June 2010
I’d like to say that I’m very sorry to hear about Tony’s incarceration, though I’m certain it will be short-lived. I know that things can change in a moment’s time, just like in the days of old.
And even though the enemies of God, and of the church, feel themselves victorious and triumphant, just as did Dathan and Abiram against Moses, and Haman, the Jews’ enemy, who was hanged on the gallows he built for Mordecai, and the king of Assyria against Hezekiah and Israel, and many other examples in the Bible of the wicked rising up against God’s anointed, it only serves to seal their own fate.
I’d like to add that during the 30 years I was at the church, I, with great interest and encouragement, observed Tony (and Sue, while she was alive), and what I saw was a man and his wife struggle to feed, clothe, provide shelter, medical and dental, and the rest of life’s necessities, along with teaching new converts the Gospel and how to win others to Christ, and at the same time mold them into becoming productive, contributing members of society on a day by day basis, 365 days a year, year after year, to thousands of people, many who turned out to be extremely ungrateful.
Countless times, I saw Tony stay up day and night, working fervently around the clock, tending to the needs of both, people in the church, and out; people from around the world, believers, and non-believers alike. Whether it was for counseling, health issues, marital problems, financial or spiritual matters, he was vigilant and tireless about addressing people’s problems and concerns. He was devoted, and determined, as a watchman on the wall, being spent to the fullest, ministering to souls; while at the same time, carefully and compassionately tending to the needs of his wife who was ill with cancer.
I’m not deterred by what the corrupt news media, or bitter, small-minded people who left the church have to say.
Slander and persecution against Tony and the church is nothing new. I’ve been reading these same types of articles about Tony, and the church, for the past 3 decades. The only thing different are the dates and the players; different reporters, different accusers; but the same, or similar accusations.
However, I agree with the Psalmist David (the apple of the Lord’s eye), who in reference to King Saul, said, “For who can stretch forth his hand against the LORD’S anointed, and be guiltless?” (I Samuel 26:9).
Reggie
(Nikki Farr's father)