I heard a preacher say many years ago that he looked to Genesis 5 when asked about retirement. It says they lived so many years, and then they died. Not once did it mention retiring. At 68, I am at the age now when the thought of retiring has become a question. I still work a public job along with being what we call a bi-vocational pastor. As pastor of Cherrywood Baptist Church in Sherwood, I always answer the question of retirement the same way: “God has not released me from that call.”
When the tornado hit our church building in March 2023, we had many questions, but not rebuilding was never an option. Our insurance covered part of the cost, and Bell Construction of North Little Rock answered the call to help. David Bell said he really felt like God was leading them to help our church. Their work was outstanding, and they worked within our budget. Their leadership in the project was a true example of the grace of God. Our congregation will never be able to thank them enough. I would also like to thank those churches that sent gifts to help rebuild.
Like their pastor, our congregation is an older group, and we have a few “young’uns” mixed in. Our membership and attendance are in the 10 to 15 range, but the Spirit of the Lord causes a sweet fellowship in our midst. It’s a joy to preach to this congregation and the occasional visitor. After all, God has not released me yet.
Glenn Alston, Pastor
Cherrywood Baptist Church, Sherwood
