Seven years later…remembering my dear friend and pastoral mentor

Seven years ago today, my dear friend and pastoral mentor, Jackson Boyett and his wife, Barbara were hit by a drunk driver and killed just outside Austin, TX where they had lived and ministered at Dayspring Fellowship for almost 30 years. Jackson was one of the most faithful pastors I have ever known and his death was a devastating loss to me personally.

Those who were readers of the blog this time seven years ago, know that many of my posts functioned as a valuable tool of grief for me.

I shared about Jackson and why he was the pastor I said, “I wanted to grow up to be one day.” I shared about what I learned from him and why he was so uniquely faithful to this calling. I shared about the gift it was to have known such a man and the opportunity to emulate his example.  As I carry on in my ministry, I continue to feel this deep sense of loss and sadness.  He has never been replaced.  I feel that void even still.

In light of this seven year anniversary, it has been helpful to revisit several of these posts I wrote to honor Jackson and in doing so, honor the Savior he so faithfully served while here. I re-read them with the hopes to strive to be as faithful as he was. I have been freshly reminded of the sovereign God Jackson preached so tirelessly that continues to give me hope as I still feel this loss.

I have also shed fresh tears in the process.

I invite you to look at them again and may this man’s pastoral example move you to strive for the same. If you are reading these posts for the first time, be challenged to shepherd the flock like this man. Below you will find some of my most meaningful posts. Read, remember, and give thanks to God for the rare example of a real pastor.

In loving memory of my dear friend and pastoral mentor…

What final words does a pastor speak to his congregation?

How do you pray for the man appointed to preach the Sunday after his pastor suddenly dies?