I should have known when I saw that crowd on a Sunday night. Nothing gathers a crowd like the chance to embarrass and humiliate the pastor! To think that I’m loved enough that you would “spare every expense” in recognizing the occasion of my 50th birthday is overwhelming. The thoughtfulness expressed in your gifts of vitamins, pain pills and other expressions of my aged and decrepit condition where heartwarming. I have so many to thank…of course due to my advanced age I can’t remember who they are, so I’ll just say thanks to all of you.
I was so grateful we all got to watch me age in the video. The likeness to Barney Fife was striking wasn’t it? Most shocking to some was that image of me with a shovel in my hand, “…the pastor…working? Unbelievable!” Not to mention the fashion history – hair, glasses, plaid shorts. Then there was that touching moment when I was given a certificate proclaiming that I was officially a Keenager.
It was a wonderful evening and I really do appreciate your thoughtfulness. As I said Sunday evening, I’m grateful that “church family” is not just a cliché but is an accurate and true expression of our life together. Rheadon and I are blessed to have had the privilege of raising our children in the church we grew up in. You are our family and we love you very much.
I’ll see you Sunday.
Rod