Contrary to popular belief, pastors have a tough job! They get more kicks than kisses. If he preaches from notes he's dry; if he's extemporaneous he's too shallow. If he spends too much time in his study he's neglecting his people; if he makes too many home or hospital visits he's not delegating properly. If he's attentive to the poor he's spending too much of the church’s money; If he suggests improvements he's trying to run everything; if he doesn't he has no vision or does not care. If he preaches against wrong he's judgmental; if he doesn't he's too worldly. If he preaches for an hour he's long-winded; less than that, he has nothing to say; If he fails to please everybody he's hurting the church; if he tries to please everybody he has no convictions. If he preaches tithing he's money-hungry; if not, he's failing to develop his people. If he preaches on a regular basis, people get tired of hearing the same person; if he invites guest preachers he's dodging his responsibility. You get the picture right? For 30 years, Dr. George and Sister Cook served this great church with greatness. Thirty years of preaching and teaching means that Pastor Cook has preached more than 1560 sermons in this pulpit. We are better servants of God because of their ministry. The bottom line is, God gave to this wonderful church a pastor and wife team, in the name of Rev. George Cook and Sister Ruby Cook to help develop the members of the church to do the work of the ministry (Eph. 4:12). And it is obvious that by the grace of God, they have done their job well.
So, we pause today to take another opportunity to show our love and appreciation to Rev. Dr. George and Sister Ruby Cook for 30 years of devoted ministry, here at Greater Mt. Sinai Baptist Church. We want to celebrate with the Cooks, as they continue to transition into the next chapter of their ministry as Pastor Emeritus George and Sister Ruby Cook. #TeamCook. To the Cooks: This is your day, we honor you and we love you.
Rev. Dr. Major Stewart, Pastor Greater Mt. Sinai Baptist Church Sunday, August 26, 2017
