This week I celebrate 19 years as pastor of First Chinese Baptist Church. We’ve seen this church grow and go for our Savior. But let’s be honest I was and still am a poor choice for this church. A 3rd-4th generation American Born congregation that is somewhat diverse but still predominately a Chinese fellowship. What in the world was God thinking bringing a mid-west born white guy into this setting? What could I offer that would impact this fellowship? Answer: nothing?
But you know what? I think that is the answer. We must go where the only way for a miracle to happen is for God to bring it about. Not our talent, not our ability, not our resources but God’s!
Theologian Frederick Buechner wrote, “Who knows how the awareness of God’s love first hits people? Every person has his own tale to tell, including the person who would not believe in God if you paid him. Some moment happens in your life that makes you say Yes right up to the roots of your hair, that makes its worth having been born just to have happen. Laughing with somebody till the tears run down your cheeks…Whether you thank God for such a moment or thank your lucky stars, it is a moment that is trying to open up your whole life. If you try to turn your back on such a moment and hurry along to Business as Usual, it may lose you the whole ball game. if you throw your arms around such a moment and hug it like crazy, it may save your soul. How about the person you know who as far as you can possible tell has never had such a moment? Maybe for that person the moment that has to happen is you.”
Well FCBC we’ve been some exciting places. Hundreds of people have walked into the waters of baptism. Many have transferred their membership to heaven. Praise God! The places we’ve served, the resources given so people’s lives can change. Has been a privilege to serve here and if still within God’s plans a few more ahead. Let us never “turn our backs” on the opportunities God is giving us to stand with another to be the people that God has called here in Fresno no matter how “crazy” it feels or even looks. God bless you all!
