Just a Moment…

“Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith,” Heb 13:7.  How thankful we are for former pastors who faithfully taught us God’s Word.  Outcome in this verse refers to one’s accomplishments in life. Congregations are to follow such godly leaders by precept (what they taught) and example (how they behaved).  We are to remember them – to appreciate them, to honor them.  

What a joy it is to welcome back home Pastor Reid Kitchen. Reid and his wife Bev, who was promoted to glory earlier this year, served Christ here at Holt Baptist Church in the 1980s. Reid, in his retirement, continues to serve Christ at a Christian retirement park in Florida. This month he is revisiting the various churches he pastored. 

I met Reid in the 1990s – we were part of the same association of churches here in Michigan. His son, Ron and wife Penny, became members of the church where I was the pastor. Ron served as a deacon for years.  In the fall of 2006, it was Reid Kitchen who asked me if I would be interested in coming here. He had been filling the pulpit during the absence of the pastor.  God used this man to bring me to HBC. He spoke at my installation service the following year.

You might not know Reid personally, but we as a church have this opportunity today to honor him as Scripture commands us. Thank you, Reid for your service. Well done, good and faithful servant.