Saturday, August 25, 2012

Nothing Ordinary About An Ordination!

(sorry about the scratchy pictures in this post, i didn't want to use the flash!)
 
This past Sunday brought a very special time for our family and church family at Sovereign Grace Church of Fredericksburg: Adam was ordained as a pastor! The whole Campbell crew turned out for the day, and we had a blast.

 
This event marks the end of my man's "evaluation period" following the Pastors College, and confirms his calling to ministry. As "Wifey," I've witnessed God's work in his life, and seen the effectiveness of his ministry, so it very encouraging to hear others commending Adam and adding their witness to his godly character and recalling how he's been a blessing to The Church. Then Mickey Connolly gave a message directed at Adam about "watching his life and ministry," and finally came "The Charge," which is the coolest part. A list of (essentially) the 'Duties of Caring for the Bride of Christ' is read, and the new pastor is asked, "Do you pledge to...." and he answers, "I do" to each task. To bring it all to a close, the whole church prayed for our new shepherd. I didn't get a picture of that, because, well, I was praying, but it's a very cool picture. Below is a shot from that same moment during Ken's ordination two years ago. (photo by K. Sherbondy)
 
 
 Obviously, I'm bias, because I think he's super cute, but I really can unhesitatingly say this man is the right man for this job. Adam gives himself to Sovereign Grace Church with his whole heart. He does not take the work lightly or give anything less than his all. Daily, he's up early praying, reading, and thinking about what God's called him to, and he truly likes taking on the tasks given to him. Seriously, y'all, Adam was made for this stuff. Few things make him light up like talking about theology, hermeneutics, and a biblical worldview. (I try to keep up, but quite frankly, it's super boring.) Such a seminary nerd.
2 Chronicles 15:7 But you, take courage! Do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded.
My man really is gifted for what he does. He loves preaching, and has a brotherly, teacher-like style that makes you feel like he's just digging into God's Word right there next to you. When you talk with Adam, it doesn't take long to see God has given Him unusual wisdom and discernment. He's also very steady, with deep roots in biblical conviction, that keep him from being swayed by emotion, trials, or sudden change. He's dependable, disciplined, and a man of contagious faith. 
Philippians 1:27a  Whatever happens, conduct yourself in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.
The best part of all this is that, I've been not just a witness to these gifts in Adam, I've been the primary recipient of their blessing. And because of that, the highest commendation I can give him is to say that he first displays and acts in these things in our home. He prays for his family, thinks about how to care for us better, serves without being asked (I seriously haven't done more than 5 loads of dishes in the last 4 months), he's involved with teaching the kids in school, and helps me (mostly by example) to be wise and act in faith and conviction.
 
Job 4:4 Your words have upheld him who was stumbling, and you have made firm the feeble knees.
I'm so proud of you, Adam Cana. It's a privilege to serve beside you and encourage your work. May God bless your labors for His Church. Love you deeply.

Isaiah 3:10
Tell the righteous that it shall be well with them,
for they shall eat the fruit of their deeds.

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