Thursday, May 8, 2008

What a good pastor says

I called Bro. Charles Swilling, pastor of my sponsoring church, Rocky Springs MBC in Jacksonville, and told him about the building deal falling through, and apologized for making such a big deal about it.

His response, "I wouldn't trade your zeal for anything."

Though the news of the building deal falling through lifted a weight off my shoulders, I still felt like an idiot at the time. Bro. Swilling's words encouraged me, and I will keep my zeal for the work in Brownwood.

Anyhow, I just wanted to brag about what a good, supportive pastor I have.

11 comments:

Billy Howard said...

Don't be so rough on yourself! You didn't sound like an idiot. Keep serving and never lose your zeal like many do!

Leland Acker said...

On the contrary, I'm actually pondering how to use my new job in Coleman to launch a second church there. Can you imaging launching two churches at once? Wouldn't that be awesome?

(I've been told I should slow down, but I just can't help it!)

Anonymous said...

Bro. Acker,

I don't know if this is too late, but do you have any more dates open for deputation? We have our business meeting Sunday night and I am thinking asking my church about having you come and present the work. I think there's still enough time to plan on having you in May. I can't make any promises or provide any details (except we are an ABA church in E Texas so you have an idea of where you would be going) as of yet since it has not been brought up, but I just needed to check with you to see if it is too late to schedule you. I have nothing but appreciation for the fact you are Landmark Missionary Baptist. Never waver from that! One question I would like to respectfully ask you before I bring you up to the church. Will you be leading the new church in a traditional style, contemporary style, or blended style of worship? God bless you in your work and never lose your zeal and your vision. :)

Anonymous said...

Just to clarify: I am not the pastor of the church(I sure made it sound like I am, lol). However, I will probably be asking his advice before I bring it up to the church about having you. He may want to bring it up himself.

Leland Acker said...

Here's the deal.

Worship services will be traditional in format (song service + preaching), but we will possibly use some contemporary songs. I have a high standard of music that should be used in worship services. It must be scriptural and God-honoring, otherwise it offends Him.

Leland Acker said...

My availability in May is limited, but if y'all are interested, give me a call at (903) 625-1005.

One of the most common questions I'm asked is if I preach from KJV. I do.

Anonymous said...

Yes, I can imagine! I've been there. Be careful without a team or you will burn out. Don't neglect your family in the process!

Leland Acker said...

Balancing family, job and ministry is a delicate act that I have to admit I have not mastered yet.

As for Coleman, that's something we won't be able to launch into for at least another year, unless things really get to poppin' in Brownwood.

Anonymous said...

Brother Acker,

Will you still be doing any deputation in June if we can't get you scheduled before then?

Leland Acker said...

Well, May is not going to happen.

So, I'll be willing to visit your church on a Sunday evening in June. I'm planning on having Bible studies and/or worship services in my home on Sunday mornings in June, beginning June 8. I will not be available May 18, 25, or June 1 for personal reasons.

I hate to be so limiting, but my agenda is getting pretty busy with the relocation and everything.

Leland Acker said...

Just so everyone knows, I am not giving up on blogging. I have two major projects going on at work right now, plus the relocation and everything.

In the coming days, I will be adding posts about our move, plans for June and July, and more devotional thoughts from God's Word. Look for something within the next 24-48 hours.