It seems like it was just a short time ago that I received a phone call from Rick Marshall asking me if I would be interested in the position as Minster to Preschoolers and Children here at Eastern Hills. Just the night’before, Karen and I had prayed for God to open a door for a different ministry opportunity. Who knew it would be the next day!
We knew that Eastern Hills had a history of longevity with most of their staff. I also knew the history of Eastern Hills from my days at Forest Park. There were some things that were very important in a new church and a new community. Some had to be taken by faith, such as schools and some were moreLoving my family and viewing my children as” kids” and not “staff kids” was equally important. We had never lived near family, so my new church would have to love my family, especially my kids. Eastern Hills has stepped in and loved my family. Eastern Hills has indeed been an extended family to my family and me.
Missions and a desire to reach lost people were also important. I wanted to be sure that my new church was not going to be inwardly focused and blind to what was going on outside. I was thrilled when I learned about the mission trips that the Youth and RAs had been on. I was thrilled when I found out that Eastern Hills still did missions education. I am glad that the church allows me to go on mission trips serving Missionary families so that they, too, can find some rest. I do not know that I can list all that our church does for local, state, and foreign missions.
Evangelism was also important. This goes along with the missions, but I wanted to be sure that the leadership was actively involved in sharing the Gospel and that Eastern Hills was not just providing activities for activities sake. I am so glad that we have an active outreach program and that there is a burden for lost people.
We have a long way still to go to be a strong light on this hill. There are new times ahead of us that may pull us from our comfort zone. There are people to reach. There are lost people in the shadow of our church.
Acts 1:8 says, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” I am excited to be part of Eastern Hills Baptist Church as we, through the power of the Holy Spirit, spread the Gospel here and then abroad.
Greg