Dr. Charles Siburt passed away early this morning. I am particularly thankful for the way God used Charles in my deepest pits and highest peaks.
Several years ago I was slogging through the lowest moment of my ministry. Reeling with pain and clouded with confusion, I did what literally thousands have done before me – place a call to Charles. Charles was the “go to” guy when ministry was at its worst. And with the wisdom of a Solomon, the pastoral skill of a Jesus, and the dogged loyalty of a Jonathan, Charles steered me and stayed with me for many months until the storm stilled. I don’t know if I would have survived without his intervention.
Then, not long ago, at the crest of one of the highest peaks of ministry, I was striving to discern ways to stay on the mountaintop as long as possible. I wanted to ensure Highland experienced her current fruitfulness well into the future. So, like thousands before me, I placed a call to Charles. He traveled to Memphis and met with me, our staff and elders. Those meetings resulted in new initiatives and directions which are impacting Highland to this very day.
I give thanks to God for this life so well lived.
