Rumors can be pesky little things. I don't usually pay attention to them, because they have a way of quickly morphing into their kissing cousin: gossip ... and the Bible calls that "sin." But there's been a pesky little rumor going around that I feel needs to be addressed. The rumor is that I'm talking to another church, and thinking about leaving Calvary. The only reason I address it is because I have been asked by more than one person, and this time the rumor isn't dying.
It may have started because I have a "For Sale" sign on my front yard. It may have continued because someone mentioned to someone else that I was "moving." And once that information made three or four iterations, it became: "Ellis is moving from Calvary." The first two observations are true: I DO have a "For Sale" sign on my house. That's usually the best way to sell a house (get a realtor and put up a sign). And I AM moving, or rather have moved, from my old house to a new house (both are in McAllen). I still own both houses, by the way, in case anyone would like to buy my old one.
But let me say this as clearly as I know how: I AM NOT LEAVING CALVARY. I AM NOT SPEAKING TO ANY OTHER CHURCH. I AM NOT INTERESTED IN LEAVING MCALLEN.
I hope that was clear enough. This pesky little rumor rears its ugly head about twice a year. There may be those who are nervous because we have had a rash of pastors leaving over the last two years. Of course, there could be someone perpetuating the rumor hoping I take a hint (ha!ha! just kidding.) It could be that other churches ARE looking at me. If they are, I don't know about it, and I'm NOT looking at them.
Please understand what often happens is that churches get my name from others and I don't even know about it. When churches are looking for a pastor they call other pastors, seminary professors, and State Convention leaders to get names. I know many of these people. I have preached in front of them numerous times. There are a few Convention leaders, and professors who give my name to just about every larger church that calls them. Other churches around the state will call me on the average, about twice a month. I always tell them the same thing: NOT INTERESTED.
God led me to Calvary to accomplish certain things (for HIS honor and glory). I know exactly what they are, and none of them have been completely accomplished. So, I won't even talk to God about leaving -- He wouldn't listen to me anyway. On top of that, I have no desire to leave. Calvary is, without a doubt, one of the greatest churches in the state of Texas, and I feel humbled and honored (and totally unworthy) to be her pastor.
Anyway ... the next time you hear that pesky rumor ... do me a favor ... lift up your foot and squash it.
blessings,
pastor ellis
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