RCC Family,
As fast as my ALS disease has progressed and its complications have forced me to stay home because of breathing problems and muscle weakness, I did not get the chance to express my appreciation for you and bid my farewell.
As many of you know, I hoped I’d had another nine years in serving you as pastor, but outside of a miracle, it appears our sovereign Lord has other plans. He certainly knows what He is doing. I want you to know how much I’ve loved serving you as your minister. I’ve made several mistakes, of which you have not only forgiven me, but you embraced me in love as a brother. Thank you. But we’ve also shared so very many good times. I hope and pray you remember those times and maybe even remember a few of them with a smile.
But whether in good times or hard times, I praise God that we’ve remained together as the body of Christ. We’re a family, and you have blessed me greatly. I pray I have blessed you, and if not, if I’ve offended anyone, I pray we say our farewells in peace and love. For I deeply love you. God and Jesus know how much I love you.
I’m one of the most blessed people on the face of the earth. My two loves of professions upon graduating high school was to farm and/or go into ministry. Well, I was blessed with full time farming and then blessed in serving you here. And as much as I loved farming, serving you here has been the biggest blessing in my life.
I just couldn’t leave without letting you know how much you mean to me. And I know how much you love Peggy and me because of your outpouring of love in our difficult time now with this disease. Thank you for all the cards, prayers, food, and help.
All of you are special: the elders and their leadership in compassion and love; the church board and their willingness to forge ahead to grow this congregation and make you stronger for the future of RCC; the ladies groups are special in your activities and ministries to help the congregation, plus all of you are so special in all you do and in the many ways you serve. Every one of you, in however you serve, are vital to Christ and this congregation.
As for me, it appears my time is done. I am finishing my race here on earth, and passing the baton on to the next minister. As Marty preached a few Sundays ago, Christ is the Cornerstone. This congregation is not about me or anyone else here. It’s all about Christ. Serve Him well.
As I now prepare to meet my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, I bid you farewell, Take care and remain faithful. Fight the good fight for Jesus. Finish your race well, and may God bless you until the day Jesus returns and takes us home to His Father in heaven.
Love you
Kenny
