Installation of Buddy Luster as Elder
This past Sunday, we had the immense privilege of witnessing God’s work in the life of Trinity Grace Church. This knitting together of hearts has been under way for three years, and has culminated in the installation of James “Buddy” Luster, Jr. as the newest Elder of Trinity Grace Church. Over the past month, we as a church have prayerfully examined what Eldership means, and Walt reminded us on Sunday with a charge to both the Pastor and the Congregation. And with a sweet time of worship, testimony, and prayer, we celebrated what the Lord has done by adding to our church’s leadership another faithful man who loves the Lord.
Let us be humble and faithful to pray for Buddy and all of our Elders as they serve the Lord and His Bride, the Church.
“Here, then, is the sovereign power with which the pastors of the church, by whatever name they be called, ought to be endowed. That is that they may dare boldly to do all things by God's Word; may compel all worldly power, glory, wisdom, and exaltation to yield to and obey his majesty; supported by his power, may command all from the highest even to the last; may build up Christ's household and cast down Satan's; may feed the sheep and drive away the wolves; may instruct and exhort the teachable; may accuse, rebuke, and subdue the rebellious and stubborn; may bind and loose; finally, if need be may launch thunderbolts and lightnings: but do all things in God's Word.” John Calvin
A Word of Thanks From Buddy
“I am overwhelmed by God’s kindness and faithfulness. I am amazed by and thankful for your affirmation and support, for your willingness to allow me the privilege of serving you in this capacity as an elder of Trinity Grace Church. Judy and I are both extremely thankful for this church that God has raised up, for the work that he is doing here, and for the fact that he is allowing us to join him and you in what he is doing here. What we are witnessing is a demonstration of the declaration found in 1 Thessalonians 5:24, “FAITHFUL is he who calls you, who also will do it.”
God began to stir our hearts and to give is a vision for church planting in the early 1990’s. Since then, a lot of water has flowed over the dam, and it has been a long journey—too many adventures to record at this moment. To be honest, there were times when it appeared that our desire to be a part of a church like Trinity Grace would not come to fruition. But God in his faithfulness has brought us to this place. So, thank you for warmly welcoming us into Trinity Grace, thank you for allowing us to journey with you, thank you for extending your love to us, and thank you for allowing me to serve as a shepherd of Trinity Grace Church.
July 24, 2022, was one of the most sobering days of my life. It was also one of the most joyful days of my life. Let us all be reminded that this is God’s church! May it continue to be built, to grow, and to thrive for him and for his glory!”
To God be the glory, great things He hath done!