Redeemed 50 years with Jesus
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Good morning,
This week is special for me. Fifty years ago, God drew me to Himself. Through a series of events, including a Dear John letter, church members caring for my soul, a university professor who taught God’s word, and the convicting power of the Holy Spirit of God, brought me to my knees in repentance and belief in Jesus Christ.
Let me tell you about it.
MINISTRY YEARS
When I graduated from Boise State, I entered the ministry. I joined the Military Ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ. I ministered to the needs of our servicemen and women from all branches of service.
Then I transitioned to working in a local church in California. From there I was recruited to a position in a church ministry in Anchorage, Alaska. That is where I met my wife to be.
MARRIAGE
July 16, 1983 God gave me my wife, Kathy. She has been my friend, companion, mentor, and help mate for the last thirty-eight years. For all these years she has never wavered in her support and love for me. She is the greatest!
THE WASI ADVENTURE
November 1, 2013, I began God’s next adventure for me. Chaplain at the Wasilla Area Seniors, Inc (WASI). What a privilege to serve our fine seniors. Even more when they minister to me.
I have been given the opportunity to write a Daily Devotion on the WASI website. Preach and teach God’s word during a midweek Bible service. Minister to our sick in hospitals around the area.
THE FUTURE
God has allowed me to be here today. He still has something for me to do. I will continue to be about my Father’s business.
I am satisfied. God has tremendously blessed me. He has allowed me to serve Him in different capacities over the years. Nothing of any value for the kingdom’s sake has been by my power. All has been done through the power of God.
While pursuing my degree at Boise State, I was involved in the on campus ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ. They taught me the basics of discipleship, sharing Christ with others, and how to minister for Christ. I was challenged to higher levels of responsibility within the ministry.
Then God called me to go full time. Immediately after graduation, I was in the process of raising support. In March of 1975, I was in Monterey, California on my first assignment at the Presidio of Monterey.
Tomorrow, spiritual birthdays.
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com