one to one: Lessons about life & Ministry

by Eddie Moody, Executive Secretary, National Association of Free Will Baptists

Big Shoes to Fill

As I begin to serve as the tenth executive secretary of the National Association of Free Will Baptists, I feel a bit like I did when I was a kid. From time to time, I would slide my feet into my dad’s big shoes and try to walk around the house in them. It was a bit uncomfortable as I tried to get around in his big shoes.

That’s the way I feel following Brother Keith Burden. Anyone who has spent much time with him has noticed integrity seems to emanate from his pores. He has been God’s man for this time, and he has served this denomination well. I am indebted to Keith. We all are. Not just for his work as executive secretary, but for all of his service to the denomination, beginning in 1981, when he became assistant clerk of the National Association. Think about that for a moment. That was the year Ronald Reagan was inaugurated President! Much has happened in our denomination and world since Keith began denominational work.

And we can’t forget his wife Debbie. She has served beside Keith throughout this journey. We all have benefited from her work in the Executive Office and her efficiency in coordinating registration for the National Association.

This couple not only served faithfully and well, they sacrificed greatly. It was a sacrifice for them to leave their beloved Oklahoma and be separated from friends and family. They missed many birthday parties and ballgames through the years. Let us render honor to whom honor is due.

Thank you, Keith and Debbie Burden, for more than 38 years of faithful service to the National Association of Free Will Baptists.

I encourage you to join me in praying for the Burdens as they return to Oklahoma. May they enjoy the fruit of their labor, and may they understand our appreciation for a job well done.

About the columnist. One to One is a regular feature of ONE Magazine. Written by Eddie Moody, executive secretary of the National Association of Free Will Baptists, the column explores life and ministry. Contact Eddie: emoody@nafwb.org.