leave.

I was serious.

We had some pretty rough years....about a decade and a half worth. While opponents had names and were clearly vocal (and rude), there were others who were awesome and faithful. For them I could not walk away. I was mindful of children. They asked for none of the upset. I could not leave them. When things are going roughly, that's no time for me to be leaving.

Today I work for the dream church. It took many years to see God develop it but I always believed He could and He would. We have four best-class shepherds who care more for the flock than their personal reputation. God blesses us accordingly.

If I were to wonder what one move God did here which turned the church from being bogged in controversy to living in abundance, my estimate would be when we began to believe the Holy Spirit works directly in our lives.

Regardless of whats, whys, and whose, I am the luckiest preacher I ever met. I'm serious about that statement. Who wouldn't want to get to be where I am....and I get to be here.

Congratulations to me!

9 comments:

jason reeves said...

Congratulations Terry.

The Kingdom is filled with those you have touched, and continue to impact.

Glory to God!

Jason Reeves

Brenda said...

I am so excited to spend another year, or two, or ten with you! Does this mean I get to send you another card???

Stoogelover said...

I think you are a one in a million preacher ... and I mean that in the best way possible. Congratulation to you and to your staff and eldership and congregation. You bless me through your blog and writings (when I got rid of over 2,000 books from my library, I kept all of yours). Thank you, Terry.

Anonymous said...

Terry,
Congratulations. I've only been here 26, but have similiar feelings.
Love,
Larry

Christi Bloomer said...

How fortunate for us! And how fortunate that you feel utterly grateful and content where you are right now! Most people search a lifetime for that. Glad you feel that way because it shows in everything you do!

jackie chesnutt said...

Congratulations, my friend. You've been a blessing to so many folks over these years. I love you. Give our love to Mary, as well.

Anonymous said...

Sheesh! One would think that by now you'd drop the word "luckiest" from your vocabulary! Faith, blessing and calling ain't got nothin' to do with luck!

Wendy said...

Congratulations to you and Mom! Hope you have a fun week at VBS! We've been blessed/lucky/so happy to have a church family like Memorial Drive. Love you!

Leon Mission Effort said...

Congratulations Mr. Rush! I know I've been blessed the little bit of those 32 I was involved with Memorial! Keep your positive spirit and prayful habits and who knows how many more years God will use you in that place. Your heritage has blessed untold millions around the world!!! msg