In the thirty five years I have been part of Palm Beach Lakes, I have served under at least sixteen different elders. I am so thankful for the relationship I have had with each of them. Their influence on me (and on the church) has changed my life. It is remarkable that the direction in which these elders have lead us has been unchanging.
When I first visited Palm Beach Lakes, it was to introduce how to use the Engraving Heavenly Truths curriculum Bible class material that became part of the work at this church. It was a brief visit, but I was so impressed by many things on that visit.
Just a few years later, I met with the elders of this church to discuss moving from Birmingham, Alabama to be part of the work here. I will never forget that time when the elders showed me a list of the visitors from the previous Sunday, and I heard their hearts long for help in reaching the lost. “Dan, we want you to come and help us become more evangelistic. We will do whatever we can to help you help us to become a church focused on saving the lost.” How could anyone not be impressed by these words!
The direction this eldership expressed to me in those words has not changed. Over the years there have been many elderships, as some who were appointed moved away, resigned for personal reasons and some who died, but the spiritual impact has remained the same.
Last Sunday, we were part of appointing Richard Watson as an elder of this church. I was so moved by all that happened at that service. The emphasis on the ordination of Richard was spiritual, and this was especially seen in the response Richard gave as he accepted his role in becoming part of the eldership. When Richard went to Joshua chapter nine and discussed the blunder Israel made in failing to consult God, his application and promise to this church touched the hearts of all present. “I promise you that I will pray to God about every decision I make and ask that you join me in those prayers.”
The appointment or resignation of an elder always changes the church in several ways. I am so thankful that this eldership, with different men over the years, has never lost sight of the lost world. Jesus was focused on the salvation of the lost, and we have been blessed that the shepherds of this congregation model the heart of this Chief Shepherd.
Richard, thank you for your willingness to serve. With Debi standing so faithfully beside you, we are all optimistic about the future. God help us to follow our shepherds as they lead us in getting the story of the cross to a lost world. The future indeed is bright!