For Dan

4/20/2026

Proverbs 3:3-4 "Let love and faithfulness never leave you;                                                                                  bind them around your neck,                                                                                                      write them on the tablet of your heart.                                                                                        Then you will win favor and a good name                                                                                  in the sight of God and man."

Many of you will remember the film Dead Poet's Society. If you have not seen it, I would highly recommend that you do. The late great Robin Williams plays John Keating, a beloved teacher of a prestigious and highly competitive boy's school. He introduces a group of his students to the clandestine society that he and his fellow students used to attend when he was there, hence the title of the movie. (Spoiler Alert) After a horrible tragedy that is tied to his influence over said group, he gets dismissed from his position. In the final scene of the film another teacher tries to return the boys to the prior levels of conformity the school requires. Brazenly, each boy in turn stands atop his desk and repeats, "Oh Captain, My Captain" from the Walt Whitman poem about the author's grief over Lincoln's assassination and a tribute to his leadership. That quote has rung in my ears the past several weeks except the version I hear is Oh Pastor, My Pastor.   

How do you honor a man who has meant so much to so many people? A minister who dedicated his entire life to service and spreading the Gospel. A shepherd who did not hold his flock at arm's length but embraced each member as his brother and sister in Christ. A gifted musician with a voice as smooth as silk. An intellectual who was well read and well-traveled. A teacher who made scripture accessible, interesting, and alive. A storyteller who had as many amusing anecdotes as he did heartfelt tales. A jokester with a lightning fast and dry wit. A counselor who listened with love, compassion, and never judgement. An advisor who celebrated each birth and officiated at each death. A gentleman who could connect with even the quirkiest kid or adult. A friend who would meet you exactly where you were in life with warmth and comfort. A man who loved Batman, animals, music, movies, his friends, his church, his family, his pups, his dear wife, and the Lord. A man who reminded the church body every Sunday, "You Are Loved." How do you find the words to truly express how much such a man meant to every life he touched? 

Pastor Dan, you have been a faithful servant of the Most High, a compassionate and strong leader, and a dear friend. So, I say in honor of you with immense respect and deep gratitude... Oh Pastor, My Pastor!

Until we meet again in Paradise...

Thank you for giving to the Lord

I am a life that was changed

Thank you, for giving to the Lord

I am so glad you gave.

 (Ray Boltz)