The Phil Files

Some people come into your life and make a lasting impression in your thinking. Others leave an indelible imprint on your heart. Others help form your character to be more Christ-like. Others invest in you and help you refine your skills and wisdom to do ministry. Lynn Anderson has done all of that for me, and more, … and is still doing it through the face of hardship and challenge with cancer.

I first met Lynn when I was in high school and he came and did a campaign in our city. When I went to college, he was my preacher and his daughter, Michelle, was in our high school group huddle. Then a few years later, Lynn included me in his first graduate student study group. Several years after that, he ministered to my father through his years of illness and did dad’s funeral. Then three and a half years later, Lynn did the wedding of my mother to Grady Jolly.

Over the years of ministry, Lynn’s been available to counsel and encourage me through some challenging and changing times of ministry. He was there when I let the elders at Westover know I was moving from Austin to Abilene, and he even preached twice a month for over two years as they waited for God to lead them to a new preaching minister. My latest book includes Lynn in the dedication. Such friends are rare treasures and to have one that keeps on growing and reminding me that the journey to Jesus is one full of wonder and excitement, even amid the pain and challenge, is a special blessing.

Thanks Lynn! Love you and am praying for you and Carolyn as you choose to live in the green leaf!