The Ministry of Good-Bye. The Departure of Brad & Heather Strable
Today, our church went through a difficult pain. We had to say good-bye to one of our dearest couples & life-friends. The more dear the couple the greater the pain we have to go through to practice this ministry. By far, this couple is a rare treasure that when a church discovers them, that church will be adorned with a most splendid gem of Jesus. But this gem is not for sale. Churches can’t entertain them into their midst. No, the Lord will place this gem into the crown of His Bride as a treat to His under-shepherds and the warrior-like expansion of His Kingdom.
Our personal lives and ministry have been sustained, nurtured, and cared for over these last 3 years by Brad & Heather. We have learned so much about Jesus from them. And Brad is one of my heroes. It has been a privilege to work with this passionate, holy brother who has been what every pastor could only wish for in a deacon.
In the years ahead by God’s gracious will, brother Brad will become Pastor Brad and maybe his newborn son will follow in his steps. We are so excited to play a small role in this. Brad & Heather’s hearts are to continue to serve with our ministry in the future as he shortly finishes his career in the USAF.
We opened the service to the congregation to share how their lives have been impacted and changed by the Strables. It was precious to see the many tears, hear the praises to God, and to see the whole Body just recognize before God what a blessing they had received through this couple. Brad’s boss testified in church how his life has changed to become fruitful for Jesus. Italians testified of thanksgiving to them. Africans stood and shared how they have been blessed. And many more. What a healthy hardship it is for the Church to say good-bye to its most precious. Parents pass through this valley when their children come of age. Sandy and I are getting regular practice and giving “valley-tours” now.
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