I recently attended a “Jesus Worldview Initiative” retreat sponsored by Good Faith Media. The continuing education event occurred in West Yellowstone, Montana with excursions into Yellowstone National Park. Seven clergy explored ways to encourage fresh commitments to following Jesus above all other commitments.

John Pierce and Tommy McDearis participated in the retreat. John will retire this year from a career in Christian journalism. Tommy serves as the senior pastor of Church on Main in Blacksburg, Virginia.

Our 45-year friendship began at Berry College. We bonded as religion majors answering God’s call into full-time ministry. I styled my wiry hair into a six-inch afro, Johnny sported wavy locks, and Tommy, well, Tommy possessed SOME hair. A recent photo reveals that the years have not changed us a bit.

Our friendship has survived the test of time, including college, seminary, vocations, marriages, children, moves, accidents, surgeries, and funerals. We’ve been there, done that, and share the wrinkles and scars to prove it.  

Proverbs 27:17 observes, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” I am grateful for good friends who have sharpened, supported, and loved me. They may not want to take the blame, but I am who I am apart because of who we are together.

“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” (Proverbs 17:17)