There were times I saw myself serving the church until I retired. I am not retiring - but entering into God's Waiting Room to await the plan He has for Sharron and I. I earnestly pray that God will open the door for pastoral ministry in the days ahead.
Lest I go on and on in my writing, I close this post with a simple illustration of saying Goodbye. Per Pastor Rick - I communicate best with a clip - so here goes:
Since it’s airing in February 1983, the series finale of the award-winning show M*A*S*H entitled “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen”, remains the single most watched episode and TV event of all time with more than 125 million viewers. Set during the Korean War, M*A*S*H followed the daily exploits of the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital unit located 3 miles from the front lines of the war zone. Amid the horrors of war-wounded soldiers, sniper bullets, bombs and incompetent Army guidelines-the doctors and nurses relied on humor, hijinks and hearts of compassion to keep sane. And through their common experience, the members of the 4007th became a close knit family and community.
In the episode “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen,” the community finally receives some long awaited good news-war is over and they can return home to their families and friends! It is a cause for joyful celebration and sad goodbyes. The doctors and nurses soon realize that “going home” means there current relationships will end as they depart for various destinations in the States. Here is what some refer to as one of the saddest moments of TV:
I hope many friend will join us tomorrow at 10:45am for my final Sunday at NRN. Don't forget to moves your clocks FORWARD on Saturday evening and join us for this special worship. A free carry in meal will provide food for all in attendance. I hope to see YOU there! PR
We will miss you Pastor Rick. It has been a honor to hear and learn from God's Word. Lots of love, Terri
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