These last few weeks have been very difficult for me. My mentor, friend, and youth pastor Joe Gauthier had been battling pancreatic cancer for 6 months now, and on February 8, he was called home. While it was great for him, it was painful for the rest of us.
I have been thinking about Joe’s legacy for some time now, and I thought of the things he has taught me, mostly by his example. I wanted to write them down so I wouldn’t forget them.
I figured I’d put them here so we could all be reminded of how important these things are.
- Everyone is important…make sure they know that.
- People don’t always remember what you say but will remember how you make them feel.
- Listen first…then give advice.
- Your passion for the Bible can be seen by how you treat others.
- It is worth it to give, give, give of yourself.
Bonus: your family is your first ministry.
All of the things on the list have to do with putting others first and humbling yourself. Joe was one of the most humble people I’ve ever met. I was privileged to know him.
I could write a lot about each of these points, and I could write a lot more about Joe. I loved him greatly. I am glad he is no longer in pain. I selfishly just wish we could have had him around for a little while longer. He had a much greater impact than what he thought he did.
