I stood in the sun today and realized something incredible. It seemed an unlikely time for a great revelation, but the scene was what brought the realization to light. Today representatives from the Christian Broadcasting Network were taping interviews for a mini-documentary featuring Ararat’s Truck Stop Ministry. As I listened to the ministry volunteers share their stories and the history of the truck stop ministry I realized what commitment and faithfulness were required.
For 17 years Ararat Baptist Church has maintained a ministry to truckers and travelers at Wilhite’s TA Truck Stop at I-40 exit 68 in Denmark, Tennessee. Our Pastor Emeritus, Rev. J.V. Davis began holding Sunday morning chapel services with the help of a handful of volunteers in October 1992. As the vision for the ministry grew a chaplain was added to the church staff to expand the truck stop ministry along with a growing number of volunteers. Today our current Truck Stop Chaplain is Rev. Sam Young. A host of volunteers and prayer warriors work alongside Bro. Sam inviting truckers to services, assisting in the chapel worship services, and distributing literature and CD’s. Bro. Sam spends many hours each week interacting with drivers and truck stop employees, talking, counseling, witnessing, and encouraging.
What seems incredible to me is the level of dedication to this ministry by its participants. With the exception of those gone home to be with the Lord or in failing health, the same group of volunteers remain active in the ministry. And their number is growing, including one man who was led to Christ through the ministry.
The same level of faithfulness can be witnessed in Ararat’s Whispering Pines Mobile Home Park Ministry. Just a few weeks ago I watched as ministry volunteers showed compassion and enthusiasm as they distributed school supplies to every family with children in the park. The ministry is based out of a mobile home the church purchased in the park to use as a ministry center. It has now grown to include a weekly bible study, children’s hour with our Minister of Students, and connect times with ladies from our church.
Ministry is work - ongoing, relentless, and compassionate work. As I stood in the sun today listening I was humbled and awed that I have been called to pastor this committed group of people. They are a people who understand faithfulness, commitment, compassion, service, and generosity and display each of these traits to the fullest. I am excited about what the future holds for our church and these and other ongoing ministries. Thank you, Lord, for such people; and thank you, Lord, for bringing me here!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010 at 7:45PM