Pastor John Crabtree
Those of us who are fortunate enough to connect with someone who believes in us, and who is willing to invest a portion of their life to help us reach our potential, are truly blessed. As one of my pastors, Reverend Johnny Owen Crabtree (Pastor Crabtree), began nearly 15 years ago to meet and talk with me about some of the weighty issues of life, both theological and otherwise, he challenged and encouraged me, and asked lots of questions which helped me discover things about God, myself and purpose. He was always known to “engage” in conversation at a deeper level. I enjoyed the challenge and ultimately the change in my life as a result.
When I approached him nearly two years ago to talk about where I though God was leading me in the area of ministry, I shared with him the concept of The Isaiah Group. After his usual barrage of insightful questions, he confirmed for me that he though this was something which was in keeping with what God had been doing in my life for several years. This was just a further refinement of that purpose. As a result, I continued to pray and work on its development.
At 7:00 a.m. on December 20, 2007, I met with Pastor Crabtree to discuss the development of this web site. He had recommended I talk with a developer named Jon Thomas. Jon joined us that morning for our initial discussion. I began to explain to Jon the purpose of the organization and my vision for its future. Our discussion was interspersed with clarifying questions from Pastor Crabtree. One of the outcomes of that meeting was to settle on our mission statement which is short and sweet; Financing Freedom. I thought it was too short and therefore would not work, but Pastor Crabtree just asked, “Why not?”. Good question! I left it alone. After further discussion, he left for the airport to catch his private 8:00 a.m. flight to Cincinnati to consult on other ministry related issues.
Sometime after 4:00 p.m. that afternoon I was contacted to see if I knew anything about a small plane that had crashed just West of Springfield, Illinois. I had not. As information unfolded in the next few minutes, I was to learn that the small plane crash had no survivors, and among the passengers was Pastor Crabtree. He, along with one of my other pastors, Pastor Rick Hohimer, and another member of my congregation, Mr. Ray Wright had passed into eternity in a cornfield on the outskirts of town. It was some of the most devastating news I have ever received. I couldn’t believe that just a few hours before that I had been sitting, talking with him and I would never again be able to do that this side of heaven.
Nearly one year has passed since that tragic day. Pastor Crabtree no longer sits to talk, laugh and question me…at least not in person. The words of wisdom he shared throughout the years, however; continue to influence me. My decision to pursue the development of this organization, and in-turn this web site, are just some of the results. It is written that we are to give honor to those whom honor is due. I felt it only fitting that as I launch this website, I should dedicate it to my pastor, mentor and friend, Pastor John Crabtree. He was greatly loved and is greatly missed!