When I first heard that Ron and Elizabeth were leaving to assume a greater role at the Central Florida Bible Camp, my heart was pulled in two vastly different directions. There was a great sense of loss as I thought of what his absence would do to the work here at Palm Beach Lakes, and there was great joy as I thought of the impact he would have on so many young people throughout Florida.
As I sit writing this today, my mind is flooded with memories of all that he as meant to me personally and the many hours we have spent together talking about the Lord and His work. Coupled with these is the joy of working to make the plans for the church and then make them a reality.
Ron has always been a caring person and it is shown to all those around him. Time after time I have seen him deal kindly with people who would have exasperated others by their behavior. In keeping with the words of Jesus he is so concerned about those who are the least in the kingdom. So many at Palm Beach Lakes have seen Christ living in him as he dealt with them.
In the nearly twenty years we have worked side by side I have never seen him do anything wrong—regardless of the circumstances. We have never had a cross word or problem between us. How could we when he mirrors the spirit of Christ in all that he does!
The front page of this bulletin gives more details of his association with this congregation, but there is far more to Ron than this. It is the place he and Elizabeth have in the hearts of this church. We have a void that cannot be filled!
Ron’s love for young people is immeasurable. He has impacted the lives of my children and I owe him a debt for this. He has had profound impact on all those who attended Brackett Week at CFBC. If you want to see the powerful influence he and Elizabeth have on young people, just look at the spirituality of their own children.
I am pulled in two directions. I dread to see him go, but I rejoice when I think of all that lies before him. The destiny of the church lies in its young people and I am so encouraged when I think that Ron will touch so many.
Ron, thanks for being my brother and my friend!