Bobby Atkins and I have been friends for almost 28 years. We both experienced dramatic conversions to Christ about one month apart. We both went to the same Bible College in Dallas, Texas; we have preached in each others churches throughout our ministry. We have traveled around the world together on mission assignments. We have been in Israel, India, Africa and Brazil together. The above picture was taken before we went on our first oversea mission trip to Brazil in May of 1983. A lot less hair later and for me a lot more weight later we still are the best of friends.
This past Sunday, on the invitation of his wife Marie, I surprised Bobby by showing up at his church in Atlanta for a surprise 25th anniversary celebration of his ministry. Marie and their children and the congregation of Truth Tabernacle of Praise outdid their selves in presenting Bobby with an almost three hour long service of songs, banners, testimonies, a love offering and a special tribute by his children. I was instructed not to preach but tell as many embarrassing stories as I could on their beloved pastor. It was hard to narrow them down to fit my time slot. I told of Bobby using his negotiating skills in Brazil to secure us a deal, his upgrading skills to get a “special” room in Israel and our unique swimming experience in Jerusalem (I cannot believe I told that one!). I told of the time we were almost martyred in India (that one was not funny) and of the many times I witnessed God use Bobby Atkins around the world.
The Bible says a friend is born for adversity. The longer we live the more we realize how few and precious true friends we have on this earth. Bobby has been my friend in the good times and the difficult times. His wisdom and godly advice have saved me many times. I am thankful to be his friend. Congratulations Bobby on 25 years of ministry. I pray that the next season will be even more blessed so that your latter days are more productive and fruitful than your former.
This past Sunday, on the invitation of his wife Marie, I surprised Bobby by showing up at his church in Atlanta for a surprise 25th anniversary celebration of his ministry. Marie and their children and the congregation of Truth Tabernacle of Praise outdid their selves in presenting Bobby with an almost three hour long service of songs, banners, testimonies, a love offering and a special tribute by his children. I was instructed not to preach but tell as many embarrassing stories as I could on their beloved pastor. It was hard to narrow them down to fit my time slot. I told of Bobby using his negotiating skills in Brazil to secure us a deal, his upgrading skills to get a “special” room in Israel and our unique swimming experience in Jerusalem (I cannot believe I told that one!). I told of the time we were almost martyred in India (that one was not funny) and of the many times I witnessed God use Bobby Atkins around the world.
The Bible says a friend is born for adversity. The longer we live the more we realize how few and precious true friends we have on this earth. Bobby has been my friend in the good times and the difficult times. His wisdom and godly advice have saved me many times. I am thankful to be his friend. Congratulations Bobby on 25 years of ministry. I pray that the next season will be even more blessed so that your latter days are more productive and fruitful than your former.
