Thank you Pastor Piper and thank you Pastor Meyer

A little over three years ago we visited Bethlehem Baptist Church for the first time. Even though we didn't know anyone, everyone was very nice to us. Actually that is a total understatement. Bethlehem cared for us and loved us in very amazing ways. This was what drew me to that church in the first place, not necessarily because of all the help that we received, though I don't know what we would have done without it, but it was much more than that. They didn't know us - at all. They just heard of a need and responded - that is what drew me to Bethlehem. It was so intimidating at first. So big. So many people. My church in Germany had about 120 people. We went to our Pastors, two of them, to bible studies. As a new Christian I was mentored by my Pastors wife and we became friends. We had close relationships with lots of accountability. I learned so much there! Now, here we were in Minnesota at Bethlehem Baptist Church, three campuses - one church! So many people! Yes, it was intimidating. We tried a smaller church first, but that just didn't really feel like home. Once we got past the "bigness" of BBC, it got much easier. The people made it so easy for us, we were welcomed and we felt at home. So for the next three years we sat under the teachings of Pastor John Piper.
When we were in Germany, I only heard of John Piper and his name was mentioned right along with John McArthur, John Edwards, Mr. Spurgeon and other big names. So it was very amazing to hear him preach in person! I have learned so much and I have been challenged plenty of time by Dr. Piper's preaching. Every Sunday was amazing because though I may have read what he preached about, I was amazed how much more God showed him in the same passage. Not that I agreed with everything, but it challenged me to dig deeper and find the answer as to why or why not I agreed. It was amazing to listen to Pastor Piper, his love and passion for Christ is just contagious.
Today now Bethlehem celebrated John Piper's 33 years of pastorate at BBC. I really like what his wife, Noel, said that they are not retired but refired. It is sad that John Piper is not the Pastor of BBC any more, at the same time I rejoice with him and his family. He will now have the time to pursue the things he didn't have time for before. He will have more time for his family. Pastor Piper and Noel, I wish you all the best and all of God's blessings! I am looking forward to find out what else God has in store for you!

At the same time, I am also excited to see what God will do at BBC. Our new Pastor, Jason Meyer is good. I like his preaching, it is very strong. I can only imagine what must go through his mind as the successor of John Piper. I am certain that he is very confident in Christ and is filled with the Holy Spirit.
So I am excited to see what the future will bring :)

In conclusion I would like to say: Thank you for all you have done for the BBC family and Godspeed to the Piper family. Thank you for all you will do in the future and Godspeed to the Meyer family. I pray for God's blessings over all of Bethlehem and the rest of the world.