As my final day in the USA begins I am reminiscing about my last 7 years in Southern California and all the people who have made it such a good time (and some who didn't but I want mention them - hey I just did).
I have worked with 2 churches. Firstly there was the El Cajon Blvd Church of Christ in San Diego. In the beginning I worked with two wonderful Christian elders, Floyd Melson and Tom Stavros. Two more different men you couldn't find but they proved to me that, in Christ, we are one. Soon three more men who had a big influence on me became elders. Garey Castle, who constantly showed me what true patience was, and who helped feed by hi-tech habit. Chris Delgado, whose servant spirit inspires me to this day. Mike Bucchi, whose spirit showed me that the truly powerful position on this earth was as a servant in the kingdom. (Mike was Vice Admiral over the US Navy 3rd Fleet.)
There were others at ECB. David Bates was such a joy in my life. His strength and happy spirit lifted me many times. When I sang next to him, even I sounded good. John Rudolph was a young man whose willingness to step up and and teach was so encouraging. Joey Tennison was another young man whose faith journey was a constant inspiration. Travis Moore was another young man who I loved being around and whose faith and personal support was always a great encouragement to me. Now that I think about it I have too many people to name. They were all good for me and I hope I was good for them.
The second church I worked with was the Glendale Church of Christ in the Los Angeles area. I have had a relationship with this church since the late 70s. Over the years God keeps calling me back to them and I am so glad He does. They always refreshed my soul and were always willing to learn and grow. My two elders for my work there were Wil Jackson, a godly passionate man whose heart always lifted me up, and Bill Rog , a constant and true friend with an abundance of wisdom and love. Another man who means a lot to me is Jim Settlemoir. He is a thoughtful and brave servant of God. I love James Sheldon, a wonderfully talented worship leader but more importantly a friend (his passion for sport exceeded mine). Bryan Schackmann is a true man of God, patient and caring. He was a pleasure to work with. He doesn't just talk the talk (ministers are good at that), he walks the walk. He gets the job done. Again there are too many to name.
God has truly blessed me in the past 7 years. It's been a trip with all the ups and downs of life but I am glad that God gave it to me. Now, home to Sydney, with a great deal of anticipation about who God will send into my life next.
