My friend and college pastor, Tom Westbrook went home this morning. By the time I saw the post from his wife, Jill, on Facebook, there were well over 100 comments. While there were a fair number of names that I knew or at least recognized, there were far more that I didn’t. This speaks of his and Jill’s footprint, ministry, and impact in this world.
For me personally, he
challenged me in my faith in ways I didn’t think possible; and showed me how to
do ministry in ways I would have never considered before. I know I am but one of many that he did
this for. There are also those who came
before and those who came after. There
is a legacy that is most likely greater than even he realized.
He recognized gifts and
abilities in people that others didn’t; then challenged me to use them for the glory
of God. There was laughter. There were tears. There were songs, There were jokes. There was even a reference to a Christian Counselor
when I needed it. He spoke truth even
when it hurt. He accepted truths spoken
to him as well. I hear his voice in my head from time to time when I needed a spiritual kick, recalling things he taught. There was joy... not just happiness, but joy, and the knowledge that there is a difference.
I knew I was a word geek early on, but he showed me how to dig deeper into the meaning of words and their effect on those around us. I don't think I ever thanked him for introducing me to the Strong's Concordance, or Vine's or any number of other Bible study reference materials.
Thru the college ministry
he led in Austin, TX, I made life-long friends, in addition to him and his
wife, who are part of my eternal family.
There are so many feelings and memories right now, that it’s overwhelming
even though I know I’m not alone in these feelings as evidenced by things
others have posted and a couple of messages.
I can’t even imagine how
many have been discipled, housed, fed, loved on and encouraged by Tom.
I have full faith that he has
been told “Well done my good and faithful servant”.
You can rest now Oh Captain
My Captain. Til we meet again.
