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My spiritual grandfather

Last week I lost one of the dearest friends I've ever known. Pastor Jim Reese was the reason I now attend Benton Street Baptist Church in Kitchener. He was the senior pastor when I attended in the late 80s and at the time of his passing had transitioned to be an elder in our congregation. His life was a testimony to how a Christian should live in this world. Just a month ago, on June 15, pastor Reese led the Benton Men at Prayer meeting at 9:30 in the morning. It was the most precious and moving prayer meeting I've ever attended. At one point he began to read a scripture from the Psalms that he said had become very precious to him while he had been ill. I can't remember the exact reference but it was about the beauty of the Lord. He actually broke down crying and we had to finish the verse for him. It was a tremendously moving experience for everyone there. Pastor Reese also gave spiritual leadership to the newly reformed Men's Ministry at Benton Street Baptist. He approved the book study called Manhood Restored. It was his encouragement that enabled me to step up and, for the first time in my life, lead a Bible study. It was extremely well received by our men and effectively relaunched the Men's Ministry at our church. Pastor Reese was also the founder of Christian Horizons which now spans the country. His son Steven, who was the catalyst to launch this ministry to the disabled, and often rode my bus as a passenger. This has affected me greatly and I broke down several times while trying to write this post.
Posted by John A. McDonald
Saturday July 13, 2019 at 1:58 pm
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