Any number of people contribute to our lives. Some in great ways and some in smaller, less noticeable
ways. Roger Johnson played a pivotal role in my life when, in 2000, he strongly suggested that I reconsider my decision to preach only intermittently.
Roger, who now preaches for the Edgewood church of Christ in Columbus, Georgia, was then my preacher at the Northport church of Christ in Northport, Alabama. Previously have preached in Memphis, Tennessee, Roger encouraged me to apply for his old position which had recently opened. While that did not work out, it did propel me into the search for full time work. My next attempt, a few weeks later, was at Eastern Shore and as the old saying goes, the rest is history.
Bobbi and I were perfectly comfortable in Northport. We loved the church and were very involved. I was a career Registered Nurse and had settled into the expectation that I would retire from nursing one day. I had graduated in 1987 with a degree in Bible but found the reception unwelcoming as I searched for preaching work. I returned to school and earned a degree in nursing. Life was good.
Sometimes however, we all need a gentle nudge. Many others helped me become a preacher too and in future times I will write about them. But for now, I am thankful to Roger for that push. So the next time you see him you can either thank him or slap him as you see fit.
