From the editor, Ishmael LaBiosa
When I first started at the Southern Baptist Convention of Virginia (SBCV) in 2011, I remember walking into Doyle Chauncey’s office. He was close to retirement again. He was excited to give me a personal tour of the Glen Allen office and share the history of the ministry.
In the short time I worked alongside Doyle, I watched how church leaders respected him. I believe that respect was earned because of the compassion Doyle had for everyone around him and the excitement of working for the Lord.
His passing reminds me of my beginning days and how he impressed on me the importance of a commitment to the Gospel.
There are days in ministry when burdens seem too difficult to continue. Yet Doyle’s legacy directs how I need to stay on mission and keep in front of me the purpose and end goal. Whichever role we serve in ministry and beyond, we are to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the glory of God.
We read in Romans 8:28 (CSB), “We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.”
I’m thankful God called me. I want to be found faithful on mission as Doyle Chauncey was to God’s Word and the fellowships around him. While we miss our friend on this side of heaven, we have hope that we will see him again. My prayer is that you have that hope as you serve King Jesus. ■