Remembering Those Who Have Led You

This morning's time in God's word was rich.  I know some of you super spiritual types are saying, "It's always rich."  I wish that were true for me, but there times I come up empty.  Today was not one of those days.  This is just one of the nuggets I got this morning:

"Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and follow the example of their faith." Hebrews 13:7 (NLT)

I stopped and made a list of people who have impacted my life for the Kingdom of God:

• My dad, Marcus Walker - He taught me to think and encouraged me to use the gifts God has given me to preach, teach, and lead others.
• My aunt and uncle, Barbara and Kenneth Walker - They taught me what a family could be and gave me a model to follow.
• Craig Klepper - Craig modeled the Christian life.  Until I met Craig I had never met a person who claimed to be a Christian that had a life I wanted.  Craig modeled authenticity and integrity.  Craig lived by priorities - God, family, and others.
• Ran and Elizabeth Stovall - Ran explained what it means to be a Christ follower and modeled authentic faith.  Ran and Elizabeth lived a life without "nets" (safety nets).  Ran showed me the simplicity of sharing Christ and Elizabeth and Ran taught me what it means to be "in Christ".
•  Ed Jarrett - Ed is my friend and fellow encourager.  Ed is one of the best dads and friends I have ever known.  I am a better dad and friend because of Ed.
• Kenny Lewis - my mentor for the last 30 years. Kenny came into my life weeks after I trusted Christ.  Kenny is without a doubt the most faithful man I know and has done more to shape my life than any other human being.

Like the author of Hebrews 11 there is not room to mention all the people who have influenced my life. When I think of all the good that has come from these people - the good they have brought into my life and this world - I'm brought to tears.   God, thank you for the investment they have made in me and please let me follow their example.  Amen.

Craig