A Little About Me.
Name: Rich Reeder
College:
Vision Christian Bible College and Seminary
Major:
Bachelor of Biblical Studies
Favorite Quote:
“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends” by Jesus Christ, found in
John 15:12-13 NASB
A FEW WORDS.
I found myself living life like most of us. Living with my wants and desires being the central focus of my life. I tried being a “good guy” to the best of my abilities. In reality, I wasn’t giving that effort my best. I called it my best probably so I would feel comfortable with how hard I was trying, which could have used a great deal more effort.
I went to a men's retreat back in 1992 and my life took on a new focus, love and others. On that weekend I had changed and my spirit was awakened as never before. The Lord infused my heart with His love bringing me into a relationship with Him in a way I never imagined. My caring for other people grew into what only seemed natural, the desire to be a pastor and work in a church. I went to college and got a degree. I was later ordained and did serve in a church. I preached fairly regularly in a few local churches and loved it. I had even served as Pastor of Care Ministries at The Church in the Valley in Peninsula, Ohio.
I have pastored many of the men’s weekends I attended years back, taught classes and led small groups, served as clergy on a men’s prison weekend and have been an elder and deacon. I do weddings and memorial services and funerals now which bless me more than I ever imagined.
A theme emerged in my preaching and teaching. It seemed that whenever I taught or preached about love and particularly God’s love for us, I lost control of my emotions. I was always overwhelmed by the immenseness of His love and the fact that he loved crummy old me.
That love has been brewing in my heart and life for many years now and I am driven, out of that love, to share what I have learned. Scripture tells us and encourages us to love beyond what we think we might be capable of. I never thought I could love this way but wished I could. I now know, with Christ, it can be done.