Pastor Appreciation Month 2018

October is Pastor Appreciation Month. This post is dedicated to all the pastors who have shepherded, taught, trained, and discipled me (in chronological order).

Reverend Russell Lee - My first pastor, who taught me that God was important and that hell was bad. I didn't understand a lot as a little kid, but I'm thankful for the foundation of God that you helped establish in my heart.

Reverend Jim Rodden - You helped me understand how Jesus died for my sins and by believing on Him, I could have eternal life. I'll always remember confirmation classes and the peace you had when you preached.

Reverend Dee Dee - While I didn't know it at the time, you showed me how to persevere through adversity with grace.

Reverend Ron Litten - You taught me how to fight the good fight and the importance of pouring out everything for God. I'll always remember how you gripped the cross in your hand while you preached. It helped me remember (as I'm sure it did you) that without it, I am dead in my sins. Thank you for your leadership, friendship, and for being a part of my family, not just my pastor.

Reverend Rick Caldwell - You are a true discipler! You taught me how to have a personal relationship with Jesus and helped me to fall in love with the word and the body of Christ. You allowed me to be a part of your family and provided a home away from home during my college years.

Pastor Lon Solomon - I first heard you on the radio on the "So What?" broadcasts. Because of that, when I moved to the DC area, I came to McLean Bible Church. There wasn't much I didn't learn there. Thank you for the dynamic and holistic way you taught the word of God and the comprehensive ministry you led.

Pastor Todd Phillips - You made coming to church cool. I looked forward each week to the message you brought in way that was relevant to my generation. Your love for missions was contagious and taught me the importance of having a global perspective of the gospel.

Pastor Finny Matthew - I don't think I've seen anyone preach with as much intense, genuine, heartfelt passion as you. It's so intense that it's almost tangible. Thank you for your heart for those who have been forgotten and for teaching me how to see them and love them.

Martha Brown - You don't have the title of pastor officially, but you are shepherd! You are as gentle and loving as Finny is intense. Your passion to love others is truly heavenly and am so thankful to be led by your example.

Pastor Andrew Moroz - You've taught me many things, but I think I'll highlight your faithfulness. No matter what challenges came, you faithfully sought the Lord for His will and your team for wise counsel. Thank you for that demonstration and the respect you show me as your sister in Christ.

Pastor Brenton Lehman - You always preach your heart with a side of humor, and a dash of "soul." Your energy is contagious and you always remind me of the importance of carrying the gospel into social justice issues.

Pastor Nate Taylor - Your sermons seemed to say, "I really want you to get this because I know it will help you to live better." And that wasn't a cliché, it was the true desire of your heart. Thank for your real life stories that taught me Jesus is for everyday life.

Pastor Brian Friberg - You truly taught me the heart of worship. Your commitment to excellence is admirable and your ability to mentor is amazing. And you are the epitome of a team player.

Bishop Keith Anderson - My big brother in the faith. Thank you for adopting me as your little sister and leading by example.

Pastor Ray Kingrea - Your enthusiasm for God's word and desire to be used more by Him are greatly appreciated. You always checked on me at just the right moment. Thank you for your obedience to reach out and the encouragement.

Bishop Ricardo Reeves - You've only been my pastor for  two months and the impact you've made on my life has already been tremendous. Thank you for expanding my understanding of God and myself.

I'm so grateful for each pastor I've had the privilege to be shepherded by. This list is limited to the main teachers I have sat under, but I appreciate all the of the many pastors, associate pastors, teachers, and staff that have contributed to my faith journey. God used each of you strategically to help me become the woman of God I am today. I truly am eternally thankful and pray the Lord will increase the favor on each of your lives.