I wrote these verses because I received a unique request to create a retirement poem for a dear brother in Christ, Pastor Howard Davies.
Howard led my father-in-law, Alwyn Wall, to the Lord, along with his best friend Malcolm Wild, way back in the 60s. They went on to create the musical duo "Malcolm and Alwyn", and together they revolutionised Christian music through the 70s and 80s. They both became senior pastors and still serve God's people in those roles today, all thanks to the faithfulness of Howard's powerful witness.
Howard has served as an assistant pastor for Malcolm for the last 28 years, and so the news of his retirement from his post at Calvary Chapel, Merritt Island, Florida, was met with great sadness but also well-wishes for this new season in his life. Malcolm asked me if I could write and record a poem of thanks and gratitude for Howard's leaving ceremony, and it was a great privilege to be able to be a part of his special day.
Howard's life and ministry have been and continue to be a great inspiration to so many people. From his joy in the Lord to his prayers and knowledge of Scripture, Howard has been a wonderful mentor and great example of what walking in the faith looks like.
One of Howard's personal phrases which I've adopted into my own farewells to my brethren is, "You never say goodbye to another Christian! You simply say, 'I'll see you here, there, or in the air!'" I decided this would make a really great title, and so I pray you enjoy this special poem for a special man.
Howard led my father-in-law, Alwyn Wall, to the Lord, along with his best friend Malcolm Wild, way back in the 60s. They went on to create the musical duo "Malcolm and Alwyn", and together they revolutionised Christian music through the 70s and 80s. They both became senior pastors and still serve God's people in those roles today, all thanks to the faithfulness of Howard's powerful witness.
Howard has served as an assistant pastor for Malcolm for the last 28 years, and so the news of his retirement from his post at Calvary Chapel, Merritt Island, Florida, was met with great sadness but also well-wishes for this new season in his life. Malcolm asked me if I could write and record a poem of thanks and gratitude for Howard's leaving ceremony, and it was a great privilege to be able to be a part of his special day.
Howard's life and ministry have been and continue to be a great inspiration to so many people. From his joy in the Lord to his prayers and knowledge of Scripture, Howard has been a wonderful mentor and great example of what walking in the faith looks like.
One of Howard's personal phrases which I've adopted into my own farewells to my brethren is, "You never say goodbye to another Christian! You simply say, 'I'll see you here, there, or in the air!'" I decided this would make a really great title, and so I pray you enjoy this special poem for a special man.
