Do you remember what happened October 1, 1995?

Have you noticed how our seasons of life are often time-stamped around a particular date? In my grandparents generation, you could ask them, do you know what you were doing on December 7, 1941 and they could tell you. For those non-historians reading this post, December 7 was the day that Pearl Harbor was attacked in the Pacific. That day shaped a generation. If you were to ask my parents, what they were doing on November 22, 1963, they could tell you? That was the day that JFK was shot and killed in Dallas? In recent history, one could point to September 11, 2001 as a day that changed history.

Do you know what you doing on October 1, 1995? Most of you cannot remember that particular date, but I can? It's not a date that is written in your history books, it's not a date that many people remember, but on it's a day that helped shape my life and ultimately helped shape the life of our church?

On October 1, 1995, Todd and April Sturgell joined the staff of our church. They were practically newly weds, not even old enough to rent a car, but they came to us with a raw passion to do church in a different way. They came to us with an innocence and purity that echoed through their music. When I heard them sing, I could sense the presence of the Lord in them.

In those days, Todd was a little intimidated with this new church gig, but he was determined succeed. He came with an open attitude and a willingness to learn. He came with a strong work ethic and an even stronger personal set of ethics. In fact, in fourteen years, his integrity has never been in question. He was and still is the real deal, honest, straight-forward and focused.

Todd and April did not come on staff to change our church, but they have. They have led us into a deeper understanding of worship and shown us how to live out what we believe. Their creative insight has opened our eyes to new ways of seeing God. They have taught and trained people to serve alongside of them in the ministry.

Todd's leadership gifts have helped to direct our congregation in significant ways. He was the first one to push for Grovetown. He has an understanding of where we are, but an eye on the future. Not only has he shaped our congregation, but he has set an example in our denomination. Recently, he was named the national "Minister of Music" of the year, but that title does not reflect the true influence he has over the young students that flow through Lee University and our denomination.

Today is October 1, 2009 ... it has been 14 years since Todd and April Sturgell join our staff at Stevens Creek. I am so thankful for their ministry, but most of all, for their friendship through the years.

May God bless them with His grace and abundant blessings.

Sincerely,

Marty