Here, There, Or In The Air!

I wrote these verses because I received a unique request to create a retirement poem for a dear brother in Christ, Pastor Howard Davies.

Howard led my father-in-law, Alwyn Wall, to the Lord, along with his best friend Malcolm Wild, way back in the 60s. They went on to create the musical duo "Malcolm and Alwyn", and together they revolutionised Christian music through the 70s and 80s. They both became senior pastors and still serve God's people in those roles today, all thanks to the faithfulness of Howard's powerful witness.

Howard has served as an assistant pastor for Malcolm for the last 28 years, and so the news of his retirement from his post at Calvary Chapel, Merritt Island, Florida, was met with great sadness but also well-wishes for this new season in his life. Malcolm asked me if I could write and record a poem of thanks and gratitude for Howard's leaving ceremony, and it was a great privilege to be able to be a part of his special day.

Howard's life and ministry have been and continue to be a great inspiration to so many people. From his joy in the Lord to his prayers and knowledge of Scripture, Howard has been a wonderful mentor and great example of what walking in the faith looks like.

One of Howard's personal phrases which I've adopted into my own farewells to my brethren is, "You never say goodbye to another Christian! You simply say, 'I'll see you here, there, or in the air!'" I decided this would make a really great title, and so I pray you enjoy this special poem for a special man.

Dearest Pastor Howard, there’s just too much to say
Before your new adventure and you head off on your way!
You’ve been with us for decades, and yet the years have flown.
The impact you have had here cannot be fully known.

Your pastor’s heart has blessed us; your wisdom has inspired!
Your dedication, prayers and love have always been admired.
And so we come in gratitude and join in one accord;
Thank you for your faithfulness in service to our Lord.

Wherever you have ministered, spirits would be lifted,
And though you live in Florida, your accent’s never shifted!
It’s stayed in full-out Derbyshire, and rightly so, we say!
Your Northern English tones and quirks refuse to fade away.

You’ve stuck by British grammar, which we learned while sharing food.
The answer to “How are you?” is “I’m well!” and never “Good!”
“No, don’t go all ‘American’! Our words don’t need rebranding.
I’m asking you about your health and not your moral standing!”

You’ve always kept us right on track and filled our hearts with laughter,
With parlour games on Christmas Day and evening quizzes after.
The game you introduced with cards got people in a spin.
And did you ever find that key? I tell you, “T’int in tin!”

You surely brighten any room with joy from God above.
It’s crystal clear your heart is filled with never-ending love.
Love for many things, indeed, that’s made our lives much warmer.
Like tea and toast with marmalade, or brunch at Cozy Corner.

You also love your football; you’re numbered with the fans.
Supporting Derby County, aka, “The Rams”.
But let’s not dig too deep with that, and let’s ensure survival,
For Pastor Malcolm knows too well: they’re Forrest’s bitter rival!

Moving on! For God is good! I think it’s true to say,
With you, a word or song of praise is never far away.
Your spirit just rejoices and constantly gives thanks.
Your crown for endless worship must be stored in Heaven’s banks!

It really is inspiring, and only Heaven knows
The influence you’ve had and where your joy still ebbs and flows.
Your diligence in ministry truly has sufficed,
Yet what stands out the most is your love for Jesus Christ.

You’ve made this love so evident; your passion comes across.
Your words and actions witness to the power of the Cross!
You’ve let it be the driving force to shape and guide your days.
The essence of your life has been a heart that’s filled with praise.

This helped you raise your children while instilling godly traits.
A love that Doreen carried as she walked through Heaven’s gates.
You’ve faced your share of heartache and woe throughout the years,
Yet spoke of Jesus’ faithfulness in spite of sorrow’s tears.

You always fixed your eyes on God, whatever trials came.
Come rain or shine, you’ve never ceased to glorify His name.
You’ve dedicated all to Christ and lived with full conviction,
Extending godly kindness and concern without condition.

You even took the Gospel to a pair of long-haired hippies!
Those hippies became pastors, but it started in the sixties!
No one could have known the things that they’d go on to do,
But the ministries that they have had all lead back to you.

And so, dear Pastor Howard, we come with thankful hearts,
And wish you all the very best as this new season starts.
May our Saviour keep you safe, whatever life now poses.
Kentucky will be blessed as you head off to gather roses.

God bless you, Pastor Howard; you’ve given us so much.
We’ll treasure you within our hearts, and please do keep in touch!
And so we’ll end with words of yours; I think it’s only fair:
“This is not goodbye! We’ll see you here, there, or in the air!”

Numbers 6:24-26
“The Lord bless you and keep you;
The Lord make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you;
The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.”