Mr. Diaz' Opus: Honoring a Friend & Leader

"I will honor him who honors Me" (1 Samuel 2:30).

On January 16th I flew from Mentorlink meetings in Raleigh, NC to Ecuador for a surprise visit of my friend Medardo Díaz (see photo above). He pastors a cutting edge church in Ambato, Ecuador that has planted some 4 other churches in that city and nearby.

The church wanted to recognize him for 20 years as their pastor. Without Medardo knowing it, the church board contacted me and asked me to come for the celebration on Saturday, January 17, and give a word to my friend. The church actually paid the cost for my flight to Ecuador. What a significant expression of partnership with a mature Latin American church!

The church was packed. This brother and his wife, Cynthia, lead well and are loved much. It was like that last scene in the film "Mr. Holland's Opus" when the music teacher is surprised by a packed auditorium of people he has deeply touched over the years. Family members, fellow pastors, and church leaders had a chance to honor our brother and sister. I shared words with them from 1 Samuel: "I will honor him who honors Me."

Medardo & Cynthia (both musicians by the way) have composed a beautiful "Opus" there in Ecuador. The Opus is made up of a dynamic church, daughter churches, and changed lives. I was honored to be able to honor my friends.