“And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body, you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.” —Col. 3:15
In this season of my journey, I find myself at a Col. 3:15 moment. Today, I have a deep and wonderful peace in my heart that I know comes from my Savior Himself.
For the past 11 years, I have had the distinct privilege of serving the wonderful people of Mid-America. I could not feel more blessed or more thankful to be part of this body of believers.
Yes, we have had our moments of disagreement. But for the most part, we have lived in peace with one another, just as Paul encourages us to. What a gift that has been. Let us continue to press together as one body, choosing encouragement over criticism, and unity over division.
Paul adds, “and always be thankful.” When I reflect on the opportunity I have been given to serve in this part of God’s vineyard, my gratitude knows no bounds. I love the Mid-America Union with all my heart. I love the beautiful fields of corn and soybeans, the incredible ranches, and the small towns scattered throughout our territory. I love the majestic mountains, the lakes, and the rivers. We are also blessed with vibrant cities and diverse cultures. Most of all, I love the people of Mid-America.
And I am deeply thankful for your faithfulness in returning tithe month after month. Because of your commitment to supporting gospel ministers, I have been able to provide for my family, including healthcare and Christian education for my children. It is humbling to serve alongside people who are so generous toward God and His work. Thank you.
My wife, Diane, has also been a major blessing in my journey here. While she had more than full-time work as president of Christian Record Services, she found ways to travel with me and support my ministry as well. I am so grateful for the shared journey of ministry we have had together.
Bright hope for the future
I am planning to retire at our upcoming constituency session this September in Lincoln, Nebraska. I have reached what is known as F.R.A.—Full Retirement Age. When I began working for the church in 1982, I never imagined that the Lord would not have returned before this time. Yet I still believe He is coming soon, and that hope brings even greater peace to my heart.
As for what lies ahead for Mid-America, I am confident it will be exciting—better than ever. In preparation for our session on September 13, on August 2 the nominating committee (selected by the conferences) will meet and nominate names to serve as president, as well as the other MAUC officers to be voted at our session (vice-president for administration and vice-president for finance). Our North American Division president, Dr. G. Alexander Bryant, will be leading out as the nominating committee does its work. Please join with me in prayer that the Lord will guide this process.
God has a mission for each of us
God’s hand is on this union and on His work here. New leadership will come with fresh ideas and renewed energy to help fulfill our mission. These are exciting times. There has never been a more meaningful time to be part of this community of faith than right now.
As we move forward, my prayer is that we never lose sight of why God has placed us here in Mid-America. We have been entrusted with a message of hope—a message that reveals the true character of God and points people to Jesus. There are still so many in our communities who do not know Him. May we each continue to find meaningful ways to reach them.
If there is anything I hope you remember from my time of service, it is this: keep your eyes on Jesus, and put your hand in His and let Him guide you each day. My heartfelt final plea is this: keep the cross of Christ at the center of your home, your workplace, your church and your community. May the love that led Jesus to the cross be the same love we share with one another and with a world that so desperately needs Him.
Love and peace to all,
Gary Thurber
