July 27, 1974, at Morning Star United Baptist Church in Pioneer TN about 8:00 p.m., was the first time I came to the full understanding of my sinful condition. This was my grandmother's church, whom I was visiting during the summer.  I've never forgotten the message of that country preacher that night.  He spoke from Luke 16 about the rich man and Lazarus.  For the first time, I realized that Hell was my eternal home unless I accepted the marvelous grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  I made my way to that old country alter and there knelt and accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior.  My grandfather later told me, "it won't always be easy, but it will always be right."  His words have proven themselves repeatedly as I travel on my journey to that Promised Land. I take the charge of a Deacon very seriously.  I believe it is a position of great responsibility and honor, and I am humbled to be serving in this capacity in our church.  I purpose to always put Christ and His will first in my life that all glory and honor will be given to Him. The word Deacon itself defines how a man is to serve his pastor, the people and Christ.  The word, "Diakonos" (dee-ah'-koh-nos), is a Greek Biblical word. It is the origin of the English word, "Deacon". It means, "one who serves". This name represents what we do and who we are. As a member of the Deacon Fellowship at Parkway Baptist, I count it a privilege serving our pastor, congregation, and our Lord.  So often one thinks of budgets, meetings and decisions, but this was not the original purpose of a Deacon. It is when we serve other people that we fulfill our office, and it is when I am happiest. I believe the church should be dynamic and ever on the move meeting the needs of the congregation and community. One of the unique aspects as serving as a Deacon is that you get to see from the beginning, the unfolding of God's will for your church as God begins to reveal His will through your pastor. To be there and see his excitement, share burden, and his victories is an awesome experience. My goal is to partner with the other Deacon's, who make up our fellowship, as we partner with our Pastor to help him fulfill God's will for Parkway Baptist. 

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