As the end of the year draws to a close, so too does my 35-year tenure as an elder serving this wonderful church. It is a moment filled with profound gratitude - a gratitude that flows not just from looking back at the years, but from looking up to the eternal God we serve.

A Heart Overflowing with Thanks

The years pass quickly, and when I reflect on three decades of ministry, the first and most overwhelming thought is thankfulness.

• Thank you to God: My service, like all good things, has been a gift from the Lord. I have often recalled the words of the psalmist: “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain” (Psalm 127:1) Any good accomplished was surely His hand at work, and I thank Him for the privilege of being a small part of His plan here.
• Thank you to My Family: To my wife and family, your patience, support, and sacrifice over the years allowed me to dedicate time and energy to this calling. Your love has been a constant source of strength. I am forever grateful for you.
• Thank you to the OBC church: Thank you for your trust, your prayers, and your willingness to labor alongside me. Serving you, watching you grow in faith, and sharing life’s joys and sorrows has been the greatest encouragement and blessing.

Serving with an Eternal View

As a reformed church, we understand that everything we do is Coram Deo - before the face of God. This truth has been the anchor for my ministry and service. When we work, we must always remember that we are investing in eternity.

The day-to-day decisions, the long meetings, the planning, and the pastoral care can sometimes feel heavy. Yet, scripture reminds us that we are called to “set our minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth” (Colossians 3:2)

What an encouraging perspective this gives us! When we faithfully teach a Sunday School class, when we patiently care for a shut-in, when we give generously to the needs of the church, or when we meet to guide the spiritual life of the church - we are not merely completing tasks.

We are building up the body of Christ and laying up treasure in heaven, where it will never fade.

An Encouragement to Press On

My departure from the elder board is not an ending, but a reminder that the work belongs to the Lord, and He will continue to equip others to carry on the ministry at OBC. To the remaining elders, and to all of you, I offer this final word of encouragement:

Continue to Pursue Faithfulness

Keep your eyes fixed on Christ. When ministry feels challenging, remember that your labor is not in vain in the Lord (1 Cor 15:58). Everything you do in faith, love, and obedience is recognized and valued by the Lord who called you.

Embrace the opportunity to serve, knowing that this service honors God, out of gratitude for what He has done in your life, preparing you for the perfect worship and fellowship we will enjoy forever.

I look forward to continuing to worship and serve alongside you as a faithful member of OBC, and I pray that God will continue to grant His wisdom, grace, and steadfast faithfulness to the leaders and members at OBC in the years to come.

In Christ,

Dave Guthrie