30 years in the making

My friend, Terry Rush, just completed 30 years of ministry service with the same church in Tulsa, OK. Until recently, that was almost unheard of; in fact, our nation gives her President a longer tenure than many churches grant preachers. To remain in the same pulpit, more importantly to remain effective in that pulpit is a tribute to both Terry and to the Memorial Drive church.

Terry stepped into some large shoes. Memorial Drive, along with the Garnett Road congregation, had begun an annual event that is now into its fourth decade. Upon his arrival in 1977, Terry accepted a leadership role in working to promote, plan and provide the Tulsa International Soul-Winning Workshop. Held at the Tulsa Fairgrounds, the Workshop directly touches the lives of thousands; indirectly, there is no way this side of eternity to measure the good that is accomplished each March. Today, the Workshop remains a beacon of joy and inspiration, thanks to the labors of Terry Rush.

Terry has also been instrumental in sharing Jesus in an arena of life that few Christians venture – the world of professional sports. For many years, he attended the St. Louis Cardinal’s Fantasy Camps, meeting and becoming friends with many of the Cardinal legends. But, his goal never changed – it has always been to introduce people to Jesus. During his work with the Cardinals, he has shared the gospel with players, past and present, and with their families – sincere seekers who might otherwise have never crossed paths with a gospel preacher. He is now considered part of the Cardinal ‘family.’

Preaching Jesus remains Terry’s passion. For 3 decades, he has been God’s spokesperson to those at Memorial Drive, at the Workshop, across the nation at special gatherings, on CD’s and tapes, on television and in the many books he has authored. His sweet wife, Mary, is his greatest supporter. He has 3 wonderful children and lots of delightful grandchildren. These 30 years have really been something!

Now, you might think this is all about Terry; but, it’s not. It’s all about God. God brought Terry to Tulsa; God put the right man in the right place with the right church at the right time. That man and that church fell in love; and, the romance is still there 30 years later. God uses those who humble themselves to Him; He blesses those who follow Him; He rewards those who seek after Him.

In Ecclesiastes, chapter 3, Solomon wrote that there is a time for everything and that God has made everything beautiful in its time. For 30 years, God has been painting a beautiful portrait. It is a landscape scene of service, dedication, loyalty, devotion and love. Terry, his family, Memorial Drive and the Workshop were merely posing for the Master artist. It’s no wonder Solomon would marvel, “Therefore, stand in awe of God.”