We Rode Together

In John Wesley’s Journal, he would sometimes conclude his entry with the words, “We rode together” referring to another circuit riding pastor who was traveling with him. It was a simple statement and yet one of endearment. You learn a lot about another person when you ride together, especially in the days of riding horseback. When you spend time with another person, you begin to understand their heart – even if not many words are spoken. I begin this week’s blog with the same phrase. I have ridden together with a great brother in the faith and partner in the gospel for over three years here at First Church – Kirk Norman. I didn’t really know Kirk before I arrived at First Church, though I did know his parents Billee and Randa. Actually, Kirk and Mary McIntire helped bail me out of my first unofficial event here at First Church. Stan Cosby had already left and I was attending the Asbury Alumni Luncheon here on Memorial Day in 2007 when the crowd overwhelmed room 235 and we had to hustle to set up additional tables and find more food (I believe Mary prayed over the chicken and then cut the pieces in two!). Kirk was there helping me too! I barely knew where the kitchen was at that time.

I soon learned that I could depend on Kirk to do whatever was necessary to get ministry done effectively and timely. He became my right hand man. We met together, consulted together and prayed together. There were times I sent him home by leaving a note on his desk – “Go home Kirk!” He returned the favor on occasion as well. I had come to love Elizabeth and their family, and I knew they would appreciate having their husband and father home some evenings.

Kirk has been an invaluable help to me here at First Church. He has led us in worship, brought God’s Word with passion, helped baptize our Youth, officiated at weddings and memorial services (including yesterday for Kevin Collier’s Dad) and we’ve celebrated Holy Communion together every month since I came. We’ve done team teaching together on videos and he introduced me to our Marathon Ministry where we shared together in the “Blessing of The Shoes” – a very moving time each year. We have become friends, as well as brothers in Christ. I will miss him deeply – as we all will – but I know he’s trusting God to lead him and I know He will! It’s not easy “getting out of the boat” but to quote John Ortberg - “if you want to walk on water, you’ve got to get out of the boat!” I don’t know what God has in store next for Kirk, but I know it will involve building the Kingdom of God here on earth! That’s Kirk’s heart and passion.

I wish God’s very best to you - Kirk, Elizabeth, Josh, Emily, Amanda and Sonya. What a special family you are. Thanks for serving the Lord here with us. We hope to see you soon and often!!

Yours in Christ,

Mark
PS – Please join us this Sunday at 12:30 as we host a Reception in honor of The Norman Family. Blessings!