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Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. - Philippians 1:3

I can’t remember the first time I met Charlie, but it probably was on a Sunday morning when he came to Bridges with his guardians, Eric and Katie while Charlie was still in high school. He was probably with Doug Francis, our worship leader at the time too. Charlie had come to their small group and brought out his guitar as they sat around a fire. Doug then invited him to be part of the worship band, and so it all started with something small but significant like that. Most things do start that way.

Charlie was a gifted musician and soon joined the band, and after a while he began to lead some here and there. One Sunday, Doug was scheduled to lead a new song but had to call in sick. Charlie was willing to step up that day. I told him to skip the new song, but he said he would learn it on the drive over to Doug’s to get the equipment. We agreed he could try it and see during warmups how it would go. He did great, learned every note and word that morning and led it with meaning and purpose. He had a gift and was willing to use it to serve.

He went with a group of us to the Exponential Conference in Orlando one year, just as a last-minute kind of thing. It was on this trip that he felt God leading him to get his degree at Piedmont University and later his Master’s through Biola. He was fascinated with theology and the study of biblical languages. I thought he might head in that direction.

We met weekly when he was on staff, and it was so encouraging to see him grow and mature and to experience his servant heart. He led us in worship and brought so much to the services. He also brought in Luke and Carson and Daniel, guys he knew from Lifeway, all gifted musicians. We trace our worship leaders back through apprenticeships starting with Doug, then Charlie, then Luke, then Carson, and now Christian, one training the next and giving them opportunities to grow as musicians and worship leaders. Charlie helped teach Ethan how to play guitar, and now Ethan is helping to lead worship. Charlie’s legacy continues.

Over the past couple of months, Charlie came back to Bridges. He said he always felt welcomed, loved, and accepted here. I know he sincerely meant that, and he was welcomed, loved, and accepted – always. He was part of the Bridges family. He was just Charlie to us. It was good to connect with him again. We had a couple of meals together, some good talks, he sent a video of a song he had written. We prayed together. Talked on the phone. Texted. He brought his kids with him to church. He loved those kids and wanted the best for them. Always did. They are part of his legacy now.

Today is Valentine’s Day, a day to love and show love. Love is a powerful thing that never fails. Love lives on much longer than we do. It is in our memories and stories and remembrances of people we love. Love is not something to hold back. Let people know you love them. Show them. Tell them. Don’t take them for granted but be thankful for them. Let them know how much you appreciate them.

We loved and appreciated and are thankful for Charlie and the time we were given with him. He will be missed.

Thank you, Father, for the gift of knowing him and serving with him. Every time we think of him, we will give thanks to you.