About 5 years ago, Caroline and I met a couple at church who had just started visiting. They seemed excited about the church and appreciative that we had taken time to strike up a conversation. I was leading a small group at the time and invited them to join us. I later found out he was a retired pastor, and I had mixed feelings immediately. If they joined the group, I might feel intimidated by his level of knowledge and his ability to communicate. Also, there was some concern that he might dominate the conversation and not give others a chance to speak. Soon thereafter, I received a call from him wanting to meet me for breakfast. It definitely felt like it was going to be an interview of sorts to see if he thought our group would be a good match for them. And while that might have been part of it, I left feeling that his main focus was on wanting to know me. They joined our group, and any remaining doubts about my earlier concerns were removed. He was respectful of our schedule, funny, and when he did choose to speak, people listened and appreciated his vast experience. But more than anything, you could see, hear, and feel his love for Jesus. Over the following years, we got to hear great stories of successes and struggles in his ministry career and in his personal life. I am also fond of his wife, who has been his constant companion. Jim Bevis passed away this week. I will miss him, but I am relieved to know that his desire to know Jesus more was foremost in his life, and he mirrored that desire in his desire to know others - like me. I feel honored. Well done, Jim Bevis. Anne, we know you will miss him, but have complete faith that you will see him again. I love you.
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