An Example to Imitate

by Tracy Gordon

“Remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you; and considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith.” –Hebrews 13:7

As I was preparing to write this devotion, the Lord put on my heart the scripture from Ecclesiastes 3:1 that reads, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Initially, I couldn’t figure out why He was nudging me with this verse, but then I thought of Pastor Greg and the new season he is entering with his imminent retirement. Before long, I was led to another scripture, Hebrews 13:7 where the author tells the Jewish believers who have stepped out of Judaism and into Christianity to, “remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you; and considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith.” Then it hit me! Pastor Greg may be leaving full-time ministry, but what a legacy he leaves with those who are blessed to call him Pastor.

As I reflected on the past 16 years of being part of our wonderful PLC family, I realized how many ministries I had the privilege of serving alongside or under the supervision of Pastor Greg. Ministries such as: Prayer Ministry, National Day of Prayer, Greeters Ministry, devotion writing, and College Moms Prayer Ministry. It didn’t take long for me to see that there was a theme here…PRAYER! 

Pastor Greg has been my prayer mentor over the past 16 years, and with the help of the Holy Spirit has done an amazing work in me. He may not know this (or maybe it was his very intention), but he stretched me and my faith into a depth I could have never imagined. He helped me truly tap into the spiritual gift of prayer and intercession and even realize that this might be one of my spiritual gifts. He must have seen something in me that I didn’t see in myself and knew I needed a nudge to be challenged. 

Pastor Greg helped and guided me over the years to become more obedient and recognize Kairos moments—those moments when God interrupts our routine and touches us, leading us to specific obedience—because when you say “yes” to something that feels uneasy, God uses you and does incredible things. Pastor Greg’s godly example taught us all to pray boldly, without ceasing, with expectancy, laying hands on one another, and claiming the authority Jesus gives us.

The way Pastor Greg lives out his faith in such a humble way is certainly worthy of imitation as the scripture in Hebrews tells us. I don’t feel Pastor Greg is truly “retiring;” just moving into a new role. I can’t wait to see what God puts on His servant Greg’s heart for this next season. I know it will be nothing short of amazing and many blessings will follow. I can hear the Lord now saying, ”Well done, my good and faithful servant. Now let’s see what’s next!”

Dear Lord, We thank You for Pastor Greg and for all of the ways he has spoken into and touched our lives. As he looks back on his blessed calling, may he be pleased with the way he has served You and Your people. And as he looks forward, may he find an abundance of joy in the new plan You will have for him. Thank You for this amazing mentor, friend, pastor, and godly example for all of us. We lift him to You in Jesus’ Name, Amen!