Ed Jones, Pastor
It’s my anniversary! However, it’s not what most would think. On Sept. 4, 2016, I delivered my first sermon as pastor of Fellowship At The Ranch Church. To say that the years have flown by would be an understatement. Allow me to recall the sequence of events that brought us to this incredible church.
It all began when a dear friend, Tom, gave my name to the chair of the Pastor Search Committee on April 19, 2016. The date is significant for another reason, for on that day in 1984, the Lord freed me from bondage and saved me. April 19 is also special to me, because it was on that day in 1775 that Americans first stood against the British at Lexington and that the “shot heard round the world” was fired at Concord’s North Bridge. I am an unabashed patriot, and I believe God gave me that little extra perk to accompany my rebirth.
For nearly five months, months that passed with agonizing slowness, I submitted materials, gave sermons, answered seemingly endless questions, and learned again and again to wait upon and trust the Lord. The love and comfort of a dedicated and patient wife helped calm my anxiety and kept my on-again, off-again confidence in check. Well, as the Lord would have it, the elders called, and members of Fellowship call me to the pulpit, and I am forever humbled and grateful.
Since that day, I’ve discovered love only the body of Christ could produce. From that first day, person after dear person has prayed for us and wished us nothing but well. In addition, we’ve made friendships that have buoyed us as I took on the task of shepherding the wonderful people of Fellowship At The Ranch.
I pondered long and hard about whether I should identify people by name who have helped us in our transition. After prayer and reflection, I decided that it would take more space than the editor allows. Plus, I would no doubt forget this or that special saint who offered assistance when we most needed it.
So, to all the wonderful men and women of Fellowship At The Ranch, thank you. Words cannot express the deep sense of gratitude and affection we have for each of you who choose to worship with us every Sunday morning. You have ministered to Edie and me far above our ability to return the blessing. We pray for you and praise our Great God for having brought us to this place at this time.
Blessings, all!
Ed Jones pastors Fellowship At The Ranch Church at Robson Ranch. This nondenominational church meets at the Robson clubhouse on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. Visit Fellowship’s website www.fellowshipattheranchchurch.com for information.