Rev. & Mrs. E. Anderson
A MAN WORTH KNOWING
There are some people that you initially meet that have a way of sparking you in the right way within your being. When you meet them again and again a bond of affection of a pure nature is established within you that produces mutual respect and high esteem. It is simply a pleasure to know and be identified with them at all times.
Such was a man by the name of Johnnie Moores. The moment we encountered one another we struck up an accord that was to prove profitable to the kingdom of God and was to have a knock on effect. In the words of the above text: “O man greatly beloved!”
HUSBAND/FATHER
It was in the course of visiting that I originally met him. His mother-in-law attended our Fellowship and she was desirous that I seek her son and family out. Of course, this was a challenge to me but I responded to her wish. When I arrived at his home I had no need to fear because I was immediately welcomed and found a lovely family awaiting me. It did not take me long to come to the conclusion that here was a real home with all the required qualities that constitute a real family residence. Johnnie, as I found out, was a magnificent husband and a loving father to two growing children, a boy and girl. It was evident that the unit was highly valued by him. It was a good starting point for conversation.
SPORTSMAN/CRAFTSMAN
I was soon to discover that he was a keen sportsman and had played for Derby County and had exploited his skills with some of the outstanding stars that had formed the forward line. It was a great point of contact and conversation. He could see I was worldly wise and no religious nut case! From what I saw in the home from a practical standpoint, he was at that time a good DIY man. Within my breast and being was this tremendous desire to see him converted to Jesus Christ. One could tell from chatting that he was not ignorant of the things of God. Along with his wife, they agreed to allow their children to come to the Sunday school and they became regular in attendance. Whilst shepherding the flock I kept up the good relationship.
BELIEVER
It was a disappointment not to have had the pleasure of leading him to Christ, However, not too long after going to Doncaster to assume the role of senior pastor, I was due to return to Denton for a preaching engagement one week end. Imagine my surprise when I was asked not to rush off after the Sunday evening meeting because Johnnie was now attending Bethshan Tabernacle in Longsight, Manchester with his family after finding Christ and he wanted to see me. When I met him outside he lifted me up off the ground and gave me a big bear hug and thanked me for all that I had done in seeking his salvation.
DEACON
He later finished up attending Carmel Church in Denton, Manchester with his family and became a deacon in the Fellowship and his gifts and abilities were put to good use along with his pleasing person. The Lord has since promoted him to glory and one waits for the blessed reunion!
SUCCESSOR
The final icing on the cake was to see his son and wife become missionaries to Spain and then become highly involved with Slough Kings’ Church in Missions. That initial visit has more than paid off in great dividends for the kingdom of God.
