B y Andrew Osborne
For the last three years Paul Easterday and I have had a chance to partner in ministry. Sometimes it can be hard to see where God is at work in your life…this was not one of those times. It has been extremely clear to me that this partnership has been a blessing that God has given me. Paul is not just a partner in ministry to me, but he is my best friend.
Since the beginning of my ministry here at St. Luke, Paul has come along side of me and supported me and helped me to grow in the areas that I am not as strong in. Paul has taught me how to lead with confidence as well as be that calm, caring person you can share your hurts with. He has taught me some of the secrets to being more organized (which for someone as chaotic as me, has been life changing).
The most important thing that Paul has taught me, however, is to follow Christ’s example laid out for us in Philippians 2, to humble myself and put my needs behind of the needs of those around me. Paul has demonstrated that example over and over, constantly seeking ways to serve, even when it may not have been in his best interest.
I will miss my partnership with Paul, but more so, I will miss having my best friend around. I am excited to see what God does through Paul down in Arkansas and how He will continue to shape Paul into the man and leader He created him to be. I pray that God will continue to bless Paul and his family as they seek to do His will!
As we prepare to say farewell to Paul and Amanda we look back on their time with us. We have put together a video remembrance of Paul that can be seen here.
If you weren’t able to make Paul’s last Sunday at Living Water, you can watch Paul’s message on our faith journey and Living Water as God’s church. Also, read Amanda’s retrospective blog. She shares a kind word about our congregation.
We will miss them.
