The Bridge at Stockton Church

I have been very fortunate in my life. God has always blessed me with mentors who took an active interest in me. From Grant Morgan and Dave Hicks who taught me that not only was ministy an amazing investment, but it could also be fun! From others like Gordon Davis, who took me under his wing in my early years, and helped me grow up spiritualy, and transition from youth pastor to pastor. Tim Yaeger, who modeled and taught me true unconditional love! People like Pat Chaman, Br...ad Franklin, Rene Schlaepfer, who have influenced and still help mold me today! I've been blessed by others like Bruce Clatterbuck, and Mark Platt, along with Paul Null, who reinforced in me that I was doing what God had called me to do and heped me be better at it! Not the least of which we're all the amazing professors and teachers I had at Simpson College. There are so many, and I could go on and on. Today, I'm surrounded by a wondetful group of guys on my board, from Frank, to Jim, Moses, and Dave, who support me everyday, and my amazing youth pastor, Derek, who has become also my dear friend! We work molding each other and helping each other become all that God wants us to be. I've been incredibly blesed with a wonderful wife who truly is my soul mate, and who God has used in my life more than anyone else! Not to mention my two wonderful congregations who loved me inspite of myself! But most of all Jesus! Walking every day with Him is both a challenge and a joy! Why do I share this with you? Ministry today is very difficult! It's a huge challenge! Especially in a time when everything we believe is under constant and increasing attack. Even as believers we need to surround ourselves with those who will stand with us, love us and encourage us. Who will hold us accountable, and invest in us. In 2 Timothy 1: 5, Paul talks of the growth of Timothy's faith: "I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also." These were people in Timothy's life that God used to mold him, to help him grow! In your life, do you have peope like that? If not, why not? Love to all, Pastor Stuart