Are You a Caleb?

August 26, 2008

By Paul Veliquette

In our hectic lifestyles, it is important to hit the pause button from time to time in order to reflect on the bigger picture. In the pause mode we come to appreciate the reality that the impact of others has made it possible for us to be who we are. It also helps us reflect on the foundation of what we presently enjoy.

Last year, Glenda and I accepted the invitation to be the pastors of Windsor Assembly of God in Windsor, Colo. It was a dramatic change for us, having been in Arvada, Colo, for almost 20 years. The challenges have been great, the rewards overwhelming, and the people warm and friendly. We love the church family and the community family. We share conversations and stories wherever we meet people.

One of the extreme highlights has been to meet a modern-day hero. Although I knew him by name, I did not know his story. When Windsor Assembly had been on the verge of closing, Pastor James Call volunteered to come out of retirement to lead the church. Pastor Call was 71 years old at that time. He and his precious wife, Eula, had a long history of pastoral experience and also had traveled as evangelists all over the country. Instead of taking the easy path of remaining in a comfortable lifestyle, Pastor Call accepted the challenge of bringing Windsor Assembly back from the brink of extinction to vibrant health.

Pastor Call is truly a hero. He laid down the mantle as pastor of Windsor Assembly after nine years. His beloved wife of 66 years passed away two years ago. Today, at 89 years of age, he continues to love the Windsor community and the church.

Pastor Call reminds me of another hero in Israel’s early history. Caleb served alongside Joshua during the years the Israelites wandered in the wilderness. As they conquered Canaan, he was 85 years old and ready to take on new challenges.

“Now, behold, the Lord has kept me alive, as He said, these forty-five years, ever since the Lord spoke this word to Moses while Israel wandered in the wilderness; and now, here I am this day, eighty-five years old. As yet I am as strong this day as on the day that Moses sent me; just as my strength was then, so now is my strength for war, both for going out and for coming in. Now therefore, give me this mountain of which the Lord spoke in that day” (Joshua 14:10-12, NKJV).

Caleb and Pastor Call remind me that as long as I can take a breath, I can be of service to the Lord. And so can you.

Are you a Caleb?

— Paul Veliquette is pastor of Windsor (Colo.) Assembly of God.