Farewell

Farewell
This coming Sunday, June 30th, will be my final Sunday here at FBC. I cannot thank you enough for all the love, support, and kindness that you all have shown to me. During my time here I have been blessed with the opportunity to minister to the students. They are a great joy to my life, and I will miss them and you all very much. So, in this final farewell, let me encourage you in a few things.

First of all, hold fast to Jesus Christ. There are many portions of theology in which we may disagree. However, we cannot disagree on the person and work of Christ. This is the heart of the gospel. Christ’s life of perfect righteousness, atoning death, and resurrection are not negotiable. Therefore, stand firm on these things and rejoice. Rejoice in the goodness and kindness of our God who redeems a people for Himself. 

Secondly, remember the students. There are a fair amount of students here at FBC. I know that as I leave some of them will have heavy hearts. When I was a student and my youth pastor left, I too felt the weight. Gather around them with love. Come alongside and point them to Jesus. While it is perfectly normal to have some sadness when any person leaves a church, it can be a very tender thing when a minister steps away. Pray for them, talk to them, and love them well.

Thirdly, ask the hard questions. Do not be afraid of asking questions about what you believe and why you believe it. Meet with Christians who are not in the tradition that you are familiar with. It is when we engage with other believers who love the Word of God and that disagree on certain issues that we are sharpened. Asking these questions and having these conversations press us into the Bible and into Christ to know the truth. You may learn something new or make a new friend. So don’t be afraid to ask hard questions and look to the Bible for answers.

Lastly, love one another. Let the love of Christ overflow from you. Love the church body, the community, the lost, the poor, and more. Let the love of Christ motivate you in your service to the Lord. And may He be pleased in all that you do.

Thank you again. I love you all and will miss you dearly. Know that you are welcome wherever I am. Should we never see each other again in this life, then I look forward to the day when we are reunited in eternity.

Grace be with you,
C. R. Hamilton