A tribute to a Pastor who walked in the Light.
Earlier this year, Bro Steve told me that his brother Alec used to say… “There are two things that you can’t fool… a child and animal”. This was after my son who was nine months old at the time, went to him willingly… This was quite amazing to watch. But those who know him will know that all children were attracted to this gentle man of God. He made sure to return later that day with Lindt chocolates and chips for my older girls… a gesture that still warms my heart.
Moving to Newcastle …. more than 20 years ago was truly the tender Hand of Jehovah in action. Becoming a part of the Newcastle Spoken Word fellowship was one of the greatest blessings I have known. Personally I had chosen to leave the “message” after High School. The Word was fantastic. Pastor Steve was a wonderful shepherd. But I was living a lie.
It is truly the WORD that keeps us when we enter Satan’s lair … I am thankful for the deep spiritual grounding that Pastor Steve provided during my childhood.
A few years later….
I was baptised in AUGUST. It was a windy day… I can still hear Aunty Jenny singing … Follow Follow.. I will Follow Jesus…
Even though this is a tribute to Pastor Steve… I find it impossible not to mention his soul mate … Aunty Jenny.
You are loved and appreciated and I am thankful that you stood steadfast with Pastor Steve in his journey that touched so many lives.
There is really so much to say about the influence that this man had in my life and it would be impossible to do so in this tribute.
I would like to end with 3 lessons I benefited from, if you may call it that.
1. Perfect Faith
Pastor Steve embodied this kind of faith. It was clearly reflected through his daily life. The ability to take criticism with such grace. The ability to say sorry when he made a mistake.
2. Love
Without a shadow of doubt Pastor Steve loved his wife the best he could.
He often compared this love with the love Christ has for His bride. Truly inspiring!
3. Complete Surrender to the Lord
He walked with God. He laid down his own desires. Put God first in all he did. The reward is a Crown in Glory. Where we will all meet him again.
Let us then walk in the Light. Such a beautiful light!
God Bless
Elisabeth Govender
