Thoughts From Your Regional Minister — November 2020
By Steve Martin, Regional Minister
Recent news prompted in part by the election has featured several examples of those who have made it amid great odds. They typically portray an individual who overcame adversity, and they often reference a mentor or a leader or sometimes a parent whom they credit for inspiring them to “give it all” to succeed.
The same is true in ministry. October is the month in which we recognize those who serve in various ministries across the denomination. I am amazed and inspired by several of these stories. But you need not look far beyond the Kansas region to see where leaders of great vision have established values of faith and service. As a region, we benefit greatly from investments which our forbearers established and, in this age, these are producing values far beyond their original worth. The significance of ministry has been modeled for us by local church pastors and regional ministers alike. Kansas is known for its leaders.
When I look back, I give thanks for Sunday School teachers, youth group leaders, ministry colleagues, college, and seminary professors, all of whom had influence on my life. These were leaders who lived their faith and helped me to see what a faithful life looked like. We learn and grow by seeing others and then doing as they have demonstrated. Yes, we are grateful for the ministers in our churches and other settings. But I hope we never forget the many saints who teach classes, lead youth, and serve in a myriad of other ways, all pointing to Jesus as the “perfector of our faith.” May we celebrate and always give thanks to God!