For six weeks I watched a beautiful transformation take place and the Lord allowed me a place of honor, up close, taking it all in. No picture captures it more perfectly than one particular scene from Pastor Mark and Cheryl’s sending off party.
Much of the evening had been spent honoring the two of them, but this one portion epitomizes both Pastor Mark’s and Pastor Robert’s heart. They were both welcomed up front, fittingly to the altar, along with our longest active member and a very dear friend, Ginny Dominquez. She first stood before Mark, with a shepherd’s staff in her hands, a symbol of how faithful, tenderly, and lovingly he had served this family of believers for 15 years. She spoke to him about the way he’d lived out these virtues before us and how thankful we’ve been for his care. The staff was then extended to him and embraced before being offered back to Ginny and then transferred to Robert. Words of welcome, holy expectation, and trust were offered to him, believing God had brought about this change, this transition of shepherds over a flock. Robert then also embraced the staff and humbly accepted the responsibility. Tears were in his eyes and gratitude was on his lips for Mark, who’d walked so close beside him these last six weeks, and for the Lord’s call and for the family welcoming.
It was simply the most beautiful and emotional transfer of leadership I’ve ever witnessed, rote with care and concern for one another, mutual respect and true brotherhood. Yet, it was not a scene which unfolded in that moment alone. For those six weeks (the first two of these occurring before either of them knew what would transpire) I watched and walked near them. There were many early morning meetings, at Starbucks of course, which really centered in their heart-filled exchange about our church family, listening together to what the Lord was saying. There was perhaps the most wonderful family camp we’ve ever held. At one point Mark and Cheryl were prayed for by the entire church (a moment I sadly missed). There were times of concerned conversations for each other and those they had been called to care for. I watched as they both served each other in prayer, counsel, and even in work. All along they were of one heart, mind, and spirit.
They walked together so well through this transition, as dual shepherds of a single flock because God had graced them and because they were both set upon loving God with all they had and loving others well. Yes indeed, I had a very privileged place of honor near them both as they walked along. However, it was not my privilege alone. This journey, taken by two shepherds was not done in private, as though isolated from those they cared for. It was walked out in front them, lived out free of pride or shame, or any other ill thing. It was walked out openly because it was ordained of the Lord, and those of us a part of this church family can all attest to the privilege of witnessing the beauty of their six week journey together. Thank you Pastors Mark and Robert for giving us such an example.
